Are you wondering how to increase the water level in a toilet bowl for better flushing toilet performance? Well, you will learn it today.
There are 3 traditional ways to increase the water level inside your toilet bowl. First, you can adjust the cylinder float to increase the water level inside the bowl. Second, you can try adjusting the ball-and-arm float. If these don’t work, you can install a new fill valve.
In this guide, I will walk you through simple steps to achieve the perfect water level in your toilet bowl. I promise you will be able to maintain the water level inside your toilet bowl at your desired level after reading this post.
So, what are you waiting for? Let’s dive in and learn how to increase the water level in a toilet bowl effortlessly.
Why Should You Increase The Water Level In A Toilet Bowl?
In a nutshell, you need to increase the water level in a toilet bowl when it is too low. Additionally, it can be beneficial for the following reasons:
- When there is adequate water in the bowl, it can create a stronger siphoning action during flushing.
If the water level in the toilet bowl is too low, flushing won’t effectively carry away waste and toilet paper through the drainage system. An increased water level in the bowl improves the overall flushing performance. Plus, it reduces the chances of clogs.
- A higher water level in the bowl forms a seal. It can prevent sewer gases from escaping into the bathroom. So, there won’t be any unpleasant odors coming from your toilet.
- With a higher water level, waste is less likely to stick to the sides of the bowl. It reduces the likelihood of stubborn stains. Therefore, it becomes easier to clean the bowl.
- Some people prefer a higher water level in the toilet bowl for visual reasons. They believe it gives the appearance of a cleaner and fresher toilet.
How To Increase The Water Level In A Toilet Bowl: 3 Professional Ways
Mostly, the water level inside a toilet bowl can be increased by adjusting the cylinder float, adjusting the ball-and-arm float, or installing a new fill valve.
For years, people have been applying these 3 ways to increase the water level in their toilet bowls. Whether you ask your friend, neighbor, or expert, he or she will suggest 1 of these 3 ways.
Without further ado, let’s start with the first method.
Way 1: Adjust The Cylinder Float
Locate the shut-off valve near the base of the toilet and turn it clockwise to shut off the water supply.
- Lift the lid off the back of the toilet tank and set it aside in a safe place.
- Look inside the tank for the float mechanism. The cylinder float is a vertical float that rises and falls with the water level. Usually, it is connected to a rod or arm that controls the water flow.
- Most cylinder floats have an adjustable clip or a screw to change the float height. If the float has a clip, squeeze the clip and slide it up or down along the float’s shaft. If there is a screw, turn it clockwise to raise the float or counterclockwise to lower it. Raising the float will increase the water level in the tank and the bowl.
- After adjusting the float, turn the water supply back on by turning the shut-off valve counterclockwise. Allow the tank to fill up. Observe the water level in the bowl. To see the changes clearly, you might need to flush the toilet and let it refill.
- If the water level in the bowl is still not at the desired level, you can repeat the process until you achieve the desired level.
- Make sure the float isn’t too high. If so, it can cause water to continuously run into the overflow tube. If this happens, water will be wasted, which can lead to other issues. Adjust the float height as needed to prevent continuous running water.
- Carefully place the tank lid back onto the tank once you are satisfied with the water level in the bowl and everything is functioning correctly.
Way 2: Adjust The Ball-and-Arm Float
- Just like the previous method, shut off the water supply and set the lid aside after taking it off the toilet tank. This method is almost identical to the previous one, except for the part where you have to adjust the ball-and-arm float.
- Just like before, check inside the tank to find the ball-and-arm float. Basically, it is a hollow plastic or metal ball attached to a metal or plastic arm.
- The water level in the toilet bowl is controlled by the height of the float. The lower the float, the less water is in the tank and subsequently in the bowl. To increase the water level, gently bend the float arm downward.
- Some ball-and-arm floats have a metal clip for adjusting the float height. You can squeeze it to adjust the water level. With that said, some ball-and-arm floats might have a screw that you can loosen or tighten to change the float position.
- After adjusting the float, turn the water supply back on, as you did in the previous method. As you turn the water supply on, water will start entering the tank and gradually filling it up. Check the bowl’s water level. To properly view the changes, you have to flush the toilet first. After that, wait until the bowl is refilled.
- If the water level in the bowl is still not where you want it, repeat the procedure. At the same time, follow the additional steps of the previous method to ensure the water level inside the toilet bowl has increased and you are satisfied. Don’t forget to reattach the tank lid once everything is finished.
The following video showcases an easy fix to adjust the water level inside a toilet bowl. You should watch it.
Please Note:
As with any adjustments to toilet components, be gentle and cautious to avoid damaging any parts. If you are uncertain about making adjustments or encounter any issues, you should consult a professional plumber.
Way 3: Set Up A New Fill Valve
- For this method, the first thing you need to do is purchase the correct fill valve that is compatible with your toilet model. Fill valves are available at any hardware store or home improvement center. However, don’t buy the wrong replacement, as it won’t fit and function properly.
- If you have come this far, I guess you know where to find the shut-off valve and turn off the water supply. After doing this, flush the toilet to drain most of the water from the tank.
- Inside the tank, you will find the old fill valve connected to the water supply line. Disconnect the water supply line from the fill valve using a wrench or pliers. Then, disconnect any other attachments securing the fill valve to the tank. There might be a plastic nut or locknut underneath the tank. It needs to be loosened to remove the old fill valve.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions that come with the new fill valve to install it correctly. Typically, you will need to place the new fill valve in the same position as the old one and secure it with the provided hardware. Make sure everything is tightened securely.
- Most fill valves have an adjustable height feature. This allows you to set the water level in the tank and, consequently, in the toilet bowl. Check the instructions to adjust the fill valve to the desired height. Often, you can twist or slide the top part of the fill valve to change its height.
- Reattach the water supply line to the bottom of the new fill valve. Tighten it securely to prevent leaks.
- Now, turn the shut-off valve counterclockwise to turn on the water supply. The tank will start filling up.
- Watch the water level in the toilet bowl once the tank has fully filled. Adjust the fill valve height as needed to achieve the desired water level.
- Flush the toilet a couple of times to make sure everything is working correctly. Ensure that the water level in the bowl rises and then lowers appropriately after each flush.
- Cautiously, place the tank lid back onto the tank once you are pleased with the water level in the toilet bowl. With that, this procedure ends. Also, you can hire a professional plumber to install the new fill valve if you are not comfortable with DIY plumbing tasks. To know more about, how a toilet fill valve works
Bottom Line
Congratulations! You now know how to increase the water level in a toilet bowl effectively. By adjusting a ball-and-arm float, a cylinder float, or installing a new fill valve, you can achieve the desired water level for optimal flushing.
Remember, maintaining the right water level not only enhances the functionality of your toilet but also contributes to a more pleasant bathroom experience. Happy flushing!