Post By Admin
September 26, 2024Have you ever had trouble with a toilet not flushing properly?
Before you call for a professional plumber, you’d better check out if the problem is just a small fix or not.
The thing is, most of us don’t even know how toilets work.
In fact, knowing how toilets work can save you time, money, and frustration. You can point out what’s the problem to your plumber or even know what components of your toilet that need replacement.
So, in this simple guide, we break down the technical mechanism of how toilets work, the components of a toilet, and what you should look at before buying a toilet.
The Working Mechanism of a Toilet
Source: Pexels
When you understand the basics of how your toilet functions, you’ll feel much more confident handling small problems on your own.
For instance, understanding your toilet’s parts and processes can help you spot early warning signs of bigger issues—saving you from costly repairs later.
This is the mechanism of how a toilet works:
1. The Flush Handle Lifts the Flapper
Ever wonder how a toilet flush? When you press the flush handle, it pulls a chain that lifts the flapper valve.
The handle is connected to a chain or arm that lifts a small rubber part called the flapper, which covers the hole at the bottom of the tank.
Once the flapper lifts, water starts rushing from the tank into the bowl, which is what you see happening when you flush.
2. Water Flows and Pushes Waste Down
The force of the water is what carries waste from the bowl, through the trap (the curved pipe under the toilet), and into the main sewer line.
The trap also holds a bit of water, which keeps bad smells from coming back up into your bathroom.
3. The Fill Valve Refills the Tank
Once the flush is complete, the toilet tank needs to refill with water for the next use. The fill valve does this job.
You’ll notice the water rising in the tank after you flush. That’s the fill valve at work. It usually stops automatically once the tank is full.
Components of Toilet and Their Functions
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Now that we’ve covered the basic process of how toilets work, let’s talk about the individual parts and what they do. Knowing these parts can help you identify problems faster and know if you need to call a toilet repair service or not.
Different types of toilets have different components. Usually, when you buy a toilet, the toilet diagram always comes in one package.
But, in general, these are the most common components of a toilet:
- Tank: Another name for the tank is a toilet cistern. This is the large part behind the seat where water is stored for flushing. The tank holds water until it’s needed, releasing it in one powerful gush during the flush
- Flapper Valve: This rubber stopper lifts when you flush and lets water out of the tank.
- Fill Valve: Controls the water flow into the tank after flushing.
- Float: This small piece floats on top of the water in the tank and signals the fill valve to stop once the water reaches a certain level.
What Should You Consider Before Buying a Toilet?
Source: Pexels
If you’ve just finished a renovation or are setting up a new bathroom, choosing the right toilet is a big deal. You want one that’s comfortable, saves water, and works well without constant issues.
A few small details can make a huge difference in how easy it is to use day-to-day. These are things you should consider before buying a toilet:
Water Efficiency
Modern toilets use less water per flush, which is good for your water bill and the environment.
Look for toilets labelled as low-flow, which use about 1.6 gallons per flush compared to older models that use 3.5 gallons or more.
Switching to a water-efficient model can save hundreds of gallons of water each year, reducing both water bills and your home’s environmental impact.
Size and Comfort
Toilets come in different sizes and heights. If you have a smaller bathroom, make sure you measure the space carefully.
For taller individuals or those with mobility concerns, a higher seat might be more comfortable.
A “comfort height” toilet, which is a little taller, can be easier on the knees and back, especially for older adults or anyone with joint pain.
Flush Power and Type
Some toilets have single-flush systems, while others offer a dual-flush option, which lets you choose between a light flush for liquid waste and a stronger flush for solid waste.
Dual-flush toilets can help you save water, but if you have kids in the house, keep in mind they might not always remember which button to use.
Conclusion
Understanding how toilets work isn’t just about solving problems when they arise—it’s also about feeling confident in handling basic maintenance.
But, sometimes, some toilets are too complicated to learn by yourself. Hence, the problems are somewhat complex to fix, like fixing overflowing toilet.
If you find an issue on your toilet and you don’t know how to solve it, Neighbourhood Plumbing is always ready to help you. We’re professional help with any toilet troubles. So, if you need our assistance, contact us today!
About the Author
From unclogging the toughest drains to repairing leaking toilets, Ricky is a seasoned plumber who has brought his craftmanship to homes across Melbourne. He is passionate about sharing plumbing tips just as much as he is about fixing your plumbing issues. So, when your taps or pipes begin leaking, you know who to call.
