Where is My Toilet Shut-off Valve?
The key to every good and clean home is a working toilet. So, what happens when you need to fix the toilet handle, or make the toilet stop running? Most modern toilets have a shut off valve for easy repairs. If not, there are other ways to shut off the water. Simply put, you might not have to call the plumber for this task! This will save you time and money!
Shut-off Valve Location
If your toilet is produced or manufactured in America, you can usually find your shut-off valve on the back left side of the toilet.
The shut off valve is usually connected to a pipe that goes from the wall or floor and into the valve. From there, a gray braided cable protrudes from the top of the valve into the toilet tank. The valve will also have a knob that is either oval-shaped or looks like a short handle.
How To Turn Off the Water Supply to Your Toilet
Turn the shut-off knob clockwise until it stops. Be extremely careful not to tighten this too tight, some only need a one-quarter turn such as the one in the above photo. Not only can over tightening halt repairs, it has the chance to break parts. You will feel the stop after firmly turning it by hand, until it wont turn anymore.
What To Do If You Cannot Find the Shut-Off Valve
If you do not have a shut-off valve on the toilet, or are not able to locate it, you can turn off the water supply to the toilet with the home water shut-off.
- For warmer weather climates, such as Texas, look for an iron box in the ground. Even though it is buried, the lid covering the meter should still be visible.
- For colder weather climates, or homes with basements, your shut-off should be located in your basement.
- If you are having issues locating the shut-off valve, contact Reliant Plumbing! We can help you find it and get it shut off.
Toilet Shut-Off Valve Types and Features
If you lean down and look left you will see where the hose connects to the wall or floor. If this part is loose or damaged it can cause water to soak the walls and floors. Sometimes rust can accumulate if parts malfunction. Regular toilet check-ups can save you headache, and a flooded bathroom.
Common Toilet Shut-Off Valve Styles
There are currently 2 types of toilet shut off valves that are most common.
- The first is a Multi-turn Water Stop Valve, this valve is more common in older homes. The pipe leading from the floor or wall will then come up to meet an almond or oval-shaped knob. These require several turns before water stops flowing to the toilet tank. Turn the knob until you feel it come to a good firm stop. Once the knob cannot turn anymore make sure to check for leaks. A leak here is a sign that the valve or surrounding pipes need to be repaired.
- Second, quarter turn valves, can be seen in the photo here. These valves only require one quarter turn until the knob stops. The stop will be firm and that’s how you know the seal is tight. These are becoming more common for multiple reasons such water efficiency, and the quarter-stop is more user friendly than multiple twists for the same closure. Our plumbers are highly educated and can talk with you about all the best solutions for your home, while also keeping your budget in mind.
- Third, you will find a steel braided cable leading to the toilet tank. If you experience a leak at the top of the tube, try tightening the white screw cap closest to the toilet tank. If that does not fix your problem, it could be the cord. Too long of a cord can cause kinks in the line, which inhibit water flow. The size and shape of the tube varies from toilet to toilet, and our plumbers can help you find the right one.