slow filling cistern in toilet

[sallyann]

Hi, we have a problem with a slow filling toilet cistern in our upstairs bathroom. We have generally poor water pressure in the area so that may be the problem but it is possible to increase the flow to the cistern in spite of that. We are talking about it taking five minutes to fill it each flush. Any suggestions greatly appreciated. Many thanks

 

[DavyJones]

the orifice in the ballcock may be blocked, unscrew ballcock and you will see a white (high pressure) or red (low pressure) orifice (water inlet). clear if blocked, if it is a white one try changing for a red one. the red ones have larger holes so allow more water to enter quicker.


turn off water to cistern before attemping to dismantle ballcock.

 

[sallyann]

Thank you DavyJones for your helpful reply. Apology for delay.

 

[wigwam]

How do u turn off the water to the cistern?

 

[mathepac]

On newer installations there should be a two-position tap on the narrow pipe feeding the cistern; if the lever is paralrell to the pipe, water can flow; if the lever is at a right-angle to the pipe, the water is off.

On older installations there is probably a round blue-coloured or brass-coloured knob. Turn it clock-wise to shut off the water and anti-clockwise to open it.

 

[wigwam]

I had a look at the pipe leading into the cistern - but there's no tap on the pipe to turn on/off?

Only other option to cut off the water to the cistern is the mains stopcock valve beside kithchen sink - would this work?

 

[WIFESLIST]

Wigwam that will only work if the cistern is 'mains water' fed.The cold water valve should be in the hot press.In older, what were, corporation estates ie crumlin drimnagh whitehall etc the mains is not under the sink but under the stairs.be VERY careful when turning the valve off especially if the wheel on the valve is black in colour as these have a habit of breaking when over tightened

 

[cleverclogs7]

try turning the little knob attached to the water pipe at the toilet

 

[tosullivan]

close off the cold water valve in the hot press that feeds the toilet/cold taps etc.
Then run the taps till you've emptied the pipe between the valve you just switched off and the taps.
You should then be free to work on your toilet