Push button toilet flush problems

Push button toilets provide a convenient flush with just a push of a button on the cistern lid or wall. However, issues can arise that prevent the flush mechanism from working optimally.

Common push button toilet problems involve the flush not activating properly when pressed. This is usually due to wear and tear of the flush valve inside the cistern tank.

The flush valve is a rubber diaphragm that releases water on button activation. Over time, mineral deposits can cause the diaphragm to crack, perish or become misshapen, inhibiting full flushes.

Debris such as limescale inside the cistern can also restrict the movement of the lever or chain connecting the flush button to the valve. General wear of components like bolts and linkages may require replacement.

Vandalism damage is another potential issue. Low water levels or non-refilling cisterns could relate to a faulty fill valve also needing attention.

Typical solutions include inspecting the flush valve and mechanism for wear, deep cleaning the cistern, adjusting any stiff chains, replacing worn parts, and testing the fill valve operation.

Estimated costs for push button toilet repairs are:

Inspecting flush valve: €50-80. 30 minutes to 1 hour job.

Cistern clean and any minor adjustments: €80-120. 1-2 hours labour.

Replacing worn components: €100-150 depending on parts. 1-2 hours to complete.

Fixing electrical flush valve issues varies significantly depending on specific faults found.

Contact a professional plumber for assessment and customized repair quote.

The flush valve diaphragm is located inside the cistern tank and is subjected to constant wear from opening and closing with each flush. Minerals in the water accelerate aging of rubber components over several years. Cracks or splits in the diaphragm result in incomplete draining of the tank upon button press.

Debris can accumulate inside the cistern from limescale or sediment stirred up during flushes. This gunk can coating moving parts like the flush lever and prevent full travel. Over time links, bolts and other hardware also fatigue with use. Loose or stiff connections disrupt the valve activation process.

Electrical issues causing flushes to fail often relate to the flush valve solenoid coil responsible for powering the diaphragm open. Coils become inefficient due to rust/scale buildup and eventually stop functioning. Nearby circuit boards and wiring connections may crack or short.

Thorough disassembly, scrubbing and rinsing of all cistern internals helps remove blockages. While working in the tank, taking measurements allows precise selection of replacement parts. Rebuilds sometimes involve installing new seals, springs and diaphragm kits custom cut for the valve model.

Proper diagnosis is important to rule out secondary causes and ensure a durable repair. Our plumber technicians have extensive experience resolving the root of flush malfunctions for a variety of popular toilet models. Customers appreciate the prompt clean-up and demonstration of a functioning flush before leaving the job.

Do You Need A Plumber To Fix Toilets?

If you need an Emergency Plumber North Dublin or an Emergency Plumber South Dublin when it comes to water, gas or electric systems in your home, you should always call a professional unless you have training yourself. With taps, a DIY effort can result in loose fittings, flooding, leaks, and expensive taps that don’t work at all. Get in touch for a no-obligation quote before you try to fix or change a tap yourself.

For any plumbing or toilet problems you are experiencing in your home, call 24 Hour Plumber to book a local plumber near you. 

All repairs by 24 Hour Plumber have a 12-month guarantee. Call us or email now for a free quote

Here’s more info on how to fix a push button toilet