Solution Type: Flushing

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How Often To Replace Toilet Flapper

Toilet flappers usually last for about 3 to 5 years, but the lifespan can vary depending on factors such as the quality of the flapper, the water quality, and the frequency of use. Here are some signs that it may be time to replace your toilet flapper:

Continuous running of the toilet: If your toilet continues to run after flushing, it could be a sign that the flapper is worn out or damaged.

Water leaks: If you notice water leaking from the tank into the bowl, it could be a sign that the flapper is not sealing properly.

Buildup of mineral deposits: If you have hard water, mineral deposits can build up on the flapper, causing it to become stiff and less effective at sealing the flush valve.

Age: If you can’t remember when you last replaced the flapper or if it has been several years, it is a good idea to replace it as part of regular maintenance.

In general, it is a good idea to inspect your toilet flapper periodically and replace it if you notice any signs of wear or damage. Replacing a worn or damaged flapper can help you save water and reduce the risk of costly leaks and repairs.

Very often, drop-in bleach tablets will damage a flapper causing it to leak. That is because the bleach is constantly in the toilet tank thereby damaging the flapper and other toilet parts. A better option would be to use Fluidmaster Flush ‘N Sparkle automatic toilet cleaner that does not damage toilet parts.

Click here to view our complete line of Toilet Flappers

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Toilet Bowl will not fill after the Flush

Toilets that do not refill the bowl after the flush are mainly a fill valve issue. Here are some simple solutions that you can try to fix this problem.

  1. Check that the refill tube is attached to the top of the overflow pipe
  2. Check Bowl Refill adjustments are set properly for water dispensing into bowl after a flush
  3. Flushing Debris from fill valve
  4. Replace / repair the fill valve

 A. The Refill Tube delivers water directly to the toilet bowl with every flush. Make sure the tube is dispensing water directly into the overflow pipe. The refill tube needs to be set on a clip set above the pipe and not shoved directly inside the pipe or a siphon will occur, causing the toilet to turn on and off like a ghost flush.

B) The Fluidmaster 400H-002 fill valve has a Bowl Refill Knob that lets more or less water go into the bowl – if you are using a 400H-002 from Fluidmaster make sure this adjustment is set properly.

 

C. Flushing debris from your water supply and fill valve:

D) Replacement Parts recommended for U.S. Customers:

Replacement Valves recommended for U.S. Customers:

Replacement Parts recommended for Canadian Customers:

Replacement Valves recommended for Canadian Customers:

To download our free guide to fix common toilet problems please click here: Fluidmaster Toilet Repair Guide

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Toilet Running Constantly

When your toilet keeps running water or is constantly running, we must first find out if you have a fill valve issue or a flapper/flush valve issue.

Step 1 – If you have shut off the water supply line, then turn on water and look inside the tank. Determine if the water level is rising so high it is draining into the overflow pipe. If the answer is yes then follow the steps for cleaning the fill valve.

Step 1A – If flushing debris (Cleaning Solution) does not resolve the issue; Replace the fill valve. We recommend installing the 400H PerforMAX toilet fill valve.

Flushing Debris (Cleaning Solution):

It is possible for dirt and debris to lodge itself inside the valve. This can happen any time the water is on and may happen after a new installation, a few days later or even months and years after installation.

Follow these steps to clean the valve:

Turn off water and flush the toilet.

Reach into the tank with your right hand and lift up the float cup and grip the gray shaft and hold it in that position (see photo below).

Fix Running Toilet

With your left hand grab the cap and at the same time place your thumb on the side of the plastic arm.

Twist both the cap and plastic arm counterclockwise 1/8th turn. Press down on the cap while making a quick twisting motion.

Lift up on cap and move away from top of valve body. Using a cup hold the cup upside down over the exposed opening of the valve and turn on the water supply full force for 10-15 seconds. Look inside valve to ensure no debris is left inside the valve.

Reverse steps to place top back on the valve. Turn on water and flush toilet to ensure problem has been resolved.

Video: How to Fix a Running toilet

If this procedure does not resolve the issue then replacing the fill valve should resolve the issue. We recommend using the 400H PerforMAX toilet fill valve.

Step 2 –With the tank full of water turn off the water to the toilet and mark the current water level inside the tank. Wait a period of time 10-15 minutes and note if the water is draining down from your mark. If it drains down replace the flapper first as this is the most common problem. To determine whether you need a 2″ or 3″ flapper, please click here: Determine size of flapper

If you need a 2″ toilet flapper, we recommend the 502 toilet flapper

If you need a 3″ toilet flapper, we recommend either the 513A toilet flapper or the 5403 toilet flapper

Step 3– If you replace the flapper and the toilet continues to drain down (repeat step 2 if necessary) then we recommend replacing the flush valve as this will ultimately stop the constant draining of water from the tank to the bowl. We recommend the K-507A-008 flush valve if you have a 2″ toilet or the 540AKR flush valve if you have a 3″ toilet. To view all the flush valves, please click here: Flush Valves

Step 4 – If at any time the toilet keeps running water and you see water on the floor immediately turn off water and look inside the tank to see if the water is coming from the lid or tank lever area. Replace fill valve and replace flush valve. The flush valve is set to the wrong height or may be blocking the path of the water to drain safely into the toilet bowl.  If water is draining down and water is coming out from the bottom of the tank change tank bolts and washers.

If you need to replace any of the toilet parts, why not get Fluidmaster’s Everything Kit includes everything you need to fix your toilet in one purchase?

If you are in the U.S. and have a 2″ flush valve toilet, we recommend the 2″ Everything Kit

If you are in the U.S. and have a 3″ flush valve toilet, we recommend the 3″ Everything Kit

If you are in Canada and have a 2″ flush valve toilet, we recommend the 2″ Everything Kit

If you are in Canada and have a 3″ flush valve toilet, we recommend both the 540AKR Flush Valve and the 400H Fill Valve

To download our free guide to fix common toilet problems please click here: Fluidmaster Toilet Repair Guide

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How to check your toilet's flush volume

Knowing how much your toilet flushes and which valves to use with them can be a complicated business. This article will help determine what valves are best used with your toilets. The easiest way to determine a toilet gallon per flush volume and which valve to use is by looking at the date of the toilet and looking at your toilets flush valve system. Use this date method to find the parts recommended.

  • Pre – 1994
  • 1994 – Present
  • 2005 – Present (HET- High Efficiency Toilets)

Pre-1994 Toilets Water Saving and older toilets:

Toilets that date prior to 1994 fall in to two main flush volumes: 5-7 gallon per flush (gpf) and 3.5 gallons per flush (gpf). In these toilets, Fluidmaster recommends using our Standard or Leak Prevention Fill Valves (400A or 400A with Brass Shank  or 400LSR) and a 2 inch (Non-Adjustable) Flappers (models include 500, 501, 503, 504).

1994  to 2006 Toilets:

Toilets that are dated 1994 to present time fall into two main flush volumes, 1.6 and 1.28 gallons per flush.

In these toilets, Fluidmaster recommends using both our High Performance Fill Valves (Model 400AH) or (Model 400H) our PerforMax® and Water Savings (Adjustable) Flappers both in 2 and 3 inch (sizing) categories (models include 502, 5051 and 5403).

2005 – Present (High Efficiency Toilets):

Toilets that are dated 2005 to present time fall into two main flush volumes, 1.28 and lower gallons per flush.

In these toilets,  Fluidmaster recommends using both our High Performance Fill Valves (Model 400AH) or (Model 400H)–  PerforMax® and Water Savings (Adjustable) Flappers – both 2 and 3 inch (sizing) categories –  3 inch Flush Valve (model 540AKR).

HET is an abbreviation for High Efficiency Toilet. These toilets have flush volumes that are less than the standard 1.6 gallon per flush toilet. These toilets need a higher refill rate when refilling the toilet bowl and may come with a larger than standard 2 inch flush valve drain.

Flush valves can be designed as Dual Flush, Tower Flush, 2 inch and 3 inch Flush Valve Drains.

  • Dual Flush valves can alternate the flush volume from a full flush (standard flush volume of 1.6 or less) to a partial flush (less than standard full flush). Fluidmaster  has a Dual Flush which converts “any” standard flush to an alternating flush using our dual flush technology (models 550DFRK & 550DFR)
  • Tower flush valves are valves that normally are 1 piece in design and the entire flush valve drain lifts up to release the water.
  • 2 inch and 3 inch Flush Valves are valves that flush using a flapper valve to release the water. The designation 2 inch and 3 inch describe the drain opening along with the corresponding size of the flapper that covers the drain opening. If you are unsure whether you have a 2″ or 3″ flush valve, please click here: Determine size of flush valve

To see list of valves or kits that we recommend follow these links:

Fill Valves

Flappers

Repair Kits

Flush Valves

If you need to replace any of the toilet parts, why not get Fluidmaster’s Everything Kit includes everything you need to fix your toilet in one purchase?

If you are in the U.S. and have a 2″ flush valve toilet, we recommend the 2″ Everything Kit

If you are in the U.S. and have a 3″ flush valve toilet, we recommend the 3″ Everything Kit

If you are in Canada and have a 2″ flush valve toilet, we recommend the 2″ Everything Kit

If you are in Canada and have a 3″ flush valve toilet, we recommend both the 540AKR Flush Valve and the 400H Fill Valve

To download our free guide to fix common toilet problems please click here: Fluidmaster Toilet Repair Guide

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Choosing the right flapper for your toilet

Selecting the right flapper for your toilet is very important since the flapper valve is what regulates the water to the bowl. Fluidmaster has developed a universal design set of flappers to help stop the confusion and select the right flapper. The flapper valves we offer are categorized by Frame, Size and Type.

If you are unsure what size of flapper you will need for your toilet, please click here: Determine size of flapper

Read below to learn more about:

1. Frame: Two styles of flappers

2. Size: The actual size of the flapper ball and which size of drain it will seal properly.

3. Type: The flushing capacity, which is the amount of water used to flush the toilet bowl, that the toilet was designed to use.

4. Keys to selecting a flapper

5. Fluidmaster flappers available

1. Frames: Fluidmaster currently has two styles of flappers

  1. Flexible Frame (All- Rubber): These flappers will fit most Flush Valve Drains and the all rubber-style flappers can stretch to fit oddly sized flush valves, angled seated flush valves and flush valves that do not have mounting posts for a fixed attachment.
  2. Solid Frame (Hard Plastic Frame): The plastic frame forces the flapper ball to consistently center onto the drain to seal every time. Solid Framed Flappers are designed to stop toilets from leaking for longer periods of time. This flapper style does not work with all Flush Valve Drains; however, the key to using this one is to know what you are currently using. There is a good chance that if you are using a plastic framed flapper already then the Solid Frame can be used as a replacement.

2. Size: Currently Fluidmaster offers two sizes of flappers for the two most common size Flush Valve Drains, 2-inch drains and 3-inch drains.

  1. 2-inch flappers are available in both styles: Flexible and Solid Frame.
  2. 3-inch flappers are only available in the Solid Frame style.

3. Types: There are two types of flappers, Adjustable Flappers and Non-Adjustable Flappers, and these flappers are designed for specific flushing capacities of toilets. There are 4 main toilet flushing capacities that are commonly used in the United States today; 5 gallon per flush and larger; 3.5 gallon per flush; 1.6 gallon per flush and 1.28 gallon per flush toilets.

  1. Toilets that are manufactured from 1994 to present come in both styles and in both size categories; Adjustable flappers are designed to flush toilets that flush 1.28 and 1.6 gallon per flush (GPF) toilets.
  2. Toilets that were manufactured before 1994 are all considered to be the larger gallon per flush toilets and are still in use. Non-Adjustable Flappers are designed to flush toilets that flush 3.5, 5 and larger gallon per flush (GPF) toilets. Non Adjustable Flappers come in both Styles but only in 1 size category, 2-inch.

To learn more about your toilet’s flush volume, please click here:

Determining your toilet type

4. Keys to understanding how to select a flapper can be as easy as:

  1. Know the age of your toilet (if you don’t know, guess the age of the home).
  2. Know if the flapper has a Solid Frame or if it’s a Flexible Frame.
  3. Know the size of your flapper, 2- or 3-inch (measuring the drain hole your flapper covers will tell you the size you need).

5. If you need a 2″ toilet flapper, we recommend the 502 toilet flapper

If you need a 3″ toilet flapper, we recommend either the 513A toilet flapper or the 5403 toilet flapper

Here are some examples of the Fluidmaster flappers available.

flappers1

For more available Flappers click here

To download our free guide to fix common toilet problems please click here: Fluidmaster Toilet Repair Guide

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Easy and effective ways to keep your toilet bowl clean

“I didn’t know my toilet could look this good without scrubbing”….says an independent review of Flush ‘n Sparkle on Architectural Digest

We know that keeping your toilet clean is important not just for aesthetics, but also for maintaining a healthy home. That’s why we’re excited to share with you an easy and effective way to keep your toilet bowl clean.

First off, let’s talk about why it’s so important to keep your toilet bowl clean. Over time, mineral buildup and bacteria can accumulate, leading to unpleasant odors, stains, and even potential health risks. One of the most effective ways to keep your toilet bowl clean is by using a quality toilet cleaner. Fluidmaster’s Flush ‘n Sparkle™ cleaning system is a great option, as it provides a powerful cleaning solution with every flush. Simply replace your traditional toilet bowl cleaner with the Flush ‘n Sparkle™ system and let it do the work for you.

Unlike drop-in bleach tablets, Flush ‘n Sparkle™ does not fill up the toilet tank with bleach as it is kept in a reservoir and hence does not destroy the toilet parts. The bleach from Flush ‘n Sparkle™ goes directly into the bowl keeping it sparkling clean. Now you can protect your flapper and other toilet parts by switching to Flush ‘n Sparkle™ that gives you scrub-free, hands-free cleaning up to 3 months.

Jeff from Home Repair Tutor explains in this video why Flush ‘n Sparkle™ is the best option for you when it comes to keeping your toilet bowl sparkling!

For more detailed information as to why Flush ‘n Sparkle™ is the best automatic cleaner for your toilet, please click here: FAQs on Flush ‘ Sparkle

Read below to:

1. See how it works, watch a video or download instructions.

2. Learn about the different cleaners available 

3. Learn about the dangers of chlorine cleaners inside your tank.

1. How Flush ‘n Sparkle Works

The Flush ‘n Sparkle™ system hangs inside the tank and feeds chlorinated water directly down the overflow pipe and into the toilet bowl, eliminating any prolonged exposure to chlorine that causes decay.

If you are thinking that there are similar products out there, get this; unlike similar products, the Flush ‘n Sparkle™ system’s patented design traps the back-flow of chlorine gasses that could damage the fill valve. This patented design eliminates the off-gassing issue and keeps your toilet components safe.

Watch the video:

Download the installation instructions
bowl_clean
2. Different cleaners 

The Flush ‘n Sparkle™ system comes in these varieties:  

Flush ’n Sparkle™ with both bleach and blue cleaning power (model 8400M-5000) 

Flush ’n Sparkle™ with bleach cleaning power (model 8300)
Flush ’n Sparkle™ 2-pack Refills (model 8302) and 4-pack refills (model 8302W-5004)

  1. Fights stains and bleaches the bowl automatically.
  2. Leaves toilet bowl crystal clear with every flush.
  3. Uses model 8302 replacement cartridges.

Flush ’n Sparkle™ with blue cleaning formula (model 8100)
Flush ’n Sparkle™ 2-pack Refills (model 8102) and 4-pack refills (model 8102B-5003)

  1. Surfactant-based cleaning agent repels stains and fights hard water build-up.
  2. Can also be used for septic tanks.
  3. Toilet water remains blue.
  4. Uses model 8102 replacement cartridges.

Flush ’n Sparkle™ Refills (model 8202) with BioBalance™ for septic tank care 

  1. Releases enzymes with every flush for continuous bioaction.
  2. Measured doses efficiently reduce drain field clogging (no slug dosing).
  3. Cleans toilet bowl and fights hard water build-up.
  4. Uses model 8202 replacement cartridges.

All three Flush-n-Sparkle™ systems provide the following benefits:

  1. Cleans the bowl without damaging tank parts.
  2. Treated water is injected only to the bowl where it’s needed.
  3. Easy to install, fits most two piece toilets.
  4. Cartridges last up to 3 months and are simple to replace.
  5. Dispenser carries a five year warranty.

3. Dangers of Chlorine Cleaners

The danger of drop-in tablets is called off-gassing. As the tablets disintegrate, Chlorine gasses collect in the tank below the lid. Chlorine gas is highly corrosive and can weaken the tensile strength of the fill valve and other tank components that sit above the water line. Off-gassing can lead to severe external leaks and potential property damage as well.

For more detailed information as to why Flush ‘n Sparkle™ is the best automatic cleaner for your toilet, please click here: FAQs on Flush ‘ Sparkle

Ready to give Flush-n-Sparkle™ a try? If yes, please click here: Flush-n-Sparkle™

To download our free guide to fix common toilet problems please click here: Fluidmaster Toilet Repair Guide

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How to fix common problems with a Fluidmaster 400CARP PerforMAX® No Tank Removal Kit

The 400CARP PerforMAX® No Tank Removal Kit fixes most common toilet problems while reducing repair time by 30 minutes. It features the PerforMAX® toilet fill valve which is one of the quietest and most efficient solutions to fix and upgrade your toilet. Also featured is the PerforMAX® 2” flush valve repair kit that fixes common flush valve problems while giving the user the capability to optimize toilet performance while saving water and money. This kit works with most toilets with 2” flush valves including Kohler®, Toto® and American Standard®, and many more. Read more below.

Watch an installation video on the Fluidmaster 400CARP PerforMAX® No Tank Removal Kit

400CARP PerforMAX® No Tank Removal Kit

The PerforMAX® fill valve has a built-in flow regulator that allows for a quiet fill. Its adjustable toilet bowl refill rate allows the customer to optimize their water and money savings. It also offers a high enough toilet bowl refill rate to accommodate the high refill requirements of all 1.6 GPF toilets and 1.28 GPF High Efficiency Toilets (HET). In turn, allowing the toilet bowl to refill to its proper water level and maintain a powerful and complete flush.

Fix a deteriorated or damaged flush valve seat without dealing with any messy glue or removing the tank with the Flush Valve Repair Kit. It’s easy to install and it includes the Universal PerforMAX® High Performance Flapper that can be installed into more toilets than any other leading brand. Its adjustable feature allows it to be used in 1.28, 1.6 and 3.5+ gallon per flush toilets. Its reliable solid frame does not twist and provides the best seal. Only Fluidmaster has toilet flappers with built-in Microban® protection. The Microban® protection keeps the flapper cleaner by fighting flapper breakdown due to bacteria on the flapper itself.

For further information on where to buy this product or detailed installation instructions click here.

400CARP PerforMAX® No Tank Removal Kit

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Why doesn’t my sealant ring stick?
    The flush valve seat may not have been prepared properly. Make sure you have properly cleaned and thoroughly dried the flush valve seat before installing the sealant ring. It is very important that the sealant ring not come into contact with water prior to seating the sealant onto the drain or porcelain seat. If the sealant ring has been in use for a period of 5 years or longer and comes loose, replacement sealant rings are available to purchase. See Fluidmaster model 2602 on our website here.
  • How do I adjust my PerforMAX® flapper to save water and still achieve a powerful flush?
    The PerforMAX® flapper is a dial. By rotating the flapper within its rigid frame you can allow the flapper to close sooner or stay open longer. For more water savings, dial the flapper down to a lower setting. If the flush is weak, set the dial to a higher number.
  • Can I replace the flapper without replacing the entire Flush Valve Repair Kit?
    Yes, the PerforMAX® flapper is sold separately. It is Fluidmaster model 502, click here.
  • Is the PerforMAX® fill valve also sold separately?
    Yes, the PerforMAX® Fill Valve, model 400AH is sold separately. For information on where to buy click here.
  • Can the PerforMAX® Fill Valve be repaired?
    Yes, repair parts are available. For a list of repair parts and where to purchase them, click here.
  • Will this kit fit my toilet?
    This kit is designed to work with most 2 piece toilets with 2” flush valves. There are select one-piece toilets it will work in as well, but it will not fit low profile one piece toilets or toilets with 3” flush valves or canister style flush valves.

To download our free guide to fix common toilet problems please click here: Fluidmaster Toilet Repair Guide

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Solutions for common Dual Flush toilet Problems

This article will cover the most common issues and questions concerning the Duo Flush Converter and its installation.

You can also watch this video:

Read any of the following below if:

1. The full flush and/or half flush closes immediately after lever is released and you want to know how to fix it.

2. Your water level is half way or completely over the oval opening and the full and half flush are working but the bowl is not clearing out.

3. Your fill valve turns on and off periodically (ghost flushing).

4. You want to remove the Duo Flush valve from the seat.

5. You want to remove the activation box (both newer and older versions of the converter) once it has been snapped onto to the tank lever.

6. The tank lever sticks in the up or down position, or it does not return to a horizontal position after you flush.

Or Watch the instructional video for the Duo Flush System Toilet Converter

1. The Full and / or Half flush closes immediately after tank lever is released.

    1. Set water level higher: Water level should be half way to all the way over the oval windows of the Duo Flush valve (See picture below). If your water level cannot be increased, the Duo Flush system should not be used.

duo_flush_article

  1. Once water level has been set, set both adjustment dials to maximum setting.
  2. Place 3 pieces of toilet paper in the bowl and flush, if the bowl evacuates the toilet paper, lower the green dial setting by one number and repeat flush.
  3. Continue this process until toilet does not evacuate the paper and adjust dial up 1 setting. This is the lowest possible setting while maintaining a good half flush.
  4. Set the BLUE dial one to two settings higher than that of the GREEN dial.

2. Water level is half way or completely over the oval opening and the full and half flush are working but the bowl is not clearing out.

  1. Make sure the water level in the toilet bowl is up to its highest capacity.
  2. Make sure the refill tube (rubber hose) is supplying water down the overflow pipe and not into the tank.
  3. Adjust the roller clamp on the refill tube so that it is allowing full flow. The “Rolling Pin” should be set to “8” which is full flow.
  4. Using the GREEN dial, adjust the half flush setting one setting higher.
  5. Repeat this process until the proper water level is reached.
  6. If you are not using Fluidmaster’s PerforMAX fill valve, your fill valve may not have enough output to refill the bowl. Fluidmaster recommends using the 400AH PerforMAX Fill Valve.

3. Fill valve turns on and off periodically (ghost flushing).

Water is leaking from the tank into the bowl at one or more leak points. Follow the steps below:

  1. Remove the Duo Flush valve from the valve seat and clean both the Duo Flush seal and the plastic seat the seal sits upon.
  2. Pull angled seat adapter straight up until it pulls free from flush valve seat. Turn adapter upside down and reshape putty ring, spread putty evenly around entire base of adaptor.
  3. Check the black seal at the base of your original flush valve/ overflow pipe unit. If you get black residue on your fingers when you touch the seal, replace the flush valve. If seal is good reseat angled seat adaptor.
  4. Inspect the overflow pipe for obvious cracks.
  5. Make sure the refill tube (rubber hose) is clipped to the side of the overflow pipe and not directly shoved into the overflow pipe.
  6. Replace Duo Flush onto valve seat and turn on water, check for leaks.

4. Removing the Duo Flush valve from the seat

  1. Gently rock the Duo Flush canister away from the overflow pipe and pull up.

5. Removing the activation box (both newer and older versions of the converter) once it has been snapped onto to the tank lever.

  1. On older versions of Duo Flush, grab hold of the activation box in the tank and pull it toward the back of the tank. You may need to give it a strong jerk to unsnap it.
  2. On newer versions on the Duo Flush, there is a push button on top of the activation box. Simply push in the button and pull away from the tank lever.

6. The tank lever sticks in the up or down position, it does not return to a horizontal position after you flush.

Remove the toilet lever from the tank and remove the black spacer from the tank lever spacing nut, follow these steps:

  1. Push the button on the top of the actuator handle box and release the box and cable from the tank lever thread.
  2. Remove the lock nut from toilet handle thread; this is a reverse threaded nut, turn nut counterclockwise to release the nut.
  3. Remove the toilet handle from the front of the tank.
  4. Remove the black rubber (square shaped) spacer from tank lever’s spacing nut.

Replacing tank lever:

  1. Replace tank lever back into the tank’s lever mounting hole. Make sure to push the lever all the way in ensuring the tank lever is flush with the face of the tank.
  2. Tighten lock nut onto the tank lever thread; this is a reverse threaded nut, turn nut clock wise to tighten nut.
  3. Snap actuator box onto tank lever thread.
  4. Replace the tank lever without the spacer and retry the flush.

Or Download the Duo Flush System Toilet Converter installation instructions

To download our free guide to fix common toilet problems please click here: Fluidmaster Toilet Repair Guide

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Determining your toilet's noise and how to fix it

This article on toilet making noise defines simple solutions for:

1. GHOST FLUSHING: This can happen intermittently, cycling every few minutes or every few hours

2. FILL VALVE HISS: A noise that is constant and sounds like forced air moving through the toilet.

3. WATER RESONANCE: (constant thumping) A noise you hear when the toilet is flushed and the toilet is running water during its flush cycle

1. GHOST FLUSHING:
This refill sound is alerting you that your toilet is losing water, either internally (if there’s no water on the floor or exterior of toilet) or externally leaking if you see water outside the toilet.

Internal Water Loss:

  1. Check refill tube first: If refill tube is inserted or shoved into the overflow pipe, remove it and reattach clipping the tube to the overflow pipe. This will keep the tube from entering the overflow pipe and stop the leak.
  2. Clean bottom of the tank and flapper area and replace flapper. To determine which size flapper you need, please click here: Determine size of toilet flapper.
    If you need a 2″ flapper, we recommend the 502 flapper; if you need a 3 ” flapper, we recommend either the 513A flapper or the 5403 flapper
  3. Replace flush valve drain (last resort if 1  and 2 do not resolve the issue).

External Water Loss:

  1. Water draining from bottom of tank around fill valve and water supply connection: Leaks coming from the bottom of the fill valve that have been in use for a long period of time (not new installations) should be removed along with the supply line and replaced.
  2. Water draining from the bottom of the tank from the fill valve and water supply connection: Remove fill valve and clean bottom of tank both inside and outside. Make sure the shank washer is placed on fill valve first (it is designed to seal tank from the inside of tank) and install valve. Hand tighten the fill valve lock nut. If using water supply line older than 5 years replace supply line.
  3. Leaks coming from under the tank onto the toilet bowl: These leaks indicate failed bolt seals. The tank to bowl gasket and toilet bolts with washers should be replaced.

Watch this video to fix ghost flushing of your toilet:

2. FILL VALVE HISS:
This noise is alerting you that water is constantly passing through the fill valve and going into the tank.
Read more below or or watch this video:

Here are some steps for removing the top cap and flushing out debris from the fill valve:

  1. Turn off water supply and flush the tank.
  2. Reach inside the tank with your right hand under the float cup and lift it up. With your right hand hold onto the gray shaft keeping the float cup all the way up. Do not allow the float cup to drop or valve shaft to turn.
  3. Place your left hand on the top of the valve cap and while placing your left hand thumb on the side of the arm coming out of the top. Turn the cap and arm counter clockwise 1/8th of a turn to unlock. You should be able to lift off the cap and lever from the valve body.
  4. Once the cap assembly has been removed inspect for debris on the seal (rubber disc with pin coming through) and also the valve portion still in the tank.
  5. Hold a cup upside down over the exposed opening of the valve and turn on the water supply full force for 10-15 seconds, allowing the pressure to free any debris inside the valve inlet.
  6. Reassemble the top of the valve by placing the cap arm next to the refill tube. To lock, press the cap down while turning it and the arm clockwise.
    determine_article_photo
  7. The bottom hand is lifting up on the float cup which raises the black arm under the top cap. The top hand is gripping the cap while the thumb is pressing on the raised lever arm.

Watch this video on how to remove and replace cap assembly of the fill valve:

3. WATER RESONANCE:
This noise is alerting you that your shut off valve at the wall has an obstruction in the flow path of the water. Here are some solutions:

a). If you are based in the U.S., we recommend using a regulated fill valve to stop noise like our 400AH PerforMAX® Fill Valve or the 400H PerforMAX® Toilet Fill Valve

If you are based in Canada, we recommend using the 400H PerforMAX Toilet Fill Valve

PerforMAX® fill valves come with a regulator built into the valve to slow down the incoming water. By reducing the speed by the incoming water we can stop the resonance noise that is       occurring.

b). If a PerforMAX® Fill Valve does not stop the problem then the buildup of debris in your shut off valve is so severe we recommend replacing the shut off valve at the wall.

c). If you need to replace any of the toilet parts, why not get Fluidmaster’s Everything Kit includes everything you need to fix your toilet in one purchase?

If you are in the U.S. and have a 2″ flush valve toilet, we recommend the 2″ Everything Kit

If you are in the U.S. and have a 3″ flush valve toilet, we recommend the 3″ Everything Kit

If you are in Canada and have a 2″ flush valve toilet, we recommend the 2″ Everything Kit

If you are in Canada and have a 3″ flush valve toilet, we recommend both the 540AKR Flush Valve and the 400H Fill Valve

To download our free guide to fix common toilet problems please click here: Fluidmaster Toilet Repair Guide

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How "Adjustable" toilet flappers work

This article will address both how adjustable flappers work and instructions for adjusting an adjustable flapper.

How Adjustable Flappers Work

  1. Traditional flappers use air to hold the flappers open, adjustable flappers don’t allow the flapper to trap or hold air inside their cone/bulb.
  2. Adjustable flappers are designed to flush toilets that use a flush volume of 1.28 and 1.6 gallon per flush (GPF)
  3. Adjustable flappers should not be used on toilets made before 1994.
  4. Adjustable flappers may use a float to delay the flapper from closing right away.
  5. Adjustable flappers may use a dial in place of a float. The dial sets a secondary hole in the flapper cone to release air and force the flapper to close.

If you are unsure, which size of flapper you need for your toilet, please click here: Determine size of flapper

Instructions for Adjusting an Adjustable Flapper

Fluidmaster flappers can be adjusted in three different ways:

  1. Turning the flapper cone from a minimum to maximum setting, so you are moving the secondary hole away from the top of the tank which traps the air in the flapper cone for a longer period of time.
  2. Moving a float (a float is placed on the flapper chain) up the chain, so you are setting the flapper to close faster. By lowering the float on the chain you are causing the flapper to stay open longer.
  3. Pulling slightly on the cone and turning the cone from a minimum to maximum setting, so you are closing the cone window and causing the flapper to stay open longer.

adjustable_flappers

If you need a 2″ adjustable flapper, we recommend the 502 toilet flapper

If you need a 3″ adjustable flapper, we recommend the 5403 toilet flapper

To download our free guide to fix common toilet problems please click here: Fluidmaster Toilet Repair Guide

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How to fix a weak or incomplete toilet flush

Toilets that have been in use for some time can develop a lazy or weak toilet flush or just does not flush properly. It is quite common for minerals such as calcium and lime, along with debris particles such as rust to build up in the rim feed and jet holes of the toilet bowl. Over time, these deposits restrict and block water from flowing into the toilet bowl which will cause a weak or incomplete flush.

Read below for more information on:

1. How to clean the rim feed holes and clear the jet.

2. Other causes for an incomplete or weak flush

3. If you installed a new Fluidmaster Complete Kit or Performance Flapper (model) 502 or want to watch video on adjusting the 502 High Performance flapper (model) 502

1. Cleaning the rim (feed holes) and jet holes of your toilet

    1. Turn the water supply valve off.
    2. Holding the flapper open (see Picture below), let the majority of the water fall out of the tank.

Weak Toilet Flush

    1. Using a toilet bowl cleaner, for example Lime-A-Way® or Clorox®, hold the flapper open and pour 1–2 cups of cleaning solution down the flush valve opening. Be careful to not let any cleaner spill over into the tank. If it does, wipe it up immediately. Let the toilet sit unused for several hours or overnight. The cleaning solution will work its way into the flow channels and help to dissolve any mineral build up.
    2. Using a wire hanger, feed the hanger into the rim feed holes located under the lip of the toilet (see Picture below). Work the hanger in and out of the holes several times to scrape away and break free any hard build up.

weak_flush2

  1. Turn the water supply back on and let the tank refill. Flush the toilet several times to flush out any leftover cleaning solution or deposits.
  2. To clear the jet, using the wire hanger, make a small hook at the end of the hanger. Push the hanger up into the jet hole and fish out any paper or waste that may be trapped in the jet passage way. (See picture above.)

2. Other Causes for an Incomplete or Weak Flush

  1. Check the Water Level in the tank. If your water level is more than 1 inch below the top of the overflow pipe, it may be that the low water level is not enough for a good flush. Raise the water level to within 1 inch of the top of the overflow pipe using the water level adjustment screw on the fill valve or by adjusting the height of the fill valve.
  2. Flapper closes too soon (and water level is at the appropriate height). If the flapper closes too quickly during the flush, not enough water is released to complete the flush.

NOTE: Make sure there is minimal slack on the flapper chain. For most toilets, there should only be ½ inch of slack of chain length needed to operate the flapper

If you have a toilet that uses 5.0 gallons per flush (gpf) or more, make sure that you are using a non-adjustable flapper.

If you have a toilet that uses 3.5 gpf, 1.6 gpf or less, check the flapper for adjustable settings.

3. New Fluidmaster Kit or New 502 Flapper

Watch video on adjusting the 502 High Performance flapper (model) 502

  1. If you have installed a new Complete Kit or one of our adjustable flappers, make sure that the flapper adjustable setting is set properly.
  2. Look on the top of the rubber part of the 502 flapper. You will notice numbers 1–9 (Min–Max). The number that is located directly in front of the chain is what the flapper is set on. The lower the number it is set to, the quicker the flapper will close, allowing less water to flush out of the tank. The higher the number it is set to, the longer the flapper will stay open, allowing more water to flush out of the tank.
  3. Trial and error will determine the proper setting for your toilet. Drop 2–3 pieces of toilet paper in the bowl and flush your toilet. If the bowl clears, lower the setting on the flapper by one and flush again. Repeat these steps until the bowl does not clear, then set the flapper one setting higher from your unsuccessful flush. This will give you the most efficient (water savings) toilet flush.

If you need to replace any of the toilet parts, why not get Fluidmaster’s Everything Kit includes everything you need to fix your toilet in one purchase?

If you are in the U.S. and have a 2″ flush valve toilet, we recommend the 2″ Everything Kit

If you are in the U.S. and have a 3″ flush valve toilet, we recommend the 3″ Everything Kit

If you are in Canada and have a 2″ flush valve toilet, we recommend the 2″ Everything Kit

If you are in Canada and have a 3″ flush valve toilet, we recommend both the 540AKR Flush Valve and the 400H Fill Valve

To download our free guide to fix common toilet problems please click here: Fluidmaster Toilet Repair Guide