If your car needs an engine to run, your toilet needs a toilet fill valve to function. It can be terrible if your toilet tank does not refill itself. Hence, purchase the best toilet fill valve to avoid putting yourself in unpleasant circumstances.
Although small in size, it has a crucial role in the functioning of a toilet tank. A leaky or overflowing cistern indicates it is time to change the fill valve. Although there is no shortage of fill valves in the market, choosing the right fill valve is crucial.
Read on to know more about the various types of toilet fill valves and pick the right product from this comprehensive list.
Types Of Toilet Fill Valves
- Ballcock toilet fill valves
The ballcock fill valve is one of the oldest types of toilet fill valves. This vintage-style fill valve consists of a ball and rod design. The ball or balloon is made up of either plastic or thin metal and goes up and down depending upon the water level inside the cistern. As soon as the ball is pushed upwards, indicating that the toilet tank is full, the fill valve stops taking in water. While these work well, they are large, heavy, and based on old technology.
- Float cup toilet fill valves
This is an improvement in design over the tried and tested old-fashioned ball and rod fill valve. It is designed to fit numerous types of gravity-flush toilets that are floor-mounted. These float cup-type flush valves are a replacement for ballcock fill valves. Instead of a heavy, large ball, this system incorporates a float cup that drops along with a drop in the water level. As soon as the water level in the tank lowers, the float cup drops, signaling the fill valve to refill the water in the tank. As the water level rises to the predetermined shutoff level, the float cup also rises and signals the fill valve to shut off the water supply.
- Pressure-activated and anti-siphon fill valves
This style of fill valve is quite different from both the ballcock and float cup designs. While it looks quite similar to gravity-fed fill valves, it deviates from them, in that it doesn’t have a cup or balloon to control the filling of water in the toilet tank. These fill valves are generally small in size and sit at the bottom of the tank. However, once spoilt, they need to be replaced. Anti-siphon valves are pressure-activated fill valves that prevent water from being sucked back into the water supply when there is low water pressure.
- Dual-flush fill mechanics
These fill valves are quite similar to standard fill valves with the main difference being that they come with a switch that allows dual operation. In simple terms, these fill valves have a switch that allows one to alternate between a full flush and a half flush. This is beneficial in saving water during situations that may not require a full flush. Do bear in mind that standard toilets with a single flush will not support dual flush fill valves.
Since you’ve taken the time to orient yourself with the different types of fill valves, it’s time that you have a look at our list of the 11 best toilet fill valves.
Top Picks
11 Best Toilet Fill Valves
1. Best Quick Installation:Korky 528 QuietFill Toilet Fill Valve
The new and improved technology implemented by Korky replaces old and slow toilet fill valves that not only take time to fill but are also worn down and ineffective. This plastic fill valve has been designed to easily fit both 1 and 2-piece toilets. It is a quick solution to leaky and running cisterns and also fills large cisterns in no time. Owing to its user-friendly design and accessories included for setup, this fill valve has emerged as a popular choice among consumers. The company has slapped a 5-year warranty on this product. Have a look at this video to learn more about this quiet fill valve.
Pros
- Quiet operation
- Easy installation
- Universal fit
- An innovative twist-lock adjustment
Cons
- It may not be suitable for use where the water is extremely cold.
Did you know?2. Best Adjustable Height:Kohler Silent Fill Toilet Valve Kit
This toilet flush valve with genuine Kohler parts is designed for smooth operation. It fits all Kohler class 5 toilets and is crafted from hard plastic. You can now replace your old fill valve with an OEM Kohler part for exceptional product performance. The cap comes in 5 smart colors like black, silver, white, red, and blue. It is important to keep in mind the shank color and model number while purchasing the fill valve. The silent fill feature allows the cistern to fill without any noise. To avoid scratches on the well-designed superior quality plastic, use soft material or sponge to clean the surface. This replacement kit comes with a fill hose, valves, inserts, and assembly hardware. Here is an informative video that tells you more about the product.
Pros
- Adjustable height
- Easy-install fill valve
- Water-saving
- Quick filling
Cons
- Might get clogged with sediments
3. Best Universal Fill Valve:Toto Adjustable Toilet Fill Valve
The TOTO assembly fill valve boasts a robust exterior that is made from high-quality plastic. It has a cutting ring inlet connection and a G-connector for an outlet connection. With its adjustable height and compact layout, it fits many toilet tanks. The height of the fill valve can be set between 7.75 inches and 13.5 inches in any TOTO cistern. This toilet valve replacement set includes a cone washer with a nut, refill tube, clamp, and valve. For more information about the product, click this video.
Pros
- DIY installation
- Flexible height
- Universal fill valve
- Standard inlet connection
Cons
- May not refill the tank very quickly
4. Best Single Flush:Danco 80816 Toilet Tank Fill Valve
Restoration of a leaky or old toilet tank is made easy with the Danco toilet repair kit. The repair kit consists of a flapper with an adapter, float with a rod, ballcock with refill tube, and spring to install new life into your old cistern. The total height of the brass rod once threaded through the fill valve and float sums to 11.75 inches. The toilet flapper is designed to fit 2-inch toilet flush valves. The overall height of the fill valve is 8.5 inches. This product is available for purchase in 2 shades of white.
Pros
- Durable fill valve with plastic design
- Universal fit
- Single-flush application
- Easy installation
Cons
- The float rod might be too long for some toilet tank
5. Best With Twist-Lock Adjustment: Korky 528MP QuietFill Platinum Fill Valve
The Korky toilet valve is designed to replace ballcocks and worn-down valves for various one-piece and two-piece toilets. The valve has a twist-lock adjustment that makes it easy to install and ensures your toilet runs smoothly. This valve is also adjustable from 7.75 inches to 13.5 inches to fit most toilets. The set comes complete with a refill tube, a metal refill tube clip, a mounting nut, a cone washer, a refill adjuster, a coupling nut, and a tamper-proof key.
Pros
- Universal fit
- Fixes leaking and slow-refilling toilets
- Refill adjuster delivers an accurate amount of water
- Includes installation instructions
Cons
- May be a bit noisy
6. Best Quick Refill:Next By Danco HC660 Toilet Flush Valve
Constructed with superior quality acetal and polypropylene, Next by Danco is an advanced fill valve repair kit with an adjustable height of 11 to 13.8 inches. A built-in mini-valve to adjust water levels and an audible alert to notify a leak in the cistern ensure that no water is wasted. This self-cleaning fill valve is equipped with powerful jets that stir up dirt on the tank bed, allowing it to be flushed while keeping the cistern clean. Repairing a tank with this adjustable toilet valve is made easy thanks to its float lock that shuts off the water inside the tank.
Pros
- Quick refill
- Automatic tank cleaning
- Tool-free installation
- Full flush efficiency
Cons
- It may get a little noisy.
Quick tip7. Best Lightweight:American Standard Fluid Fill Valve
This well-crafted fill valve by American Standard is made of hard plastic that will stand the test of time. The fill valve is relatively lightweight and compact. Owing to its 10-inch height, it will easily fit in small as well as large-sized cisterns. It is designed to refill water in your cistern as quickly as possible without resulting in any leaks. The company bundles with the unit all necessary accessories like the shank washer, refill tube, coupling washer, coupling nuts, refill tube, and refill clips.
Pros
- Fits most toilets
- Quick installation
- High water fill rate
- Adjustable design
Cons
- It may get clogged if there is high mineral content in the water.
8. Best Minimal Noise:Fluidmaster 400H-002 High-Performance Fill Valve
This fill valve by Fluidmaster is a work of sheer brilliance. The fill valve is built from plastic and designed to operate efficiently and effectively while producing minimum noise. The company has ingeniously designed the fill valve with a quick height adjustment between 9 and 14 inches. This makes it easy to fit in almost all cisterns. This fill valve is a perfect replacement for noisy, old, or leaky fill valves. Included with the fill valve are the required accessories for installation and a step-by-step instructional manual. The company provides a 7-year warranty of its Fluidmaster 400H-002 model.
Pros
- Adjustable water level dials
- 2x greater bowl refill
- Powerful flush
- Universal fit
Cons
- Some may find that the quality of the rubber washer is not up to the mark.
Do remember9. Best Easy-To-Install: WDI Technology Lowe’s AquaSource Original Fill Valve
AquaSource Original toilet fill valve by Lowe’s is a good fit for most AquaSource toilet models and can be installed without needing adjustments. The set includes a fixed-height fill valve, cone washer, refill tube, and coupling nut. This single flush valve is easy to install, and it comes with phenomenal build quality that can withstand sediment and debris, offering long-lasting usage.
Pros
- Easy and quick installation
- Includes installation instructions
- Operates quietly
- Fixes leaky toilets
Cons
- Filling tube could be a bit short
10. Best Water-Saving: R&T A1320 Toilet Fill Valve
The water-saving flush valve by R&T helps fix slow-filling, running, and leaking toilets. It offers a quick and quiet tank filling and delivers the correct amount of water to the tank. This saves water, ensures accurate performance, and decreases your water bill. Its quick-locking nut allows easy installation without any tools. You can also adjust the float height and the water level after valve installation.
Pros
- Adjustable height between 9.2 inches and 13 inches
- Universal fit
- Easy and convenient to operate
- Anti-siphon valve prevents sucking sewage back
- Durable and corrosion-resistant material
Cons
- Directions may be a bit difficult to understand
11. Best Space-Saving:Plumb Pak Anti-Siphon Toilet Valve
The flush valve by Plumb Pak is designed to fit standard 2-piece toilets. Its compact size makes an ideal replacement for inefficient fill valves that are using outdated technology like ballcocks. The plastic shell is connected to the water inlet pipe to allow for continuous and seamless water flow into the cistern. While this may not have all the bells and whistles like other fill valves, it is easy to install, use, and maintain
Pros
- Space-saving layout
- Low-maintenance fill valve
- Gravity controlled
- Water level control knob
- Quiet operation
Cons
- The flush pressure might be a little less.
Now that you’ve had a look at our list of the 11 best fill valves, it’s time to determine the type of fill valve needed for the toilet tank and look for a compatible one. Lucky for you, we’ve outlined some of the main considerations to bear in mind when choosing a toilet fill valve.
How To Choose The Best Toilet Fill Valve
- Type and model
The kind of fill valve that you will need will be determined by the toilet tank you have. Replacing your fill valve includes identifying the old one to know which type of fill valve to purchase. While there are different types of flush valves to choose from, you might be limited by your toilet tank. So, do check carefully before purchasing a toilet fill tube/valve.
- Material
While plastic might not always be as durable as metal, when it comes to a flush valve, it is the better choice. Plastic fill valves are more durable than their metal counterparts because they are not subject to rust and corrosion. Corrosion of metal fill valves often leads to leaks and malfunction, so it’s best to choose corrosion-resistant fill valves.
- Noise level
There is a considerable amount of noise while emptying and refilling the toilet tank and that can be quite annoying. If noise bothers you to the extent and gets on your nerves, it is advisable to purchase a fill valve that provides quiet operation.
- Fill and flush rate
While it may seem like the only factor to consider would be how fast it fills and flush, it isn’t so. The fill valve of the toilet tank depends on the inlet through which the water passes. The inlet of the toilet flush valve should be able to handle the water pressure that the fill valve supports for the valve to be most effective. The flush rate of the fill valve is directly related to the toilet’s flush cycle. You must choose one that matches the flush cycle of your toilet. Most older toilets support a 2-inch flush valve, while most modern ones require a 3 or 4-inch flush valve.
- Other features
Features to look out for include whether the flush valve has an adjustable height, water-saving capabilities, and ease of installation. Having a height-adjustable fill valve ensures that you will eliminate the size of your cistern as a restriction. You can also look for fill valves with toolless installation to avoid the need for a plumber and the ability to switch between half and full flush to save water.
Why Trust MomJunction?
We have compiled this list of the best toilet fill valves while keeping your quality parameters and needs in mind. Numerous websites and products reviews have been analyzed to ensure you are introduced to high-quality toilet fill valves for smoothly functioning toilets. This article provides the necessary details about their features and a buying guide to help you choose the right one.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can a toilet fill valve be repaired?
The answer to this lies in the model of the fill valve used in the toilet tank. Certain brands like Fluidmaster allow for quick replacement by replacing the seal inside the unit. However, other brands may not be so repair-friendly. If the toilet flush valve cannot be repaired, the only option left would be to replace the entire unit.
2. How do I clean a toilet flush valve?
Fill valves often get clogged with debris and sediments. Thankfully, cleaning them is easy. Once the cap of the fill valve is removed, carefully inspect for debris that might be stuck in and around the body of the fill valve. Use an inverted mug over the opened fill valve and turn on the water supply. This will force the water to circulate through the body of the fill valve and release the debris or sediments. Repeat this process at least twice to clean the fill valve.
3. How long do toilet fill valves last?
The longevity of a toilet fill valve depends on its material and how often you use it. Plastic toilet fill valves are more durable and last longer than the metal ones. Typically, a well-used toilet fill valve will last up to five years.
4. How high should a toilet fill valve be?
Buying a toilet fill valve with an adjustable height is an ideal choice. However, in any situation, the critical level mark (CL) of the toilet fill valve should be one inch above the top of the overflow pipe.
5. How do I know if my fill valve is bad?
The first sign that your fill valve has gone bad is an ineffective flush and certain strange sounds coming out of it because of the unusually high amount of water inflow from the toilet fill valve and water outflow from the flush valve.
6. Is there a way to adjust the fill speed on a toilet?
To adjust the fill speed of your toilet, you can buy a toilet fill valve with an adjustable speed, or you can adjust it by bending the float rod upwards to increase the water filling speed and downwards to decrease its speed in the case of ballcock toilet fill valves.
The Bottom Line
A toilet valve is an integral part of any toilet system that releases the water from the toilet tank into the toilet bowl. If this function isn’t performed efficiently, you can wake up to a flooded toilet sink and bathroom. Hence, to avoid such mess, it is recommended that you purchase the best replacement toilet fill valves, such as the user-friendly Korky 528 QuietFill Toilet Fill Valve, the height-adjustable Kohler Silent Fill Toilet Valve Kit, or the innovative Fluidmaster 400H-002 High-Performance Fill Valve. Moreover, ensure that it is made of durable materials and is rust and corrosion-resistant. Also, identify the type and model so it fits your toilet system effortlessly and comes with additional features like half and full flush and more for easy use.
Infographic: How To Replace Toilet Fill Valves?
The toilet fill valve is a crucial component that regulates water flow to refill the tank after flushing. Replacing the fill valve may be necessary if you encounter problems such as an incomplete filling, strange noises, or corrosion. The infographic explains how to replace the fill valve easily and accurately. Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
Get high-quality PDF version by clicking below.
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