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Your toilet has been running for days and it is driving you crazy. You observe your toilet closely and realize that it is missing the ball float. How can I fix a running toilet without a ball float? Keep in mind that the ball float toilet thank system is used for more traditional and older homes.
Read on to discover the definition of a ball float, step-by-step instructions with tips from professional plumbers Easy Boiler Company on getting the task done, and the benefits of this type of system. Repairing your ball float system will allow you to sleep peacefully through the night.
What Is a Ball Float?
A ball float is a spherical float attached to the pivoting arm of the ballcock in a toilet’s tank. The ballcock allows water back into the tank for toilet flushes The ball float’s primary purpose is to control the water level in the toilet’s tank. In cases of low water pressure, it controls the backflow of water. The ball float has a valve that allows you to control the water flow. When the water in your tank rises, the ball float also rises to the pre-set water level. This allows the valve to shut off and control water overflow.
If you have a toilet system that has no ball float, then you will need to replace it with a new one. This is a simple thirty-minute installation that any do-it-yourself homeowner can perform. See below the step-by-step guide for replacing the ball float that controls the water level in your toilet’s tank.
Buy a New Ball Float and Floating Rod Connector
Purchase a new ball float and connecting floating road. You will need pliers or a screwdriver to screw the ball float and floating rod together and connect to the fill-in valve. Get a clear understanding of connecting the ball float and connecting rod from a store representative. Many stores have someone who is experienced in toilet repair, that can show you the best way to connect the needed equipment to get your toilet’s water to the appropriate levels and stop the dreaded continuous running water.
Turn Off Your Water Supply
The first thing to do is to turn off your water supply. There is a water shut-off valve located on the left side at the base of your toilet.
Turn the water completely off which will stop the continuous sound of running water. If there is no valve, then you will need to shut your water off from the main water line running into your home.
Once you have done this task, flush the toilet to empty the tank. Turning off your water supply will ensure that you do not flood the bathroom or loosen the bathroom floor tiles. It will also make sure that you do not drown in dirty toilet water before installation.
Thread and screw the ball float to one end of the connecting floating rod. Screw the other end of the rod to the fill-in valve. Make sure the screws are securely in place.
According to experts, you will need to replace your ball float once every five to six years or as needed when you notice your water pressure is running lower or higher than normal.
Turn your water on and allow it to fill to the water line inside the tank’s system. Adjust the water level by adjusting the floating screw on the fill-in valve. If there is no screw, then bend the arm upward or downward until the water level is where it should be.
Other Toilet Tank Equipment to Check
A new ball float should clear up the issue of continuously running water. Before you put in your new ball float and connecting floating rod, make sure and check the entire toilet system. Your clapper should not be cracked and allow water to continuously come through.
Also, clean out your fill-in valve system by loosening the screw, pulling it apart, and cleaning with soap and water. Rinse your fill-in valve system well. A toilet tank system that is free from debris and dirt will ultimately run better for your family.
Get Some Professional Help
If replacing the ball float and connecting the floating rod does not work, then it is time to call for help. There may be an underlying problem in your bathroom that needs to be checked by a professional. Your toilet is one of the most used areas in your home, so keeping it running efficiently is important.
A professional will come in and look at your copper pipes and other equipment around your bathroom. He can also give you advice on the best way of using your toilet without the ball float until a new one can be installed (best dual flush toilets). He can tell if there are other issues in your bathroom along with your toilet tank system.
The Benefits of the Ball Float Toilet Tank System
There are many advantages to using the ball float toilet tank system in your bathroom. These include: a basic and simple piece of equipment, less expensive when compared with other systems, and work well in systems that have a small flow like traditional and older homes.
This article will help the do-it-yourself homeowner understand the ball float toilet tank system and how to fix a running toilet without a ball float?
Remember to do your research and speak with a store representative to answer any installation questions you may have. Purchase a new ball float and connecting floating rod to install into your fill-in valve. Your water supply will need to be completely turned off before installation.
Ask for help from someone who is experienced with toilet repair if needed. Observe and check for cracks in your clapper or any breaks in chains.
This is a simple installation that should take about thirty minutes to replace the ball float and have your toilet running properly again. Once your ball float toilet tank system has been installed, you should be able to flush your toilet and see the water return to the appropriate water level.
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