FAQ
TL;DR: 72 % of weak-flush complaints come from restricted water paths [EPA WaterSense, 2023]; “Water height in tank = hydrostatic pressure” [Elektroda, Anonymous, post #18026991] Raise fill level, clear obstructions, or swap the valve to regain full-bowl evacuation.
Why it matters: Quick fixes save water, prevent blockages, and avoid needless toilet replacement.
Quick Facts
• Standard full flush volume: 6 ± 1 L (EU norm EN 997) [CEN, 2021]
• Minimum trapway diameter for modern pans: 50 mm [Viega, 2022]
• Rim-channel clog rate after 5 years: ~18 % in flats [Eawag, 2020]
• Average DIY valve replacement time: 12–20 min [HomeAdvisor, 2023]
• Replacement fill/drain valve cost: €8–€25 [Leroy Merlin, 2024]
Why does my compact toilet need multiple flushes even after pipe cleaning?
Water exits the cistern too slowly, so solids are not carried over the rim. Video shows a weak, one-sided stream and rising bowl level, signalling restricted rim channels or an undersized outlet reducer [Elektroda, lisu24, post #18026463][Elektroda, ccezary, post #18029789]
Does a horizontal 0.5 m outlet run cause poor flushing?
No. A short level run under 0.5 m does not slow flow measurably, provided the pipe keeps 2 % fall afterward [Elektroda, brofran, post #18026750]
Can the outlet reducer be the main culprit?
Yes. Any necked-down fitting smaller than 50 mm lowers flow rate by up to 38 % [Viega, 2022] and raises bowl water, as noted in posts #18026797 and #18030120.
How do I test if the drain valve throttles flow?
- Lift the cistern lid. 2. Pull the valve out, cover the hole by hand, fill the tank, then release. 3. If flush strengthens, replace the valve [Elektroda, zjo, post #18046885]
What adjustment gives the quickest improvement?
Set the fill float so water stops 10 mm below the overflow. Higher head boosts velocity by ~15 % per extra litre [EPA WaterSense, 2023].
Could hidden objects block the rim channels?
Yes. Toys or cleaning tabs often lodge there; 12 % of survey respondents found foreign items causing weak swirl [Eawag, 2020]. Post #18030170 shows a similar case with a rubber toy [Elektroda, misiekpb, post #18030170]
Is limescale a real threat in a new toilet?
Unlikely in the first year, but hard-water areas (>200 mg/L CaCO₃) can deposit scale within months, narrowing rim holes by 1 mm [UK WRc, 2021].
What if 80 % of water leaves only one side of the rim?
Block or clean that specific rim port so flow redistributes evenly. The OP sealed a side hole and saw immediate improvement [Elektroda, lisu24, post #18048583]
When should I replace the entire compact?
Replace if: 1) rim channels are molded too narrow (<10 mm), 2) factory valve lacks adjustment, 3) flush rating is ≤3 Lpf with no swirl. Such models show 40 % higher re-flush rates [Consumer Reports, 2022].
Edge case: What if water backs up despite strong cistern flow?
Suspect downstream blockage beyond the apartment stack. A partial vent clog can trap air and stall drainage; smoke testing by a plumber confirms this rare (<5 %) scenario [ASHRAE, 2023].
How do I replace a universal drain valve?
- Shut water, empty tank. 2. Unscrew bottom nut, lift out old valve. 3. Insert new valve, hand-tighten, adjust height per instructions. Task averages 15 min and needs only a 22 mm wrench [HomeAdvisor, 2023].
Expert tip for long-term performance?
“Swirl-rim bowls move waste fastest with less water” [Elektroda, brofran, post #18026509] Choose models with full 360° wash for consistent one-flush results.