Do you want to purchase Kohler AquaPiston flush system?
When I was looking for a flush system, I was scrolling and found the advertisement for Kohler AquaPiston. It seems promising to me. So, I researched flush technology.
Who doesn’t want a flapper-less flush system?
Despite having flapper less capacity, it has many drawbacks as well. After that, I looked into the reviews and noted some common Kohler AquaPiston problems
Along with that, I am including a troubleshooting guide for it.
How the AquaPiston Works
To understand the problems, it helps to first understand how the AquaPiston is designed to function. This canister flush valve utilizes a unique pneumatic flushing system. Inside the valve is a canister filled with water.
When you press the flush handle, the canister descends and the water is forced out through the ports with considerable force. This creates a powerful siphon effect that effectively evacuates the bowl.
The canister is refilled through the refill tube connected to the water supply line. As it refills, fresh water enters the canister while the remaining water exits via the overflow tube which refills the tank.
This creates an “airlock” so that the canister is always ready to flush with full force when needed.
Common Downsides of Kohler AquaPiston
KOHLER is a top-notch flushing toilet brand, but there are some common problems with Kohler AquaPiston. While buying it, you have to check the drawbacks.
- Gravity Flush Problems
AquaPiston technology has the gravity flush capacity. If you flush your toilet, you want to make it dirt-free. Right?
You can’t always clean with the gravity flush system.
It can damage the toilet bowl with dirt. With the incomplete cleaning, the dirt will stick into the toilet bowl. Gradually the toilet bowl can lose its shine.
Also, it causes a jammed flush valve.
Though it features all-over flush capacity, it doesn’t provide it properly. Customers are not satisfied with the flushing system.
- Hard To Install
It is not easy to install the Kohler AquaPiston. If you can’t install it properly into the toilet flush, it can be a disaster for you. Along with that, you will face some difficulties while installing it.
Apart from complicated installation, you can’t use the Kohler AquaPiston without guidance. You have to talk to an expert before using it.
- Toilet Runs Continuously
A continuously running toilet is a sign your AquaPiston is malfunctioning. This problem is usually caused by issues with the canister seal or flapper allowing water to slowly leak from the tank into the bowl.
First inspect the flapper seal as described above. Also check the canister seal and gaskets for wear or cracks. Replace any faulty components. Adjust the flush valve float if needed so it stops the refill at the proper level.
- Loud Operation
Some users report the AquaPiston being excessively loud when flushing. This is primarily caused by air in the system. Air bubbles in the canister or water supply line can make flushing significantly louder.
Bleeding the air from the canister is recommended. Shut off the water and flush the toilet to empty the tank. Spray some lubricant on the canister seal. Reattach the canister and turn water back on. As it refills, the lubricant helps release trapped air. Flush several times to purge any remaining air pockets.
- Hard Water Deposits
Hard water mineral deposits are the enemy of any toilet valve system. With an AquaPiston, the small ports and passageways can get clogged with limescale buildup over time. This interferes with the valve operation and weakens flushing.
Regularly cleaning the valve components is key. Unscrew the canister and inspect the ports and seals for any mineral deposits. Use a plastic scrub brush and vinegar or a limescale cleaning product to gently remove buildup. Replace any heavily corroded parts.
Consider installing a water softener if you live in a hard water area. Annual flushing valve cleaning will also help reduce scale deposits.
- Problematic Filling Mechanism
What do you expect from a flush system? Refilling capacity. Right?
Kohler AquaPiston doesn’t have a good refilling capacity. While using a toilet flush, you want it to refill automatically.
But with the Kohler AquaPiston, you always have to check the water level every now and then. Isn’t it annoying?
It is not possible to look into the water level if you use it on your regular toilet. All of you use the toilet many times a day. If the flush tank isn’t refilling, it can be unnecessary trouble for you.
- Weak Flush
One of the significant drawbacks of Kohler AquaPiston is its poor flush capacity. According to some customers, it is less durable than other ones.
The flush quality will disappoint you. Also, it comes up with a weak handle lever.
Apart from that, Kohler AquaPiston can’t be a good option for office or commercial use. You can use it at your home toilet. But it won’t serve you for a long time.
- Excess Water Usage
You don’t want to wastewater. Right? Most of the Kohler AquaPiston features 1.28 gallons per flush. It is the biggest drawback of this flush.
If you look into the customer’s reviews, it is a common complaint about the flush valve seal. You can’t fix it. But you can look into the features while choosing a flush seal.
- Gasket Leakage
If the gasket of the toilet flushes seals leaks, your toilet will be flooded with dirty water. Also, the leakage causes other problems too.
It can be a reason for wasting flush water. It happens due to the broken seal.
Moreover, a clogged toilet can be a reason for gasket leakage. Low water flow in the flush tank is also responsible for this. After finding this, you have to solve it as soon as possible.
Avoiding this can cause more significant problems with the toilet flush.
Troubleshooting Guide For Kohler AquaPiston
After researching the solutions, I came up with a practical troubleshooting guide for you. Here I am sharing my experience with solving the problems of Kohler AquaPiston.
- Changing The Seal
If you are struggling with a seal problem, you have to replace the seal. Repairing a seal isn’t a good idea. Because it won’t solve it permanently.
For a long-lasting solution, adjust a new seal into the flush valve.
You can change it with some steps. However, you have to turn off the water tank. Make it empty and remove the flush handle. You need to detach the filler tube and cylinder.
After that, remove the old seal. Clean the seal area. You need to adjust a new seal to it. Otherwise, you can call a professional to change it.
This video should help you out in this regard.
- Installation
Do you know how to install Kohler AquaPiston?
Here you go. A proper installation can solve your problems with it. If you can suitably install the flush valve, it will be durable.
Along with that, it can prevent running water, low water levels, and water blockage. You have to purchase a good quality Kohler AquaPiston.
Hereafter, you have to begin with draining the flush tank. Turn off the water supply. Gradually
remove the flush handle, filler tube, and cylinder. Then, adjust the new Kohler AquaPiston. After installation, you need to turn on the water supply.
- Clean The Flush Tank
If you want to avoid the problems, you have to keep the flush tank clean. Otherwise, it can grow mildews.
Also, it will clog the flush valve. Cleaning your flush tank can prevent mineral and calcium buildup.
First of all, you have to take white vinegar and a toothbrush. Soften the mildews and the dirty surface of the flush tank. Then, mix soap and warm water into a bowl.
Lastly, you have to pour the flush tank with the mixture. It can also help you to unclog a flush system.
- Check The Water Level
If your flush tank is not refilling, you have to keep checking the water level. Though the flush tank should fill automatically, sometimes it can’t supply.
For keeping an average water level, you have to refill it with water. Otherwise, a low water level can damage the flush system.
- Fixing Gasket Leakage
Begin with cleaning the flush tank before solving the leakage problem. Unclog the toilet bowl and remove the flush tube. After that, you have to replace the seal and adjust the flush tube. Also, you can change the fill valve.
If it is not working, you can adjust the trip lever and water level of the flush tank. It is better to call a plumber to fix it up.
When to Call a Plumber
While the above tips will solve many common AquaPiston problems, there are times when it may be wise to call in a professional:
- If you have a major leak that is causing extensive water damage
- If correct tank water level adjustment does not fix continuous running
- If the flapper seal looks cracked but replacement does not fix poor flushing
- For suspected issues with the water supply valves or pipes
- If bleaching the air from the canister fails to stop loud operation
- For suspected blockages in the trapway or drainage pipes
- If you are unable to remove stubborn hard water deposits
A licensed plumber has the skills, tools, and experience to properly diagnose issues and identify solutions that may not be apparent to an amateur. This can save you time, money, and prevent the problem from getting worse.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
An AquaPiston flush system has a 3.25” inches valve. Also, it doesn’t come up with any flapper.
Yes. You can purchase it if you have a Kohler AquaPiston flush system. It will support you while repairing your flush valve and seal.
No, The AquaPiston flush technology is not noisy at all.
According to some users, it isn’t wise to repair the seal. It will damage the flush system. Instead of fixing the old one, you should purchase a new seal.
The Kohler Highline and Cimarron toilets consistently rate among the best Kohler flushing models. They utilize a class-five flush system with a large 3” trapway.
Turn the water off, flush to empty tank, and adjust flush valve float up or down to desired tank water level. The correct level is around 1” below the overflow tube.
Conclusion
After all, I hope it will make you understand the Kohler AquaPiston problems. Along with that, it would be helpful if you tried to solve the problems with the troubleshooting guide.
Also, look into the features while buying a flush valve for your toilet.
A flush system is an essential equipment for your toilet. Good hygiene depends on the well-organized flush system. Choosing a durable flush system can change the whole toilet hygiene.
can a aquapiston system be replaced with more conventional flush system?