How to replace toilet flush valve seal?

Question

I have recently started to experience ghost toilet flushing in my home - we have three bathrooms - all with the same toilet/plumbing.  I have been doing research, and today cleaned the cistern's which was a recommended first step to remove lime-scale build-up.  So far so good!

The next recommended step was to check the flush valve seal to assess if it needed replacing.   I have a center flush valve, and understand that within it is where the seal needs to be checked.   (see photos of the device)

I read that these devices should either twist (counter clockwise) at the top or need some locking tab released.  For the life of me, I can't sort it out and get the top to open so I can inspect the seal to see if it needs replacing.

Have you ever seen this type of fixture before (see pictures), and can you advise how I get to open it to check the seal?

Thanks for your help.

Mark-notsohandy · Answer

Thanks Eric for your feedback, it confirms what I thought was required to be done.

Thanks Noyade, that video is spot on with what I was looking for in terms of instructions!  I have been able to now remove the assembly and check the seal(s) in my cisterns. It is appreciated.

Cheers to all.

Mark

Noyade · Answer

Did you watch this video @Mark-notsohandy ?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vMEMmCzD-Iw

EricL · Answer

Hello @Mark-notsohandy

Please note that plumbing work needs to be completed by a licensed professional for safety and compliance.

Thank you for sharing your question about your toilet cistern. I'm sorry but I am not familiar with that flushing mechanism. However, I have had experience with ghost flushing. Your analysis of the possible fault is spot on, sometimes the filling valve washer has slowly worn away to the point that if there was any water pressure change in your plumbing, water would enter the cistern and overflow into the pan giving the impression of a short but noticeable flush.

The seating washer, however, is very easy to spot when it has failed, as water drips into the pan continuously. I suggest changing the washer of the inlet valve first. If this fails to fix the issue, I suggest engaging a plumber to remove your flushing valve and replace the seating washer. If despite the change of washers and it still leaks or flushes, you'll need to ask your plumber to change the inlet and flushing valve in your cistern.

If you have any other questions we can help with, please let us know.

Eric