Because toilet fill valves are universal, you do not need to buy one from the manufacturer of your toilet.
To maintain consistent water pressure and ensure proper flushing, most toilets use one of only a handful of different fill valves. It's important to note, though, that on high-end toilets, you may come across different fill valves.
Measure a fill valve's height as shown below, from where it mounts to the tank to its top. You'll also want to measure the depth of the tank itself, from the bottom interior. This will help determine the proper size for a universal fill valve, should the original no longer be available.
All though there are many different types of flush valves most flush valves are interchangeable and depend on the size of the ceramic flush hole that is bored through the tank by the porcelain manufacturer.
Because toilet fill valves are universal, you do not need to buy one from the manufacturer of your toilet.
To identify what size is needed measure the width of the flapper from end to end. If the flapper measures 3 inches across select a 2 inch flapper (like the 502 Fluidmaster model) if the flapper measures 4 inches across select a 3 inch flapper (like the 5403 Fluidmaster model).
Different manufacturers offer various designs, meaning flush valves are not universal. This is why it's essential to know the type you have before replacing your toilet's flush valve. Read on below to learn about the different types of toilet flush valves.
Knowing how to replace a toilet tank fill valve isn't hard to learn. Most do-it-yourself homeowners can handle this project in about 60 minutes. All you need is the most basic understanding of how toilets work, a replacement fill valve kit, and the instructions above.
Toilet flush valves come in different sizes ranging from 2 to 4 inches, depending on the toilet design. If you are thinking of buying a new toilet, pay attention to the type of flush valve it has. In most cases, larger valves move water faster, resulting in a better flush.
The model number is located inside the tank, either molded into the china or stamped with blue or black ink. The model number consists of four or five digits and may include a K prefix. In some cases, the model number is preceded by 97 or F.
Valve Replacements: Valve replacements cost $50–$150 and resolve noisy or slow toilets. The fill valve refills the tank after each flush, the shut-off valve controls water flow, and the flush valve controls water coming from the tank to the bowl.
Debris that builds up over time inside the water system, including the valve body, supply line or shut off valve (at the wall) can restrict the flow path of water and slow down the valves filling speed. Toilet fill valves in use for a period of 7 years or more can have their working parts start to wear out.
Generally, it's a good idea to consider replacing the toilet fill valve every 4 to 5 years.
Fill valves typically have a lifespan of 5-7 years, depending on the type of water you have.
Luckily, the fill valve can be cheap and easy to replace yourself. All you need to do is turn off the water to the toilet, remove the old valve, and insert the new one.
Most toilets use the standard two-inch flapper, but large three-inch flappers have become popular recently. To quickly determine your toilet's flapper size, look at the flush valve drain opening at the bottom of your tank. If your flapper is about the size of a baseball or an orange, you need a two-inch flapper.
Now Plumbers can replace the fill valve on some of Kohler's® most popular 1-piece toilets with a PRO747 Fill Valve from Fluidmaster®. Available with(PRO747K) or without riser, the PRO747 has an adjustable refill to restore the toilet to factory specs. It can't be found at Big Box.
This comes down to more than just cost and features. It boils down to something much simpler — size. That's right, not every toilet fits in every bathroom.
Valve Sizing
A general practice to determine the correct valve size is to use the equation Q = Cv√(ΔP/G), where Q is the capacity in gallons per minute, Cv is the valve flow coefficient, ΔP is the pressure differential in pound per square inch, and G is the specific gravity of the fluid.
The fill valve regulates the water level in the tank. It utilises a float that rises or falls with the water level, opening or closing a valve that allows or blocks water from entering the tank. The flush valve controls the water flow from the tank to the bowl.
Remove the old flapper by detaching it from the overflow tube or pegs on the flush valve. Clean the flush valve seat thoroughly. Install the new flapper, making sure it's properly aligned and securely attached. Reattach the chain, leaving a small amount of slack.