Time passes, technologies develop, something new appears everywhere. Plumbing fixtures are also undergoing changes. All apartments are gradually getting rid of old devices, replacing them with more modern and functional ones. But some details practically do not change their appearance, just as they do not change their purpose.
One of the important parts in the cistern is the float. He both regulated the water level in the tank and continues to perform this function.
Knowledge of the structure of the float mechanism is necessary for all home craftsmen. Because of every little thing, spending money on calling a specialist is not our method. Especially knowing that most of the faults are easy to fix on your own.
Float purpose
The content of the article
- Float purpose
- Types of float devices
- How to adjust the float in the tank if it does not block the water
A stand-alone float mechanism is a simple device of small dimensions. But, working in conjunction with other elements, it performs a significant function - it regulates the flush. He is a kind of intermediary between the two systems - drainage and collection of water.
To understand the function performed by this element, it is necessary to understand the structure of the cistern.
As a rule, it is made of earthenware (there are tanks made of porcelain or plastic). It is a container with a lid on which a reset button is installed. In addition to the hole for the button, there are two more technological holes in the tank. Through one, the underwater hose is connected, and through the other, the drain is carried out.
In addition, there are fittings inside the tank. It consists of several elements assembled into a single structure. The fittings can be of various shapes and sizes. It all depends on the manufacturer.
Despite the differences, the principle of their work is the same. Water is drawn into the tank through the supply hose. Filling the tank, the water raises the float. Once the required level is reached, the set overlaps. In this state, it continues to remain until the release button is pressed.
After pressing it, other parts start working. The button starts operation of the stem with the membrane attached to it. This opens the drain valve and the tank is emptied.
Thus, the float regulates the volume in the tank. If the mechanism fails, the recruitment goes on continuously. But the overflow system will help from flooding the neighbors.
Types of float devices
The appearance of the float directly depends on the fittings installed in the toilet bowl. In older models, the float looked like a ball or cylinder that floated. Modern toilets look like a glass that moves in a vertical direction.
A ball-shaped float is sometimes called a rocker arm. This is completely justified, since the wire that is attached to it looks like this object.
Reference! The shape of the ball is a conventional name. In different models, floats can be of a variety of shapes.

The essence of his work is very simple. When activated, it lays down on the bottom and opens access to water.
When water enters the tank, the float floats up. As soon as the water reaches a predetermined level, it blocks further collection of liquid into the tank. The outlet valve remains closed while the float is on the surface.
Modern floats only vaguely resemble their spherical counterparts. Such a float is mounted on a vertically standing rod and works like an elevator. The essence of its work is the same - in a timely manner to block the exhaust valve.
Modern floats can be adjusted more precisely. For ease of adjustment, there are divisions on the stem, which makes it look like a ruler.
Reference! There is a widespread belief that there is a lot of noise from ball-shaped floats. This is not true, since the noise depends on how the water is fed into the tank.
If the water supply comes from the top, then falling, it creates noise. In models where the supply hose is connected at the bottom, there is no such noise.
How to adjust the float in the tank if it does not block the water
What if the float mechanism is broken? How do I adjust it?
If a high-quality flush does not work, it is necessary to increase the volume of water in the tank, and if there is a desire to reduce water consumption, then the volume of water is reduced.
The setting is different for different device models. The rare "rocker" is regulated very simply, while the water supply is not even shut off. It is necessary to remove the tank lid, slightly bend the wire that holds the float.
This fold allows the intake valve to be blocked earlier. And this will lead to a decrease in the amount of water collected.
If the float is installed on two plates that are bolted together, everything is a little more difficult here.
The plastic arm must not be bent. For adjustment, either a screw or a ratchet runner is placed on them. By loosening the screw, the shape of the holder is changed. A similar result will cause the ratchet to move.
Slightly more time is required to adjust the glass float. The purpose of the adjustment is to move it higher or lower in order to raise or lower the level of water drawn into the tank.