Anticipating needed parts for your flushometers is key to quick repairs and keeping your restrooms in order.
While most plumbing maintenance is considered reactive, such as when a leak occurs or a part stops working, preventative maintenance can save time and money. Preventative maintenance is centered around the idea of regularly checking and servicing equipment as it progresses through its life cycle.
Anticipating problems before they occur and having the necessary repair parts on hand can save you from future headaches. An example of preventative maintenance is installing a new part at the first sign of deterioration instead of waiting until it is no longer operational.
Flushometers must pass strict industry tests of 250,000 flushes. A busy commercial restroom gets approximately 4,000 flushes per month, which translates to only five years of service.
There are four main factors that contribute to the life expectancy of flushometers and their parts:
- Water quality-High levels of chlorine or debris can erode parts over time
- Vandalism and abuse-Public buildings and facilities are more susceptible to misuse and damage
- Proper installation-Improper installation of the product can affect performance and accelerate deterioration
- Proper parts replacement-Off-brand replacement parts can negatively impact performance and reduce product life
Let's look at some of the most replaced parts in a Sloan Royal Flushometer.
Inside Cover
The inside cover in your flush valve can last about 5-7 years. If you start to notice the following indicators, it may be time to replace them.
- Leaks into the fixture
- Flush too long or short
- Divots from diaphragm segments
- Does not shut off at all
Diaphragm Kit
The Diaphragm Kit may last 5-6 years before needing replaced. Here are some indicators of one going bad.
- Won't flush or won't shut off
- Flush too long or short
Control Stop
A repair kit can be purchased for the control stop as it will need to be replaced around the 6–10-year mark. Check for these signs when evaluating
- Insufficient volume of water
- Water splashes from fixture
- Can't turn water on/off
Handle
A Handle Repair Kit can be installed every 4-6 years on average. Check for these signs for flush valve handles.
- Leaks around handle
- Flushometer does not flush
- Flush too long or short
Tailpiece O-Ring and Lock Ring
Every 2-3 years these parts will need to be replaced. Look out for leaking at the tailpiece as an indicator it is going bad.
Vacuum Breaker
The life expectancy of a vacuum breaker is about 3-4 years. If you notice leaking around vents when flushed it is time to install a Vacuum Breaker Repair Kit
Coupling Assembly
If you have damage to your chrome finish on your coupling such as wrench marks it is time to install a new Coupling Assembly. You may also start to notice leaks around the connection and missing or distorted threads. These could last up to 15 years but may be damaged or compromised much sooner.
Conclusion
Having a repair kit fully stocked and available for repairs can also save time and money. Best Plumbing Specialties offers assortment boxes with all of your needed flushometer replacement parts conveniently included in a portable kit.
Having a repair kit fully stocked and available for repairs can also save time and money. Check out the Sloan Royal Repair Master Assortment from Best Plumbing Specialties and all our other repair kits.
Best Plumbing Specialties also offers customized kit boxes to fit your needs to save you time, space, and money.