Construction and repair by own hands

The drainage system of the toilet bowl. Malfunctions during operation of drainage tanks. How does the drainage mechanism work?

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On each toilet there is a tank for draining the water. This product is made of different materials, and the downcomer for the toilet can differ from similar products in the form and method of installation. As for the principle of action, then it is almost the same for all draining tanks. By the method of installation, these devices are of three types:

  • a compact container that is placed directly on the bowl of the toilet bowl;
  • products for draining water, built into the wall - most often they are used together with hanging toilet bowls;
  • suspension tank (such as in the photo) - it is installed at a certain height and connected to the bowl of the toilet with a drain pipe.

  Water supply to the drain tank

   The design solution of all drain tanks assumes the presence of two mechanisms - water supply and drainage system for the toilet.

The devices responsible for filling the tanks with water are of two types:

  • with lateral feed;
  • with the bottom feed.
   In the first case, these products are float valves designed for tanks, water in which comes from the side to the top. They have a simple device, but in the process of using them, noise is heard. Such products are mainly produced in domestic enterprises.


The valve consists of two parts:
  • housing with a membrane in it, which is responsible for the overlap and opening of the water supply to the tank;
  • a float connected via a lever to the body. Rising and lowering when the water level in the tank changes, the float controls the lever. That in turn affects the rod and the membrane fixed on it, thereby opening or blocking water access through the valve.
   Systems with a lower feed rate are more expensive, but they work much quieter. Such a mechanism is more complicated: in it the float moves on a specially designed vertical rod, but the principle of the construction is similar.

The device for disconnecting the fluid supply is activated by means of a special thrust which is connected to the float and at the same time is in the reservoir a limiter for the level of water quantity.

  Adjusting the water level in the toilet bowls

   Sometimes the amount of water in the reservoir needs to be adjusted for reasons of economy or to increase the strength of the water flow when the toilet flush is used.

To do this, you need to perform a number of actions:

  • in obsolete systems where side feed is provided and as usual a metal wire is used as a lever (for connecting the valve and the float) in order to change the level of raising the float, as a result of which the membrane will block access to water, this wire is simply bent. Bending it upward, you can increase the amount of water required to shut off the valve, well, while folding down - to reduce;
  • in modern systems that provide a lateral flow of water, a plastic rod instead of a wire is used as a lever, which, of course, can not be bent. The required level in them is regulated by moving the float along the axis of the float. This element is fixed by means of a thread or a latch, which before pressing the float, it is necessary to wring out. So, to increase the volume of water, it is necessary to push the float closer to the valve body and thus make the length of the lever smaller;
  • in systems where lower drainage water is provided, adjustment is easier. Simply shorten or lengthen the plastic rod, which limits the level of fluid in the reservoir that connects the valve lever to the float. Typically, the stopper has a thread, and the float rests on it, and a standard plastic nut is used to adjust the height.

  Disposal device for toilet bowls

   The device for draining the water in the toilet can be placed on the side or on top plumbing fixture. The second option involves the installation of a suspension tank, but such a product is currently practically not used in plumbing. Therefore, he will not be considered in the article.


At the same time, the top toilet flush device is used on all modern models of sanitary fixtures.

   The most popular for today, the downcomer for the toilet is a rubber pear, the work of which is simple. On the cover of the drain tank, install the button. When it is pressed, the lever lifting the rubber bulb from the seat is activated, and then the water from the tank is directed to the drain hole of the device.

   In some cases, a button and a lever are not used, but a long rod that needs to be lifted upwards - a similar mechanism is simpler. It should be noted that the modern device of the toilet flush system is more technological and complex.

  Installation of a drain tank

   When an independent installation of the toilet flush mechanism is carried out, there should not be any special problems for the domestic craftsman. Such work can be done quickly with their own hands, without applying for services to professionals.

The procedure for how to install a toilet flush mechanism is as follows:

  1. Collect the drainage device. First, a special gasket is installed on its thread, which is included in the kit for the purchased plumbing fixture.
  2. After that, the toilet flushing device is inserted into the process opening of the tank and screwed with a wide plastic nut (more in detail: ""). Often in the instructions for plumbing, it is recommended to mount a valve for the supply of liquid before installing the drain tank on the toilet bowl. But experts say that after this it will be difficult to fasten the clamping bolts when placing the tank. It is unlikely that a person's hand will be able to reach the bolt located in the water tank - it will prevent the valve.

    Therefore, the second stage is the installation of a cream tank on the bowl of the sanitary appliance. Before installing the sink for the toilet, a gasket is placed on the device and the tank itself is placed on the appliance so that the holes for the tie-down bolts on the drain bowl and the bowl match.

  3. To screw the drain tank to the bowl, use the clamping bolts, putting on them special gaskets and plastic washers.
  4. After installing the filling mechanism, a water supply line is connected to it.
  5. Place the lid on the tank and screw the drain button.

  Malfunctions at operation of drain tanks

   If water does not flow into the reservoir or its supply does not overlap, then the cause of the malfunction lies: either in the float or in the fluid supply valve. Floats are made in the form of a hollow cylinder or an inverted glass. The damaged product is not repairable in the first case, and the problem can be eliminated by replacing it or buying the entire valve.


   With a float in the form of an inverted glass, if there is trouble - then it can overgrow with various deposits and mud. As a result, this element does not work well. Remedies can be eliminated by cleaning it.

   When the float is in perfect order, but the water does not stop flowing into the tank, then the cause of the malfunction is the worn valve diaphragm. Usually a spare product is supplied complete with a float. The membrane can be purchased separately. A protective cap is removed from the valve, the old membrane is removed and replaced with a new product. A small hole in the valve should be cleaned, otherwise water will stop flowing through it.

The device for flushing the toilet bowl can not be called difficult, so it can be easily installed or, if necessary, repaired.


The choice of the toilet model and the principle of its draining is a very important step in the selection of sanitary ware. Which toilet flush is better and will be able to ensure the absence of splashes, and at the same time provide a high-quality drain, you can determine by learning about some of the design features of this unit.

The situation with consultants in stores is such that many simply do not know what they are actually selling, so they can not give competent advice. On questions about whether there is a spray from the toilet, whether there is an anti-splash system, what level of water is at the bottom of the bowl, you can either not hear answers or get inaccurate information.

In this situation, it only remains to "turn on" your head and begin to analyze the situation. After all, such a technique as a toilet is purchased for a long period and is better if its use will be accompanied by proper comfort.

Choice of toilet flush toilet design

The first thing you need to know in order to determine which toilet is best to choose is the design of the toilet bowl. This directly depends on the design of the sewage system.

There is a mouth of a toilet bowl of three types:

  • horizontal;
  • oblique (angular);
  • vertical.

In the event that it is planned that the master will work on installing the toilet, all criteria must be stipulated with him, which will have to be paid attention, so that the result of the work is of high quality and does not require alteration.

We need to discuss the choice of the sink, what it will be - horizontal, vertical or oblique. If, for example, it is assumed that the toilet will fit snugly against the wall in order to free the space from the front, you need to understand whether the horizontal type of the neck will allow a sharp slope of the drain flute. If it does not work, then you can select the oblique type of the neck. It is important to specify this before starting work.

After that, you can go to the sanitary ware shop and carry out a choice of the model and design of the toilet bowl, which is suitable for the type of discharge outlet.

How to choose a toilet bowl

The criterion that prompts which toilet bowl to choose is whether there are splashes and splashes of water in a given structure.

Modern systems suggest that the bowl of the toilet bowl has the shape of a funnel, unlike old models equipped with a so-called shelf. The modern form is convenient and significantly saves water for flushing, and is generally more hygienic. However, it has a significant negative, which is reflected in the abundance of splashes and bursts.


To understand what kind of toilet is best washed off, you can, after learning what kind of bowls are the toilet bowl.

So, there are three types of bowl shape:

  • vertical (funnel-shaped). In this case, the drain hole is directly in the center of the bowl;
  • with shelf.  This form has a number of drawbacks, including splashes, splashes, overspending of water resources and a low degree of hygiene;
  • inclined  (the incline is usually closer to one of the edges - the posterior or anterior one);

The anti-splash system is needed to prevent undesirable splashes after getting into the bowl of the toilet bowl of vital activity. This system is realized by a special geometric shape of the drain hole.

Absence of splashes will ensure a form in which the drainage port is as narrow as possible, located closer to the bottom of the structure and has a displacement to one side, and most importantly, that the water level in it should be as low as possible. The cycle must pass along the contour of the hole.


Determination of the height of the water column in the toilet drainage hole

It is already known what kind of toilet bowl to choose, based on the shape of the bowl, and that the water level in the sink should be as low as possible. To understand the stage of buying a toilet, what this level will be, can only be with the help of theoretical knowledge of physics, because no one will connect water in the store.

The water level in the toilet will correspond to the height of the bottom outlet point of the structure on the outside. Mentally drawing a line from this point, you can see the level of the supposed fullness of the toilet bowl with water.

Choice of draining system

Knowing all the previous selection criteria, it is already clear that the way the sink is discharged is also of great importance for the presence or absence of splashes and splashes. The discharge system can be of the following types:

  • horizontal method  - drainage is carried out on the back wall of the toilet. The disadvantage is that the other part of the structure is left unattended, which means that the hygienic nature of this method of flushing is not at altitude;
  • circular variant  - the drain is realized from three points, which ensures a uniform cleaning of the entire bowl at the same time. This option is no doubt better.

Selecting the lid of the toilet bowl

Also an important stage in the selection of sanitary equipment, both from the aesthetic side, and from the functional. As a rule, all caps have standard qualities, but there are lids with finishing. Such a system will not take care every time to carefully close the lid, but ensure a smooth and accurate closing itself.


Quality control during purchase

At the stage of purchase it is important to check the device for external damages - chips, cracks, scratches. The inner part of the bowl edge can be checked for enamel, having passed along it by hand. If it is absent, it will not be a big drawback, but it is still better that the enamel be.

It is worth checking the set of gaskets and products for fastening. The material of the gaskets can be rubber or silicone. Practice shows that silicone gaskets last longer. Bolts for fastening should be strong, it is better to avoid fragile products on alloys. If the selected toilet model contains not strong fasteners, then it is better to purchase separately higher quality products.

You should pay attention to such parameters as the size of the seat, the height of the toilet - all that will increase the comfort in use.

Having figured out what exactly affects the presence or absence of splashes and splashes in the toilet, you can choose a product that is ideally suited. Asking questions to consultants in stores is possible and necessary, but it is better to take care of elementary knowledge in the field of the purchased item.

When the toilet bowl is no longer functioning, we immediately begin to understand its importance. In order to carry out possible repair work, it is necessary to know how the flush mechanism for the toilet bowl is arranged.

The very first flushing cistern was designed for Elizabeth I in 1596. But only 200 years later, when water supply and sewerage appeared in England, this construction gained popularity. At first the tanks were valve type, later they were equipped with a convenient handle.

Today, the range of waste tanks is much more diverse. You can classify them by the following criteria:

By type of material

  • Metal (cast iron). They are durable, but not very aesthetically pleasing.
  • Ceramic. Reliable, have a wide choice of colors and shapes.

Ceramic drain tank

  • Plastic. Easy, simple to install, but prone to damage.


By location of the trigger device

  • The upper. The trigger button is on top of the lid (usually centered). When you press it, the rubber pear rises, passing water.


  • Lateral. Water in this case, merge, pulling the rope, fixed on the lever. The principle of operation is as follows: the lever is lowered, the cork is lifted on the opposite shoulder, and the water is drained. Such a toilet flush device is used rarely, since the tank needs to be placed high on the wall.


WC tank with side drainage mechanism

By type of mechanism for draining and recruiting water

  • With a manual mechanism. The valve of the tank opens only if you wish, so that you can adjust the amount of water used.
  • Automatic water recruitment. The tank is self-filling immediately after draining. Such a flushing device for the toilet is more convenient, but it does not allow saving water.


The toilet with a highly suspended tank looks great in a retro-style toilet

By the method of installation

  • The tank is fixed on the toilet. Convenient and very compact option.
  • The tank is located high on the wall, connecting with the toilet with a long pipe (not less than 1 m). This option provides the strongest water pressure when flushing, but for modern design is not very good.
  • The drain system for the toilet is built into the wall. In this case, the place in the lavatory is considerably saved, everything looks aesthetically pleasing and neat. There is only one drawback - it is difficult to carry out installation and repair work.


Toilet bowl with built-in drainage system

The design and operation principle of the flushing tank

The internal structure of the tank consists of two parts:

  • the mechanism of water supply;
  • down mechanism.

Thanks to the equipment for water supply, liquid accumulates in the tank to a certain level, after which the supply valve closes. The drainage system starts to function after pressing the button. At the same time, a portion of water pours into the toilet at high speed, flushing all its contents into the sewage system. As you can see, the drainage device for the toilet bowl works thanks to the alternate operation of the two mechanisms.

At a detailed inspection in the tank you can see the levers, the pear, the overflow, the float and the float valve. These parts are made of different materials, for example, the pear can be rubber or plastic, and the float - plastic or brass. They can also differ in form and method of connection, but the principle of their work does not change from this.

How does the water feed mechanism work?

The water supply is carried out with the help of an armature, which is responsible for water recruitment. It can be implemented in two ways:

  • Water comes from the side channel, that is, the inlet valve is located on the side wall of the tank (6-7 cm below the upper edge). In this case, there is a float on one end of the lever, on the other - a valve that closes the water when it reaches a certain level. The method is quite noisy, but it is very common among domestic producers.

Armature to the tank with the bottom supply of water

  • The water is supplied from the bottom, that is, the inlet valve is located at the bottom of the tank, near the drain siphon. The float in this case moves along the vertical rod. Unlike the previous method, the water in the tank comes faster and quieter.

When the tank is empty, the float is at the bottom, so the leverage system opens the shut-off valve. Water rushes into the tank and fills it, while raising the float. With the rise of the float, the levers gradually cover the check valve. This process continues until the water has filled the tank to a certain level. After that, the valve is completely closed.

The float is equipped with an adjusting screw, with which you can adjust the level of filling the tank.

How does the drainage mechanism work?

Drain mechanism is designed to drain water from the tank into the toilet. The main parts of this mechanism:

  • drainage device (lever or button);
  • drain siphon.


Internal flushing unit

There are several types of siphons. The simplest is the familiar "pear", reminiscent of the shape of a plunger. The siphon closes the drain hole, preventing water from escaping.

The operating principle of the drainage device is quite simple. When you press the button or pull the rope, the rod is activated, which lifts the bulb and opens the closing valve. The water is drained into the sewer.

The drainage device for the toilet is combined with overflow. This is the insurance against overfilling the tank. If, for any reason, the water level exceeds the permissible level, the water does not pour out, but flows directly into the sewage system.

Dual-mode toilet flush mechanism

The drain mechanism can be of two types: operating in one mode and dual-mode. If the most popular single-mode mechanism is installed in the tank, the water is drained by the entire volume. The dual-mode drain system allows the use of only a part of the water from the fullness of the tank. This is especially important in large families or offices.


That's all you need to know about the device drainage mechanism. This knowledge will help you not only to properly select the toilet bowl, but also to carry out minor repairs.

The drainage mechanism for the toilet bowl usually comes complete with a toilet bowl. However, you need to choose a reliable drainage device for the tank. If you understand all the nuances of the drain system, the features of installing the reservoir of the sink, as well as the correction of the most common problems, you will save money, time, nerves. Moreover, you will not have to conflict with neighbors because of their flooding.

  • 1 Ways to install a drain
  • 2 Features of sinks
  • 3 Troubleshooting

Ways to install a drain

The drain, that is, the drain tank, can be installed in one of three ways. Each of them has its own characteristics. In this case, the choice of the way to drain the toilet is selected individually.

  1. Fastening the tank high enough above the toilet. From the point of view of aesthetics, this is not the most the best option. Similar designs seem to send us to Soviet times. But such a system has clear advantages. These include the ease of access to the plum, easy repair. Also do not forget about the power of attraction. Since the tank is located above the toilet, water will flow to the drain hole, through the pipe and into the toilet at a higher speed. Consequently, the efficiency of flushing will improve significantly.
  2. Installation on a toilet or a platform. Choosing this option, the connection is made using rubber cuffs. As a result, the design is more attractive externally, and also takes up much less space.
  3. Installation in the wall. To build a tank inside the walls began not so long ago. This type of installation is possible provided that the house is undergoing major repairs. Embedding will save a lot of space, and access to the system for tank repair will be provided through the drain button hole.

Features of sinks

It should be noted that plums for toilets in terms of the mechanism of their operation, can be divided into two types:

  • Single-mode;
  • Dual-mode.

The single-mode feature is simple - the drain is performed once, with the use of all the water that is available in the tank. In the case of dual mode, only half the tank is used. This is important for large families, where they think about saving water.

Despite the difference in the mechanism of operation, the principle of action remains identical for all toilets. Only the shut-off valves may have some differences in their operation. In some cases, the overlapping valves are located at the ends of the tubular rods that act as excess water overflows. In other situations, the overlapping valves are opened, closed using a chain of plastic or metal. Such systems are not the most successful, because they quickly break down.

If we talk about the buttons in the drain system for the toilet, they are divided into two types. The first type does not depend on each other, o fastening is done to the lid using chains, or by screwing into the drain mechanism. The second type opens the valves with levers made of plastic.

Triggers can be of two types:

  1. Side systems. They are used on those tanks, which are located quite high above the toilet. To start the mechanism, pull the chain from the side. There are side systems with buttons. On such tanks, the button is located on the side, and are used when the tank is low.
  2. Upper systems. They are relevant for downcomers, which are located below, or built into the walls. The mechanism works by means of a button, a head mounted on top of the tank. By the way, the mechanism can be manual or automatic.

Troubleshooting

The drain system has a number of characteristic faults, which we encounter quite often. The main ones are connected with the inability to retain water inside the tank, or with the damage of various nodes.

  1. The most common problem is a damaged lever. Alas, their design has become quite complex in modern toilets, and the elements themselves are made of plastic. It turns out that it is not possible to repair them. Therefore, the only solution to the problem is to replace a broken, damaged structural element with a new one.
  2. Another common breakdown is water transfusion. To correct the situation, it will be necessary to adjust the mechanism, namely to raise the overflow slightly higher, so that it is located below those holes that are located on the tank body. After this, the position of the float is adjusted so that the water overlaps at a lower level than the overflow of the drains.
  3. When leakage of water through the shut-off valves, you need to determine the cause. There can be two. The first is the drying of the membrane made of rubber. To correct the situation, the drain tank is disconnected, in the upper part of which there is a gasket. It is removed by turning it counterclockwise. After this, it is very easy to replace the membrane. The second reason can be the clogging of the valve with debris, sediment from dirty water. You can eliminate the problem by simply cleaning the space under the valve.

Do not forget that during the repair of the tank you should close the tap, which pumps water into the tank. Otherwise you will come across puddles.  A couple of scrolls on the right side will relieve you of unnecessary hassle, will allow you to easily, quickly and easily carry out repairs.

It can be said that draining the toilet seat can work long, very efficiently if fairly simple conditions are observed. The first is to buy a good toilet with a reliable, effective system  plum. The second is to conduct periodic prophylaxis, which will significantly prolong the service life of the drainage system, and also save you from unnecessary repairs. Whatever one may say, prevention is much cheaper than repair. This applies not only to the toilets, but also a number of other equipment used in each house, apartment.

The drain for the toilet is most often included in the set with the bowl, despite this, it is worth taking care when choosing it. Familiarization with the features of installation, the principle of operation, possible malfunctions and methods of their elimination will save time and family budget.

Varieties

This device is implemented in two versions: dual-mode and single-mode. The latter is equipped with two buttons, each of which is responsible for supplying a certain volume of liquid. Its main advantage is to save water resources by using the full volume only when there is a need for it.

Single-mode toilet flush with the push of a button gives out all the water from the tank.

Both versions have a single principle of operation, only the method of transferring movement to a valve device differs, the functioning of which depends on the design. The valve can be mounted on tubular rods used for overflow. Also, the opening and closing of the device is possible using metal or plastic chains. But this technique is characterized by frequent breakdowns.


Buttons

There are two kinds of buttons: one opens the valve with plastic levers, others have an independent fastening. The mechanism of draining the toilet is also divided into two types:

  • The upper has become most common for built-in tanks or located at the bottom. With the help of a head or buttons actuated by automatic or manual method, the device operates.
  • The lateral is convenient for containers, which differ in their high position in relation to the bowl. In this case, it is equipped with a special chain. The button is used for low placement.

What you need to know

For literate repair work  It is necessary to know about the features of the device and the structural elements. A toilet bowl consists of two main parts - a water tank and a bowl. Under the lid of the tank hides a sink for the toilet. It includes seals, levers and a float. The principle of operation is to recruit water and then drain after pressing the button. The float provides adjustment of the degree of water set. Depending on the brand and manufacturer structural elements  may differ, but the principle remains the same.

The operation of the sink is influenced by the operation of its subsystems: a drainage system and a set-up system. The valves for the toilet bowl are available in two versions:

  • The bottom feed system is quite popular due to its almost noiseless operation.
  • The fittings with lateral feed are fixed in the upper part. It is found mainly in economy class models because of the low cost of the mechanism, which produces noticeable noise when used. Today, increasingly, it is supplemented by a special tube for supplying liquid to the lower part and reducing noise.



Button functionality

Modern models are equipped with a lever and a button. If the tank design involves a concealed installation, the button is mounted on the wall. Such toilet bowls have not only advantages, but also drawbacks, the main of which is the difficulty of carrying out repair work due to limited access to the armature. As mentioned above, dual-mode systems are equipped with two buttons, but it is worth noting the increasing popularity of the addition of a special key, the intensity of pressing on which ensures the degree of draining the water.


Installation method

There are several methods of installing the tank, each of which is suitable for certain conditions and has its own characteristics.

Fixation on a stand or the toilet itself is the most common. Rubber gaskets are used to prevent leaks and improve the quality of fastening.

Mounting over the bowl aesthetically loses to other options, but it provides free access to internal elements when repair is necessary. Also worth noting is the high efficiency of the sink, thanks to the natural force of gravity.

Installation in the wall is rational in the overhaul in the sanitary room. For the tank, a special niche is made, which is subsequently closed with finishing materials, and the toilet flush button is removed to the surface. The main advantage is space saving, which is especially important in a small room.

In view of the fact that spare parts are quite in demand, the search for suitable ones is not difficult. To eliminate breakages, in most cases, the valve for the toilet bowl, accessories or components is replaced. These include flexible hoses, buttons, overflow, valves, as well as the tank itself, since this ceramic element is fragile enough and is easily damaged by impact or any other mechanical action.

Some problems can be solved by using special sealants, epoxy glue and other compounds. But they only postpone the replacement of the node for a while.


Toilet bowl: how to choose

Top drain elements can be made from materials various kinds of. Brass and bronze parts are characterized by the greatest durability, strength and resistance to aggressive chemicals.

Care must be taken to select parts such as a toilet flush pipe, fittings and a shut-off valve, since substandard products can lead to leakage. Valve devices must quickly operate and function without sudden jerks. If there is jamming, then such a detail should be put aside.

The classic version of the tank has a separate mechanism for filling and draining. Thanks to this, repair is noticeably simplified and it becomes possible to replace only one part, if the other has no damage.

If there are difficulties with self-selection, you can come to the store with a damaged item and ask the consultant to pick up a quality analogue.


Types of output

The oblique drain of the toilet is now used quite rarely due to the specific installation, which requires fixing at an angle of 45 degrees. But the purchase of other options becomes impossible, if the pipeline does not correspond to the level of the tank.

The vertical outlet is used for the passage of sewerage in the interfloor, ie under the floor of the room. It is becoming more widespread due to the ease of installation and the provision of quality drainage.

The most common is the production of a horizontal view. This is explained by the location of the laying sewer pipes  in most Russian apartments. This option is installed when the system is placed in the wall structure of the bathroom.