Replace tips for toilet flush valve

A Story by Mitchel Tobin

The fill valve on most toilets is a two-part issue that includes the flap and the valve seat on which it rests when it is down. When the flap or valve seat wears out, water seeps from the tank to the container, and the fill valve turns on and off or runs continuously.

That is not only annoying, but it wastes water. The valve seat is not responsible for leaks as often as the flapper, and when it is, it could be due to the accumulation of sediments or mineral deposits or because it is not sealed properly.

Toilet Flush Valve - Replace Tips

A toilet fill valve will have to malfunction at one point, and you don't want to be surprised when the time comes. So what are the tips to replace a toilet flush valve?

Step 1: Prepare for Installation

Close the water tap and fill the toilet. Hold the handle down until no more water comes out of the tank, then pass a sponge in the container to empty the tank.

Disconnect the flapper chain and disengage the flapper from the overflow tube. You may have rubber ears that you can remove from the overflow tube. Connect some flappers to the tube using a ring, and to remove one, slide the ring toward the top of the tube and lift it up.

Step 2: Valve Replacement

Your new valve works exactly like the previous one. Keep the thread up and straight through the hole. Don't squeeze too much; Otherwise, the tank could break.

Adjust the height of the tube. In most cases, the manufacturer specifies the correct height. Do it at least an inch below the hole where the fill lever is mounted.

Fit the rubber gasket and use the nut to screw it into position. Tighten for a perfect seal. Replace the hose and reconnect the flapper chain.

Step 3: Test & Troubleshooting

Rinse several times to make sure there are no leaks. Use a flashlight to check for leaks under the toilet. If any, tighten the connections.

Tips

You can repair a minor leak by emptying the tank, drying the valve and spreading silicone grease on the seat and the valve flap to create a better seal.
If you are not sure if the fill valve is leaking, place food coloring in the tank. The valve leaks if the water in the container turns that color.

© 2019 Mitchel Tobin

Author's Note

The toilet fill valve seals should be replaced, at least once every few years, depending on the water condition. Other types of toilet water tanks may have similar assemblies. Why call a plumber for something so easy to do?

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