How to Improve Toilet Performance: Step-by-Step Instructions and Pictures

Compare gravity flush toilets, pressure assist toilets and vacuum assist toilets. Read an overview on how to improve toilet performance.
From The Family Handyman
How to Improve Toilet Performance
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Gravity Flush
This is the system toilets have used for over a century: The flush valve or “flapper” opens and water rushes down through the bowl. Manufacturers have steadily improved tank and bowl designs to create a more powerful flush with less water. One of the most effective improvements was to simply enlarge the flush valve from 2 in. to 3 in. or more.

Pros:
•Cost. Some of the models that perform well in lab tests cost as little as $150.

•Easy to maintain. Diagnosing problems and finding replacement parts is relatively easy.

Cons:
•Tanks can sweat. If condensation forms on the tank of your current toilet, the same problem will likely occur with any gravity toilet.

•Big differences in performance. There are still a lot of wimpy flushers out there. You have to do your homework to find a model that performs well (see “Toilet Tests,” left).
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This article has a very misleading title. I expected to find information on improving my current toilet(s) performance and all this article does is talk about three types of toilets with which I could REPLACE my current toilets. The title also says "Step-by-Step Instructions and Pictures" but there are NO instructions at all in this article, just information. I gave it 1 star.

By Jim Bash, on 10/25/2009

I was looking for information on how to free up a sticking float. The float works but just on a delay since it sticks. I tried many house hold products and some lubes, but to no avail. I really didn't see any step by step instructions in this article.

By Ted, on 09/25/2009

Why not include useful information to tune up your existing potty--like for instance--USE A clothes hanger to open the top rim flush holes that have been clogged with mineral deposits over the years. Also, vac all the water from the bowl and pour a gallon of vinager in the bowl for 24 hours. Things that actually work to improve the "old" style potty that always work----IF MAINTAINED.

By Ken, on 08/17/2009

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