Slow filling toilet fix
We have all had them one time or another -- toilet problems. One of the common problems homeowners face is a slow filling toilet tank. The issue is most likely caused by a dirty, clogged fill valve tube. If you are wondering make your toilet tank fill water fast like new, here's how >> Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. First, we have to know there are two different types of toilet valves; one is "float cup fill valve", and the other, "ballcock fill valve" types. Float cup fill valve is the newer type, while the ballcock fill valve is older and now not often used as the former. What makes them different is the hardware that supplies water to the toilet tank.
The ballcock uses a "ball", usually black or gray in color, that floats on the water's surface in the toilet tank. On the other hand, the float cup operates vertically on the fill tube.
Remove your toilet tank cover, and you can easily distinguish the two and determine the valve type you have. This is crucial in case the fill valve seal needs to be replaced, you will know the right one to buy then.
2. Shut off the water supply valve, this can be found underneath the water tank a few inches above the floor, where the toilet sits. Turn it counter-clock wise until it stops turning. Flush the toilet to empty out the water tank.
3. To gain access to the toilet fill valve tube, you must remove the hardware on the top of the tube. The hardware is easy to remove, you only have to unscrew some screws. Next, use a long bottle brush or stiff wire to clear inside the tube. Try clean out as much sediment as possible.
4. Pour a glass or a bottle of water over the fill tube, and press down the flush handle to flush out debris in the tube; you may have to do this several times until you feel the tube is clean. Reinstall the hardware after cleaning the valve tube.
5. If the above is not working, then you have to replace the "fill valve seal", also called "tank valve seal". This seal wears out over time. The size is standard for all toilets, so go to your favorite home improvement center or DIY store and ask for one. Fill valve seal sometimes come in a kit, you have every thing necessary for the case may be. The valve is between the water supply tube and the fill tube in the water tank. Remove the old worn seal and replace it with your new one.
6. Turn the water supply back on from the incoming water valve. Flush test your toilet. Consider a job well done if your toilet tank is now filling faster than before the fix.
7. Fixing a slow filling toilet tank is quick and easy, even if you have never fix a toilet problem yourself. The first thing is to learn the parts, their location, and how they work in a toilet. When a toilet problem comes, you'll know deal with it.
Tags: fill valve, toilet tank, valve seal, your toilet, fill tube, toilet tank
