Are toilet tanks universal fit? This is a question that has been asked by many people. The answer to this question is both yes and no.
There are different types of toilet tanks, and each one has its own unique fit.
In this article, we will explore the different types of toilet tanks and how they can be fitted into various toilets.
Are Toilet Tanks Universal?
This is a question we get asked a lot here at ExBath. The answer is both yes and no depending on the type of toilet tank you have.
If you have a standard gravity-fed tank, then any replacement tank should fit as long as the rough-in dimensions are the same.
However, if you have a pressure-assisted or dual flush tank, you will need to ensure that you get a replacement tank specifically designed for your toilet.
Types of Toilet Tanks
There are three main types of toilet tanks: gravity fed, pressure assisted, and dual flush.
Gravity Fed Toilet Tanks
A gravity fed toilet tank is a type of tank that uses the force of gravity to flush the toilet. The tank is typically mounted on the back of the toilet and is connected to the bowl by a pipe.
When the handle is turned, water flows from the tank into the bowl, and the weight of the water creates a siphoning effect that flushes the contents of the bowl down the drain.
Gravity-fed toilets are simple to use and require little maintenance, making them a popular choice for homes and businesses.
In addition, gravity fed toilets are less likely to clog than other types of toilets, making them a good choice for people who have difficulty with plumbing.
Pressure-Assisted Toilet Tank
A pressure-assisted toilet tank is a type of flush toilet that uses a small amount of water under high pressure to force waste through the bowl and into the sewer line.
This type of toilet is often used in commercial applications, such as office buildings and hotels, where a large number of people use the facilities each day.
Pressure-assisted toilets are also popular in homes where there is a need for a powerful flushing action, such as in homes with young children or pets.
The main advantage of pressure-assisted toilets is their powerful flushing action. However, they can be noisy, and they require more maintenance than other types of toilets.
Dual Flush Toilet Tanks
In a typical flush toilet, a hefty volume of water rushes into the bowl to carry away waste. However, much of this water is wasted, as most waste can be flushed with a much smaller amount.
Dual flush toilet tanks attempt to address this issue by providing two different flushing options. A light flush uses less water and is ideal for liquid waste, while a full flush delivers the high-volume power needed for solid waste.
As a result, dual flush toilets can save significant amounts of water with each use, which is good news for both the environment and your water bill.
In addition, many dual flush models feature sleek, modern designs that can add a touch of style to your bathroom.
If you’re looking for a more efficient and stylish toilet option, a dual flush model may be the perfect solution.
How to Know Which Type of Toilet Tank I Have?
If you’re not sure which type of toilet tank you have, the best way to find out is to look inside the tank.
You should find the brand name in the tank along with the capacity. Capacity should be written in GPF (gallon per flush) or LPF (Liter per flush).
After figuring out the brand and capacity, look for the model number written inside part of the tank.
The model number with the capacity is what you need to find a perfectly matching replacement tank.
However, if the tank is too old and the brand or model has been discontinued by the manufacturer, you may still replace the tank with a similar product by measuring the existing tank.
How to Measure Toilet Tank for Replacement?
First, you need to measure the length, width, and height of the tank.
The width is the distance from the front edge of the bowl to the back wall of the tank. The length is from one side of the tank to another. And finally, the height is from the bowl to the top surface of where the lid sits on.
Plus, measure the fill valve hole and flapper valve hole for a perfect match.
If you get a replacement tank without measuring the pipes and fixtures, you may end up with a useless product.
Are Toilet Pipes and Holes Universal?
The quick answer is no, they are not.
Pipes and holes come in different sizes, so make sure to measure them before you buy a new toilet tank.
You need to know the size of the fill valve hole and flapper valve hole for a perfect match. Also, the distance from the center of one pipe to another matters.
For example, the American Standard Cadet has a distance of 12-inches from the center of the flush valve to the center of the fill valve. On the other hand, KOHLER Wellworth has only an 11-inch distance between those two valves.
Are Toilet Tank Bolt Sizes and Placements Universal?
No, they are not.
Bolts that come with the tank usually have different sizes, lengths, and widths. The same thing goes for the placement of those bolts.
For example, American Standard has only two bolts that go through the bowl while KOHLER has three of them. Also, the distance between those bolts can vary depending on the brand and model.
So, make sure to measure them as well.
Conclusion
Toilet tanks are not universal but you can still find a replacement that fits your toilet bowl by measuring the existing tank.
Make sure to measure the length, width, height, and distance between the pipes. Also, don’t forget to check the size of the fill valve hole and flapper valve hole.
With those measurements, you can find a perfectly matching replacement tank for your toilet.
Do you have any questions about toilet tanks? Let us know in the comments below.