🚽 No Plumber Needed! How to Swap Your Toilet’s Fill Valve & Hose

Stop Home Headaches Before They Start!

Hey Handy Homeowners!

This week, we’re tackling some simple but essential maintenance tasks that keep your home in top shape.

From testing your sump pump to keeping your drains clear and odor-free, these quick to-dos will help you avoid bigger headaches down the road.

Plus, we’ve got a step-by-step guide on replacing a toilet fill valve—because no one likes a running toilet (except maybe your water bill).

Let’s dive in and get things done!

Maintenance Minute

Where Small Fixes Make a Big Difference!
This Weeks 5 Minute Focus

• Test Sump Pump - Ensure your sump pump is functioning properly by pouring water into the pit and checking if it activates and drains correctly.

• Clean Faucet Aerators - Remove and rinse faucet aerators to clear out debris and mineral buildup for better water flow.

• Flush Sink & Shower Drains with Vinegar & Baking Soda - Pour a mixture of vinegar and baking soda down the drains to break down buildup and eliminate odors.

• Pour a Bucket of Water into the Floor Drain in Basement - Prevent sewer gas odors by refilling the trap with water to maintain a proper seal.

Pro tip for Flushing Drains: Run hot tap water for a few seconds, then turn it off. Pour one cup of baking soda into the drain, followed by two cups of hot vinegar. Allow the mixture to fizz and break down buildup. After an hour, flush the drain thoroughly with hot water.

Handy Homeowner How-To: Replacing a Toilet Fill Valve and Hose

Ah, the humble toilet. It’s the unsung hero of the home—until it starts hissing, running non-stop, or refusing to fill properly. If your toilet is making more noise than your neighbor’s lawnmower at 7 AM, it’s probably time to replace the fill valve and hose. The good news? This is an easy DIY fix that’ll save you from calling a plumber (and save your wallet from a hefty service fee).

So, roll up your sleeves and follow these simple steps to get your toilet back in business.

What You’ll Need:

• A new fill valve and hose (available at any hardware store)

• Adjustable wrench or pliers

• Bucket or towel (for catching any remaining water)

• Sponge or rag

• Drain pan

Step 1: Shut Off Water

Before you start, locate the water supply valve—usually found on the wall behind the toilet. Turn the valve clockwise to shut off the water. If it’s stubborn, use a rag for extra grip. (If it won’t budge, you may have a bigger problem—hello, corroded plumbing!)

Step 2: Flush and Drain the Toilet

Flush the toilet to drain most of the water. Hold down the handle for a few extra seconds to maximize drainage. If needed, use a shop vac to remove any remaining water. Spoiler alert: not all the water will leave, so grab a sponge or towel to soak up the last bit.

Step 3: Place a Drain Pan Under the Hose

To catch any remaining water, position a drain pan under the supply hose before disconnecting it.

Step 4: Disconnect the Water Line/Hose

Use an adjustable wrench or pliers to loosen the nut connecting the hose to the bottom of the tank. Lefty-loosey, righty-tighty! Once removed, let any remaining water drain into your bucket or drain pan.

Step 5: Remove the Old Hose

Detach the old water supply hose completely.

Step 6: Disconnect and Remove the Fill Valve

Inside the tank, locate the fill valve (the tall plastic assembly). Unscrew the lock nut under the tank that holds it in place, then lift the fill valve out. Say your goodbyes—it served you well.

Step 7: Adjust the New Fill Valve Length

Follow the instructions that came with your new fill valve. Adjust its height so that the overflow pipe is at the proper level.

Step 8: Assemble the Fill Valve Hose and Clip

Attach the provided hose and clip to the new fill valve as instructed in the manual.

Step 9: Install the Fill Valve and Clip Hose

Insert the new fill valve into the opening in the tank and secure it with the provided lock nut. Attach the hose clip in place.

Step 10: Install the New Water Line/Hose

Connect the new hose to the bottom of the fill valve and tighten it securely. Again, firm but not overly tight—you don’t want to crack anything.

Step 11: Turn On Water

Slowly turn the water supply valve counterclockwise to restore the flow.

Step 12: Check for Leaks and Retighten the Hose

Watch for leaks—if you see any, tighten the connections a little more.

Step 13: Flush the Toilet

Give it a test flush and ensure everything is working properly.

Step 14: Check Fill Height

Adjust the fill height if necessary, ensuring the tank fills properly. This is usually done by turning a screw or sliding a clip on the fill valve.

Step 15: Check for Leaks Again

Do one final check around the connections to make sure there are no leaks. Wait a few minutes and place a dry paper towel under the connections to spot slow leaks more easily.

Step 16: Put the Lid Back On – Ready to Use!

Once everything checks out, place the tank lid back on and admire your handiwork.

You just fixed your toilet like a pro! No more wasted water, no more annoying noises, and best of all, no plumber’s bill. Now go admire your handiwork—and maybe reward yourself with a cold beverage.

Got other home fixes on your list? Stick around—Handy Homeowner has plenty more DIY wisdom to share!

Here is the YouTube of the replacement I did on my own toilet.👇🏼

Q&A- What type of fill valve should I buy for my toilet?

Most modern toilets use universal fill valves, but it’s best to check your current model or bring the old one to the hardware store to ensure compatibility.