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Toilet Cistern Overflow Dripping

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shivvy | 23:27 Sun 30th May 2021 | Home & Garden
14 Answers
The external overflow pipe on my loo started to drip a couple of weeks ago. I scooped a jugful of water out of the cistern and that stopped it - but it has started again.
What do I need to do?
Thanks.
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Adjust the float so that it stops the water before it reaches the overflow.
You need to adjust the ballcock. Will have a look to see if there are any decent posts on youtube.
Question Author
Thanks for your replies.
My brain can't work out whether i need to lower or raise the ballcock!!
Flush and then move the arm of the ballcock up and down a few times, that may shift a bit of muck that's stuck and stopping it cutting off.
You need to shorten (lower) the distance the float travels in the tank.
If the overflow is just dripping then I doubt that adjusting the ballcock float will cure the problem, it is likely that the rubber washer in the valve has perished and is allowing water to leak into the cistern. Turn off the water supply, drain the cistern by flushing, and replace the old washer with a new one.
Question Author
Thanks for the video Sam, but if I increase the water level in the cistern is it not going to overflow more?
You have to decrease the water level, shivvy.
I didn't say "increase" shivvy, I said " shorten, lower" the distance the float travels in the tank.
..., but if its only just started leaking, it is much more likely to be the washer as described by Etch above.
Question Author
Sam - I didn't think you meant increasing the water level in the cistern, but that is what your video was about i think - so i got confused!
I've found removing the whole unit (half a turn) and then putting it back in can re-establish the seal - but it's a short term measure.
I haven't had a ballcock for years (phnarr, phnarr, oo-er missus). The newer cistern control valves seem quieter and more reliable.

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