Toilet lid: features of selection and installation

The toilet is such a familiar attribute of any home that people rarely pay attention to it. But sometimes you have to delve into how the cistern works or how the toilet lid is attached. Replacing one part will cost less than buying new plumbing fixtures.

To successfully change the toilet seat cover, it is necessary to take appropriate measurements, select the desired design in the store, and dismantle the old model. Each stage has its own characteristics and difficulties. Knowing them, the replacement will be faster and will not require calling a technician. This will significantly save the family budget.

Microlift design

The microlift most often comes complete with a cover, and not many are interested in its design. Subsequently, in case of breakdowns, questions arise as to whether it is possible to replace the parts and elements of the mechanism yourself and what they are.

The product itself is not exactly plastic, but a more modern polymer material – duroplast. Although it looks like plastic, its characteristics are more similar to ceramics.

It is not difficult to understand the internal structure of the lid microlift. It consists of the following elements:

• a rod on which the seat and cover are securely fixed;
• a spring that provides braking (smooth lowering) of the lid;
• articulated micro-lift mechanism, the device can change position;
• The lubricant is transparent, viscous, and has a very unpleasant odor.

It is believed that this mechanism is non-separable and cannot be repaired. However, after repair and making some changes, the device can work again.

In more expensive models, the structural elements are slightly different, more reliable - pistons instead of springs and cylinders instead of rods. It is impossible to restore the operation of such a functional system, since the structure is non-demountable.

Distinctive characteristics

A microlift is a new modification of the toilet lid, which makes it possible to lower or raise it quietly. This specialized mechanism appeared quite recently, but is already in great demand among consumers. The innovation will help prevent many problems. For example, hitting the lid not only makes an unpleasant sound, but the lid itself may crack, and cracks may form on the glazed coating of the plumbing fixtures.

Children are often injured when the lid is suddenly lowered. And therefore, a good option for parents is to buy a seat with a microlift mechanism, which makes it possible to smoothly lower the lid to the first position.

The principle of operation is no different from a simple door closer, and the dimensions of the microlift are considered much smaller. Due to its purpose, the microlift is also called a “soft lowering device”. All today's toilet models are already on sale with a toilet seat with a microlift.

Main causes of breakdowns

There are few reasons why the microlift on the toilet lid does not work:

• Incorrect operation: when a person, out of habit, tries to lower or raise the toilet lid with his hands, using unacceptable force on the mechanism;
• Natural wear and tear of elements.

To save money, you can try to repair the microlift yourself, replacing only the failed parts.

Toilet closer repair

If the lid, instead of lowering smoothly, falls sharply and with a loud knock, if it opens and closes jerkily or creaks, then the closer in the device is broken . You can try to repair the toilet lid microlift yourself:

1. Remove the toilet lid.
2. We dismantle the structure.
3. We disassemble the right and left microlifts.
4. We inspect the condition of the structural elements.

The malfunction of the closer consists of problems with lubrication and its uneven distribution in the cylinder. You just need to distribute it evenly in the system and put the entire structure back together, repeating all the steps in reverse order.

The cause of the squeak may be a change in structure or lack of lubricant. In such cases, it is necessary to add or replace it, thereby extending the life of the cover for several more years. Lubrication will eliminate the squeak and restore the operation of the mechanism.

Replacing bolts

If the base on which the closer is installed lags behind the bowl shelf and it rotates, the problem is a broken fastener. Replacing the fastening of a toilet lid with a microlift occurs in several stages:

1. Dismantling the device by unscrewing or sawing off the fasteners holding the mechanism to the seat or cover;
2. Replacing broken bolts that connect the lift and the back of the cover. Screwing them back with nuts;
3. Assembly of the structure;
4. Screwing the nuts onto the bolts at the bottom of the shelf.

Replacing bolts is a simple procedure, but plastic products must be screwed in carefully so as not to break them.

Tightening up loose supports

If the cause of the malfunction of the smooth lowering device is loose supports , repairs are carried out as follows:

• Caps specially designed for hexagons are removed from all mounting legs. But such caps are not available on all models;
• The entire structure, when open, is lifted up and carefully removed;
• The fasteners, freely moving in the holes, move forward or backward to adjust the position of the lid relative to the tank;
• The fastening nuts are tightened tightly but neatly.

Problems when replacing a seat

Some problems when replacing a toilet seat or lid may occur on plumbing fixtures that have served the owners for several years. Removing fasteners on an old toilet seat is especially difficult if metal bolts and nuts that are susceptible to corrosion were used.

The high level of humidity in the toilet area is created by the water present in the flush cistern. This is the main reason for the appearance of rust and oxides on threads.

In this condition, it is extremely difficult to unscrew the nuts from the mounting bolts, and sometimes impossible using traditional methods. We have to resort to radical measures.

Metal fastenings of toilet plumbing fixtures, which do not have protection against oxides and corrosion, tend to “boil”. In such cases, only non-standard approaches help to unscrew the nuts

So, if the thread of a bolt or stud is damaged by corrosion and twisting the nut is not possible even with a wrench, the problem can still be solved.

Why do the following:

1. Use an electric drill.
2. Place a drill bit with a diameter slightly smaller than the wall thickness of the nut into the drill chuck.
3. Carefully drill the nut from its bottom edge to the top.
4. Insert a suitable metal rod into the hole.
5. Try to “break” the nut using the pumping forces of the rod.

Sometimes a similar situation occurs on plastic fittings. It happens that during installation (during cleaning) the threaded part of the stud is accidentally damaged. A defect in the plastic thread will also prevent the seat mount from being removed in the usual way.

If you cannot twist the nuts using a tool, you can cut them off with a sharp thin knife, after heating the knife blade to the melting temperature of the plastic (120-130º C).

Part of the fastening fittings for seats with covers is made of brass and bronze. This metal does not corrode, but has the ability to quickly oxidize in the presence of moisture. The oxides, in turn, form “growths” on the threads, which over time become comparable in hardness to the same metal.

It helps to unscrew such connections by pre-wetting them (and holding them for a while) with machine oil. Apply lubricant to the connection easily and conveniently with a plastic disposable syringe.

Advantages

Many people who have not yet had time to evaluate a toilet seat with a microlift doubt the advisability of installing this mechanism. Advantages of the device:

• simple and quick installation;
• possibility of functioning in automatic mode;
• quiet operation, which is especially important at night;
• long service life;
• The microlift ensures neat and smooth lowering of the lid, so there are no scratches left on the surface of the toilet.

Conclusion

Using a toilet without a seat is not only inconvenient, but also unhygienic. The cost of the products is low, and their installation does not cause difficulties, so you should not invite a master plumber to do this work (see also the article “Installing a toilet: stages and rules of work”).

The installation principles for any seat remain the same, only the fasteners change. The video in this article will give you the opportunity to find additional information on the above topic.

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Options, manufacturers and prices

On the modern market of plumbing equipment there is a huge assortment of toilets, so toilet seats also have many varieties depending on the appearance, size and method of fastening. Typically the seat is made of Duroplast. This is a durable and safe material, it is scratch-resistant and does not lose its original color over time.

To prevent the formation of bacteria on the product, the seat is treated with silver ions and special additives.

A duroplast toilet seat will last much longer than conventional plastic counterparts and is easy to clean. Moreover, this material does not react at all to the effects of bleach and abrasive household chemicals. Therefore, these are the seats that are used in public toilets.

Seat with microlift mechanism with air shock absorption function. In this case, the seat is equipped with special compartments that are filled with flavored silicone. The service life of the product increases to ten years. The toilet lid with microlift can be installed on any modern toilet.

Lift seats may have an additional feature called “Quick Release,” which allows the cover to be quickly removed for cleaning.

On the plumbing products market you can find products from Russian and foreign manufacturers.

Among domestic manufacturers of plumbing fixtures, the following are popular:

• Santek,
• "Kirov Ceramics".

For the production of products, high-quality European equipment is used, and the products. Another well-known manufacturer is the Roca Group. A few years ago it merged with Santek, which had a positive impact on quality and design.

Among the foreign brands of plumbing fixtures it should be noted:

• the Chinese company Portu, which works with nanocoating. Toilet seats under this brand come in different styles and colors.
• the Italian company Orsa, which presents graceful and elegant products of only high quality.
• Swedish plumbing equipment company Gustavsberg, which also produces high-quality models.

Among the large assortment of colors, you can choose exactly the shade of the seat with a microlift that will suit the interior of the bathroom. A huge selection of sizes makes it possible to choose a seat with a microlift even for small toilets, which are usually installed in small toilet rooms.

Models of Russian and foreign brands

Santek and Kirov Ceramics are considered popular. All their products are manufactured using high-quality European equipment. The cost of the products is quite reasonable.

Roca Group company. A couple of years ago she linked up with Santek. This has had a noticeable impact on the style of the products and has led to improved quality and reliability of the products.

Foreign manufacturers whose products have proven themselves:

1. Portu is a Chinese company that works with nanocoatings and produces products in different styles and colors;
2. Orsa is an Italian company that produces exquisite models of the highest quality;
3. Gustavsberg is a Swedish company that produces high quality models.

Recommendations

• cheap models may have a nice design, but use fragile components that are not immediately visible;
• it is desirable that the seat not only matches the shape of the toilet, but also harmonizes with the overall design of the toilet or bathroom;
• Before making a final decision, you should definitely search the Internet for information and reviews on the device you like;
• You must pay attention to the material from which the seat is made and check with the seller for its characteristics;
• You should carefully study all additional functions and evaluate their necessity - whether they are really that important.

Our range:

Lid for bidet Roca Meridian Soft Close 8062AC004 with microlift, chrome hinges RUR 5,990

Grohe Bau Ceramic seat cover with microlift 39493000 7044 RUR

Seat cover Jacob Delafon 8322K00 with hinge microlift chrome RUB 7,930

Seat cover Jacob Delafon E7000500 with microlift 9900 RUR

Exclusive toilet seats

Plumbing fixtures for the toilet, equipped with electronics, have not been surprising for a long time. Recently, toilets have also come close to the electronic fraternity. Regulators for drainage, water intake, disinfection, filtration - these functions become integral parts of bidets and urinals.

Some of these functions are also used on toilet seats. Thus, electronic bidet covers and heated seats are quickly gaining popularity.

The installation of the electric model is basically the same as the standard version. The only addition is cable laying and installation of an electrical outlet.

The toilet is from the group of “exclusive” products. In addition to the usual functions, the device is equipped with an additional feature - a seat heating system. Installation of such plumbing requires an additional supply of electrical communications.

The design of models with illuminated bowls is not entirely clear - what benefit do they bring to the toilet visitor? However, these solutions remain relevant due to the stability of their demand in the market.

The installation of a backlit seat must include the installation of an electrical network in the toilet area. At the same time, there are models of seat covers, where the backlight lamps are powered by batteries.

The batteries are built directly inside the seat structure. You cannot do without installing electrical communications in the case of using toilets with a motion control function.

How to choose a lid with a microlift: important criteria

In most cases, manufacturers of such products target their products to a specific type of toilet and sell it along with it. But there are also types of lids separate from toilets, when choosing which you need to be extremely careful:

• Compliance of the lid configuration with the shape of the toilet bowl - the service life of the lid with a microlift largely depends on this point. And, in addition, a discrepancy in size leads to a disruption in the appearance of the toilet as a whole.
• Pay special attention to the reliability of this product. This factor is difficult to determine by appearance, but based on the reputation of the manufacturer it is quite possible. Read reviews on the Internet.
• Additional functions. Toilet lids with a microlift, like ordinary seats in general, can be equipped with built-in heating, a self-cleaning function and a smooth lifting device when approaching a person’s toilet.

Toilet with microlift photo

In general, a toilet seat with a microlift is quite easy to purchase at any plumbing store - they provide a large selection of these products, designed for installation on modern toilets. If you are trying to find a similar device for an antediluvian toilet seat, then this may cause problems.

Installation tool kit

The process of connecting a toilet to a sewer requires a preliminary assessment of the necessary materials. The choice of plumbing and connecting fittings depends on the type of sewer riser supply, the intended installation location of the toilet and its type.

In addition to the equipment itself, when installing a toilet yourself, you may need:

1. Sewer corrugation.
2. Plastic corners and adapters.
3. Eccentric cuff.
4. Silicone.
5. Rubber seals and adapters.
6. A saw for plastic pipes or a regular hacksaw for metal.
7. Tape measure, pencil, hammer.
8. Tools for dismantling old sewerage elements and fixing the toilet to the floor.

To remove old cast iron pipes, you may need a professional hammer drill and grinder, but in such advanced cases it is better to invite specialists with their own tools for dismantling.

How to care for products with microlift?

In order not to encounter failure of convenient structures, it is necessary to become familiar with the rules for using such mechanisms. Owners of “amenities with a microlift” need:

• quickly get rid of the habit of “tormenting” the toilet seat and lid with your hands, since only slow movement guarantees the durability of the mechanism;
• at least once a quarter, check the correct position of the toilet seat; if any deviations are detected, it must be corrected: loosen the fasteners, level the device and fix it again;
• maintain cleanliness: regular maintenance is necessary to prevent the “offensive” of bacteria, the appearance of an unpleasant odor, as well as corrosion of metal parts, and premature failure of elements.

Should I repair or buy a new device with a microlift? More often than not, owners come to one logical conclusion: it is easier to buy a new product, since it is not always possible to repair the toilet lid closer. In addition, the result of the work is sometimes disappointing. And in this case, the main task of future owners is to carefully select a model that fits the toilet bowl in all respects. Only this will allow the microlift to work for a long time and without the slightest problems.

The following video will show you how to install this convenient device:

Sources:

• https://iseptick.ru
• https://UnitazVdome.ru/obzory-santehniki/mikrolift-na-unitaze
• https://FB.ru/article/243581/sidene-s-mikroliftom-dlya-unitaza-otzyivyi-ustanovka-montaj
• https://www.o-vannoy.ru/remont/sidene-dlya-unitaza-s-mikroliftom/
• https://moyavanna.com/kak-vybrat-sidene-dlja-unitaza-s-mikroliftom/
• https://vannaja.net/sidene-dlya-unitaza-s-mikroliftom/
• https://dom-i-remont.info/posts/santehnika/kak-pochinit-dovodchik-kryshki-unitaza-neispravnosti-i-ih-ustranenie/

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