Have you ever imagined life without your toilet, what it would feel like not having that safe space to answer nature’s call; more importantly, have you ever imagined not being able to just clear up your toilet bowl with a single flush? Dreadful right?
One of the essential parts of your toilet’s flushing mechanism is the toilet flapper, without it, a lot would go wrong in that whole system, and that is why maintaining and even replacing it with the right one is essential.
For that reason, this little piece here is out to educate you on what the best toilet flappers are, what they are made from, how to best use them, and most importantly, the essentials to look out for in the best. So without further ado, let’s get to the business of the day!
Contents
Types of Toilet Flappers
Toilet flappers are objects located inside the toilet tank and they are designed to allow water flow from the tank to the toilet bowl while also ensuring that there is no leak and that there is a continuous flow when necessary. They are the objects that allow most toilets to function properly.
Toilet flappers come in numerous shapes and flush valve sizes, and as such, no two flappers are the same. Basically, there are three significant types of toilet flappers in the market that you should know about, and we will be taking you through every one of them.
1. Seat Disk
Seat disk flappers are legends in the flapper industry, aa they are the oldest of such tools in existence. These flappers are known to have a small circular disk that covers the overflow pipe and prevents water from traveling through it.
They are also the most common flappers in circulation, as three in five toilets use such a flapper. You can identify this flapper pretty quickly, as when the toilet is flushed, the flapper exposes the overflow pipe.
However, it is essential to note that the seat disk flapper also has some defaults, no thanks to its age, as sometimes it takes up a disproportionate amount of space in your toilet tank, and replacing it or its parts such as the cap could be an arduous task and not one we look forward to doing.
2. Tank Ball
The tank ball toilet flappers are pretty different from their relatives the rubber flappers and the likes, and that’s because of their mode of operation.
A tank ball flapper is a rubber ball designed to sit on top of the overflow pipe; then, when the toilet is flushed, the rubber ball is lifted by a chain straight up and off the overflow pipe, allowing water to pass through.
Tank ball flappers are more modern when compared to seat disk flappers. However, this universal toilet flapper is relatively less faulty but it’s nonetheless sophisticated.
Its major fault is in the installation or replacement as a simple mistake especially with the chain length could lead to a full flood case with an empty toilet water tank afterward.
3. Rubber
The disk flappers might not be the oldest in existence, but rubber flappers are by far the most common when talking about recently manufactured toilets.
It is also worthy to note that the mechanism of a rubber toilet flapper is similar to that of a tank ball flapper. It is a cap that functions when the toilet is flushed, an agent pulls a chain attached to the flapper to lift it. When the flushing is complete, the chain allows the cap to drop back into place.
What’s more, they are super easy to install and replace, as you can do that by attaching a simple hat to the overflow pipe. Rubber flappers are pretty reliable as their relative newness to the industry means that they last longer than their alternative options.
It’s only weakness is just the same as its tank ball counterpart.
Best Toilet Flappers
1. Fluidmaster 502 PerforMAX Universal Water-Saving Toilet Flapper
Easy to install, adjustable, and blessed with the ability to save a lot of natural resources. The Fluidmaster 502P21 PerforMAX Universal Water-Saving Toilet
Flapper is a fantastic toilet flapper that gets the job done in the short term and the long run, no wonder it is a top contender as one of the best toilet flappers available.
It is a choice for flush efficiency and solving common running toilet problems and one that has deservedly gotten a lot of good publicity over the years.
This magnificent toilet flapper ticks many boxes, as it is constructed with corrosive resistant Microban materials that prevent any form of breakdown as a result of bacteria, and chlorine; and a solid frame that won’t bend for a secure seal and to also avoid ghost flushing.
The model also features a dial flapper that adjusts for maximum flush efficiency while saving natural resources. In terms of resistance, it is the perfect choice for hard water and chlorine resistance.
What’s more, the model is a universal toilet flapper designed to fit most 2-inch flush valve models; it’s best used with high efficiency 1.28 and 1.6 gallons per flush toilet and can work with 3.5 gallons per flush toilet. There’s more to it than meets the eye, and installation is an absolute breeze!
Pros
- Long-lasting made from sturdy material
- Easy installation within 10 minutes
- Economical and saves resources like toilet paper
- Safe and Hygienic
- Features a tight seal and durable silicone seal
Cons
- Chain adjustment could be better
- Not compatible with all toilets
2. Korky 100BP Ultra-High-Performance Flapper
An absolute classic from the Korky store, the Korky 100BP Ultra-High-Performance Flapper ticks almost all the boxes in terms of toilet flappers, and there are numerous reasons why it’s so highly sought out for.
First off, there’s the long-lasting chlorazone material which is excellent for resisting chlorine, bacteria, city water treatment, rust, hard water, and also well water.
This feature is a must-have, as there are so many toilet flappers in the industry that discard something so important.
Also, there’s the universal fit that the device guarantees, as this product from Korky adjusts to fit flush valves in HET toilets & the flexible, long-lasting rubber creates a tight seal for your toilet.
Furthermore, the model comes from a proven source of excellence, with easy installation, and getting replacement parts is an absolute breeze with korky toilet repair. This product from the Korky store might fall into the category of almost non adjustable flappers, but it certainly ticks the majority of boxes for a top-notch toilet flapper!
Pros
- Good value for money
- Durable with long-lasting material
- Fast and easy installation
- Multiple toilet flush guarantee
- Good replacement toilet flapper
- Fits with multiple-size flappers and rubber material
Con
- Short-chain that complicates adjustment
3. Kohler Blue Part Gp85160 Flapper with Float
Affordable, easy on the eyes, and remarkably efficient, the Kohler Blue Part Gp85160 Flapper with Float certainly makes a splash. This particular product from the Kohler store leaves no stones left unturned in ensuring that users get their money’s worth.
This flapper has all-encompassing compatibility, as the model is compatible with numerous Kohler models such as Wellworth 3114, 3407, 3420- 3481, and 3558, Iron Works 3456, 3463, Kathryn 3484, Portrait 3591, 3490, English Trellis 142, Devonshire 3457, Revival, amongst others.
Also, the toilet tank flapper which includes a flapper and a float is super easy to install, as you don’t need to employ a handyperson to fix your toilet flapper, as you can do it yourself. It comes with a helpful manual; you can even check out the Kohler YouTube channel for more information.
There is also the new and improved design made which is durable and efficient, a significant upgrade from previous iterations of this specialist product from Kohler. The company isn’t leaving anything to chance as far as toilet flappers are concerned.
Pros
- Very versatile model
- Very easy to remove
- Affordable
- Compatible with kallista toilets and flapper drops
- Easy adjustment and control
Cons
- Durability could be better
- Tricky float chain adjustment
4. Fluidmaster 400CRP14 Universal Toilet Fill Valve and Flapper Repair Kit
We’ve been talking about singular toilet flappers for the duration of this list, so it only fits that we switch it up a little bit. That’s why we are bringing you the Fluidmaster 400CRP14 Universal Toilet Fill Valve and Flapper Repair Kit, a complete toilet flapper kit that gets the job done in record time.
This kit has numerous features that would benefit a purchaser, and we will show you some of the finest, one of which is the universal design, as this flapper kit adjusts easily from 9 – 14 inches, fits most 2-inch flush valve toilets, and is ideal for use in 1.6 to 3.5 gallons per flush toilet or larger.
Talking about a durable toilet flapper, the model takes the top spot as the best toilet flapper in the category as it’s a plastic and rubber flapper designed to last.
Then there’s the ease of installation that this device assures, meaning that you can install this device within ten minutes, with little or no-fault, and certainly no need for outside help. Plus, the model is designed to fix noisy and running toilets giving you a leak-free.
Also, there’s the corrosion-resistant aspect, as this device is made up of a flexible and solid frame 501 2-inch flapper that features corrosion-resistant Microban material to prevent breakdown and leaks due to bacteria and it can also resist chlorine and rugged water. If that’s not impressive for a toilet flapper, I wonder what is.
Pros
- Offers a 5-year warranty
- Easy installation and removal
- Considerably durable
- Protects against bacteria decomposition
- An adjustable toilet flapper
Con
- The toilet refill aspect could and should be improved
- Not fit for 3-inch diameter valve
5. Lavelle Ind. Inc. Toilet Flapper 2004BP
Affordable and easy to use, the Lavelle Ind. Inc. Toilet Flapper 2004BP is a product from the Korky store that seems to tick many toilet flapper boxes.
This device has a bevy of remarkable features that keep customers satisfied with a purchase, and we will be highlighting a couple. First things first, there’s the adjustable float designed to help control flush volume with an easy up or downslide for volume control. It might not seem a big deal, but there’s a certain satisfaction with the simplicity that it exudes.
Also, the product is an all-fitting toilet flapper that fits the likes of the American Standard model, Glacier Bay, and Kohler toilets. In terms of material composition, the Lavelle toilet flapper which comprises an adjustable flapper and a stainless steel chain is made of flexible rubber that guarantees a tight seal and of course easy and simple installation.
Furthermore, the resistance feature seems to be a trademark of the Korky store, as it resists chlorine, bacteria, city water treatment, hard water, and healthy water. The Lavelle Ind. Inc. Toilet Flapper 2004BP might not be a household name just yet, but it is well on its way to achieving that!
Pros
- Assisted tight seal
- Easy usage and set-up
- It is great for toilet flushing.
- Compatible with flush toilets and flapper valves
- Bacteria and chlorine resistant
Con
- Not so durable
6. American Standard 7381129-200.0070A Universal Flapper and Chain with Float
The American Standard seldom misses, and it’s clear that they did not miss when they created the American Standard 7381129-200.0070A Universal Flapper and Chain with Float and released it for public consumption.
It is a toilet flapper that ticks most boxes across the board and shows no signs of waning, for starters, the model is made of numerous replaceable items, including the flapper, chain, hook, clips, and float. That means that a damaged part won’t necessarily mean the end of your toilet flapper as all parts are of course, easily replaceable.
What’s more, the model is a great fit for all kinds of 2-inches flush valves without a hitch. In addition, the flapper is for being durable with its solid frame and flexible rubber ball construction which allows it to survive longer.
Also, this product is known to pair its great looks with its usefulness, versatility, and a host of other functionalities synonymous with the American Standard store.
Pros
- An all-in-one toilet flapper
- Easy replacement
- Compatible with all 2 inches flush valves
- Includes flapper, chain, hook, clips, and floats
- Tight seal
Cons
- Working on the float needs time
- Incompatible with an old flapper
7. Kohler GP84995KOHLER Genuine Part Gp84995 Flapper
The Kohler store has given the home appliance industry a host of superb additions, and the Kohler GP84995 KOHLER Genuine Part Gp84995 Flapper is simply the latest addition to a glorious iteration.
Containing both flapper and a stainless steel chain, this flapper makes the other ones look like novices, and one of the reasons why is the rigid bar for a consistent flush that it has, leaving you to concentrate on other aspects of your day.
What’s more than the Kohler GP84995 flapper including a 2 inches hinge flapper commonly used in many one-piece toilets.
The model is compatible with many Kohler toilet models, including but not limited to the Rosario 3434, Rialto 3386, San Raphael 3466, 3467, 3384, and the Revival 3360.
The Kohler GP84995KOHLER Genuine Part Gp84995 Flapper also guarantees longevity as its corrosion resistant and can withstand a great deal of wear and tear. It is in stark contrast with previous iterations, and it shows that the Kohler brand is hard at work to improve its few discrepancies.
Pros
- Allows for consistent flush
- Corrosion-resistant
- It is easy on the eyes.
- It is one of the most durable items on this list
- Has optional toilet repair kit
- Compatible with many toilet models
Cons
- Difficult installation
- Not so good replacements parts
- Toilet flapper valve could be better
Tips for Choosing the Best Toilet Flapper
With an endless list of good toilet flappers like the Toto flapper, the Fluidmaster flapper, and the likes, you wonder how you will know that they are the best for you, and considering the following would let you answer that question.
1. Consider the toilet flapper valve size
In the toilet flapper market, the common flapper valve sizes designed are mostly for 2 inch valve drain and 3 inch valve drain. To know the right size for yourself, you need to know the size of your flush valve seat found at the bottom of the tank.
Knowing the exact size would allow you to know if you require a 2 inch or a 3 inch valve size that would give you a water-tight seal without leaks.
2. What flushing capacity are you after?
Toilet flappers have either an adjustable flapper or a non adjustable flapper. The basic difference between both is their flushing capacity.
While adjustable ones suit toilets that use 1.28 or 1.6 gallons of water per toilet flushes, the non-adjustable ones are for those that use 3.5-5 gallons of water per flush. So knowing the water capacity you desire to have per flush would determine the type of flapper you will be after.
How to Put a Flapper On Toilet?
Replacing a flapper on your house toilet isn’t that big of a deal, as all you need are a few tools and a significant amount of concentration.
You’ll need such tools as rubber gloves, a bucket and small cup, a replacement flapper, scissors, and a towel or rag. You will then remove the tank lid and place it in a safe place for the time being.
Then, you will turn off the water supply to prevent an overflow while you’re replacing the flapper. After that, you can remove the water in the toilet tank, though you don’t have to drain all of it at once.
Once you’re done, tactfully remove the old flapper, clean the seal area with the rag or towel, and proceed to install your new flapper. Make sure you attach the chain or strap to the lever arm and connect the flapper chain or rubber strap to the hole in the trip lever arm closest to the handle before turning the water supply back on.
Perform the necessary checks, and finally proceed to replace your lid toilet tank, and voila, you have put a flapper on a toilet like a pro!
FAQs
1. How long do toilet flappers last?
Quality toilet flappers made from high-quality rubber are known to last for an average of five years and many flappers come with at least a five year warranty. But to ensure that your flapper with last up to this time, you need to make sure that it is well installed and properly maintained.
Read next: The 10 Best Toilet Seat of 2021 Review
2. Are toilet flappers all the same size?
No, they come in two sizes, 2-inch, and 3-inch flappers, with most toilets using the 2-inch sized flapper. Although, now the 3-inch sized models are becoming quite popular in the market. Just make sure you are using the one suitable for your toilet.
3. Why do toilet flappers fail?
Toilet flappers fail because of old age with constant wear and tear, poor maintenance, a leaky flapper, or the occasional company error when making them. Since the main component of a flapper is rubber-based, over time, it weakens and with poor maintenance and fixing, it is bound to fail.
4. Does the toilet flapper need a float?
Not necessarily. The main function of floats is to delay the closing of the flapper. And while the traditional often use air to hold the flapper one, the new age adjustable ones could use a float to keep them from closing right away.
Conclusion
Getting the best toilet flapper could be challenging if you aren’t looking well and searching for the right things enough.
However, if you have read what we have above on the best toilet flappers, you’ll notice that finding your own best choice is much easier.
We are sure that after reading this you’ll be able to choose one of the best toilet flappers to fit your toilet’s tank.
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