When the Toilet Handle Breaks: A Quick Fix Guide

There’s a lot to do this Easter weekend in Tampa Bay. And, from the AirFest to the Sugar Sand Festival to breaking a few eggs for an Easter brunch, what we don’t want to break is our toilet’s handle.

It’s the Easter disaster you don’t want to deal with: you reach for the toilet handle, and it suddenly breaks off in your hand. And this causes a moment of panic, especially if you’re not sure what to do next. But fear not! Because broken toilet handle is a common household issue. And with a little know-how, you can quickly get it fixed and get back to your Easter. So, in this blog, the experts at Billy the Sunshine Plumber will walk you through the steps to take when your toilet handle breaks so that you Easter fun won’t be disrupted.

Step 1. Remain Calm

First things first, take a deep breath. Because, while it may seem like a major inconvenience, fixing a broken toilet handle is usually a straightforward task. And it is one that you can tackle on your own with minimal tools and expertise.

Step 2. Assess the Damage

Inspect the broken handle to determine the extent of the damage. Because, sometimes only the handle itself breaks off, while other times the internal components may be damaged as well. And if the handle snapped cleanly, you may just need to replace the handle. However, if there are issues with the internal mechanisms, you might need to replace those as well.

Step 3. Shut Off the Water

Before you start any repairs, it’s important to turn off the water supply to the toilet. So, locate the shut-off valve (usually located behind the toilet near the floor) and turn it clockwise to stop the flow of water.

Step 4. Remove the Broken Handle

Once the water is turned off, you can remove the broken handle. Depending on the type of toilet handle you have, this may involve unscrewing it or carefully prying it off. But be sure to be gentle to avoid causing further damage to the toilet.

Step 5. Purchase a Replacement Handle

Head to your local hardware store or home improvement center to purchase a replacement handle. And, make sure to take the old handle with you to make sure you get the right size and style.

Step 6. Install the New Handle

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions that come with the replacement handle to install your new one. Also, you may need to adjust the chain or other internal components to ensure proper function.

Step 7. Turn the Water Back On

Once the new handle is securely installed, turn the water supply back on by turning the shut-off valve counterclockwise. And flush the toilet to ensure everything is working correctly.

Step 8. Test for Leaks

After turning the water back on, check around the base of the toilet and the connection of the new handle for any signs of leaks. And if you notice any leaks, tighten the connections or replace any damaged parts as needed.

Step 9. Consider Upgrading

If your toilet handle broke due to age or wear and tear, consider upgrading you aged toilet to avoid bigger problems in the future. And, there are many options available, from traditional levers to modern push-button designs.

Step 10. Regular Maintenance

To prevent future issues with your toilet handle, incorporate regular maintenance into your household routine. Also, check for any signs of wear or damage with other parts of your toilet and replace parts as needed to keep your toilet functioning smoothly.

A broken toilet handle may seem like a big deal, but with the right steps, it’s a problem that can be easily fixed.

By following these steps, you can quickly replace the broken handle and get your toilet back in working order in no time. But, remember, if you encounter any difficulties or are unsure about the repair process, just Google: emergency plumber near me. Because the experts at Billy the Sunshine Plumber are available to help… even on Easter.

Billy the Sunshine Plumber has been the Tampa Bay 24-hour plumber of choice since 1924 when he first opened for business. Plus they are open 24/7/365 in Pinellas, Pasco, Hernando and Citrus counties. So, days, nights, weekends, or holidays, Billy the Sunshine Plumber is always there for you.