How to Empty a Toilet Tank Completely

How to Empty a Toilet Tank Completely
Written By
Damon Koch
Damon Koch
Published: Dec 20, 2010
Updated: Nov 20, 2021
1 minute read

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.

Photo Credits

Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images

Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images

Damon Koch

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…

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