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Toilet runs while washing machine is filling

16 years ago

Every time I turn on the washing machine, the toilet runs. As soon as the washing machine's filled, the toilet stops. This happens on both the initial fill and the rinse cycle.

This is causing the water in the toilet tank to fill up higher than the regular water line. When the toilet is flushed, it will fill and stop where it should. The toilet sits about 6 feet from the washing machine.

What would cause this?

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Comments (5)

zl700
16 years ago
The washer and toilet are both on the same line and when the pressure drops while machine fills, the float "burps" and sags which starts filling the tank with the lower pressure at the tank fill. If it is a simple 2-piece toilet, try replacing ballcock assembly with a new unit such as a fluidmaster 400a.

You could also try partially closing the feed valves to the washer but it may be a inconvience with the slow fill or trying to maintain the right setting.
Mo
Original Author
16 years ago
Thanks! We do have a Fluidmaster, but I think it's been in there for quite some time so it probably is due for replacement.
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lazypup
16 years ago
Mona,,

Here's a tip that will save you some time & money.

The Fluidmaster Valve uses a rubber diaphram that is held closed by the water supply pressure. When you fill your washing machine there is s slight drop in the water supply pressure and if the diaphram is weak it would allow some water to leak by causing the problem you describe.

Rather than changing the whole fluidmaster valve you can get a replacement diaphram at any hardware store for about $.98.

To change the diaphram turn the toilet water supply valve off, open the tank and snap the top cover off the Fluidmaster valve. You then turn the top of the valve about 1/4 turn and it lifts off exposing the diaphram. Lift the old diaphram off, slip the new one on and replace the parts you removed. (Fluid master has excellant illustrated instructions however if you go to a smaller hardware such as a neighborhood ACE hardware and ask one of the floor people, they will be glad to demonstrate how its done. The whole task will take less than 5 minutes, no tools and about $1 in parts.
zl700
16 years ago
Agreed, unless your float assembly is taking on water, limed up and getting heavier or warped...............
ctbosox
16 years ago
if I have my part right, they now make two sizes on the diaphram, I went to pick one up for a fluidmaster and found out, one is bigger then the other

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