AquaFix plumbing services
A running cistern wastes water and an unreliable flush can make a toilet unusable. We look at the symptoms, the type of cistern and the available access before proposing a repair.
Inside a typical cistern
Match what you notice to the parts we would check. Toilet designs vary.
1 Fill valve
This valve lets water in after a flush. Its float tells it when to stop. We check the supply if the cistern stays empty, and the float and shut-off if it keeps filling.
Fluidmaster 400UK073 bottom-entry fill valve
This example uses a ½-inch bottom inlet. A cistern fed through the side needs a side-entry type, such as the Fluidmaster 747UK where compatible. We also check the available height and float clearance.
Manufacturer details
2 Flush valve
The valve releases the stored water when you flush. If the seal at the bottom won’t close, water can keep trickling into the bowl.
Fluidmaster PRO550UK cable flush valve
This dual-flush example is designed for 1½-inch and 2-inch outlets. We also check the overflow height, lid clearance and how the button operates. A sound valve body may only need the correct replacement seal.
Manufacturer details
3 Flush button
The button operates the flush through a cable, rods or another link, depending on the cistern. We check the control and the connection.
Fluidmaster C220 chrome-effect cable button
The C220 fits the manufacturer’s 550-series cable valves. A similar-looking button can use rods or an air tube instead. We check the existing mechanism and the opening in the lid or panel.
Manufacturer detailsSpot the difference
Tell us if you can see a trickle without flushing or hear the cistern refilling by itself. We check the water level, the overflow and the flush seal.
Explore cistern repairs
Tell us whether the puddle appears when the toilet is idle, refilling or flushing. The supply, a cistern seal or the waste connection may need checking.
We can replace suitable fill and flush valves, investigate leaking supply connections or pan connectors, and remove, refit or replace a WC to an agreed scope. For a concealed cistern, we check what can be reached through the access panel.
These are examples. We check what is fitted before choosing a replacement.
Fluidmaster 22103 close-coupling kit
On some toilets with the cistern sitting directly on the pan, water appearing between them during a flush can point to the coupling seal. This kit is for a 1½-inch cistern outlet. We check the seal shape, fixings and where the water starts.
Manufacturer detailsMcAlpine WC pan connector
This joins the back of the toilet pan to the soil pipe. If water appears at that joint when flushing, we check the pan outlet, pipe size, offset and available depth. The correct seal and shape depend on the installation.
Manufacturer detailsTell us if it is your only toilet, whether water is escaping and how the cistern is accessed. A photograph of the toilet or flush plate can help identify the type.
Access for repairs
Send a photo of the whole toilet and the flush button or wall plate. It helps us identify the layout and discuss access before a visit.
If the cistern sits on the pan or is mounted visibly on the wall, its working parts can usually be reached through the top. The space around it and the pipe connections can still affect the job.
On some back-to-wall toilets the floor-standing pan blocks removal of the front panel. We check the access first. If the pan needs to come out to remove that panel, we agree the extra work and how it will be refitted.
We check whether the existing opening reaches the faulty part. Some cisterns can take compatible standard valves. If a larger part or the cistern itself cannot come out through the opening, we discuss what needs to be opened and agree the scope before work.
The frame supports the pan and houses the cistern. We identify the model before ordering a part and check the manufacturer’s compatibility list. Some parts can be serviced through the flush plate. Work beyond that opening can require access through the boxing.
The flush pipe carries water from a separate cistern to the toilet pan. Either end can leak, at the cistern outlet or where the pipe enters the pan. We check those seals as well as the separate waste connection. Reaching a hidden seal can mean removing the pan or opening part of the boxing.
Planning your visit
Send your postcode, what is happening and a photo if it helps. Tell us if water is still escaping.
We confirm availability and explain the basis of any attendance or investigation charge before booking.
We explain what we find, agree any further work and check the affected plumbing afterwards.
Often that is possible when the fitting is accessible and compatible parts are available. We will explain the options if more of the assembly needs replacing.
A photo of the flush plate can help. We’ll check the opening behind it and discuss any additional access required before work.
We discuss the work and the basis of any attendance or investigation charge before booking. Where the fault or access is uncertain, we may need to assess it first. We discuss any change to the agreed scope before additional work.
Water running into the bowl, cisterns that will not fill and buttons that will not flush.
Slow or backing-up sinks, toilets, traps and internal waste pipes.
Active leaks, damp patches and water escaping from pipes or fittings.
Have your postcode and a short description ready. If water is still escaping, call us.
