Problem with your toilet? Whether it’s running, leaking, or simply needs a part replaced, understanding the parts of a toilet can save you a call to the plumber—and some cash. Toilets might seem like a mystery, but they’re easier to understand than you might think.
This guide is designed to introduce a full breakdown of the essential toilet components, so you can confidently tackle basic repairs on your own.
Parts of a Toilet
A typical toilet consists of two main parts:
- Toilet Tank: Stores water used for flushing
- Toilet Bowl: Holds water and waste, and is designed to direct waste into your home’s drainage system.
Understanding both sections is key to diagnosing and fixing common toilet issues. Keep reading for a closer look at both parts and their essential components.
Parts of a Toilet Tank
The toilet tank is where all the magic of flushing happens. It holds water and houses the mechanisms that control the flush and refill cycle. Here’s a breakdown of the tank’s key components:
Toilet Handle
- Location: Outside of the tank.
- Function: Using the handle lifts the toilet chain to trigger a flush. Some modern toilets use flush buttons instead.
- Common Issue: A loose handle can cause weak or no flushing. To fix this, you must tighten the nut inside of the tank or replace the handle.
- DIY Fix: If the handle feels stuck or doesn't return to its normal position after flushing, check for mineral buildup or corrosion on the handle's internal mechanism. Cleaning or replacing the handle can resolve this issue.
Toilet Flapper
- Location: At the bottom of the tank.
- Function: The flapper is a rubber valve that opens when you flush and closes to seal the tank afterward.
- Common Issue: Worn-out flappers can cause water leaks or constant running. Replacing the flapper is a straightforward fix. Ghost flushing is also a common issue, which, if left unchecked, can cause unnecessary water wastage and increased utility bills. This guide will explain ghost flushing and how to stop it.
- DIY Fix: If ghost flushing happens frequently, consider installing an adjustable flapper that allows you to control water flow more precisely, preventing unnecessary refilling.
Toilet Flush Valve
- Location: Center of the tank.
- Function: The flush valve directs water from the tank into the toilet bowl. It also includes an overflow tube to prevent flooding.
- Common Issue: A faulty flush valve gasket can lead to leaks between the tank and bowl.
- DIY Fix: If the flush valve shows signs of wear, replacing it with a universal flush valve kit can improve efficiency and prevent leaks.
Toilet Fill Valve and Float
- Location: Vertical tube assembly inside the tank.
- Function: The fill valve refills the tank after flushing, controlling the water level using the float.
- Common Issue: If water overflows or runs constantly, you may need to adjust or replace the fill valve or float.
- Maintenance Tip: Check for debris buildup in the fill valve. Sediment from water lines can clog the valve over time, reducing efficiency. Cleaning the valve or replacing it can restore proper function.
Toilet Chain
- Location: Connects the handle to the flapper.
- Function: The chain lifts the flapper when you flush.
- Common Issue: If the chain is too long or too short, the flapper won’t seal correctly, causing leaks.
- Pro Tip: If the chain frequently disconnects, consider replacing it with a stainless steel chain for increased durability.
Toilet Tank Cover
- Location: Vertical tube assembly inside the tank.
- Function: Protects tank components and adds aesthetic value.
- Oatey Tip: Handle with care — the assembly is fragile and can easily crack.
Parts of a Toilet Bowl
The toilet bowl is simpler than the tank but just as essential. It’s the part you see and use every day.
Toilet Rim
- Location: Top edge of the bowl.
- Function: The rim contains holes that help rinse the bowl during flushing.
- Common Issue: Mineral buildup can clog the holes, reducing flush efficiency. Use a wire hanger or cleaning solution to clear it.
Toilet Bowl
- Location: The main body of the toilet.
- Function: The bowl holds water, directs waste through the trapway, and supports the user.
- Oatey Tip: Toilet bowls come in two shapes: elongated (for more comfort) and round (for space savings). Choose based on your bathroom’s size and preference.
Toilet Seat and Lid
- Location: Attached to the bowl.
- Function: The toilet seat and lid provide hygiene and comfort plus an optional cover.
- Upgrade Option: Soft-close slides prevent slamming, while specialized seats cater to ADA compliance for accessibility.
Toilet Flange
- Location: Under the bowl, connected to the drainpipe.
- Function: The toilet flange secures the bowl to the floor and prevents leaks, working with a wax ring (or non-wax seal).
- Common Issue: Loose or broken flanges cause a wobbling toilet or leaks. Luckily, repairing a toilet flange can be easy with Oatey’s easy-to-use flange repair products. Oatey offers several types of repair rings, most notably its Fix-It Flange Repair Ring.
- DIY Fix: If the flange is damaged, using a flange repair kit can save you from replacing the entire flange. Oatey’s Fix-It Flange Repair Ring is an easy and effective solution.
If you are installing a toilet flange for the first time, this blog will showcase the five best practices when installing a toilet flange.
Wax and Waxless Toilet Gasket
- Location: Between the bowl and flange.
- Function: The toilet gasket creates a watertight seal between the toilet and the flange.
- Common Issue: Worn toilet gaskets result in water leaks and odors. Replacing them is a quick DIY project.
- Comparison Tip: Wax gaskets provide a traditional, time-tested seal, while non-wax gaskets offer a mess-free, reusable alternative for easy installation.
There are two types of toilet seals available: wax and non-wax. Understanding the difference between the two is important to ensuring a leak-proof toilet.
Learn more about the different types here: Wax Versus Non-Wax Toilet Seals.
Toilet Bolts and Covers
- Location: At the base of the toilet on the floor.
- Function: The toilet bolts and covers secure the bowl to the floor and conceal the bolts for a cleaner look.
- Oatey Tip: If your toilet wobbles, gently tighten the bolts or install toilet shims. Overtightening can crack the porcelain.
- Additional Fix: If bolts are rusted or corroded, replacing them with corrosion-resistant brass or stainless steel bolts can improve durability.
If you are looking to replace, repair, or reattach your toilet, a step-by-step guide is available here.
