Save water and money by following this toilet fill valve replacement guide.
Time 1 hour or less
ComplexityBeginner
Cost$30 to $75
Introduction
This simple DIY project shows how to replace a toilet fill valve when your toilet won't stop running or takes forever to refill.
A toilet fill valve is a component located inside the toilet tank that regulates the flow of water coming into the tank from your water supply. Every time you flush the toilet, the fill valve opens to allow water to refill the tank to the proper level, then it closes to prevent overflow. This device is crucial for the proper functioning of your toilet and helps avoid potential issues during use.
How can you tell when it’s time to replace the fill valve in your toilet? Here are some signs that indicate it may be time for a replacement:
- The toilet is constantly running.
- The water tank takes a long time to refill.
- The water levels in the tank fluctuate unexpectedly.
- You hear unusual noises coming from the tank.
If you notice any of these issues, it might be time to consider replacing your toilet fill valve. I replaced the fill valve in my Kohler toilet with a Kohler fill valve (K-GP1083167). You need to determine which parts are compatible for the toilet you are working on. If you’re unsure, start by identifying the type of toilet you have, which can be found by removing the tank lid and looking for a stamped number inside the tank, often on the back wall. The number may be etched on the porcelain or printed on a label. Then, use this info to find compatible parts.
Toilet Fill Valve Diagram
Tools Required
- Adjustable wrench
- Bucket
Materials Required
- New toilet fill valve
- Sponge/scrub brush
Project step-by-step (13)
Step 1
Turn off the water supply
To turn off the water supply to the toilet, rotate the shutoff valve clockwise. This valve is typically found on the wall behind the toilet or on the floor.
Step 3
Disconnect the supply line
Hold a small bucket to catch water as it leaks out from disconnecting the toilet tank supply line.
Step 4
Remove the fill valve lock nut
Remove the lock nut from the shank of the fill valve right above where you disconnected the water supply line on the outside of the toilet tank.
Step 5
Disconnect the refill tube
Remove the toilet tank cover and set it aside somewhere it won’t interfere with your work. Detach the refill tube from the flow restrictor nipple inside the toilet tank, then remove the old fill valve from the toilet.
Step 6
Install the flow restrictor
For some models of fill valve (including this one), there are a handful of flow restrictors that come with it in several colors: black, brown, clear, gray, blue, etc. Each colored restrictor restricts a different percentage of water flow to control the toilet bowl’s refill rate. Be sure to match the color of the flow restrictor on the old valve with the new one and install it.
Step 7
Clean the fill valve location
If the location where the old valve was installed looks grimy or dirty inside the toilet tank, give it a quick wipe down with an old sponge or scrub brush.
Step 8
Adjust the length of the new fill valve
This fill valve is adjustable in length, so you should rotate the new fill valve’s shank to match the old one’s length. There may be a lock ring that needs to be turned to allow the shank body to rotate, and then it should be turned again to lock it in place.
Step 9
Secure new fill valve into tank
Insert the new fill valve into the toilet tank and secure it by hand-tightening the lock nut on the outside of the tank. Ensure that the rubber shank washer at the bottom of the fill valve seats well with the inside of the toilet tank.
Step 10
Attach the refill tube to the fill valve
Connect the refill tube to the colored flow restrictor on the new fill valve.
Step 11
Test the position of the fill valve
Ensure the fill valve is installed so the valve float can move freely up and down without obstruction. Test this by lifting up on the arm and seeing if the float hits anything. If there is interference, you may need to rotate the fill valve slightly.
Step 12
Reconnect the water and flush
Tighten the water supply hose onto the fill valve shank and turn the water shutoff valve counterclockwise to turn the water back on. Then, flush the toilet.
If the float is stopping your toilet from completely filling or overfilling the toilet and letting it continue to run water down the overflow pipe, adjust the water level adjusting screw until the float engages at the water level mark labeled on the inside of the toilet or one to two inches below the top of the overflow tube.
Once you run a test flush to ensure that the toilet fill valve is working properly, you can put the toilet tank cover back into position.
Step 13
FAQ
How often do toilet fill valves need to be replaced?
You should replace your toilet’s fill valve every four to five years.
How much slack should be in the toilet chain?
There should be about 1/2-in. of slack.
Can you replace a toilet fill valve without turning off the water?
No, you should turn off the water before replacing a toilet fill valve. To do this, rotate the shutoff valve clockwise. This valve is usually located on the wall behind the toilet or on the floor.
