How to Remove Flush Valve from Toilet ?

A toilet flush valve is one of the most critical components inside a toilet tank. When problems such as leaking, weak flushing, or continuous running occur, removing the flush valve is often the first step for repair or replacement.

However, toilet flush valve removal is not the same for every toilet. Different toilet structures and flush valve designs require different removal methods. Using the wrong approach may damage the ceramic tank or internal fittings.

This guide explains how to remove flush valve from toilet step by step, based on common toilet types, helping you complete the task safely and correctly.

Before starting, turn off the water supply and flush the toilet to empty the tank.

Step 1: Remove the Toilet Tank Lid Safely

Removing the toilet tank lid is the first and most important step.

• Handle flush toilets and side push button toilets. The tank lid can usually be lifted straight upward without resistance.
• Top push button toilets. Some top button toilets install the push button after the tank lid is in place. In this case, the lid cannot be lifted directly. First, rotate the push button counterclockwise to remove it, then lift the tank lid.

⚠️ Important note:

Toilet tank lids are made of ceramic and are extremely fragile. Always lift slowly and place the lid on a flat surface. A broken tank lid is difficult to replace with an exact match.

Step 2: Identify One Piece Toilet or Two Piece Toilet

Before removing the toilet flush valve, determine the toilet structure.

• One piece toilet. The tank and bowl are manufactured as a single ceramic unit.
• Two piece toilet. The tank and bowl are separate parts connected by a bolt set. This is a very common design.

Each structure requires a different flush valve removal method.

Step 3: Toilet Flush Valve Removal for One Piece Toilet

Tools required: Phillips screwdriver

Removal steps:

1. Inside the tank, remove the sealing components from the flush outlet. This may be a canister flush valve upper section or a flapper flush valve.
2. After removal, a fixing screw can be seen at the center of the flush outlet.
3. Use a Phillips screwdriver to rotate the screw counterclockwise slowly. While loosening the screw, gently pull upward on the toilet flush valve.
4. Stop loosening when the flush valve can be removed smoothly.

⚠️ Do not fully loosen the screw.

If the screw is completely released, the metal hook at the bottom may fall into the toilet body and become very difficult to retrieve.

Step 4: Toilet Flush Valve Removal for Two Piece Toilet

Tools required: Small adjustable wrench. A large wrench is not recommended because the space under the tank is limited.

Removal steps

1. For two piece toilets, the tank must be removed first. Look under the tank to locate the two mounting bolts.
2. Try loosening the nuts by hand. If hand loosening is not possible, use a small adjustable wrench and rotate clockwise to remove the nuts.
3. After both nuts are removed, lift the tank carefully and separate it from the bowl.
4. Turn the tank upside down. A large mounting nut will be visible at the flush outlet.
5. Remove this large nut, and the toilet flush valve can be taken out from inside the tank.

Conclusion

Although removing a toilet flush valve may seem simple, the correct method depends on the toilet structure and flush valve design. Identifying the toilet type, using the proper tools, and controlling force carefully can prevent costly damage.

If the flush valve shows signs of aging or poor sealing performance, replacing it with a compatible toilet flush valve replacement part is usually the most reliable solution.

When flush valve size or design compatibility is uncertain, consulting a professional supplier can save time and avoid installation issues. A properly installed flush valve ensures reliable flushing and long-term toilet performance.