Can you replace a flapper with a canister flush valve?

Quick Answer

Yes, it is possible to replace a flapper flush valve with a canister flush valve in a toilet tank. However, this requires replacing additional tank components to accommodate the canister valve design. The canister flush valve uses a sealed canister unit rather than a flapper, providing more reliable flushing performance. Converting to a canister flush valve may require replacing the flush valve seat, tank bolts, and related gaskets. Professional installation is recommended.

What is a Flapper Flush Valve?

A flapper flush valve is the most common type of flush valve found in toilet tanks. When the toilet handle is pushed down, the chain pulls up the rubber flapper, allowing water to empty from the tank into the toilet bowl. The flapper then seals the tank again when it drops back down. Over time, flappers can deteriorate, leading to leaks and incomplete flushing. Replacing just the flapper is a quick and easy repair. However, flapper valves have some inherent problems:

• Flappers wear out over time and need regular replacement
• Rubber flappers can become misaligned, leading to leaks
• Chemicals and minerals can corrode the flapper
• Flappers may not create a tight seal, leading to wasted water

While simple and inexpensive, the flapper design has reliability issues. Repeated flapper replacements can get tedious and may not resolve all flushing problems.

What is a Canister Flush Valve?

A canister flush valve improves upon the flapper design in several ways:

• The canister seal does not wear out like a flapper
• Precision design provides consistent flushing power
• Tight seal prevents leaks and wasted water
• Entire canister unit is replaced for easy maintenance

Inside the canister is a piston-driven actuator that lifts the seal open when flushing. The piston provides power for a strong, reliable flush. Soft rubber seals prevent leaks. When flushing is complete, gravity pulls the seals back into place to refill the tank. The sealed canister protects internal components from corrosion and minerals. Overall, the canister valve allows for leak-free performance, outstanding durability, and simple maintenance.

Can You Replace a Flapper with a Canister Flush Valve?

Yes, it is possible to replace a flapper flush valve with a canister flush valve. However, you cannot simply unhook the old flapper and install a canister in its place. The canister valve has a wider flush valve opening and seal. Replacing the valve requires switching out additional tank components to fit the new canister design.

Here are the steps for replacing a flapper with a canister flush valve:

1. Turn off the water supply and flush the tank empty.
2. Disconnect and remove the old flapper flush valve.
3. Detach the tank from the bowl.
4. Replace the flush valve seal/gasket with one designed for a canister valve.
5. Install a canister flush valve kit per the manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Reattach the tank and supply lines.
7. Turn on the water and test for leaks.

The key steps are installing a new flush valve seal and the canister valve kit. Be sure to follow the kit directions closely. Tanks may require new bolt caps, gaskets, or washers. Watch for leaks after reassembly. Adjust as needed to get a tight seal.

Canister Flush Valve Conversion Kits

For convenience, canister conversion kits are available with all the necessary parts:

• Canister flush valve
• Matching flush valve seal/gasket
• Bolts, nuts, and washers
• Detailed instructions

Kits match major toilet brands like American Standard and Kohler. Buying a kit simplifies the conversion process. Make sure to get a kit made for your particular toilet make and model.

Benefits of Converting to a Canister Flush Valve

Upgrading to a canister flush valve provides these noticeable improvements:

Reliable Flushing Power – The canister’s piston-driven flush provides consistent, powerful flushing to clear waste completely.

No More Leaks – The canister’s tight seals prevent leaks, saving water and preventing messes.

Outstanding Durability – Canisters are designed to last for decades without needing repairs.

Simple Maintenance – Just replace the entire canister unit when needed for easy upkeep.

Quieter Operation – Precision seals reduce noise when flushing.

Converting to a canister valve greatly improves toilet performance and reliability. The upfront cost is more than a basic flapper replacement, but canisters save money over time.

Cost Comparison of Flapper vs Canister Flush Valves

Flapper Flush Valve

• Flapper – $5 to $20
• Labor – $0 for DIY, $75 to $150 for plumber installation
• Repeated flapper replacements every 1 to 5 years

Canister Flush Valve

• Canister valve kit – $35 to $75
• Labor – $0 for DIY, $150 to $250 for plumber installation
• Replace canister every 10 to 20 years

The canister valve has a higher upfront cost for parts and labor. However, it pays for itself over time by eliminating the need for repetitive flapper repairs. Factor in potential water savings from leak prevention as well. The canister conversion leads to long-term cost savings in most homes.

Considerations Before Converting to a Canister Flush Valve

While canister flush valves have substantial benefits, consider these factors before converting your existing toilet:

• Higher upfront cost than a flapper replacement
• Your tank may not be compatible and require toilet replacement
• Old or problematic fill valves may need upgraded too
• Professional installation is recommended
• Make sure to get the correct canister valve for your toilet

Assess the condition of your toilet before deciding on conversion. Very old or damaged toilets may need complete replacement. Check tank compatibility and measure carefully when ordering a canister kit. Overall, converting to a canister leads to more reliable, water-saving performance. But factor in the increased installation cost.

Conclusion

It is possible to upgrade an old flapper flush valve to a modern canister flush valve. While the canister conversion requires swapping out tank components, it provides outstanding durability and performance. Precision-engineered canister valves eliminate leaks, provide powerful flushing, and rarely need maintenance. Despite the higher initial cost, converting to a canister valve saves money long-term by ending the need for repetitive flapper repairs. For best results, use a compatible canister conversion kit and have a professional perform the installation. Converting to a canister flush valve is a worthwhile upgrade that will improve any older toilet.