How to Adjust Commodes
A toilet that runs constantly wastes water and costs you money. The most common adjustment required on commodes involves the handle and float valve. When a toilet flushes, the float lifts up and opens the valve to refill the bowl. A float needing adjustment causes water to enter the overflow pipe or keeps the flapper valve from sealing completely. Commode adjustments can be made yourself without the need of a plumber.
Items Needed
- Towel
- Screwdriver
- Pliers
- Plumber’s tape
- Adjustable wrench
Instructions
- Clear the area around the toilet and remove the tank lid from the toilet. Place the lid on a towel on a flat surface such as the floor or a countertop. Observe the components of the tank for damage. Old worn-out parts may need to be replaced entirely.
- Flush the toilet and watch the water as it fills the tank. Make sure the handle lifts the flapper valve fully and then make sure the valve closes completely. A valve that does not close entirely allows water to seep into the bowl and the tank never reaches the fill line. Adjust the handle with a wrench, or replace it with a new handle and trip lever.
- Reposition the tank's float ball. When positioned too high the water overfills and runs into the overflow pipe. Use your hands to bend the arm of the float ball down to 1 inch below the overflow pipe. Flush the toilet and verify enough water is coming into the tank. Adjust the arm up slightly if the water level is too low.
- Replace a damaged float ball that allows water to run into the tank continuously. Unscrew the ball from the arm using pliers to grasp the arm. Remove the old ball and replace with a new one. Use plumber’s tape on the arm’s threads when replacing the ball.
- Adjust the water-intake assembly on newer toilet models. A water-intake assembly replaces the float ball and works in a similar manner. Adjust the height of the water-intake assembly by sliding it down. Pinch the clip attached to the metal rod of the assembly and move it down. This lowers the water level and prevents water from flowing into the overflow pipe.
- Inspect the lift chain or wire for damage or misplacement. A chain adjusted too short allows water to seep under the flapper valve. Use pliers to open excess chain lengths and reposition it. If the chain does not have extra length, you need to purchase a new lift chain. Adjust lift wires by loosening the guide arm screw and moving the arm up or down to the proper height.
- Flush the toilet and observe the adjustments. Make sure the water level in the tank remains below the overflow pipe and the flapper valve closes completely. Replace the tank lid when you finish.