so whats the difference between the 2, I know how the syphon unit works how does the flush valve work. Which is best ?

Cliff

Cliff,
I'm pretty sure it just opens a valve, and lets the water out rather than sucking it out, they're easier to get dual flush with too!

why don't we all use flush valves rather than syphon units

Cliff

I thnk its a historic problem.
Old valve type ones used to lose a lot of water when they failed and water companies favoured syphons.
Now valves are proved to be more reliable, they are on an "approved product " list.

Nick

It's also one of those 'Euro' things. Most of Europe uses valves and, as has been said, they leak a lot. Or did do - don't know about now. In the UK as we like to keep our water 'cos we're crap at building reservoirs etc we used syphons. Euro-regs came along and we got told to fit in with Johnny Foreigner. They wanted the Brits to open up our market for them .... Obviously, being good Europeans, we said 'Come on in ...'.....

So are th valves now 'leak proof'? Looking at the design it looks very easy for them to leak. Not a good idea if you're on a water meter....

Cheers

Dave

PS: did I come across as anti-European? Nah, think I got away with it ..... :-)

yeah I see how the valves could be a problem as the syphon has to pull the water through it before it all starts to flow whereas a valve I suppose is like it says simply a valve that opens and closes. If the syphon fails you get no flush but if a valve fails you lose all your water down the pan. So if you were on a meter then I suppose you could say you were flushing money down the pan ......cue laughter :)

Syphons seem to work well, I will stick with them

Cliff

You get valves in the UK too now? Bad luck.

Had to live with a leaky one in my apt here for 3 yrs. Just bought my own house, replaced 3 already with more modern but nevertheless valve ones, dual flush (:)), one leaks a bit from day 1. Desperately wish I could get siphons. Note, get a siphon with detachable body so it's easy to change the flap valve without having to unbolt the whole cistern.

yep when the diaphram went in my parents syphon unit I got my dad to get the detatchable one, its only like £2 more.

Cliff

I've got to say flushing valves are the best thing since sliced bread for maintainance, however if it leaks then it is usually due to the push button not being lined up properly and then it puts strain on the valve and it lets by.

Mog