Toilets are utilized everyday in our households and workplaces. They are quintessential, but we rarely ever think twice about them— that is unless something is wrong with the flushing mechanism. The flushing handle may seem like a trivial part of the toilet, but it is a crucial component that can't be ignored. An unyielding or broken handle can cause unexpected problems, such as your toilet flushing continuously or not flushing at all. In this post, we will delve deeper into the different types of toilet flush handle, their functions, repair, and maintenance procedures.
Types of Toilet Flush Handles:
Toilet flush handles are available in various styles, shapes, and sizes. Some of the most commonly found flush handles are the push buttons, tank levers, and elevating rods. The push-button flush is usually found in new, modern, and stylishly designed toilets. A tank lever is prevalent in traditional and vintage toilets, and it is easy to use as you push down or pull up the handle to activate the flush. The elevating rod, on the other hand, is found in toilets that have been around since before the dawn of the last century. By pushing or pulling the rod upwards, the water is released.
Functions of Toilet Flush Handles:
The primary function of a toilet flush handle is to flush the toilet by lifting a flapper or releasing water from the tank. The water is either drained out through a pipe or washed down to the sewer system below. However, different flush handles have distinct operations. For example, push-button flush handles release varying volumes of water based on the number of times you push the button. A tank lever handle works by lifting a chain to release water from the tank, whereas an elevating rod is designed to elevate and release a plug to empty the contents of the toilet bowl.
Repairing a Broken Flush Handle:
One of the significant disadvantages of a broken toilet flush handle is that it makes flushing your toilet a tedious task or a near-impossible one altogether. To fix a broken handle, the first step is to determine whether the problem is with the handle or the internal flushing mechanism. Sometimes the issue may be the chains or flappers that need replacing. If the handle is the problem, you could try to fix it by tightening the screws or attaching a new handle if you need one. However, if all else fails, it may be time to bring in a professional plumber to fix the problem.
Maintaining Toilet Flush Handles:
To extend the lifespan of your toilet flush handle and avoid mechanical issues, you need to regularly check the handles for rust build-up, looseness, or breakages. If you notice any of the symptoms mentioned, don't wait and call a professional plumber to repair it before it worsens. Additionally, ensure that you clean your toilet handle frequently, either using a mild detergent or soap to prevent the accumulation of bacteria that can cause mold and mildew.
Conclusion:
In summary, the toilet flush handle is an essential element that is frequently overlooked but crucial. By understanding its types, functions, repair, and maintenance procedures, you will be able to ensure that your toilet is in excellent working conditions and you can avoid toilet breakdowns. If you do encounter a problem that you can't fix, don't hesitate to call a professional plumber to solve your problem. Finally, regular maintenance is essential in ensuring that you get the most extended lifespan out of the flush handle.