Repairing Guides

how to repair leaking toilet shut off valve

by Stephon Deckow Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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How to Fix a Toilet Shut-Off Valve Leak.

  • 1. Adjust the Valve. Before doing anything, grab a bucket or other container and place it underneath the leaking valve. It will catch the leaking ...
  • 2. Turn Off the Water to the Toilet.
  • 3. Remove and Clean Valve Components.
  • 4. Reassemble the Valve.
  • 5. Test the Repair.

Full Answer

How to repair a leaking toilet?

  • Shut off the water supply to the toilet and flush the tank to empty it
  • Replace the Flapper
  • Make sure that it sits and seals off the toilet tank from losing water to the bowl.
  • This should stop the toilet from leaking.

How do I fix a leaking toilet?

Replace Toilet Gasket

  • Remove the the two bolts that attach the toilet tank to the toilet bowl. ...
  • Each bolt will have a rubber gasket or washer that helps prevent leaks. ...
  • You may want to also replace the metal washers, bolts and nuts as well. ...
  • If you aren't replacing the spud washer, reinstall the toilet tank. ...
  • Turn on the supply line and check for leaks.

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How do you stop a toilet from leaking?

  • Slide out the tank to bowl gasket. ...
  • You will now see the flush valve locking nut after removing the tank to bowl gasket.
  • Use slip-joint pliers to loosen and remove the locking nut.
  • With the nut out, the flush valve is now free. ...
  • If you need to replace the tank bolt and washers go ahead and remove them using a long screwdriver and a wrench.

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How to repair a leaking Mansfield toilet?

Water Leaking From the Tank Bolts or Tank Seal

  1. Inspecting Where the Leak is Coming From Inspect where the leak is happening. ...
  2. Remove the Water Supply Line Now that you have located the leak, disconnect the water line from the tank. ...
  3. Remove the Tank Bolts Use a wrench to remove the toilet tank bolts. ...

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Why is my toilet shut-off valve leaking?

The plumbing supply shutoff valves behind toilets or under sinks can go for years without being turned off and then reopened again. That inactivity can cause the neoprene washers to become either brittle or crusted up with mineral deposits, and they lose their ability to seal leaks.

How do I fix a leaky shut-off valve?

First shut off the water to the leaking water valve. Next remove the handle from the stem and then loosen and remove the packing nut. Remove the old washer and slide on the new one. Reinstall the packing nut, tighten lightly with a wrench (don't over tighten at this or any other point) and reattach the handle.

How do you replace a PVC toilet shut-off valve?

How to Replace Plastic Plumbing Shutoff ValvesShut Off the Main Water Valve. Turn off the main water valve to the house. ... Cut the Plastic Pipes. ... Apply the PVC Primer. ... Primer and Cement. ... Unscrew the Ring-nut. ... Primer, Cement and Push. ... Align and Tighten. ... Shut off the PVC Ball Valve.

How much does it cost to replace a toilet shut-off valve?

It typically costs between $375 and $600 to replace a water shut-off valve, but the cost can reach as high as $800 or more depending on where the valve is, what type you have, and whether you hire a professional to do it.

How do you replace a water shut off without turning off water?

1:222:01How To Install A Water Shutoff Without Turning Water Off - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipClean cutter and just slip want to be sharkbite son. With the water and shut up. And shop back allMoreClean cutter and just slip want to be sharkbite son. With the water and shut up. And shop back all the remaining water around the perimeter. And you're good to go.

What is a packing nut on a shut-off valve?

The packing nut is the part of the valve that provides a watertight seal around the valve stem, and usually, a leaking shut-off valve is the fault of a problem with the packing nut.

How often should shut off valves be replaced?

Generally speaking, the lifespan of most residential water shut off valves is about 10 to 15 years. So, if you're purchasing a home that is 10 or 15 years old - we would recommend that you invest in replacing your shut off valves now to avoid any problems in the near future.

How do you replace a shut-off valve?

0:303:50How to Replace a Plumbing Shut-Off Valve | This Old House - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThe ferrule goes on to the outside of the copper pipe. And the pipe fits right down into the valve.MoreThe ferrule goes on to the outside of the copper pipe. And the pipe fits right down into the valve. Now as this nut is tightened up onto those threads.

How do I remove an old shut-off valve?

1:013:28HOW TO REPLACE A WATER SHUT-OFF VALVE - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipItself either by unscrewing. It or by loosening the compression nut at its base. The types of valvesMoreItself either by unscrewing. It or by loosening the compression nut at its base. The types of valves you'll see vary other pipes may not be threaded.

How do you fix a leaking shut off valve under the sink?

1:182:42How to Fix a Leaky Shut-Off Valve in Seconds - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipI have an adjustable wrench that's what this is what I'm going to do is I'm going to take thisMoreI have an adjustable wrench that's what this is what I'm going to do is I'm going to take this adjustable wrench and I'm going to place it on the packing nut. Here.

Why does my faucet drip after I turn it off?

If you notice your bathroom sink drips or leaks out of the faucet head when turned off, there is likely an issue with the seal inside the faucet head, allowing the water to run through or drip. Before calling a professional plumber, consider whether you're able to repair the leak in your bathroom sink yourself.

How to stop a toilet shut off valve from leaking?

For a leaky toilet water shut-off valve, the easiest solution is to tighten the package nut 1/4 turn with a wrench. Do not remove the valve, just tighten the packing nut. Hopefully this is enough to compress the rubber gasket so that it is sealed on the valve stem to prevent water leaks.

What does straight stop valve mean?

Straight means that the input and output are at opposite ends. The valve is a multiturn model because the handle rotates several times to open and close the valve. The same multi-turn straight stop valve is also found in the hot and cold water tap to this bathroom sink, . The valves have compression fittings that connect to 1/2 inch copper pipes ...

What is a multiturn stop valve?

Multiturn stop valves are very common at home for shutting down the hot and cold water supply faucet or toilet. The problem is that the sink or toilet water shut-off valve may leak and turn the handle. Usually change the filling valve of the toilet tank after closing the water. The inner rubber hood wrap seals become less flexible ...

How to stop a leaking water valve?

Put a plastic tub under the leaking valve to reduce the water spillage on the floor while you work. Then, fit an adjustable wrench onto the nut of the shut-off valve and turn it counter-clockwise at 1/8 to 1/4 turn at a time. This will tighten the packing nut and may stop the drip. Browse replacement shut-off valves on Amazon.

Why does my toilet shut off?

The most common problem for a toilet shut-off valve is that it can develop a leak. Dripping shut-off valves can leave puddles of water on the bathroom floor which can ruin the flooring, make the room look dirty, destroy bathroom furniture, cause mold and mildew to grow, and run up your water bill. Leaking is caused by loose packing nuts on these ...

Why is my washer shut off valve leaking?

Leaking is caused by loose packing nuts on these valves. In some cases, this may also be caused by minerals deposits on the washers. A leaking shut-off valve doesn’t necessarily mean it always needs replacement. Follow the steps below for simple solutions to this issue before you engage in most costly repairs.

How to protect a toilet from scratches?

But first, you need to protect your bathroom and your equipment. Wrap the slip joint pliers' jaws in masking tape to protect your shut-off valve from any scratches caused by the sharp edges. Next, shut off the main water supply to the toilet, and detach and drain the pipes using a wrench or pliers. The small plastic tub will catch ...

How do I tighten a toilet shut off valve?

Start by disconnecting the water line from the valve. Use a wrench or plier for loosening the nut at the other end of the valve, connected to the water supply line. Use a dry cloth to wipe the piping. Using Teflon taping, wrap the pipe threads of water line. Make at least two complete turns of the Teflon tape over the pipe threads for ensuring better fitting. Use scissors to cut the tape. Smooth the taped pipe ending with your fingers. Place the taped piping into its slot and tighten the shut-off valve.

Where is the shut off valve on a toilet?

The toilet shut-off valve is also called the stop valve. This is the valve controlling water to the toilet, usually located below the cistern of the toilet . Most shut-off valves are rather durable and only need to be replaced after many years. However, due to sustained usage, the valve can malfunction, leading to leaks or reduced water pressure.

How to fix a cracked washer?

Clean the washers using water and an old toothbrush. Ensure that you remove the mineral deposits that often coat the washers. If the washers seem cracked, you need to replace them. For this, you need to carry the valve stem to a hardware store to procure an exact replacement.

Can a shut off valve be repaired?

However, due to sustained usage, the valve can malfunction, leading to leaks or reduced water pressure. You don’t need to hire professional help for repairing shut-off valves . These valves have a very basic configuration and they can be easily repaired at home, using some basic supplies.

1. Tighten the Packing Nut

This is the best method to fix a leaking shut off valve without turning off the water.

2. Wrap Teflon Packing around the Valve Spindle

Teflon packing isn’t the same as Teflon tape, although the later can be used in the absence of the former although not ideal.

3. Replace the Packing Washer

If you have tried the above 2 methods but still your shut off valve is leaking, the packing washer is completely worn out and replacing it is the only viable solution.

Why Is My Water Shut Off Valve Leaking?

Your water valve might leak because of two reasons. It may be too outdated and there is a possibility of it being worn out or deteriorated. You may have introduced a new valve, and you didn’t tighten it as required.

How Do You Fix a Leaking Shut Off Valve?

There are 3 ways you can fix a leaking shut off valve. And you can do that before you decide to get a new one. They are as follows;

How to Replace the Main Water Shut Off Valve?

You can easily replace your main water valve by following some simple steps. Though it also depends on the type of valve present. The two popular ones are compression and solder valves. And you can replace them as follows;

How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Water Shut Off Valve?

It costs over 100 dollars to replace a shut-off valve. However, this will fluctuate depending on whether you decide to do everything yourself or you hire a professional and depending on the area you live. The type of valve also matters, if it’s a smart one, it’ll cost more based on the features that you want.

Conclusion

While a majority of people may fear trying to fix or replace a water valve, you can easily do it by yourself. All you need to have is the right equipment, plus some fundamental information regarding plumbing. And thus, you’ll be able to reduce the cost incurred while hiring a professional.

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Step 1 – Tighten The Valve

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The easiest solutions are best to try first, so start by giving the valve an adjustment to see if it solves your problem. Put a plastic tub under the leaking valve to reduce the water spillage on the floor while you work. Then, fit an adjustable wrench onto the nut of the shut-off valve and turn it counter-clockwise at 1/8 to 1/4 turn at a t…
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Step 2 – Prepare to Take It Apart

  • If the leaking doesn’t stop, you'll need to just remove the nut to get to the washers within. But first, you need to protect your bathroom and your equipment. Wrap the slip joint pliers' jaws in masking tape to protect your shut-off valve from any scratches caused by the sharp edges. Next, shut off the main water supply to the toilet, and detach and drain the pipes using a wrench or pliers. The …
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Step 3 – Remove The Nut

  • Get a hold of the shut-off valve and begin to take it apart. Take out the screw from the handle of the valve and untwist the packing nut. Remove the threaded valve system; when you do this, remember the position of the neoprene washers so that you can easily put them back together later, taking a picture of the set up if needed.
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Step 4 – Clean The Washers

  • Take the neoprene washers and remove any mineral deposits by using a clean rag. While scrubbing, work them constantly until they are flexible once again.
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Step 5 – Reassemble The Valve

  • Following your picture or your memory, start putting the shut-off valve back together. Make sure neoprene washers are positioned properly otherwise you will make more problems later. Once again, tighten the packing nut 1/8 to 1/4 turn at a time using the wrench. Do not use plumber's putty or you might have a hard time fixing the shut-off valve in the future. Also make sure you do…
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Step 6 – Turn on Water and Check For Leaks

  • Turn the water from the main back on, and watch for leaks as the line is being filled. If you see that the valves are still leaking, then its time to replace the shut-off valve entirely. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn commissions at no cost to you.
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