How to Replace Wirquin Jollyfill Diaphragm / Washer in Toilet
Wirquin Jollyfill systems now replace the old ballcock toilet mechanism and they are easy to install but require occasional maintenance to replace the diaphragm washer.
23/05/2023
With the Wirquin Jollyfill cistern system replacing the old ballcock cistern mechanism, flushing the toilet has never been easier, particularly if your toilet has a dual-flush button to save on water. However, even the Jollyfill requires a certain bit of maintenance occasionally so here is a quick fix if the toilet cistern will not stop running (water).
Approximately 10 years ago I replaced the downstairs toilet and the new toilet was fitted with the latest Wirquin Jollyfill system. This system is easier to maintain and causes fewer problems than the previous system but I discovered it does have a problem that can occur over time.
After a year, I noticed water would not stop running from the cistern tank into the toilet bowl. I tried everything I could but nothing seemed to work. As a last resort, I got in touch with the local Wirquin suppliers who kindly sent someone out to investigate the problem. One thing I was unaware of was the Diaphragm Washer can wear and this results in the water not being cut off by the cistern system resulting in a constant flow of water from the cistern tank into the toilet bowl. The cause for this excessive wear and tear can be blamed on our water suppliers. When the water supply is interrupted, small gritty particles end up in the water and can quickly damage the surface of a washer or seal.
The remedy for this problem is easy... Replace the worn Diaphragm Washer!
Purchase the Wirquin Jollyfill Diaphragm Washer at any Builders store for around R65 each.
More Helpful Plumbing Articles and Tips
Don't stop reading now... There are plenty more plumbing articles below that are intended to provide valuable advice for anyone having to tackle plumbing emergencies, large or small, at home.
Before You Call a Plumber...
If the water flow from a tap has dwindled to a trickle, you might want to check the filter before you call a plumber.
When you find that the water flow from a tap dwindles to a trickle, your first thought would be to call a plumber. But before you do, you might want to check the filter on the tap to see if it is blocked. See further down for instructions on how to clean the filters on all your taps.
What Causes Slow Water Flow From Taps?
If the water flow from your taps has slowed down or is weaker than it should be, it's time to investigate the drop in water pressure and what could be causing this.
Note that the solutions shown in this article are intended as a guideline only and you should consult with a plumber if you are in any way uncertain or unsure as to the cause of the problem.
DIY Guide: How to Fix a Leaking Tap
DIY tips on how to fix minor home plumbing problems and save yourself some money.
Part of home maintenance involves rectifying fixing leaky taps and replacing parts of the plumbing underneath the sinks, behind toilets and other water-related care.
Fix that Leaky Toilet
If there are brown stains or water is dripping from the back of the toilet - where it connects to the outlet pipe - you need to replace the seal.
It's a fairly easy - although quite messy - project that can be done in 10 minutes. All you need to replace the damaged seal is a new wax seal that you will find at your local Builders stores countrywide, or by contacting your local plumber.
How to Unblock a Toilet
You don't have to get into a panic if the toilet blocks up. All you need to do it don a pair of rubber gloves and grab a plunger.
Toilet plungers work in the same way as the smaller sink versions but the head is shaped to fit a toilet pan. You can also hire plungers with a pump action handle that are effective at forcing water around the pan, clearing the blockage.
