Repair of the toilet lid: frequent breakdowns and methods for their elimination

Plumbing fixtures today are often equipped with technically advanced devices that simplify operation and increase comfort. These include the toilet lid with a built-in micro-lift. Is not it?

But due to the natural wear of parts and incorrect operation, the system tends to fail. Of course, you can entrust the repair of the toilet lid to plumbers, but in order to save time and money, you can deal with this on your own. Moreover, in practice it is quite simple to implement.

In this article we will deal with the principle of the microlift, consider the main types of breakdowns and tell you what you need to fix them. For clarity, the article posted photo and video materials that reflect the essence of the issue.

Microlift - what kind of device?

The main purpose of the myrolift is to provide a smooth lowering of the cover to prevent it from falling onto the glazed cover of the sanitary ware with a loud popping sound. Such devices have appeared on the market for a long time and have already managed to gain popularity among lovers of comfort.

The seat cover, supplemented by a micro-lift, is convenient in that it rises and falls smoothly, and the user does not need to keep it from impact

The principle of operation of the microlift for its functional purpose is very similar to a door closer, but only made in miniature, therefore it is often called a "device for smooth lowering."

The installed device helps to solve three problems at once:

• prevents falling of a cover;
• prevents the spread of unpleasant odors;
• eliminates the formation of cracks and chips on the decorative plumbing coating.

In a seemingly simple product, a solution is implemented that significantly simplifies the use of a plumbing fixture and increases comfort. Due to the fact that the mechanism operates silently, it is not audible when using plumbing even at night, when all household members are sleeping.

When abruptly lowering the toilet seat, the lid makes a sharp jerky popping sound, and with the micro-lift installed you will not hear it for sure

On sale there are both budget options and more expensive, installed on intelligent electronic toilets. Mechanisms from the expensive category are equipped with a presence sensor, which at the time of approaching a person automatically raises the lid, and at the end of using the toilet returns to its original position.

Design features of the device

The lift is sold along with the toilet lid, but it can also be purchased separately. The covers equipped with closers are made of plastic or its modern version - duroplast. This polymer, although outwardly it looks like plastic, but in terms of quality characteristics is closer to ceramics.

The material for the manufacture of seats equipped with a microlift is duroplast - a modified polymer that can maintain a stable temperature when exposed to heat

Fix the device to the toilet in a hard way. The main structural elements of the elevator:

1. Stockfirmly fixing a rigid plastic installation.
2. Spring to balance the weight of the structure.
3. Articulated Microlift Mechanismproviding a change in the position of the cover.

In more expensive functional systems, the basis of the mechanism is not springs and rods, but pistons and cylinders. Designs of this type are categorized as non-separable.

Smooth closing / opening of the mechanism and fixing the lid of the toilet bowl in the desired position provides a micro-lift hinge mechanism equipped with a spring

Functional systems in which the seats and covers are complemented by a built-in micro-lift are produced by many manufacturers of plumbing equipment. If desired, you can purchase and install a universal system that includes, in addition to the micro-lift and other devices.

They are able to provide several functions at once:

• adjustment of the temperature of the incoming water;
• the possibility of heating the seat;
• high-quality washing, enema and massage;
• extract of unpleasant odor, followed by deodorization.

Many models are often equipped with a convenient self-cleaning function, thereby minimizing the participation of households in the process of using a plumbing fixture. The presence of a lift is only one way to make living conditions more comfortable.

The main causes of breakdowns

Closed systems produced by leading manufacturers are known for their high quality. But the natural deterioration of functional elements and incorrect operation of a "smart" device leads to disruptions in the system.

The main sign of the failure of the mechanism is the appearance of a loud sound that occurs when the cover is lowered due to its fall

The causes of malfunctions in most cases are attempts to manually close the lid “out of habit”. The built-in mechanism spring is designed for gradual compression. In the case of the use of physical force, mechanical action disables the device.

The easiest way to solve the problem is to completely replace the cover with a new one, since reinstalling damaged mechanisms is not always advisable. But nevertheless, in order to save the expense item, it is possible to repair a broken microelevator of the toilet lid on its own, having tried to disassemble the device and replace its failed elements.

Toilet Closer Repair

If the microlift breaks, it is better to turn to the masters with the proper experience. They will help determine the cause and type of malfunction, as well as professionally replace and fully restore the functionality of the "smart" system.

Work on self-repair of the built-in mechanism should be carried out with extreme caution, having carefully studied the product instructions before starting work

This is especially true if you have to deal with a design that is equipped with several additional functions.

Replacing failed bolts

The most common malfunction that can be fixed on its own is a breakdown of the mounting bolts.

The work to eliminate the defect is performed in the following sequence:

1. Dismantling the device (you can take the installation instructions and repeat the steps, but in reverse order).
2. Replacing Broken Bolts, on the reverse side are screwed with nuts that connect the back of the cover to the elevator mechanism.
3. System assembly, produced in the reverse order with strict adherence to the installation of each part in the same place.

The nuts are screwed onto plastic bolts from the bottom of the toilet. Work is carried out carefully so as not to damage the fasteners.

If you have to screw in brass parts to prevent surface damage, it is worth using intermediate plastic or rubber washers that soften the pressure of the fastener

If it is necessary to dismantle the seat, the holders can be conveniently unscrewed manually or using pliers.

Pulling loose arms

To tighten one of the metal supports that secure the seat cover to the toilet body, you must remove the caps on each mounting leg. They are equipped with holes for the hexagon, although in some models holes are not provided in these caps.

After this, it remains only, without exerting excessive force, to remove the seat with a cover. To do this, it is simply gently lifted up in the open form.

Metal fasteners move freely in the holes, so to adjust the position of the lid relative to the tank, you just need to slightly move it forward or backward, and then gently tighten the caps or fastening nuts. The lifts themselves in this case do not need to be disassembled.

Elimination of other breakdowns

There are situations when, for whatever reason, the toilet lid itself breaks. If desired, you can try to glue it. Liquid nails do an excellent job of this. If cracks have formed on the plastic seat, they can be removed with dichloroethane or acetone.

To do this, a little liquid is dripped into the accident site and the edges are docked, fixing the cover in a stationary position for several minutes. If the cause of the failure was the accumulation of lubricant, which is a viscous and transparent substance, then to eliminate the defect it must be carefully removed.

If, when closing / opening, the lid makes a long creaking sound, this indicates that lubricating gel-like materials have been consumed

The cause of the malfunction lies in the breakdown of the spring? In this case, it will not be possible to repair it so that the device works fully. Micro-lifts in the bulk are non-separable structures, and it is almost impossible to choose a spring that is suitable in length and diameter.

Stock problems are also unlikely to fix on their own.Well, if you can find a similar failed mechanism in which the stock is functioning properly. In other cases, the only correct way out of the situation is to replace the design with a new one.

Option for resuscitation of the cover with a micro-lift

In most cases, it will not be possible to restore the functionality of the seat lift with a cover, but the plumbing fixture itself can still serve. True, it will not close smoothly. The following photo selection will help you get acquainted with the repair operations:

We stocked up everything that is necessary for the repair, now we take a building hair dryer, a drilling machine and a screwdriver to get started:

Now you can safely proceed to the final assembly and fastening of a convenient fixture to the toilet:

How to install a bidet pad or electronic cover with bidet functions and a lift, read in one of the popular articles on our site.

Seat Cover Replacement

One of the significant reasons for the fatal failure of the mechanism is the wrong choice of model and errors during its installation.

Therefore, when acquiring a new cover, you should be guided by the following rules:

• take into account the dimensions of the plumbing;
• pay attention to the shape and configuration of the toilet;
• give preference to products of trusted manufacturers.

The commercially available seats with a cover are suitable for any type of toilet: floor, side, hanging. Work on installing a new fixture are produced as standard.

When choosing a new model, it is important to consider the features of the plumbing fixture and make sure that the distances between the fasteners of the system coincide with the seats of the seat

To replace a broken cover with a closer to a new one, you need a set of tools:

• hacksaw;
• pliers;
• socket wrench.

Of the materials, silicone or oil will also be required to treat dried elements. Ideally, it is better to use a special lubricant, which, penetrating into the cracks, freezes rust.

Traditionally, the lid with the toilet seat is fixed with two bolts. But in some models, a metal stud may be used instead. For dismantling, you just need to lower / raise the cover and then unscrew the pins.

If the cover has been used for a rather long period, it is likely that the bolts are clogged, and the fasteners are covered with a coating and “welded” to the body.

To provide easier loosening and simplify your task, the bolts will have to be pre-coated with oil or silicone, but this is not always effective

Using pliers, carefully, trying not to damage the decorative surface of the toilet bowl, unscrew the clamp and bolts. To protect the plumbing from possible damage when working with pliers, it is better to lay the surface with rags or cuts of cardboard.

You should not neglect this recommendation, otherwise at the slightest mistake you will have to change not only the lid, but also the toilet. With the installation rules of this plumbing fixture will introduce next article, the contents of which we advise you to read.

In the extreme case, if the treatment did not give the desired result and the plastic bolts do not lend themselves, they can be cut with a hacksaw or cut with a red-hot knife blade. Do not be afraid that molten plastic will stain plumbing. After solidification, it will not be difficult to remove from the surface.

Having dismantled the old cover, in the grooves on the toilet bowl, the remaining dirt, rust and lime deposits are removed, after which bolts are inserted into the fastening points and the structure is fixed

Installation of a new cover is performed in the following sequence:

1. Rubber inserts are inserted into the new seat cover. They provide a soft fit to the seat.
2. Fasteners are installed in the holes on the toilet. They are screwed, using rubberized seals.
3. Fix the cover to the seat using metal or plastic bolts.
4. Align the structure and check the seat for firmness of fixation.

Since the key to breaking the mechanism may be the incorrect position of the cover and seat, it is important to accurately adjust the cover when installing the structure

An important point: adjustment and alignment is performed at the stage when the fixing nuts are only acquired, but not yet firmly tightened.

If installing a cover with a microlift is somewhat alarming due to the complexity, and often the impossibility of repair, we recommend that you familiarize yourself with the nuances of choosing a conventional toilet seats. It is possible that the advantages of the traditional version will “outweigh” the minuses of the novelty.

Conclusions and useful video on the topic

To consolidate knowledge and better present the process of repairing and installing the toilet lid, we offer useful and interesting videos.

Clip # 1. Repair of toilet mounts:

Clip # 2. How to install the system correctly:

In the future, in order to reduce the risk of premature failure, it is important to periodically check the position of the device and adjust it during operation. And remember: sitting with an elevator device is a “smart” mechanism that requires a careful attitude.

If you have questions or have a desire to share your own experience in repairing or remaking a seat with a micro-lift, please write comments. You can leave a post with your opinion, ask a question and post a photo on the topic of the article in the block below.