DIY Plumbing: How to Change a Toilet Flapper (It’s Easier Than You Think!)

DIY Plumbing: How to Change a Toilet Flapper (It’s Easier Than You Think!)
From the team at Plumber Boynton Beach

We get it—running toilets are annoying. You hear the water constantly cycling, your water bill creeps up, and you’re left wondering if it’s a major plumbing issue.
Good news: it’s probably just your toilet flapper—and even better news? You can fix it yourself in under 10 minutes.

At Plumber Boynton Beach, we’re always happy to help in person, but we also love empowering homeowners to take care of small plumbing fixes on their own. So here’s our step-by-step guide on how to change a toilet flapper like a pro.

🧰 What You’ll Need:

• A new toilet flapper (take the old one to the hardware store if you’re not sure what type you need)

• A pair of rubber gloves (optional, but helpful)

• A clean towel or sponge

🚽 Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply
Look behind your toilet—there should be a valve near the base. Turn it clockwise until the water shuts off. Flush the toilet to empty most of the water from the tank.

Step 2: Remove the Old Flapper
Open the tank lid and set it aside carefully. The flapper is the rubber piece connected to the chain and sitting on top of the flush valve (the big opening in the middle of the tank). Unclip or slide it off the pegs on either side of the valve and disconnect the chain from the flush handle arm.

Step 3: Clean the Seal Area
Use a towel or sponge to clean around the flush valve opening. Mineral buildup or debris can prevent the new flapper from sealing properly.

Step 4: Install the New Flapper
Attach the new flapper by clipping it onto the side pegs of the overflow tube or sliding it over the mounting ears (depending on the design). Connect the chain to the flush arm, leaving a slight amount of slack—not too tight, not too loose.

Step 5: Turn the Water Back On and Test
Turn the water supply valve counterclockwise to restore flow to the tank. Let it fill, then flush the toilet a few times to make sure the new flapper seals correctly and the chain isn’t getting stuck.

💡 Pro Tip from the Pros:

If your toilet is still running after replacing the flapper, check the chain length or make sure the flapper is sitting evenly. It’s a quick fix 99% of the time.

When to Call a Pro

If the flapper replacement doesn’t solve the problem or you notice other issues (like slow filling or leaks around the base), it might be time for a professional inspection.

At Plumber Boynton Beach, we’re just a call away. Whether you need help with a flapper, a full toilet replacement, or any other plumbing concern—we’ve got your back.

📞 Call us at 561-834-4458
🌐 Visit: www.plumberboyntonbeach.com
📧 Email: plumberboyntonbeach@gmail.com

DIY is great—but knowing when to call in a pro is even better. Happy fixing! 🛠🚽