Sloan Flushmate Troubleshooting: Common Issues and Solutions
The Sloan Flushmate is a remarkable power-assist system that enhances the performance of your toilet, ensuring that each flush is swift and efficient. However, even the most reliable systems can experience occasional setbacks. This makes understanding Sloan Flushmate troubleshooting essential for any user.
Common issues with the Sloan Flushmate include: weak flushes, no flush, continuous running, excessively loud flushes, water leaks, inconsistent flushing, pressure loss, frequent clogs, and occasionally, the system may fail to activate or cause the toilet to overflow.
While the Sloan Flushmate system can significantly improve flushing efficiency, knowing how to troubleshoot potential problems is invaluable.
Sloan Flushmate Troubleshooting (Problems & Fixes)
| Problem | Possible Cause | Recommended Fixes | |
| 1. | Weak Flush | Low water pressure Damaged components Incorrect water level Air pocket in pressure vessel Clogged cartridge |
Contact your utility provider to address low water pressure Replace damaged components Adjust water level Clean the cartridge |
| 2. | No Flush | Closed water supply valve Blocked water supply line Faulty handle mechanism or flush cartridge Blocked flush valve Damaged seals or gaskets Airlock in pressure vessel |
Ensure the valve is fully open Clean the supply line Replace damaged parts Clean the flush valve Clear airlock |
| 3. | Continuous Running | Leaking flush cartridge Faulty pressure vessel Damaged handle mechanism Malfunctioning flush valve Incorrect water level Damaged seals or gaskets |
Replace the cartridge, pressure vessel, and handle if necessary Clean or replace the flush valve Adjust the water level |
| 4. | Overly Loud Flush | Damaged flush cartridge Air escaping from tank Loose or damaged components Water hammer Mineral buildup |
Tighten or replace loose components Install water hammer arrestors Regularly clean the flush valve and seals |
| 5. | Frequent Clogs | Low water pressure Clogged flush cartridge Mineral buildup Incorrect water level |
Increase water pressure Clean or replace the cartridge Regularly clean the flush valve and seals Adjust the water level |
| 6. | Flushmate Not Activating | Faulty actuator cable Damaged handle mechanism Faulty cartridge Blocked flush valve Incorrect water level |
Replace the actuator cable Install a new handle Replace the cartridge Clean or replace the flush valve Adjust the water level |
| 7. | Vacuum Breaker Leaking | Debris or mineral buildup Worn seals or gaskets Cracked vacuum breaker Improper installation Manufacturing defect |
Clean the vacuum breaker Replace seals or gaskets Get a new vacuum breaker |
1. Weak or Incomplete Flush
If you find that your toilet requires multiple flushes, this indicates a weak or incomplete flush. Possible reasons for this issue may include low water pressure, damaged components, incorrect water level, an air pocket in the pressure vessel, or a clogged cartridge.
Over time, sediment and debris can accumulate in the flush cartridge, leading to reduced performance. Additionally, air can sometimes get trapped in the pressure vessel, adversely affecting flushing performance.
Fix: Check the water supply pressure to ensure it falls within the recommended range of 40-80 psi. If it does not, contact your water utility provider to address low water pressure issues. Inspect the cartridge for debris or clogs—clean it thoroughly or replace it if necessary. Adjust the water level according to your Flushmate’s instruction manual. Examine all components for visible damage and replace any that are compromised. To remove the air pocket, follow these steps:
- Temporarily halt the water supply to the Flushmate system.
- Flush the toilet.
- Detach the water supply line from the Flushmate.
- Unscrew the pressure vessel cap.
- Reconnect the water supply line while holding a towel or container beneath it to catch any escaping water.
- Restore the water flow for a few seconds to fill the pressure vessel.
- Stop the water supply and reinstall the pressure vessel cap.
2. No Flush
Your Sloan Flushmate system will render your toilet inoperative if it fails to flush. Diagnosing the cause is crucial for applying the appropriate solution. Potential causes include a closed water supply valve, blocked water supply line, damaged flush cartridge, faulty handle mechanism, and blocked flush valve, along with damaged seals, faulty gaskets, and airlocks in the pressure vessel.
Fix: Ensure the water supply valve is completely open. Inspect the water supply line for obstructions and clear any blockages. Remove and inspect the flush cartridge for clogs or damage, cleaning or replacing it as needed. Check the handle for visible wear and replace it if necessary. Inspect the flush valve for debris and clean it as needed. Finally, examine the seals and gaskets for signs of wear and replace any that are compromised.
3. Continuous Running
If your Sloan Flushmate is continuously running, check for possible causes such as a leaking flush cartridge, faulty pressure vessel, damaged handle mechanism, malfunctioning flush valve, incorrect water level, and damaged seals or gaskets.
Fix: If your cartridge is damaged, replace it. Inspect the pressure vessel for visible damage or leaks and replace it if necessary. Check the handle mechanism for obstructions or damage and replace it if needed. Ensure the water level is set correctly, as an incorrect level can prevent the Flushmate from stopping after a flush. Clean the flush valve if it is blocked and examine all seals and gaskets for signs of wear, replacing any compromised ones.
4. Overly Loud Flush
While the Sloan Flushmate is known for its powerful flush, it should not create excessive noise. If yours does, this may be due to a damaged flush cartridge, air escaping from the tank, loose components, water hammer, or mineral buildup.
Fix: Tighten or replace any loose or damaged components, such as the pressure vessel cap or the cartridge housing. Replace the damaged cartridge as needed. Consider installing water hammer arrestors to mitigate noise. Regularly clean the flush valve, seals, and gaskets to prevent mineral and debris buildup.
5. Frequent Clogs
If your Sloan Flushmate experiences frequent clogs, regular maintenance is essential, as this disrupts your toilet’s functionality. Common causes include low water supply pressure, clogged flush cartridges, mineral deposits, and incorrect water level adjustments.
Fix: Contact your water utility provider to adjust the water pressure if it is low. Clean or replace the cartridge as necessary. Prevent mineral buildup by regularly cleaning the flush valve and seals. Adjust the water level to ensure sufficient water in the tank for every flush.
6. Flushmate Not Activating
Proper activation is crucial for your Sloan Flushmate system to operate efficiently. If it fails to activate, potential causes may include a faulty actuator cable, damaged handle mechanism, faulty cartridge, blocked flush valve, or incorrect water level.
Fix: Inspect the actuator cable for damage and replace it if necessary. If the handle is worn or damaged, install a new one. Replace the cartridge if it shows signs of wear. Check for debris or blockages in the flush valve and clean or replace it. Ensure the water level is adjusted properly.
7. Vacuum Breaker Leaking
If your Sloan Flushmate’s vacuum breaker is leaking, this may be due to debris or mineral buildup, worn seals, damaged vacuum breakers, improper installation, or a manufacturing defect.
Fix: Disassemble the vacuum breaker and clean it thoroughly, soaking it in vinegar to break down mineral deposits. Replace any worn seals or gaskets. If the vacuum breaker is visibly damaged, replace it. Ensure it is installed correctly according to the instructions, and if under warranty, contact Sloan for a replacement.
8. Replace the Entire Flushmate
As a last resort, if none of the previous solutions resolve your issue, you may need to replace the entire Flushmate system. Purchase an original Sloan Flushmate replacement kit and follow the accompanying instructions. Note that the replacement kit does not include the lever and handle parts, which must be retained or purchased separately.
Maintenance Tips for Your Sloan Flushmate System
Prevention is just as important as troubleshooting. Implement these tips to keep your Flushmate in prime condition:
- Regularly inspect for water leaks around the tank, handle, and flush valve.
- Keep the tank and components clean and free from mineral deposits, as these can affect performance.
- Periodically check the pressure vessel for damage or cracks.
- Maintain water pressure between 40 to 80 psi.
- Lubricate moving parts to prevent friction and damage.
- Promptly replace worn or damaged components to avoid larger issues.
Summary Thoughts on Sloan Flushmate Troubleshooting
By following these troubleshooting tips and practicing good maintenance habits, you can keep your Sloan Flushmate system in excellent working condition. Address problems promptly and consult a professional plumber if needed. A well-maintained Sloan Flushmate not only conserves water but also provides reliable and powerful flushing for years to come.
Also, consider reading:
- How To Repair A Pressure Assist Toilet
- How To Fix A Macerator Toilet