When it comes to purchasing a new toilet, there are a lot of factors to consider. From the style and size to the color and price, it can be overwhelming to make a decision.
But one important aspect that should not be overlooked is the flush valve. This small but crucial part plays a big role in the performance of your toilet.
But do toilets come with flush valves?
In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about flush valves, including what they are, how they work, and whether or not your new toilet will come with one.
So let’s dive in and flush out all the details!
Do Toilets Come With Flush Valve
When you purchase a new toilet, it should come with most of the parts that you’ll need, including a flush valve. The flush valve is a part inside the tank of a toilet that moves water into the bowl during a flush. It’s a crucial component of your toilet’s performance, and without it, your toilet won’t be able to function properly.
Most new toilets come with a standard 2-inch flush valve and flapper that lifts up when you push the toilet handle down. However, some toilets may come with larger flush valves, such as 3-inch or 4-inch valves, which can provide better flushing power with less water usage.
It’s important to pay attention to the type of flush valve your new toilet has when making your purchase. If you’re replacing an existing toilet, make sure to get a valve that will work for that specific toilet. Typically, you’ll have to stick to the size that is already in there. However, if you happen to find that the flush valve is an uncommon size, such as 3.5 inches, try contacting the toilet manufacturer for a replacement valve. They may end up sending you a new flush valve for free.
What Is A Flush Valve?
A flush valve is a crucial component of a toilet’s flushing system. It is a part inside the tank of a toilet that moves water into the bowl during a flush. The valve sits inside the hole at the bottom of the tank and its job is to move water from the tank into the bowl for each flush. Over the valve is usually a rubber flapper that creates a water-tight seal that keeps water in the tank when not in use.
Flush valves come in different sizes ranging from 2 to 4 inches, depending on the toilet design. Larger valves move water faster, resulting in better flushing power with less water usage. There are also different types of flush valves available, such as standard flush valves, 3-inch flush valves, tower-style 3-inch flush valves, 4-inch flush valves, and dual-flush valves.
When purchasing a new toilet, it’s important to pay attention to the type of flush valve it has. If you’re replacing an existing toilet, make sure to get a valve that will work for that specific toilet. Stick to the size that is already in there, or contact the toilet manufacturer for a replacement valve if you find an uncommon size.
How Does A Flush Valve Work?
The flush valve is a crucial component of your toilet’s performance, but how exactly does it work? The flush valve is located in the center of the tank and is typically made of plastic or brass. It is operated using a rubber or neoprene flapper or a ‘float ball’. This mechanism keeps water in the cistern tank until the flush handle is operated.
When the handle is pressed, a chain or lift wire connected to the handle rod lifts the flapper away from the valve seat, allowing water to flush down out of the cistern and fill the toilet bowl. With the tank empty, the flapper falls back down into the valve seat, sealing the opening and allowing water to refill the tank.
Integrated into the flush valve is a vertical overflow tube that extends from the base of the flush valve up into the tank. This overflow tube works to prevent water from overflowing the tank and also allows small amounts of water to flow down into and fill the toilet bowl as the tank refills. A small refill tube at the top of the overflow tube allows a stream of water to flow down into the bowl during the refill cycle, restoring the level of standing water in the toilet bowl and keeping the trap sealed.
Types Of Flush Valves
Toilets come with different types of flush valves, each with its own benefits and drawbacks. Here are the most common types of flush valves:
1. Standard Flush Valve: This is the most common type of flush valve found in toilets. It’s a basic 2-inch flush valve and flapper that lifts up when you push the toilet handle down. Standard flush valves may be found on low-flow toilets and on some older toilets with large tanks. Changing a flush valve in a standard toilet is a fairly easy project that can be done by most homeowners.
2. Canister Flush Valve: Also known as a tower-style flush valve, the canister flush valve has a 3-inch opening in the tank where the water goes into the bowl. Unlike a flapper-style valve, the canister valve allows for water to leave the tank unrestricted (360-degree flow), which can produce a faster and more powerful flush. Changing a canister-style flush valve seal can be as easy as changing a flapper.
3. Flushometer: A flushometer is a type of flush valve that is commonly found in commercial buildings and public restrooms. It uses water pressure to create a powerful flush, rather than relying on gravity like traditional toilets. Flushometers are typically more expensive than standard flush valves but are very durable and long-lasting.
4. Dual-Flush Valve: A dual-flush valve gives you the option of a half flush and a full flush with the same valve. Some dual-flush valves are operated with a handle; you get a half flush when the handle is pushed up and a full flush when the handle is pushed down. Other dual-flush valves work with a double button; one button triggers a half flush, the other a full flush. There are also dual-flush valves that are made specifically to convert a normal toilet into a water-saving toilet. Installing and using a dual-flush valve can provide significant water savings every year.
When purchasing or replacing a toilet, consider which type of flush valve will work best for your needs and budget. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to do your research before making a decision.
Benefits Of Having A Good Flush Valve
Having a good flush valve in your toilet can provide numerous benefits, both in terms of performance and efficiency. Here are some of the advantages of having a good flush valve:
1. Efficient Water Usage: One of the most significant benefits of having a good flush valve is that it can help you save water. A larger flush valve, such as a 3-inch or 4-inch valve, can provide better flushing power with less water usage. This means that you’ll be able to flush your toilet effectively without wasting unnecessary amounts of water.
2. Reduced Water Bills: By using a good flush valve, you can reduce your water consumption and save money on your water bills. A faulty flush valve can allow water to continue to seep through, leading to an ongoing flowing water sound that can be a real nuisance and costing you money in water bills.
3. Extended Life of Your Toilet: Replacing a faulty toilet flush valve can extend the life of your toilet. With a new toilet flush valve, you can reduce wear and tear on your toilet, potentially extending its lifespan.
4. Quieter Operation: A replacement toilet flush valve will make your toilet quieter, allowing you to live in your home in peace. A faulty flush valve can cause water to intermittently turn on to fill the tank, leading to an ongoing flowing water sound that can be a real nuisance.
5. Easy Installation: Despite having a tank on the back, top, or side of the bowl – most toilets with a flush tank are easier to install. This happens because they don’t work directly with the plumbing system. Instead, they use special water-feeding tubes or mechanisms that only open when the tank is empty. That ensures proper installation in different types of bathrooms without having to turn off water delivery or waste time & effort trying to be super careful.
Signs Of A Faulty Flush Valve
While a flush valve is an essential component of your toilet, it can deteriorate over time, causing problems with your toilet’s performance. One of the most common signs of a faulty flush valve is a constant running of water in the tank. If you hear strange sounds coming from your toilet or notice that your toilet is continuously running, it’s possible that the flush valve is not closing properly.
Another way to check for a faulty flush valve is to place a few drops of food coloring into the tank and watch to see if the colored water leaks out into the bowl. If you notice that the colored water is leaking into the bowl, it’s a clear indication that there’s a problem with the flush valve.
If you’re experiencing issues with your toilet flushing, it’s important to address them as soon as possible. A faulty flush valve can cause your toilet to use more water than necessary, which can lead to higher water bills. Additionally, a malfunctioning flush valve can cause your toilet to clog or not flush properly, leading to frustration and inconvenience.
Fortunately, replacing a faulty flush valve is relatively easy and inexpensive. To replace a flush valve, you’ll need to disconnect the chain that connects the flapper to the flush handle and remove the old valve. Then, install the new valve and clip it into place. Be sure to pay attention to the float and set it at the same level as the old one.
In conclusion, if you’re experiencing issues with your toilet flushing or notice any signs of a faulty flush valve, it’s important to take action right away. By replacing a faulty flush valve, you can restore your toilet’s flushing capabilities and reduce your water consumption.