Let's look at the types of float valves, as well as methods for identifying and troubleshooting problems.
Types of float valves
Depending on the operating element, valves are divided into diaphragm and plunger valves (with a lower or upper location).
The diaphragm valve consists of a threaded tube, water flows into the reservoir. Control over the flow of water into the system is carried out by a membrane.
It blocks the outlet through the lever and float. The float may also not have a lever, but move along the guides of the drain tube body. This design reduces the valve’s operating area and is mounted in small-sized containers. For example, in toilet cisterns.
The plunger locking mechanism consists of a pipe with an inch thread on one end, and on the other there is a small hole and a hollow cylinder along which the plunger (a piston with an end-mounted seal) moves.The piston moves towards opening or closing through a metal or plastic lever and a float.
Compared to diaphragm valves, plunger valves are easier to repair and maintain due to the rubber seal design.
Algorithm for identifying and eliminating malfunctions of the float device
The first sign of a malfunction of the valve is the constant flow of water into the toilet or its pouring out of the container. It can be obvious (easy to notice) or hidden (difficult to identify).
To determine the location of the leak, it is necessary to open the top cover when the tank is full and examine the tank mechanisms. If water leaks from the float switch device, you must:
1. Shut off the water supply and lower the level below the valve mounting hole. The liquid can be drained using a rubber hose and capillary action. In a toilet tank, you just need to press a button or flush lever.
2. Unscrew the water supply hose and the valve clamping nut and remove it from the tank.
3. In valves with a lever, to remove the sealing element, it is necessary to remove the rod, which is attached with a bolt or cotter pin. If the float moves in the guides, unfasten the latch from the float rod.
4. To dismantle the membrane, it is necessary to remove the stop, and the rod in the plunger mechanism.
5. Examine the condition of the rubber and exhaust hole. If there is dirt, clean it. Defective parts should be replaced.
6. Reassemble and install the valve in reverse order.
7. Check the operation and tightness of the device.
Reducing water noise when filling the tank
To reduce noise when filling the tank with water, you can use a muffler.It is made from silicone or PVC tube. It should be 2 cm less than the height from the valve to the bottom of the tank, with the same diameter as the valve outlet.
A muffler selected to size is pulled onto the pipe and secured with a crimp clamp. The noise reduction occurs as a result of the flow of liquid under the water seal.
The noise can also be reduced by reducing the pressure of the water supplied to the tank (the intensity of the water hammer will decrease).
Float valve selection
The valve for the tank is selected depending on the liquid pressure in the water supply system. Up to 1 bar the mechanism is used for low pressure, 1 - 3 bar for medium pressure and from 3 bar for high pressure. If the wrong choice is made, the tank will fill for a long time or too quickly, which is accompanied by increased noise.
