Plumbing in the Home/Noise in the pipes

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Expert: Dana Bostick - 7/9/2009


Question

example of poilet guts
Recently, when we flush one of our upstairs toilets (we have two and the other does not make any noises) there is a loud banging noise that emenates as the water moves through the pipes.  The noise starts about 2-3 seconds after the flush and lasts about the same amount of time.  The toilet in question was replaced about 5 years ago with the style that does not have ballcock guts but the newer type of float that allows for a more forceful flush (see attached picture).  Don't know if it matters, but I recently had to shut of the water to my house at the main.  Can you please provide some suggestions.

Answer
Hello Tim,

The picture was too small to make out any detail but it looks like a typical Fluid Master fill valve. It has nothing to do with allowing the toilet to flush more forcefully. The way a toilet flushes is part of the design of the toilet overall. The fill valve (ballcock) merely allows the water to refill the tank for the next flush.

What appears to be happening here is that the diaphragm in the fill valve is getting weak and starting to chatter as the tank fills, especially as it nears full. The tank starts to refill as soon as you push the handle (which raises the flapper) to allow the water to drain into the bowl.  As the water level drops, the float moves down and opens the fill valve.  

It might be time to replace the fill valve again.  They are not as high quality these days and don't last as long as they used to. The Fluid Masters are only about $20.
Best,
Dana

Dana Bostick

Expertise

Pretty much any residential plumbing questions. For "item specific" details such as a specific model of fixture, I will need to research and there may not be any useful information available. Note: I live and work in Southern California. We do not, as a rule, use hot water or steam heating systems, oil fired boilers or private water wells so my knowledge in those areas is pretty limited. There are others here on AllExerts that can probably answer those questions better.

Experience

Retired Licensed General Contractor with Plumbing, HVAC and Electrical sub-licenses. Active Certified InterNachi Home Inspector and Infrared Thermographer

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InterNachi

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SearchWarp, Article Alley, www.DIYHomeInspection.blogspot.com, ActiveRain.com "Rain Maker",

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30 years in the trades, Licensed General Contractor, Certified Infrared Thermographer

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InterNachi Certified Property Inspector, Listed FHA Fee Inspector, HUD Mobile Home Inspector

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Home buyers, sellers and owners, Investors, Commercial roofing companies (infrared roof scans for moisture intrusion)

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