The toilet tank is a crucial part of any toilet, since it holds the water used for flushing the toilet and keeping the bowl clean. Once installed, toilet tanks can last for many years with proper care, but they may need to be replaced at some point. So, how do you know if yours needs to be replaced?
If you notice that your toilet isn’t flushing as well as it used to, or that water is leaking from somewhere, it may be time to replace the tank. In some cases, the tank can also crack or break, requiring a replacement. Make sure to get one that’s the same size as your old tank.
With proper installation and care, your new toilet tank should provide many years of trouble-free use. Let’s take a closer look at why you might need to replace your toilet tank, how to select the right replacement, and some installation tips.
Can You Replace the Toilet Tank Without Replacing the Internals?
The internals are the components that make up the toilet’s flushing system: the fill valve, flush valve, and overflow pipe. Luckily, you can replace just the tank and reuse the internals in many cases.
As long as these parts are still in good working order, you can simply unscrew the old tank from the bowl and replace it with a new one.
However, this is only possible if you can find a water tank that matches both the size and shape of your old tank. In some cases, it may be easier or more cost-effective to replace the entire toilet rather than just the tank. If your toilet is old or outdated, replacing the entire unit may be a better option.
Can You Replace Just the Top of a Toilet Tank?
The top part of the toilet tank is called the lid. The lid is not essential to the toilet’s function, but it protects the internals from damage and keeps them clean. If your toilet lid is cracked, chipped, or otherwise damaged, you can replace it without replacing the entire tank.
However, if the damage is severe enough to affect the toilet’s function, you will need to replace the whole unit. When changing the lid, select one that’s the same size and shape as your old lid.
Why Would You Need to Replace Just the Tank?
The water tank is perhaps the most important part of the toilet. It holds the water that is used for flushing the toilet, and it also helps to keep the bowl clean. Sometimes, the tank can become cracked or chipped and needs to be replaced. Other times, the tank may just need a good cleaning.
If you have a constantly running toilet, it’s probably time to replace the tank. A running toilet can waste a lot of water and increase your water bill. It’s also a good idea to replace the tank if it’s cracked or damaged in any way.
Will a New Tank Solve All Toilet Problems?
Replacing the tank isn’t always the solution to your toilet issues. Some problems are caused by the bowl or the water supply line. If your toilet is constantly clogged, your drainage system is probably the issue.
You may need to have a professional come and take a look at your toilet to figure out what’s causing the blockage.
If you occasionally have waste in the bowl even after flushing multiple times, then you may need to get a new, more modern bowl that is more efficient.
Finally, if your water tank is low on water or completely empty, there is probably an issue with your water supply line or you could have a leak. A new tank won’t solve this problem; you’ll need a plumber to fix your water line.
What Does a New Toilet Tank Cost?
The cost of a new toilet tank depends on the type of toilet you have and the size of the tank. A standard tank usually costs between $60 and $150.
If you have a larger or more advanced toilet, the tank could cost up to $200. You can usually find a good selection of toilet tanks on Amazon. You can install a new toilet tank yourself or hire a plumber to do it for you.
Here are some of the best toilet tanks out there:
Kohler Cimarron Toilet Tank
The Kohler Cimarron Tank (on Amazon) is a standard white tank that fits most toilets. It is made by Kohler, a trusted name in plumbing fixtures. This tank costs between $106 and $166, depending on the size you need. The smaller tank flushes 1.28 gallons while the larger tank flushes 1.6 gallons.
TOTO Drake Insulated Tank
The G-Max Drake tank from Toto (on Amazon) is one of the best options available on the market for an insulated tank. It features a 1.6-gallon flushing system and has an extra-wide 3-Inch flush valve and wide 2-1/8-Inch glazed trapway to offer increased flow.
The powerful siphon jet also ensures that everything goes down — and stays down.
American Standard Cadet 3 Toilet Tank
The American Standard Cadet 3 (on Amazon) is a typical white tank that fits most toilets. This tank costs between $66 and $85, depending on the size. The cadet 3 is a reliable and efficient tank that will get the job done without any issues.
What Tools Are Needed to Replace a Toilet Tank?
If you choose to replace the toilet tank, you will need a few tools to complete the job:
- Adjustable wrench: This will be used to disconnect the water supply line from the tank. The CRAFTSMAN Adjustable Wrench Set (on Amazon) comes with three wrenches of different sizes to ensure you have the right one for the job.
- Pliers: You’ll need a pair of pliers to remove the tank bolts and washers. Look for a pair that has a comfortable grip, like the INGCO 3pcs Pliers Tool Set (on Amazon). This set includes a variety of pliers that will come in handy for this and future projects around the house.
- Screwdriver: A screwdriver will be needed to remove the tank lid and any screws holding the tank to the bowl. A good all-purpose screwdriver set like the ENGiNDOT Magnetic Screwdriver Set (on Amazon) has everything you need to complete this task.
How to Replace Your Toilet Tank
Now that you’ve got the supplies, here are some instructions for how to actually replace the tank:
- Turn off the water to your toilet by shutting off the valve behind it. Flush the toilet to empty the tank of water.
- Remove the lid from the tank and set it aside.
- Use the adjustable wrench to loosen the nuts that secure the flush valve and overflow tube to the tank.
- Lift the flush valve and overflow tube and set them aside.
- Use the screwdriver to remove the bolts that secure the tank to the bowl. Lift off the tank.
- Place the new tank on the bowl and secure it in place with the bolts.
- Reattach the flush valve and overflow tube to the tank. Tighten the nuts securely with the adjustable wrench.
- Turn on the water to the toilet and check for leaks. If there are no leaks, flush the toilet to fill the tank with water. Replace the lid on the tank.