Replace a toilet flush button

Swap a worn or broken toilet flush button for a new one, with the water safely turned off first.

TF-01Identify your flush mechanism and buy the right partLift the cistern lid and look at how the button is fitted: a single push button, a dual-flush button (two buttons or two zones on one button), or an older twist handle. Take a photo or the brand name to the shop, or buy a universal dual-flush push-button kit, which fits most modern cisterns. Check the thread size on the flush valve stem if you can see it, as buttons screw onto this.

1 each · Universal dual-flush push button kit

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TF-02Turn off the water supplyFind the isolation valve on the pipe leading into the cistern, usually low down behind the toilet, and turn it a quarter turn to shut it off. If there is no isolation valve, turn off the water at the main stopcock, usually under the kitchen sink, and check it turns before you start. Flush the toilet and hold the button down to empty as much water from the cistern as possible.

TF-03Remove the cistern lidLift the lid straight up and off, then stand it somewhere safe on a towel. If the button is fixed to the lid rather than the cistern body, it will come away with it. Have an old towel or a small bowl handy, as there is usually some water still sitting in the flush mechanism.

1 each · Old towel

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TF-04Take out the old buttonMost push buttons unscrew anticlockwise from the top of the flush valve stem, or unclip from a plastic collar. Twist handles usually have a small retaining nut inside the cistern that undoes by hand or with light spanner pressure. Keep the old parts together so you can match the new ones against them before fitting.

TF-05Fit the new buttonScrew or clip the new button onto the flush valve stem, following the fitting instructions in the kit, as thread sizes vary between brands. Tighten by hand only, as overtightening can crack the plastic collar or lid. Check the button sits flush and both buttons on a dual-flush kit move freely.

TF-06Turn the water back on and testReplace the cistern lid, then turn the isolation valve or stopcock back on. Let the cistern fill fully, then test both the full flush and, on a dual-flush kit, the half flush. Watch the area around the button and lid for any dripping as the cistern fills and empties.

TF-07Tidy upDry off any water on the cistern, floor or lid with a towel. Bin the old button parts, or keep them if you think you might need to return the new kit. Give the toilet a final flush to check everything is working normally before you finish.

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