Replacing a toilet syphon

Free DIY guide — no sign-up required. Written by a qualified Gas Safe engineer.
DIY Friendly💷 £5£3030–60 min

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Most likely cause & what to check

1

Turn off the water supply to the cistern using the isolation valve on the supply pipe, or the main stop tap.

2

Flush the toilet to empty the cistern, then soak up remaining water with a sponge.

3

Disconnect the cistern from the toilet pan (two wing nuts under the rim) and the water supply. Lift the cistern off.

4

Undo the large nut at the base of the syphon inside the cistern and remove the syphon.

5

Fit the new syphon — they're sold by height (9", 9½", or 10.5" are common). Reconnect the cistern and water supply.

6

Turn the water supply back on and check for leaks. Test flush several times.

🛠 Tools & materials you may need

Adjustable spanner Replacement syphonBucket

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