The Sloan Flushmate is an enigmatic power that works with your porcelain throne, ensuring each flush is a swift and efficient operation.
However, even the most robust systems can encounter a hiccup from time to time, hence the importance of Sloan Flushmate Troubleshooting.
Common problems with Sloan Flushmate are a weak flush, no flush, continuous running, overly loud flush, leaking water, inconsistent flush, pressure loss, and frequent clogs. The Flushmate may also fail to activate, or the toilet may overflow.
So, while the Sloan Flushmate system can be your solution to efficient flushing, it would be great if you knew how to troubleshoot the issues you encounter.
Sloan Flushmate Troubleshooting (Problems & Fixes)
| Problem | Possible Cause | Recommended Fixes | |
| 1. | Weak Flush | Low water pressure Damaged parts Incorrect water level An air pocket in the pressure vessel A clogged cartridge | Get your utility provider to adjust low water pressure Replace damaged parts 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 the pressure vessel | Ensure the valve is open Clean the supply line Replace the handle mechanism, cartridge, seals, or gaskets Clean the flush valve Clear the airlock |
| 3. | Continuous Running | Leaking flush cartridge Faulty pressure vessel Flush handle damage or obstructions Malfunctioning flush valve Incorrect water level Damaged seals or gaskets | Replace the cartridge, pressure vessel, handle, and compromised seals or gaskets Clean or replace the flush valve Adjust the water level |
| 4. | Overly Loud Flush | Damaged flush cartridge Air escaping from the tank Loose or damaged components Water hammer Mineral buildup or debris | Install a replacement cartridge Tighten or replace loose or damaged components Install water hammer arrestors Regularly clean the flush valve, seals, and gaskets |
| 5. | Frequent Clogs | Low water pressure Clogged flush cartridge Mineral buildup Incorrect water level | Raise the water pressure Clean or replace the cartridge Regularly clean the flush valve, seals, and gaskets 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 replacement handle Replace the cartridge Clean or replace the valve Adjust the water level |
| 7. | The Vacuum Breaker Leaking | Debris or mineral buildup Worn seals or gaskets Cracked or damaged vacuum breaker Improper vacuum breaker installation A manufacturing defect | Clean the vacuum breaker Replace the seals or gaskets Get a new vacuum breaker |
1. Weak or Incomplete Flush
If you find yourself needing to flush your toilet multiple times, it indicates a weak or incomplete flush. Your Sloan Flushmate can have a weak flush because of low water pressure, damaged parts, incorrect water level, an air pocket in the pressure vessel, or a clogged cartridge.
Over time, sediment or debris can accumulate in the flush cartridge, leading to a reduced flush performance. Also, sometimes, air can get trapped in the pressure vessel, affecting the flush performance.
Fix
Check the water supply pressure to see if it is within 40-80 psi. If not, contact your water utility provider to address low water pressure issues.
Inspect the cartridge for debris or clogs. If you find any, clean it thoroughly or get a replacement cartridge if it’s irreparably damaged.
Adjust the water level if low. Refer to your Flushmate’s instruction manual for guidance.
Examine all components of the Sloan Flushmate system for visible damage. Replace any damaged components you find. The key components to check include the flush cartridge, handle mechanism, and seals.
To remove the air pocket,
- Temporarily halter water supply to the Flushmate system.
- Flush the toilet.
- Detach the line supplying water to the Flushmate.
- Unscrew the pressure vessel cap.
- Reconnect the water supply line while holding a towel or container beneath it to catch any water that may come out.
- Restore the water flow for a couple of seconds to fill the pressure vessel.
- Stop the water supply and reinstall the pressure vessel cap.
2. No Flush
Your toilet will be inoperative if your Sloan Flushmate system cannot flush. If you encounter this problem, diagnose the cause and apply the appropriate solution.
Possible causes are a closed water supply valve, a blocked water supply line, a damaged flush cartridge, a faulty handle mechanism, and a blocked flush valve. Damaged seals, faulty gaskets, and airlocks in the pressure vessel can also cause it.
Fix
- Make sure the valve is completely open.
- Inspect the water supply line leading to the Flushmate for obstructions or blockages. Clear any blockages you find to restore water flow.
- Remove and inspect the flush cartridge for clogs, debris, or visible damage. Clean or replace the cartridge as needed.
- Check the handle for visible damage or wear and replace it if necessary.
- Remove the flush cartridge and inspect the flush valve for debris or blockage. Clean the valve as needed.
- Inspect the seals and gaskets in your Sloan Flushmate system for any signs of wear, damage, or deterioration. If any are compromised, replace them to ensure a proper seal and function.
3. Continuous Running
If your Sloan Flushmate is continuously running, check for the following possible causes.
A leaking flush cartridge, faulty pressure vessel, flush handle damage or obstructions, 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. Replace it if you find any issues.
- Check the handle mechanism for obstructions or damage, and if necessary, replace it.
- An incorrect water level can prevent the Flushmate from stopping after a flush, so ensure it is set correctly.
- Clean the flush valve if it is blocked or has debris.
- Examine all seals and gaskets for signs of wear, damage, or deterioration. Replace any compromised seals or gaskets.
4. Overly Loud Flush
Although the Sloan Flushmate is known for its powerful flush, it should not create an excessively noisy experience.
The reason yours is overly loud is because of a damaged flush cartridge, air escaping from the tank, loose or damaged components, water hammer, or mineral buildup or debris.
Fix
- Tighten or replace loose or damaged components, such as the pressure vessel cap or the cartridge housing, to prevent air leakage.
- Replace the damaged cartridge.
- Install water hammer arrestors or pressure-reducing valves in your plumbing system to mitigate water hammer.
- Regularly clean the flush valve, seals, and gaskets to avoid mineral and debris buildup.
5. Frequent Clogs
If your Sloan Flushmate clogs frequently, you will need to maintain it more regularly, and it will also disrupt your toilet’s functionality.
Insufficient water flow, which can occur due to low water supply pressure, is a common cause of frequent clogs. A clogged flush cartridge also contributes to frequent clogs by restricting water flow.
Furthermore, mineral deposits can accumulate in the flush valve and other components, leading to clogs. Moreover, an incorrect water level adjustment inside the tank can lead to incomplete flushing and clogs.
Fix
- Contact your water utility provider to adjust the water pressure to the correct level if it is low.
- Thoroughly clean the cartridge or replace it.
- Prevent mineral buildup by regularly cleaning the flush valve, seals, and gaskets.
- Adjust the water level to ensure there’s enough water in the tank for every flush.
6. Flushmate Not Activating
Proper activation is crucial for your Sloan Flushmate system to operate efficiently, so it can be inconvenient and frustrating if it doesn’t.
The possible causes of this problem are a faulty actuator cable, damaged handle mechanism, faulty cartridge, blocked flush valve, and incorrect water level.
Upon pressing the toilet handle, the actuator cable initiates flushing. If the actuator cable is damaged, disconnected, or malfunctioning, it can prevent the Flushmate from activating.
Also, a malfunctioning or damaged handle may fail to trigger the Flushmate. Additionally, an incorrect water level can affect the Flushmate’s operation, and so does a faulty cartridge.
Furthermore, a blocked or obstructed flush valve can hinder the operation of the Flushmate.
Fix
- Inspect the actuator cable for visible issues. If necessary, replace it.
- If the handle is damaged or worn out, buy and install a new one. DANCO Toilet Handle Replacement (View on Amazon) is an excellent choice. It’s built to last and fits most standard toilets.
- If you find wear or damage signs on your cartridge, replace it.
- Inspect the flush valve for debris or blockages, then clean or replace it.
7. The Vacuum Breaker Leaking
Is your Sloan Flushmate system’s vacuum breaker leaking? This is likely due to debris or mineral buildup, worn seals or gaskets, cracked or damaged vacuum breakers, improper vacuum breaker installation, or a manufacturing defect.
Physical damage to the vacuum breaker or cracks in the housing can cause leaks. Also, the vacuum breaker won’t function as intended if installed incorrectly.
While rare, a manufacturing defect could make the vacuum breaker leak.
Fix
- Disassemble the vacuum breaker and clean it thoroughly. Break down mineral deposits by soaking the vacuum breaker in vinegar, then reassemble it.
- Replace the worn seals and gaskets.
- Replace the vacuum breaker if it is visibly damaged.
- Review the installation instructions for your Flushmate system or consult a professional plumber to ensure the vacuum breaker is installed correctly.
- Contact Sloan to request a replacement vacuum breaker if your Flushmate system is still under warranty.
Maintenance Tips for Preventing Future Issues With Your Sloan Flushmate System
Prevention is often as crucial as troubleshooting and fixing existing problems. Adopt these tips to keep your Flushmate in good working order:
- Regularly check 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 the system’s performance.
- Periodically inspect the pressure vessel for any damage or cracks.
- Keep the water pressure within 40 to 80 psi.
- Lubricate moving parts to prevent friction and damage.
- Replace worn-out or damaged components promptly to avoid larger issues.
Summary Thoughts on Sloan Flushmate Troubleshooting
You can keep your Sloan Flushmate system in excellent working condition if you follow these troubleshooting tips and practice good maintenance habits. In addition, address any problems swiftly and consult a professional plumber if necessary. Remember that a well-maintained Sloan Flushmate system not only saves water but also provides a reliable and powerful flush for years to come.
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