Are you curious about how concealed flush valves work?
These innovative devices are becoming increasingly popular in modern bathrooms, thanks to their sleek design and space-saving capabilities.
But how do they actually function?
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the different types of concealed flush valves, how they operate, and their various applications.
Whether you’re a homeowner looking to upgrade your bathroom or a professional plumber seeking to expand your knowledge, read on to discover everything you need to know about concealed flush valves.
How Does Concealed Flush Valve Work
Concealed flush valves are typically used in back entry toilets, which can be wall hung, back to wall, or pedestal type. The inlet must be at the back, as the concealed flush valve’s outlet pipe comes from inside the wall. This design allows for a sleek and modern look in bathrooms, as the flush valve is hidden from view.
There are two main types of concealed flush valves: boxed flush valves and duct flush valves. Boxed flush valves are installed inside a small galvanized box within the wall and activated by a push button. Access to the flush valve is through the box inside the bathroom, which can also make it vulnerable to vandalism.
Duct flush valves, on the other hand, are installed behind the toilet wall and are more commonly used in high vandal areas. However, they require space behind the wall for installation.
Stainless steel wall hung or pedestal pan toilets can be installed with a hidden flush valve if there is a duct available. If there is no space behind the wall, the Walcro 107 range must be used, which is installed into a wall with a box for easy maintenance.
Concealed flush valve types have three button options: XP, VR, and SS. The VR and XP buttons are for aesthetic purposes, while the SS button is exclusively used in vandal-prone installations. The SS button has a stainless steel sleeve around it to make it vandal-proof, making it ideal for use in prisons, holding cells, and mining bathrooms.
Introduction To Concealed Flush Valves
Concealed flush valves are a popular option for those looking to achieve a modern and sleek look in their bathroom. These types of flush valves are typically used in back entry toilets, such as wall hung, back to wall, or pedestal type toilets. The main advantage of concealed flush valves is that they are hidden from view, providing a clean and uncluttered look in the bathroom.
There are two main types of concealed flush valves: boxed flush valves and duct flush valves. Boxed flush valves are installed inside a small galvanized box within the wall and activated by a push button. Access to the flush valve is through the box inside the bathroom, which can also make it vulnerable to vandalism. Duct flush valves, on the other hand, are installed behind the toilet wall and are more commonly used in high vandal areas. However, they require space behind the wall for installation.
In terms of button options, concealed flush valve types have three options: XP, VR, and SS. The VR and XP buttons are for aesthetic purposes, while the SS button is exclusively used in vandal-prone installations. The SS button has a stainless steel sleeve around it to make it vandal-proof, making it ideal for use in prisons, holding cells, and mining bathrooms.
Types Of Concealed Flush Valves
There are two main types of concealed flush valves: boxed flush valves and duct flush valves.
Boxed flush valves are installed inside a small galvanized box within the wall and activated by a push button. This type of flush valve is commonly used in residential bathrooms or low traffic commercial areas. Access to the flush valve is through the box inside the bathroom, which can make it vulnerable to vandalism.
Duct flush valves, on the other hand, are installed behind the toilet wall and are more commonly used in high traffic commercial areas or in public restrooms. This type of flush valve requires space behind the wall for installation and is less accessible for maintenance. However, it offers better protection against vandalism and damage.
Concealed flush valves also come with different button options: XP, VR, and SS. The VR and XP buttons are for aesthetic purposes and can be used in most installations. The SS button, on the other hand, is exclusively used in vandal-prone installations. It has a stainless steel sleeve around it to make it vandal-proof, making it ideal for use in high-security areas such as prisons, holding cells, and mining bathrooms.
How Concealed Flush Valves Operate
Concealed flush valves are operated by a sensor or a push button, depending on the model. The Zurn ZER6195AV-WS1, for example, uses a battery-powered automatic sensor with a manual push-button override. This allows for hands-free operation, which is more hygienic and convenient.
When the user enters the bathroom stall and approaches the urinal or toilet, the sensor detects their presence and automatically initiates the flushing process. The valve opens and releases water from the cistern or supply line into the bowl or urinal. Once the flushing process is complete, the valve closes and the cistern or supply line refills with water.
The Hydrotek Concealed Retrofit AUTOFLUSH Valve takes this automation a step further by incorporating electronic circuitry and a slow-closing solenoid valve. This non-diaphragm, piston flushing mechanism provides years of dependable and trouble-free service. The Hydrotek AUTOFLUSH system is completely automatic; there is no contact with any surface, no handle to push, and it flushes only when it is used.
Concealed flush valves are designed to be efficient and reliable. They have high back pressure vacuum breakers to prevent backflow and clogging, and their internal seals are made of chloramine-resistant materials to ensure longevity. Some models even have switchable sensor features that include 24-hour auto flush and diagnostic indicator lights.
Advantages Of Concealed Flush Valves
Concealed flush valves offer several advantages over exposed flush valves. First and foremost, they provide a sleek and modern look to the bathroom, as the flush valve is hidden from view. This design also saves space, making it ideal for small bathrooms or public restrooms where space is at a premium.
Another advantage of concealed flush valves is their durability. They are less vulnerable to damage as they do not get too much interference from users. This makes them a reliable option for high-traffic areas or public restrooms where vandalism can be an issue.
Concealed flush valves also offer adjustability in terms of flow rates and time between flushes. This allows for customization to fit the specific needs of a building or facility, while also conserving water and maintaining hygiene levels.
In addition, concealed flush valves can be retrofitted for contact-free operation, adding an extra level of hygiene and convenience for users. Plus, they have fewer moving parts than cisterns, reducing the risk of malfunction and making maintenance easier.
Applications Of Concealed Flush Valves
Concealed flush valves have a wide range of applications in both residential and commercial settings. In residential settings, they are commonly used in modern and minimalist bathrooms to create a sleek and streamlined look. They are also ideal for smaller bathrooms where space is limited.
In commercial settings, concealed flush valves are often used in high-traffic areas such as airports, shopping centers, and public restrooms. They are particularly useful in areas where vandalism is a concern, such as prisons and holding cells.
Concealed flush valves are also popular in hospitality settings such as hotels and resorts. They offer a more luxurious and sophisticated look compared to traditional exposed flush valves.