How to Fix a Toilet Handle That Won't Go Up After Flushing

Written by Linda Ahn
on Feb 18, 2011

To ensure our content is always up-to-date with current information, best practices, and professional advice, articles are routinely reviewed by industry experts with years of hands-on experience.

Reviewed by
H.R. Helm
on Mar 16, 2023

1-2 hours
•
Beginner
•
0-20

Dry towels

Pliers

Dry towels

Pliers

Fixing a toilet handle that will not come back up after flushing is an easy task that requires a little bit of patience. There are a few things that can cause this problem, and in order to fix it the handle must be analyzed.

Step 1 - Remove the Handle

Begin this job by taking the handle off of the toilet. To accomplish this remove the toilet lid and remove the nut that is on the inside of the toilet tank that holds the lever in place.

Step 2 - Clean

Since gummed up residue is one of the leading problems for handle issues, use a dry towel and clean all of the surfaces, including the threads. Make sure that everything is free from dirt and that the handle itself is not broken. If it is broken, replace it.

Step 3 - Reconnect the Toilet Handle

Reattach the handle by tightening the inside nut. Be sure not to overtighten this because it can cause problems with the handle working correctly. Check to see if this has fixed the problem.

Step 4 - Check the Arm

If these steps did not fix the problem, then check the arm to see if it is working properly. Also check to see if it is bent and needs fixed, or if something within the bowl is preventing it from working correctly. The arm itself may be the problem and once it is fixed the toilet handle should work again.

Step 5 - Check the Chain

If the handle does not return properly there may also be a problem with the chain. Make sure that it does not disconnect when flushed. Also verify that the chain is not kinked and is working properly.