Don’t worry about emptying your toilet tank to tighten the flapper.
Put on a pair of rubber gloves to avoid getting wet.
Use a plastic-coated paper clip for the best results, as it won’t corrode as fast.
Select a link that allows the chain to sag slightly.
If the chain isn’t tight enough and the flapper doesn’t go all the way up, attach the paperclip to a chain link closer to the flapper valve. If the chain is too loose and the flapper doesn’t completely seal the hole, move the paperclip to a chain link closer to the toilet handle or add another 1 to 2 paperclip links.
The shut-off valve is typically located behind and underneath the toilet.
Use a wet-dry vacuum if you have one to make things easier.
Take off any old plumber’s tape that’s on the water supply valve. If you have a new water supply tube, throw out your old one.
If you want to put in a new chain, remove the old one from the lever arm—the long piece that extends from the toilet handle.
Before attaching a new flapper, smooth the rough edges around the lip of the flapper valve—located underneath the flapper—with an emery cloth. This will help it create a watertight seal.
Replace the lid once everything is working as it should be.
