Toilets include waste pipes, cisterns, flush buttons, float valves, etc. They flush out all the waste and leave your toilet bowl neat. A standard flushing system comes in different trapway shapes, such as J, U, P, and S. Choosing these systems depends on the water system and the bathroom design. Most toilets simply have a cistern/tank above the toilet bowl containing a specific amount of water. They have two devices. One device allows the rapid flow of the tank’s contents into the bowl and removes them by suction. The second device enables the inflow of water inside the cistern till the desired level is reached. The most common problem haunting toilets is a damaged or stuck flush button. While a slight slap at times could do magic but many times, it just won’t get back to its original position. You can hire a plumber to resolve your problem or try our DIY guide to replace a flush button. If you are comfortable with the latter, let’s get to work.
First, no technical task can be accomplished without the right tools. Replacing a toilet flush button does not need many tools, and all you need is a towel, a flathead screwdriver, and grips. You also need a new flushing mechanism to replace the faulty one. You can get these simple tools and supplies from any hardware store if you don’t have them at home. Once you have the tools, it’s time to get your hands wet.
Toilets can have different flushing systems. Make sure you can identify which type of system you have. For instance, dual flush units, single flush, touchless flushing, and others can be commonly found in homes around the United Kingdom. Changing the flush button should not be a problem because many of these works similarly, but if you have a unique flush system, such as a concealed cistern, you will need professional help. For the traditional ones, here is a simple DIY guide to help you replace your flush mechanism in ten simple steps.
Some intelligent plumbers install isolation valves with your toilets and washbasins. This implies that you can turn off the supply to that particular toilet without turning off the entire water supply. If that is not the case with your home, you will have to turn off the main supply. If you don’t know where it is, track your piping back to its origin, and you will find it. It is right under the kitchen sink with a W or water sign in many homes.
The next step is to open the cistern of your toilet. Lift the lid and disconnect the refilling tube. Keep the lid in a safe place as it is usually made of ceramics and can break easily. Next, Unscrew the back nut holding the flush button in place. Use a brush or a cloth to clean the hole thoroughly.
The next step is to drain all water from your flush system to empty the cistern so you can easily remove it. A little water won’t harm you and can be dealt with later.
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To replace the push button, it is essential to detach and remove the cistern. Use your screwdriver to unscrew the cistern from the wall. Once that’s done, you need to Locate the wing nuts underneath your cistern and unscrew them. This way, you could lift the cistern from the toilet bowl. Please keep all the bolts and nuts safe, so you don’t lose them. Remove the connecting pipe that provides water to the tank. Drain any water that might be present. Reinstall the cistern after closing the lid. Wipe it clean with a towel.
To remove the flush valve, you have to remove the gasket, which is in the shape of a doughnut and is located at the cistern’s bottom. Remove the gasket carefully. Next, use the grips and undo the black nut holding the flushing system in place. Remove the metal clamp and check the doughnut washer for any signs of damage. Use the same one if it appears fine, or use a new one if it is damaged. Perform the final step of removing the flush valve.
Some flushing systems are easy to remove, while others can be challenging. Take out your new mechanism from its package. Remove the washer and unscrew the nut. You can do this easily without any tools. Fit the new seal nicely and tight. Insert the valve by passing it through the cistern. Make sure that it fits in place. Reinstall the metal clamp and use your grips to tighten the nut. Install the gasket.
Fit the bolts into the slots at the tank’s bottom carefully to fit them in their rightful place. Screw back the wing nut and secure the cistern to the bowl. Fit the tank back into the wall with your screwdriver. Make sure the screws are tight. Check all the fittings to ensure there are no leakages. Finally, attach the cold water line.
The fill valve should be set into a position that enables the float to move freely. Check the float adjustment instructions included in the flush mechanism you bought to see if you have followed the important ones. Carry out a test run once you have connected the water supply.
To fit the push button, unwind the nut at its back, fit the new button and wind the nut tight. If the button came with a shroud, you can use that too or leave it as it is if the fitting is fine. Connect the new button to the flush system and close the lid.
Congratulations, you have successfully replaced your flush mechanism and installed a new flush button. Now, it’s time to see if you have done it properly. Connect your toilet to its water supply. Use the flush button one or two times and see if everything is working properly. Inspect the entire toilet to see if there is any dripping or leakage. Have a nice day if everything seems fine, or call a plumber if you have made a mess.
Plumbing repairs and replacements like the above may seem more convenient than they sound. While you might be good at taking on DIY tasks, you need at least some basic knowledge to carry on these tasks. Professional plumbers have dealt with these problems time and time again and can replace your flushing mechanism in a matter of minutes. They are qualified, trained, and fully equipped to tackle any plumbing challenge. If you are constantly facing a problem of faulty flush mechanisms, there might be something else that needs to be addressed, and it is best to seek professional help. However, as we said before, some flush mechanisms are different, and some might be more complicated than others. You might end up making a total mess instead of resolving a problem.
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