Express Sewer & Drain Blog

Are you tired of dealing with a constantly running or leaking toilet in your Sacramento home? The culprit may be a faulty fill valve. While it may seem like a daunting task, changing the fill valve in your toilet is actually a simple and straightforward process.

In this blog post, we will guide you through the steps to successfully replace your fill valve and restore your toilet's proper functioning. Say goodbye to annoying leaks and wasted water, and hello to a more efficient and functional toilet. Let's dive in!

What Does a Fill Valve Do?

A fill valve is a crucial component of your toilet's flushing system. It is responsible for controlling the flow of water into the toilet tank, which is necessary for a proper flush. The fill valve works by automatically detecting when the water level in the tank is low and then refilling it to the appropriate level. This ensures that there is enough water for a strong and effective flush every time you use your toilet. 

Without a functional fill valve, you may experience weak or incomplete flushes, leading to potential clogging or constantly having to manually refill the tank. Therefore, it is essential to keep your fill valve in good working condition to maintain a fully functioning toilet.

Why You Should Replace a Faulty Fill Valve

A faulty fill valve in a toilet can lead to a variety of problems that can greatly inconvenience the homeowner. The fill valve is responsible for refilling the toilet tank with water after each flush, and if it is not functioning properly, it can cause issues such as constantly running water, low water levels, or even complete failure to refill the tank. This can lead to wasted water and higher utility bills, as well as potential damage to the toilet's components. 

Additionally, an ineffective fill valve may also result in inconsistent flushing and a noisy toilet, making it uncomfortable for both residents and guests. Therefore, it is crucial to address any faults in the fill valve promptly to avoid further complications and ensure a functional and efficient bathroom experience.

13 Steps for Replacing Your Toilet’s Fill Valve

A faulty fill valve can cause your toilet to run, wasting valuable water and money. Replacing the fill valve is a simple, inexpensive home toilet repair you can do yourself. Just follow these steps to replace your fill valve and get your toilet back to normal.

1. Turn off the water to your toilet by turning the shut-off valve clockwise.
2. Next, remove the toilet lid from the tank.
3. Remove the refill tube from the overflow pipe.
4. Flush the toilet to drain the water from the tank. Hold down the handle until most of the water has drained. Then use a towel or sponge to remove the rest of the water from the tank.
5. Locate the water supply tube or hose below the tank and disconnect it from the fill valve. You may need pliers or a wrench to loosen the connection.  
6. Then, loosen the lock nut that holds the fill valve to the tank.  
7. Lift the old fill valve out of the tank.
8. Prepare the new fill valve by slipping on the rubber washer, flat side up, and adjusting the height of the fill valve. The fill valve should be slightly taller than the overflow tube.
9. Insert the new fill valve in the hole at the bottom of the tank, making sure the nipple faces the overflow tube.  
10. Re-tighten the lock nut underneath the tank and reattach the water supply tube or hose.
11. Attach one end of the fill tube to the fill valve nipple, and clip the other end to the overflow pipe.
12. Turn the shut-off valve counterclockwise to turn the water to the toilet back on.
13. Test the new valve by flushing the toilet. Make sure the tank refills properly and check for leaks below the toilet.

Get Help With Your Fill Valve From the Expert Sacramento Plumbers

If you need help with this or any other plumbing projects, call Express Sewer & Drain. Our skilled Sacramento plumbers will gladly answer your questions and make any necessary repairs.