Are you tired of hearing your toilet constantly running and wasting water?
It could be due to a faulty flush valve seat. This small but important component is where the flapper rests and creates a watertight seal.
Over time, the flush valve seat can corrode and cause water to leak prematurely into the flush valve, leading to a constantly running toilet.
But don’t worry, replacing the flush valve seat is a simple fix that can save you money on your water bill.
In this tutorial, we’ll show you how to use Fluidmaster’s Flush Valve Repair Kit to replace the flush valve seat and get your toilet working properly again.
So let’s get started!
How To Replace Toilet Flush Valve Seat
Step 1: Disconnect the Flapper Chain and Remove the Flapper
The first step in replacing the flush valve seat is to disconnect the flapper chain and remove the flapper from the overflow tube. Depending on the type of flapper you have, this may involve pulling off rubber ears or sliding a ring to the top of the tube and lifting it off.
If simply replacing the flapper doesn’t solve the problem, it’s time to move on to replacing the flush valve seat.
Step 2: Purchase a Flush Valve Repair Kit
Look for a flush valve repair kit that includes a new flapper and matching seat. We recommend Fluidmaster’s Flush Valve Repair Kit, which costs around $7 and includes everything you need to replace the flush valve seat.
Step 3: Close the Toilet Flapper Valve
Before you begin any work, turn off the water supply to your toilet by closing the toilet flapper valve on the water line. This will prevent any water from flowing into the tank while you work.
Step 4: Drain the Tank
Flush your toilet and hold the flapper open to allow all of the water to drain from the tank. Use a sponge to mop up any remaining water.
Step 5: Install the New Flush Valve Seat and Flapper
Follow the instructions included in your flush valve repair kit to install the new flush valve seat and flapper. The Fluidmaster kit comes with adhesive to attach the new seat to the damaged one.
Pro tip: If your toilet uses 3.5 gallons or less for a flush, use the plastic cup included with the Fluidmaster flapper to adjust how long it stays open. If your toilet uses more than this, remove the timing cup.
Step 6: Adjust Chain Length
Adjust the length of the chain so that it’s just slightly slack when the flapper is down. This will ensure that it opens and closes properly.
Step 7: Turn on Water and Test Flush
Turn on the water supply and test your toilet’s flush. You may need to adjust the chain length further to get everything working correctly.
Step 8: Cut Excess Chain
Once you’re happy with how everything is working, cut off any excess chain to prevent it from getting stuck under the flapper.
Identifying The Problem: Is Your Flush Valve Seat Causing Your Toilet To Run?
If you’re experiencing a running toilet, the flush valve seat may be the culprit. The flush valve seat is the opening at the bottom of the tank where the flapper sits when the toilet is not in use. Over time, this seat can become corroded or damaged, causing water to leak from the tank into the bowl and resulting in a constantly running toilet.
To identify if your flush valve seat is causing your toilet to run, start by checking the flapper. If it appears to be in good condition and is properly seated over the flush valve seat, then it’s likely that the seat itself is causing the issue. You may also notice a hissing sound coming from the tank as water continues to flow into the bowl.
To confirm that the flush valve seat is indeed the problem, try using food coloring or dye tablets in the tank. If after a few minutes you notice colored water in the bowl, then there’s a leak at the flush valve seat.
Replacing the flush valve seat is a relatively simple process that can save you money on your water bill and prevent further damage to your toilet. By following the steps outlined above and using a flush valve repair kit like Fluidmaster’s, you can easily replace the flush valve seat and get your toilet back to working properly.
Gathering The Necessary Tools And Materials For The Repair
Before you begin replacing the flush valve seat, make sure you have all the necessary tools and materials on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:
– A flush valve repair kit that includes a new flapper and matching seat. We recommend Fluidmaster’s Flush Valve Repair Kit.
– A pair of pliers
– A sponge or towel
– Adhesive (included in the Fluidmaster kit)
– A plastic cup (included in the Fluidmaster kit)
Make sure you have all these items before you begin the repair process. You don’t want to have to stop midway through to go out and purchase something you’re missing. Once you have everything, you can move on to disconnecting the flapper chain and removing the old flapper from the overflow tube.
Shutting Off The Water Supply And Draining The Tank
Before you begin any work on your toilet, it’s important to shut off the water supply and drain the tank. This will prevent any water from flowing into the tank while you work and make it easier to remove the old flush valve seat.
If your toilet has a shutoff valve next to it, simply turn it off. If not, you’ll need to turn off the water supply at the main shutoff valve where water enters your home. This is also a good time to add a shutoff valve next to the toilet or replace one that leaks.
Next, flush your toilet and hold the flush valve open to drain the tank. Use a sponge to mop up any remaining water. This will make it easier to remove the old flush valve seat and install the new one.
Once you’ve installed the new flush valve seat and flapper, turn on the water supply and test your toilet’s flush. You may need to adjust the length of the chain or make other minor adjustments to get everything working correctly.
By following these steps, you can easily replace your toilet’s flush valve seat and ensure that your toilet is working properly once again.
Removing The Old Flush Valve Seat
Before you can install the new flush valve seat, you need to remove the old one. Here’s how:
Step 1: Disconnect the Water Supply
Before you begin, turn off the water supply to your toilet and flush it to drain the tank. Then, use a towel or sponge to soak up any remaining water.
Step 2: Remove the Old Flapper
Follow Step 1 above to disconnect the flapper chain and remove the old flapper from the overflow tube.
Step 3: Remove the Old Flush Valve Seat
The flush valve seat is located at the bottom of the tank, where the flapper rests. To remove it, use a screwdriver or pliers to unscrew and remove any bolts or nuts holding it in place. If your toilet doesn’t have bolts or nuts, it may be glued in place. In this case, use a putty knife or scraper to gently pry it off.
Step 4: Clean the Area
Once you’ve removed the old flush valve seat, use a scrub brush or sponge to clean any debris or buildup from around the opening at the bottom of the tank.
Step 5: Install the New Flush Valve Seat
Follow Step 5 above to install the new flush valve seat included in your flush valve repair kit. Make sure it’s securely in place before moving on to installing the new flapper.
With these steps, you can successfully replace your toilet’s flush valve seat and get your toilet running efficiently again.
Installing The New Flush Valve Seat From Fluidmaster’s Repair Kit
The Fluidmaster Flush Valve Repair Kit comes with a new flush valve seat that is easy to install. Here are the steps to install the new flush valve seat:
Step 1: Remove the Old Flush Valve Seat
Use pliers or a screwdriver to remove the old flush valve seat by twisting it counterclockwise until it comes loose. If it’s difficult to remove, you may need to use a wrench or pliers to help loosen it.
Step 2: Clean the Area
Clean the area around the flush valve seat using a rag or sponge. Make sure it’s dry before proceeding.
Step 3: Apply Adhesive
Peel off the protective paper from the adhesive ring included in the kit and apply it to the new flush valve seat. Make sure it’s centered and press down firmly to ensure a good seal.
Step 4: Install the New Flush Valve Seat
Place the new flush valve seat over the old one and press down firmly. Make sure it’s aligned properly and seated securely.
Step 5: Let Adhesive Dry
Wait for the adhesive to dry completely before proceeding. This usually takes around 10-15 minutes.
Step 6: Test for Leaks
Turn on the water supply and let the tank fill up. Check for any leaks around the new flush valve seat. If there are no leaks, you’re done!
By following these simple steps, you can easily replace your toilet’s flush valve seat with Fluidmaster’s Flush Valve Repair Kit and stop leaks from your toilet.
Reassembling The Toilet And Testing For Leaks
Now that you’ve replaced the flush valve seat and flapper, it’s time to reassemble the toilet and test for leaks. Follow these steps to ensure everything is working properly:
Step 1: Reattach the Tank
Carefully lift the tank and align it with the bowl. Place the bolts through the mounting holes and tighten them with pliers. Be careful not to overtighten, as this can crack the porcelain.
Step 2: Reattach the Water Supply Line
Reconnect the water supply line to the bottom of the tank and turn on the water supply. Check for any leaks around the supply line.
Step 3: Reattach the Toilet Seat
Reattach the toilet seat by aligning it with the holes on top of the bowl and tightening the nuts with a wrench.
Step 4: Test for Leaks
Flush the toilet several times and check for any leaks around the base of the toilet or from the tank to bowl connection. If you notice any leaks, tighten the bolts or supply line connections as needed.
Step 5: Dispose of Old Toilet
If you replaced your entire toilet, call your local recycler for information on how to dispose of it properly.
By following these steps, you can successfully replace your toilet flush valve seat and ensure your toilet is working efficiently without any leaks.