Having a functional toilet valve is much needed in a perfect toilet. Imagine a toilet that is continuously running or making a noise, how would you feel then?
To avoid such issues, you need a better toilet fill valve. In this write-up, if you are confused regarding Fluidmaster 400A vs. 400H toilet fill valve, then you will get most of the answers to your queries.
So, without any further delay, let’s get started knowing about different aspects of these two fill valves and how they differ from one another.
A Quick Comparison Between These Two Toilet Fill Valves
I know it is sometimes hard to manage time even for reading the things that you need to know.
That is why this part will be helpful to you as you will see the needed information of differentiating points regarding Fluidmaster 400A and 400H.
Hopefully, this will guide you through making a quick decision.
| Specifications | Fluidmaster 400A | Fluidmaster 400H |
| The functionality of the valves | The 400A controls the water fill time and the water level. | Fluidmaster 400H is a fill valve that controls water in the tank. |
| Different product lines | Fluidmaster 400A is a product from the brand Fluidmaster. | Fluidmaster 400H is offered by the same brand but it belongs to a different product line. |
| Toilet bowl size | It is almost the same as the Fluidmaster 400H, the only difference is that it is smaller toilet bowl size. | Fluidmaster 400H is meant to be for the larger-sized toilet bowls. |
| Additional adjustment knob | Fluidmaster 400A also controls the water but there is no additional adjustment knob with it. | Fluidmaster 400H comes with an additional adjustment knob to control the water. |
| Water level impact | Along with the water control procedure, the water level of the tank will also have an impact immediately. | Fluidmaster 400H can get adjusted to the quantity of the water to be poured on the toilet bowl without affecting the water level of the toilet tank. |
So, these are the basic differentiating points between the two water fill valves. If you are still keen to know about all the differentiating factors between both of the toilet fill valves, then you can continue reading on the next section of the write-up as well to get some broad idea.
Key Differences Between Fluidmaster 400A And 400H
By now you know all the key differences that set Fluidmaster 400A and 400H apart from each other. But now you want to know about those points elaborately.
I got you, and I have got you covered in this section of the write-up. So, let’s get started.
- Functionality Of The Valves
The basic function of a toilet fill valve is to bring water to the tank once the toilet bowl is flushed after use. The toilet valve also stays on until the tank gets refilled.
So, the basic function of Fluidmaster 400A and 400H is also the same. Again, both of these toilet fill valves are from the same manufacturer.
But there are some minor differences regarding its functionality.
Fluidmaster 400A controls the water level of the tank and the water fill time, whereas, Fluidmaster 400H has the ability to control the water in the tank and the water flush does not affect the water tank level.
- Adjustable Refill
One of the biggest differences between these two models is the adjustable refill mechanism. This determines how much water flows from the supply line to refill the tank after flushing.
The 400A has a manual adjustment dial on the side of the valve. This lets you fine tune the water volume as needed with precision control. Turn the dial up for more refill volume or down for less.
The 400H has a preset refill that cannot be adjusted. The positive is that the factory calibration works for most standard toilets right out of the box. But the lack of adjustability is a downside if your particular toilet needs tweaking of the refill amount.
- Installation
Both Fluidmaster valves are designed for direct retrofits to replace an old, leaking fill valve without replacing the entire toilet mechanism.
However, there are some differences in compatibility that impact installation:
- The 400A has a universal shank that fits most toilets with a 2″ flush valve opening. The adjustable sliding collar lets you set the proper height as needed.
- The 400H is designed for taller, upright style fill valves. It fits most toilets with a 3″ or 3.5″ flush valve opening, like those found on many modern 1.6 gpf toilets.
Before purchasing, double check that you are selecting the appropriate fill valve for your existing toilet’s flush valve size. The product descriptions indicate compatibility.
If you are unsure, measure the inside diameter of the opening at the bottom of the tank where the flush valve sits. Compare this to the product specs to determine which model fits.
- Materials
The durability and longevity of the materials are important when it comes to a replacement part like this. You want a fill valve made of quality materials that will last.
The Fluidmaster 400A uses plastic construction with chlorinated O-ring seals. This offers decent durability.
The 400H has all plastic construction without any rubber seal components. This makes the unit more resistant to chlorine and mineral buildup from the water supply. All plastic equals better longevity.
- Different Product Lines
When different products come from a single brand then expect to find a lot of similarities between those products.
Similarly, Fluidmaster 400A and 400H come from the same manufacturer and so many features of both of these water fill valves are similar. But both of these water valves are completely different product lines of the same Fluidmaster brand.
- Toilet Bowl Size
Water fill valves are for pouring the water to the water bowl from the tank at the time of flushing the toilet and it also fills the toilet tank with water for the next use.
The appropriate toilet bowl size for both Fluidmaster 400A and 400H significantly differs, as both of these are meant for different toilet bowl sizes for appropriate use.
Fluidmaster 400H is for the smaller sized toilet bowl size, on the other hand, Fluidmaster 400H is for comparatively bigger sized toilet bowl sizes.
- Additional Adjustment Knob
Fluidmaster 400H has better control of the water level of the tank.
For that, Fluidmaster 400H comes with an additional adjustment knob to control the water level of the water tank of the toilet of your bathroom.
On the contrary, Fluidmaster 400A does not come with an additional adjustment knob.
It also controls the level of the water though but the water tank level does not remain the same after the flush. It takes some time to refill it.
- Water Level Impact
As you know, the water fill valve of the toilet does the work of filling up the water tank after flushing the toilet. So once the flush is in the process, it is supposed to impact the water level of the tank immediately.
But it is completely the other way around for the Fluidmaster 400H can easily get adjusted to the amount of water that is being poured into the toilet bowl.
As a result, there is almost no impact on the water tank level as it gets adjusted immediately. For Fluidmaster 400A, it takes some time to refill the water tank level for further use.
Pros and Cons
To summarize the key points:
400A Pros:
- Dial provides precise refill adjustment
- Universal shank fits most 2” flush valves
- Balanced, smooth flush performance
400A Cons:
- Mixed material construction
- Needs replacement after 4-5 years
- Higher cost
400H Pros:
- All plastic resists mineral buildup
- More durable 6-10 year lifespan
- Increased flush power
400H Cons:
- No refill adjustment
- Only fits 3” & 3.5” flush valves
- Lower cost reflects budget model
Which One Stands Out For Your Toilet?
Now that you know all the differentiating factors, then it is the most crucial stage of giving the ultimate verdict of choosing the best toilet fill valve to serve your toilet.
Well, you know that both Fluidmaster 400A and 400H come from the single toilet differ from one another in a few matters which are not so significant.
But, one thing is for sure when it comes to the control of the water tank level then Fluidmaster 400H is meant to serve you the best.
You might be able to use the washroom immediately after the prior flush there will be no waiting time in between. You might be having so many family members to use the toilet in that case, this might be a vital point to consider while picking a toilet fill valve for your toilet.
As far as I am concerned, my recommendation will be to go for Fluidmaster 400H other than Fluidmaster 400A to have better control.
But, at the end of the day, it is completely your decision to pick the best one that goes with your circumstances for sure.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The life of the flush valve on average lasts for five to seven years for domestic use. It can vary depending on different other factors though. There are factors like no of the users, manufacturing issues, the harshness of the chemicals which are being used, and also the quality of the water.
It is very common in most of the toilets. Ghost flushing usually happens when the water keeps leaking out slowly into the bowl. If this particular problem persists then it would trigger the toilet to flush with a greater flow of water.
Yes, it causes a huge waste when it comes to the water and it also increases the water bill which definitely no one would ever want.
In general, the 400H is the better overall value for its durability, power, and cost. But the 400A offers adjustability and broader compatibility. Choose based on your specific toilet’s needs.
Check the flush valve opening size in your existing toilet – 2”, 3”, or 3.5”. The 400A fits 2” openings while the 400H is made for 3” and 3.5”. Pick the appropriate fill valve per your toilet’s measurement.
The Fluidmaster 400A is a replacement fill valve that fits most toilets with a 2” flush valve opening. It has an adjustable dial to fine tune the water refill volume after flushing. Constructed from plastic and O-ring seals.
Wrapping Things Up
I am sure by going through this write up you are now no more confused regarding Fluidmaster 400A vs. 400H as you now know all the aspects of it and can make a decision on the basis of it.
I am sure by now you have already made up your mind regarding which one to pick for your bathroom. If you would like to dig down a bit more, then you can go to your nearby store to check it physically.