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Home - Diy How to Empty a Toilet Tank Completely By Damon Koch

Many repairs you may need to perform on a toilet require the tank be completely empty. If you are replacing a flapper, it is much easier to complete the task without having to fight a tank full of water. It is also much less messy if the tank is empty when you replace a flush valve.

Emptying the tank starts by locating the shutoff valve.

Ensuring the tank is empty and that no more water flows into it is fairly straightforward and takes only a few minutes.

1. Locate the shutoff valve for the toilet and turn it all the way clockwise to stop the flow of water to the tank. The shutoff valve is toward the floor on the left side of the toilet.

2. Remove the toilet tank lid and place it somewhere it will not get damaged.

3. Flush the toilet to remove most of the water in the tank. Since the shutoff valve is turned off, the tank will not refill with water.

4. Soak up any remaining water in the tank, using a sponge. Wring it out in the toilet bowl or sink.

The Drip Cap

• Many repairs you may need to perform on a toilet require the tank be completely empty.
• Since the shutoff valve is turned off, the tank will not refill with water.
• Soak up any remaining water in the tank, using a sponge.

Writer Bio

Damon Koch has years of writing experience ranging from software manuals to song lyrics. His writing has appeared in software manuals for Human Arc and on the CDs "Small Craft Advisory" and "Impersonating Jesus." He also has worked in building maintenance since 2004. He has attended Lorain County Community College as well as Cleveland State University.

Photo Credits

• Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
• Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images

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