When to replace a toilet supply line?

Author: Dashawn Weber  |  Last update: Tuesday, January 6, 2026

The water line is the braided cable that leads from the tank of the toilet to the wall. This supply line has a life span of 6 to 8 years and it's best to replace at the time of install.

How often should toilet supply lines be replaced?

I don't know if it's worth analyzing much more than that. They recommend replacing supply lines every five years, most people don't, and most don't break like that, but it might give you some peace of mind.

What is the life expectancy of a toilet supply line?

Age of the Water Supply Line: Like all elements of your house, your toilet water supply line has a lifespan. If your supply line is more than ten years old, it's a good idea to get it inspected by a professional, as it might be nearing the end of its life expectancy.

How do I know if my toilet supply line is bad?

Signs of a leak could be a puddle behind the toilet, a constant dripping sound in the wall, or behind the toilet. You may also notice poor pressure or the tank or bowl not filling with the usual amount of water. These can all indicate there's an issue with your toilet water supply line.

Should you replace the supply line when replacing a toilet?

Agree that the braided supply hose should be changed when changing the fill valve. The stop valve would only need to be changed if it failed to stop the water flow in the off position.

Replacing Your Toilet Water Supply Line: A Step-by-Step Guide

When should I replace my water supply lines?

It's important to know the warning signs that it's time to repair or replace your water line.
  1. Discolored Water. Your water should be clear - always. ...
  2. Rust and Corrosion. ...
  3. Higher-Than-Usual Water Bills. ...
  4. Sudden Drop In Water Pressure. ...
  5. Soggy Patches On Your Lawn. ...
  6. Wet Spots On Floor.

How much does it cost to replace a toilet water supply line?

Replacing a toilet supply line costs in the typical range between $130 and $300. This includes the cost of the line itself and the labor to install it.

How long do water supply lines last?

And should the line collapse or become damaged beyond repair, running water is off-limits until a replacement can be completed -- usually a process taking several days. If you're lucky, your home's water line will last 70 years or more.

Why is my toilet still leaking after replacing the supply line?

If the leak still hasn't stopped, the next culprit you'll want to check out are the rubber washers. In some cases, worn out or damaged washers can be the reason your toilet water line is leaking. Before you check out the washers, it's important to turn off your water at your shut-off valve.

Can you over tighten toilet supply line?

Screwing a supply line on too tight is one of the worst things you can do. Such overtightening will cause the metal threads inside of the line to become warped, making it much easier for water to slip past.

Do braided supply lines go bad?

Aging and Wear: braided supply lines have a premature failure rate due to being more prone to cracking and leaking. 2. Corrosion; The connectors and fittings used in these supply lines can corrode over time due to water composition, primarily if you reside in an area with hard water like Calgary.

How long does the average household toilet last?

One of the most used fixtures in your home, the toilet, on average has a lifespan of 10-15 years. For being used as often as it is, the toilet can withstand a lot. Unfortunately, there will come a time when you need to replace your toilet.

What is the average toilet supply line?

3/8 inch supply lines are typically used in residential plumbing. They are adequate for most toilets and provide a reliable flow of water.

How do you know when a toilet needs to be replaced?

If you think that it might be time for you to replace your toilet, here are the warning signs that you should keep an eye out for.
  1. Consistently Clogging. ...
  2. The Bowl or Tank Are Cracked. ...
  3. You've Noticed a Spike in Your Water Bill. ...
  4. The Toilet Moves When You Sit on It. ...
  5. It Needs Too Many Repairs. ...
  6. Visual Scratches. ...
  7. Faulty Flushing.

How often should you change braided supply lines?

We recommend changing braided supply lines every 10 years to avoid injuries such as those sustained by the appliance service technician as well as to protect your home and other property from water damage. If you are unsure of how old your supply lines are or how to replace them, RMS can help.

When should I replace my toilet supply line?

The water line is the braided cable that leads from the tank of the toilet to the wall. This supply line has a life span of 6 to 8 years and it's best to replace at the time of install.

How do I stop my supply line from leaking?

Tip #1 Tighten the Nut

Often the solution is as simple as tightening the nut at the point where you see a leak. Take care not to over-tighten – you can crack the nut or strip the threads. Use only adjustable wrenches, not pipe wrenches.

Why would a toilet supply line burst?

Reasons Why Your Toilet Supply Line Is Leaking

Loose fittings: If the fittings connecting the supply line to the toilet tank or shut-off valve are loose, water can leak through the gaps, causing a leak. High water pressure: When the water pressure is too high, it can cause the supply line to burst or leak.

When should I replace my water service line?

The water supply pipe can last decades, so it can be hard to predict when it will need to be replaced. Signs of a broken water service line include a sudden increase in water bills, soggy spots on the property, low water pressure, or contaminated water.

How much does it cost to replace a water supply line?

Main water line replacement costs an average of $1,713 but ranges from $646 to $2,824, depending on the length and depth of the line, materials, and method.

What does a plumber charge to replace a toilet?

Toilet Replacement Labor

The labor cost for installing a toilet can range from $150 to $450 on average, but it can increase based on the complexity of the job and local labor rates. The basic labor usually includes removing the old toilet, installing the new one, and connecting it to existing water and drain lines.

Do you use teflon tape on a toilet supply line?

Additionally, while not required, Teflon tape can add further security to your installation if your toilet hose is leaking. And taking that extra step never hurts!

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