Are you tired of dealing with a constantly running toilet or a weak flush?
It may be time to replace the flush valve in your concealed cistern.
While it may seem like a daunting task, with the right tools and instructions, it can be a simple DIY project.
In this article, we will guide you through the steps to replace the flush valve in your concealed cistern, so you can have a fully functioning toilet once again.
So, let’s get started!
How To Replace Flush Valve In Concealed Cistern
Step 1: Remove the Flush Buttons Plate
The first step in replacing the flush valve in your concealed cistern is to remove the flush buttons plate. To do this, slide it to the right and pull it away from the wall. There will be a metal spring wire on the left-hand side that holds it in place.
Step 2: Remove the Holding Plate
Next, remove the holding plate by removing two screws as shown in the picture. Be careful not to lose the metal spring bit, as you will need it to secure the flush plate back in its place once you finish repairing your toilet cistern.
Step 3: Remove the Backplate
Now, grab one of the screw holder tubes and rotate it anti-clockwise until it moves freely. Pull it out just enough so that you can remove the backplate. You can see two clips on each side of the box that hold it in place. In most cases, you can just pull it out with your fingers and it will come out. If not, use a flathead screwdriver to unclip them then pull it out.
Step 4: Remove the Flushing Mechanism
Grab the flushing mechanism and lift it up slightly then pull the whole thing out. Now we have enough space to access the flush valve clips and remove it from the tank.
Step 5: Remove Top Cover (if necessary)
If it’s not obvious by now, you will need to lift the top cover and unscrew it on your concealed cistern and remove it. Sometimes you won’t be able to remove the valve through the front hole without removing the inlet valve as well – even then it might be difficult. If you can remove the top cover just do it – it’s so much easier.
Step 6: Remove Flush Valve Clips
Now grab the black clips behind the flush valve with two fingers press them together to free the flush valve from the cistern clips and pull the unit out.
Step 7: Install New Flush Valve
Now that you have removed the old flush valve, it’s time to install a new one. Follow these steps in reverse order to install your new flush valve:
– Insert new flush valve into cistern clips
– Reattach flushing mechanism
– Replace backplate and screw holder tubes
– Replace holding plate and screws
– Reattach flush buttons plate
Step 8: Turn Water Supply Back On
Once you have installed your new flush valve, turn on your water supply at either your main shutoff valve or a shutoff valve next to your toilet if you have one.
Step 9: Test Your Toilet
Finally, test your toilet by flushing it a few times to ensure that everything is working properly.
Tools And Materials Needed
Before you start replacing the flush valve in your concealed cistern, make sure you have the following tools and materials on hand:
– 4-in-1 screwdriver
– Adjustable wrench
– Bucket
– Locking pliers
– Pliers
– Shop vacuum
– Tape measure
These tools will come in handy when removing the old flush valve and installing the new one. Additionally, you may want to have a towel on hand in case any water gets on the floor during the process. It’s also important to have your new flush valve assembly ready to go before you begin. With these tools and materials, you’ll be ready to successfully replace your flush valve and get your toilet back in working order.
Shut Off Water Supply And Drain The Cistern
Before you can replace the flush valve in your concealed cistern, you need to shut off the water supply and drain the cistern. Here are the steps to follow:
Step 1: Locate the Water Supply Valve
The water supply valve is usually located near the toilet, either on the wall or on the floor. Turn it off by turning the handle clockwise until it stops.
Step 2: Flush the Toilet
Flush the toilet to remove any water from the cistern.
Step 3: Disconnect the Water Supply Line
Locate the water supply line that connects the cistern to the water supply valve. Use a wrench to loosen the nut that connects the water supply line to the valve. Once it’s loose, use your hand to unscrew it and remove it from the valve.
Step 4: Drain the Cistern
To drain the cistern, use a sponge or towel to soak up any remaining water. You can also use a wet/dry vacuum to remove any excess water.
Step 5: Remove the Cistern Lid
Remove the lid of your concealed cistern by gently lifting it up and out of place. Set it aside in a safe place where it won’t get damaged.
Now that you have shut off the water supply and drained your cistern, you can proceed with removing and replacing your flush valve.
Remove The Flush Plate And Access The Flush Valve
Now that you have removed the backplate and flushing mechanism, it’s time to remove the flush valve itself. To do this, you will need to remove the flush plate and access the flush valve.
To remove the flush plate, slide it to the right and pull it away from the wall. There will be a metal spring wire on the left-hand side that holds it in place. Once you have removed the flush plate, you will be able to access the flush valve clips.
Next, grab the black clips behind the flush valve with two fingers and press them together to free the flush valve from the cistern clips. Pull the unit out carefully, making sure not to damage any other components in the process.
Now that you have successfully removed the old flush valve, it’s time to install a new one. Follow the steps outlined in Step 7 above to install your new flush valve.
Remember to test your toilet by flushing it a few times to ensure that everything is working properly before finishing up. With these steps, you should be able to replace your flush valve in a concealed cistern quickly and easily.
Remove The Old Flush Valve
To remove the old flush valve, start by unscrewing the locknut holding the flush valve to the tank using a plumber’s wrench. Once the locknut is removed, you can easily remove the old flush valve from the tank.
Next, follow steps 1-6 above to remove the flushing mechanism and flush valve clips. Be sure to handle the old valve carefully, as it may still contain water and could be heavy.
Once the old flush valve is removed, you can discard it or recycle it if possible. It’s important to properly dispose of any old plumbing parts to avoid environmental harm.
With the old flush valve removed, you can now install your new flush valve following the steps outlined above. Remember to test your toilet after installation to ensure that everything is working properly.
Install The New Flush Valve
After removing the old flush valve, it’s time to install the new one. Here are the steps to follow:
Step 1: Insert New Flush Valve into Cistern Clips
Insert the new flush valve into the cistern clips, making sure it is securely in place.
Step 2: Reattach Flushing Mechanism
Reattach the flushing mechanism to the new flush valve.
Step 3: Replace Backplate and Screw Holder Tubes
Replace the backplate and screw holder tubes, making sure they are properly aligned and secure.
Step 4: Replace Holding Plate and Screws
Replace the holding plate and screws, being careful not to overtighten them.
Step 5: Reattach Flush Buttons Plate
Reattach the flush buttons plate by sliding it back into place and securing it with the metal spring wire on the left-hand side.
Step 6: Turn Water Supply Back On
Turn on your water supply at either your main shutoff valve or a shutoff valve next to your toilet if you have one.
Step 7: Test Your Toilet
Finally, test your toilet by flushing it a few times to ensure that everything is working properly. If there are any issues, double-check that all components are properly installed and secured.