Have you ever walked into a public restroom only to hear the sound of a toilet continuously running?
It’s not only an annoying sound, but it’s also a waste of water. One of the most common culprits behind this issue is a malfunctioning Sloan flush valve.
These valves are commonly used in commercial and public restrooms, and while they are durable and reliable, they can still experience problems.
In this article, we’ll explore the various causes of a Sloan flush valve that keeps running and what you can do to fix it.
So, let’s dive in and learn more about this frustrating issue.
What Causes A Sloan Flush Valve To Keep Running
There are several reasons why a Sloan flush valve may keep running. One of the most common causes is a control stop that is not fully opened. When the control stop does not open all the way during flushing, the water pressure may not be high enough for the diaphragm to function properly and reset. This causes water to continuously run into the unit. To fix this issue, adjust the control stop so that it can fully open as intended.
Another reason for a Sloan flush valve that keeps running is a clogged by-pass orifice in the diaphragm. This can cause the duration of a flush to be too long. To resolve this issue, remove the diaphragm assembly, disassemble the filter rings from the diaphragm, and rinse it thoroughly. Be careful not to enlarge or damage the orifice in the by-pass, as its size is crucial in properly metering water into the upper chamber of the valve. If cleansing does not correct the problem, replace the diaphragm assembly.
A damaged relief valve or inside cover can also cause a Sloan flush valve to keep running. If this is the case, replace these parts. Additionally, if a water saver/conventional diaphragm assembly is installed in a low consumption fixture, it could also cause a long flush. In this scenario, check the label or markings on the fixture to learn what the required flush volume is. Then replace the diaphragm assembly or relief valve with one that is designed for the correct flush volume.
Lastly, a significant drop in line pressure can cause a Sloan flush valve to keep running. To resolve this issue, shut off all control stops until the pressure has been restored, then open them again.
Common Causes Of A Running Sloan Flush Valve
A Sloan flush valve that keeps running is a common issue that can be caused by several factors. One of the most common causes is a control stop that is not fully opened. When the control stop does not open all the way during flushing, the water pressure may not be high enough for the diaphragm to function properly and reset. This causes water to continuously run into the unit. To fix this issue, adjust the control stop so that it can fully open as intended.
Another reason for a Sloan flush valve that keeps running is a clogged by-pass orifice in the diaphragm. This can cause the duration of a flush to be too long. To resolve this issue, remove the diaphragm assembly, disassemble the filter rings from the diaphragm, and rinse it thoroughly. Be careful not to enlarge or damage the orifice in the by-pass, as its size is crucial in properly metering water into the upper chamber of the valve. If cleansing does not correct the problem, replace the diaphragm assembly.
A damaged relief valve or inside cover can also cause a Sloan flush valve to keep running. If this is the case, replace these parts. Additionally, if a water saver/conventional diaphragm assembly is installed in a low consumption fixture, it could also cause a long flush. In this scenario, check the label or markings on the fixture to learn what the required flush volume is. Then replace the diaphragm assembly or relief valve with one that is designed for the correct flush volume.
Lastly, a significant drop in line pressure can cause a Sloan flush valve to keep running. To resolve this issue, shut off all control stops until the pressure has been restored, then open them again. By identifying and addressing these common causes of a running Sloan flush valve, you can ensure that your restroom facilities are functioning properly and efficiently.
Fixing A Sloan Flush Valve That Keeps Running
If you are experiencing a Sloan flush valve that keeps running, there are several steps you can take to fix the issue. First, check the control stop to ensure that it is fully opened. If it is not, adjust it so that it can open as intended. If the problem persists, check for a clogged by-pass orifice in the diaphragm. If cleaning does not solve the issue, replace the diaphragm assembly.
Another potential cause of a running Sloan flush valve is a damaged relief valve or inside cover. If this is the case, replace these parts. Additionally, if a water saver/conventional diaphragm assembly is installed in a low consumption fixture, it could cause a long flush. Check the label or markings on the fixture to ensure that the correct flush volume is being used. Replace the diaphragm assembly or relief valve with one designed for the correct flush volume if necessary.
Finally, if there has been a significant drop in line pressure, this could also cause a Sloan flush valve to keep running. In this case, shut off all control stops until the pressure has been restored and then open them again. By following these steps and troubleshooting potential issues, you can fix a Sloan flush valve that keeps running and ensure proper functionality of your plumbing system.