Squeaking when lowering the toilet lid with a microlift. Toilet lid repair: frequent breakdowns and how to fix them
The toilet lid with a micro-lift is a useful invention, it can be compared with a door closer - the micro-lift prevents the lid from falling loudly on the toilet, as well as hitting the tank when lifted sharply. Below we will take a closer look at the device of this design, its advantages, and also consider how to fix the toilet lid microlift if it fails.
Peculiarities
Despite the fact that the price of seats with a microlift is higher than conventional ones, the purchase of this device can be called reasonable, since it has a number of positive qualities, which are listed below:
- Lifting and closing of the lid is carried out silently.
- Extends the life of the toilet bowl, as it prevents the occurrence of microcracks on its surface as a result of constant impacts. Accordingly, the service life of the plastic structure itself increases, since plastic is a rather fragile material, also prone to cracking.
- Easy to install, making it easy to install the seat yourself. In addition, if necessary, the structure is easy to remove, for example, to wash.
- Expensive models can work automatically, i.e. lift the lid when a person enters and close it when no one is in the room.
As for the shortcomings, they can only be attributed to the fact that the structure cannot be quickly lowered by hand. If you make an effort, the mechanism will simply break. It is not worth doing this, since it is quite difficult to repair the toilet lid microlift, and in some cases it is impossible at all.
Installation
Despite the more complex design, the lift-up toilet lid mount is the same as traditional products. Therefore, all that has to be done is to remove the old seat and install a new one in its place. First, rubber rings must be put on it, which will ensure a soft fit of the structure to the surface of the plumbing ().
The only thing, unlike a regular seat with a panel, a device with a micro-lift may require additional adjustment. This is due to the fact that even a slight distortion or loose fit can lead to device failure.
By rotating the adjusting cups, the seat can be leveled and thus prevent damage to the seat. Thus, the task of adjustment is to ensure a uniform fit of the product over the entire surface of the plumbing fixture.
Note! Adjustment should be made before the fixing nuts are tightened.
Pictured is the installed seat.
Repair
Construction device
As a rule, people are not interested in the device of the products used, and the seats in question are no exception. However, if it becomes necessary to repair the microlift for the toilet lid with your own hands, then first of all you need to figure out how it works.
So, the micro-lift device for the toilet lid is quite simple.
Structurally, the mechanism consists of the following elements:
- A rod on which a plastic structure is rigidly attached;
- Weak spring, the force of which exactly corresponds to the weight of the structure and is on the verge of equilibrium;
- Microlift articulated mechanism;
- Lid;
- Seat.
The spring and micro-lift hinge mechanism ensure smooth opening and closing of the structure.
Troubleshooting
If you notice that the toilet lid microlift is not working, then you should try to fix the problem immediately. If you delay the repair, it is quite possible that you will have to replace the product with a new device.
Before you repair the toilet lid microlift, you should figure out what exactly the breakdown is. The most common malfunction is detaching and turning the base with an elevator from the toilet.
The lift mechanism is attached to the back of the seat with two plastic bolts, which are screwed on from below with nuts. Bolts can also break, which can be replaced if necessary.
Another common problem is a broken spring. Unfortunately, in this case, it will not be possible to carry out repairs in order for the device to fully work, since it is very difficult to find a suitable spring.
Advice! If for some reason the toilet lid with a microlift broke, then you can try to glue it. For these purposes, you can use liquid nails.
Problems with the stem are also unlikely to be fixed, unless you can find the same faulty device with a whole stem from your friends or a suitable repair kit in specialized stores. In other cases, you will have to spend money on a new product.
Here, perhaps, is the entire instruction for the repair of this device. In general, the microlift mechanism, unfortunately, quickly wears out and is difficult to repair. Therefore, in most cases, it is more advisable to purchase a new seat.
Conclusion
A seat with an elevator device is more comfortable in terms of operation, and also has another important advantage - it increases the life of the toilet bowl. However, it should be borne in mind that it requires a careful attitude and can quickly fail (
Today, toilet seats are equipped with a variety of functions. Seat options include:
- Self-cleaning function;
- Automatic heating;
- Easy removal;
- Repelling dirt.
- A toilet equipped with a microlift is chosen by every guru of plumbing equipment who considers himself. If previously an integral part of the toilet bowl was the roar of the lowered lid and seat, today this trouble has been eliminated by manufacturers. Thanks to the microlift function, the toilet bowl has gained more advantages:
- Smooth autonomous closing of a cover;
- No noise when lowering the device;
- Soft contact with the surface of the toilet;
- Modern design.
- Often, the microlift system wears out faster than other toilet systems. Then the toilet lift needs to be repaired. The complex mechanism of the device does not tolerate illiterate interference. The priority of YouDo masters is the presence of honed skills in handling this device. Leave your toilet seat repair to our experts. We work in St. Petersburg and Moscow.
Help YouDo to restore the microlift
A microlift failure makes lowering the toilet lid dangerous. Rapid inaccurate lowering of the lid can lead to cracks and chips on the toilet bowl. In this case, the use of the unit will become impossible. Therefore, if you notice failures in the microlift mechanism, immediately order the repair of the toilet lifter on the exchange website. Immediately after the assignment is completed, our performers: - Contact you promptly;
- They will arrive at the time and place desired by the customer;
- Competently restore the function of the microlift;
- They will diagnose and evaluate the operation of the entire toilet system;
- Test the operation of the microlift;
- Guarantee the correct operation of the microlift for a long time.
Modern toilet seats can be complemented by different functions. They can be removed and removed, repel dirt, self-clean and even heat up. Such innovations include a toilet lid with a microlift. This mechanism is called “soft lowering” or “soft-close”. A toilet equipped with a seat with a microclimate differs from the usual one in the presence of a special device that facilitates the smooth lowering of the lid. This mechanism prevents a loud sound from a falling cover, and also serves as a protection against mechanical damage (chips, cracks) that may occur as a result of the seat falling. Microlift for the toilet lid - do-it-yourself repair, this is what will be discussed in our article.
Movement Features
Despite the fact that the cost of sanitary products with a microclimate is somewhat higher compared to conventional ones, they have a number of positive qualities, among which are the following:
- Closing and lifting the lid is silent.
- Extends the life of the plumbing fixture, as it prevents the appearance of microcracks on its surface due to constant impacts. Accordingly, the service life of the plastic structure itself also increases, since plastic is a rather fragile material, also prone to cracking.
- Easy to install, making it easy to install the seat yourself. Moreover, if necessary, the cover can be easily removed, for example, to wash.
- More expensive models can work automatically, that is, they raise the lid when a person appears, and also close it if no one is in the room.
Important! As for the shortcomings, here it can only be noted that this design will not come out quickly to lower it with your hands. If you make an effort, the mechanism may break. It is categorically not worth doing this, since it is quite difficult to repair the toilet lid lifter with your own hands, and in rare cases it is completely impossible.
Installation
Despite the more complex design, the fastening of the toilet lid with a microlift is the same as in traditional products. Therefore, all that needs to be done is to remove the old seat and install a new one. First, rubber rings should be put on it, which can ensure a soft fit of the product to the surface of the plumbing.
The only difference from the usual seat with a panel is that a product with a microlift may require additional adjustment. This is due to the fact that even a slight misalignment or loose fit can lead to device failure.
With the help of adjusting cups, the seat can be leveled, thereby preventing its failure. So, the task of adjustment is to ensure a uniform fit of the cover over the entire surface of the plumbing fixture.
Important! Adjustment must be made before the lock nuts are fully tightened.
Repair
Closer on the toilet lid not working? In order to repair the microlift of the toilet lid and fix it with your own hands, you need to understand the design features of this product.
Device
Most people are not interested in the design of the products they use, and the models of toilet seats in question are no exception. But if it became necessary to repair such a cover, then, first of all, you should understand how it works. So, the microlift device is quite simple:
- A rod to which a plastic structure is rigidly attached.
- A weak spring, the force of which exactly corresponds to the weight of the structure and must be on the verge of equilibrium.
- Articulated microlift mechanism.
- Lid.
- The seat itself.
Important! The micro-lift hinge mechanism and spring ensure smooth opening and closing of the lid.
Troubleshooting
If you see that the toilet lid mount is not working, then you should try to immediately fix the problem and repair it. Since, if you delay the repair, it is quite possible that in the future you will have to completely replace the product and install a new device:
- Before proceeding with the repair of the toilet lid microlift, it is necessary to figure out what exactly the breakdown is. The most common malfunction is detaching and turning the base with an elevator from the toilet.
- The lift mechanism is attached to the back of the seat with two plastic bolts that are screwed on with nuts from the bottom. Bolts can also break, which can be replaced if necessary.
- Another common problem is a broken spring. Unfortunately, in this case, it will not be possible to carry out repairs so that the device works fully, since it is quite difficult to find the right spring.
Important! If for some reason the toilet lid with a microlift broke, then you can try to glue it together. For this purpose, you can use "liquid nails".
- The problem with the stem is also unlikely to be eliminated, unless you can find the same faulty device with a whole stem or a suitable repair kit in a specialized store. In other cases, you will have to buy a new cover.
Important! Perhaps this is the entire instruction for the repair of such a plumbing device. In general, the microlift mechanism, unfortunately, wears out rather quickly and is difficult to repair. Because of this, in most cases it makes more sense to buy a new seat.
footage
A seat with an elevator device is considered more comfortable in terms of use, in addition, it has an important advantage - it extends the life of the toilet bowl. However, it should be borne in mind that repairing a toilet lid lifter with your own hands is not an easy task, and cannot always be fully implemented.
A toilet microlift can be compared to a door winder - it prevents a loud fall, which not only makes an unpleasant sound, but also violates the integrity of the surfaces. It works the same way when lifting the lid off the toilet seat.
Features of the microlift for the toilet lid
Microlift for the seat
A microlift is a design that provides control over the lowering and raising of the lid so that it does not fall sharply and, on the contrary, does not hit the barrel when raised. Visually, toilet bowls seem durable, but most of them today are made of ceramic, and with regular mechanical stress, this material is prone to cracking.
Of course, if the structure is made of plastic, it will not damage ceramics, but it can easily crack itself. And also, even the lightest material, when dropped, is capable of making a loud sound, which is especially unpleasant at night or during a child’s sleep.
Microlifts come in different configurations, providing maximum comfort for households. Even the most complex design is quite easy to install. Removing the fixture along with the microlift is also simple, which greatly simplifies the cleaning process.
The device has a fairly extensive list of advantages, and there are practically no disadvantages. Advantages of the microlift for the toilet:
- The operation of the structure is almost silent. There are no sounds associated with the fall of the seat. The only violation of the silence is the draining of water and filling the tank.
- The design of the microlift is able to increase the operational period not only of the seat, but also of the toilet itself. Thanks to it, the surface of the parts wears out less. In addition, careful lowering of the lid contributes to a longer preservation of the elements.
- Very simple design. It is possible to mount and dismantle such installations in a short period of time - this will allow you to easily and often clean not only the toilet bowl, but also the lid.
- Hygiene. Thanks to the device, a person is not forced to touch the lid every time, on which pathogens quickly accumulate.
Automation - this configuration is not available for all designs, only expensive models or individual covers with a microlift are able to automatically raise the cover when a person enters the room, as well as automatically lower it.
As for the shortcomings, perhaps the most common one is the inability to quickly lower the lid with your hands. With efforts, the probability that the structure will be broken increases significantly, and it will not always lie down for repairs.
The main causes of failure
Product design
How to fix a toilet lid microlift and whether they are repairable - these are perhaps one of the most common questions when buying. Of course, it is easier to prevent a breakdown than to repair a part.
If, after prolonged use, the cover with a microlift has stopped working, then you should start repairing it as soon as possible. And the point is not only in comfort, but also in the fact that for a long time, being in this state, the structure can finally fail.
Before repairing the toilet, you should familiarize yourself with the mechanism of operation. The cover with a microlift consists of the following parts:
- lid and toilet seat;
- a stem that serves as a mount for the cover;
- the main mechanism of the microlift, visually representing the articulated mechanism;
- a weak spring that keeps the plastic structure in balance.
The main element that is responsible for the operation of the entire structure is microlift equipment and a spring. As a rule, they break.
Important selection criteria
Almost always, manufacturers adapt their products to a specific type of toilet and sell them with them. However, there are covers with microlifts for toilet bowls, when choosing them, it is recommended to pay attention to the following criteria:
- So that the configuration of the lid is adapted to the shape of the toilet bowl. This also affects the duration of use. It is also worth noting that the size mismatch violates the aesthetic appearance as a whole.
- Particular attention should be paid to the quality of the parts and the materials used.
- Availability of automated functions. Microlift lids can be additionally equipped with built-in heating, soft lift function, as well as self-cleaning capability.
The range of toilet lids equipped with microlifts is huge. When choosing, difficulties may arise, so it is recommended that you first study well-known manufacturers, as well as consult with the seller in the store.
DIY repair
Cover mount
Perhaps the most common failure occurs when the base with the elevator rotates and disconnects relative to the toilet. This rotating mechanism is located in the back of the seat, fixed with two bolts made of plastic.
Plastic is a brittle material, so it's only a matter of time before they break. It is enough to replace the bolts with new ones and fix the rotational mechanism.
Also quite often the spring fails. It can weaken or even break over time, therefore, it ceases to cope with its task. To repair, you need to buy a new part and fix it.
Some breakdowns are repaired on their own. For example, if the structure began to creak, it ran out of lubricant. The shortage is filled and the microlift works like new.
You can also fix some mechanical failures yourself. As a rule, we are talking about the toilet lid. For example, it may crack if you sit on it or put something heavy on it.
Of course, because of a crack, it is a pity to change the entire structure completely, especially if it was expensive. If the cover is made of plastic, it is recommended to pour dichloroethane or acetone along the crack. If it is made of a different material, the best option is liquid nails.
Stem problems are already hard to repair. As a rule, it is possible to eliminate the breakdown only if a similar device with a whole stem is found or a suitable repair kit is found in a specialized store. But unfortunately, most often you have to purchase a new toilet lid with a microlift.
Installing toilet lids
You can install and replace the cover with a new one yourself without outside help. If you figured out the new cover, then for replacement / installation, you must first prepare a tool: a socket wrench, pliers, a hacksaw and waterproof silicone sealant.
The installation process is carried out according to the following algorithm:
- Delete the old design.
- We put new fasteners in the freed holes.
- We install a rubber insert at the bottom of the lid.
- Using fixing bolts, we fix the structure to the toilet bowl.
A microlift is a fragile, but functional device and, as a rule, it is not possible to fix the breakdown on its own (with the exception of those listed above). When choosing a new cover, it is important to pay attention to the quality of the product, the manufacturer, functionality and dimensions. They are easy to care for, if necessary, the covers are removed in a matter of minutes.
From the author: hello dear friends! Progress does not stand still, and today even such a simple thing as a toilet lid has many additional functions. It can be equipped with a built-in bidet, lighting, audio system and so on. And we are already so accustomed to comfort that as soon as one of these functions fails, we immediately become uncomfortable.
Fortunately, some of them can be fixed on your own and fairly quickly. Today, for example, we are talking about how to make a microlift for do-it-yourself repairs. The functionality of this equipment may seem insignificant, but this is only until a breakdown occurs.
Features of the microlift
A microlift is a piece of equipment that allows you to control the lowering of the lid so that it does not fall too abruptly. The fact is that the toilet, despite all its apparent strength, is often made of ceramics. And it can crack and split under strong physical impact.
Of course, if the lid is made of lightweight plastic, then even with a strong fall, it will not harm the bowl in any way. But it may well crack itself. In addition, even lightweight material makes a loud sound when dropped, which is especially unpleasant in the silence of the night.
However, the functionality of the microlift is not limited to this. It all depends on the specific cover model. In some varieties, microlifts are equipped with an additional element, due to which the lid rises and falls independently when a person appears and leaves. In general, the maximum comfort is obtained.
At the same time, the installation of even the most "fancy" model is quite easy. And the cover is removed no less simply, which greatly simplifies the care of both it and the toilet. The only drawback is that the microlift takes full control of the lifting and lowering procedure. That is, you cannot press on such a cover with your hands in order to close it quickly - in this case, the mechanism will simply break.
Troubleshooting
If, after prolonged use, the cover with a microlift is broken, then, of course, you want to repair it as soon as possible. However, the point is not only in the desire to quickly find the usual level of comfort, but also in the fact that with a long stay in a broken state, the microlift can completely fail, and then it will not be possible to fix it.
But before proceeding with the repair of the mechanism, it would be nice to know what this equipment is all about. So let's first understand its design. It consists of the following elements:
- a rod that acts as a fastener for the cover;
- a weak spring with which the plastic structure is balanced;
- the microlift mechanism itself, which is a hinged structure;
- lid and toilet seat.
The main elements responsible for the operation of the system are micro-lift equipment and a spring. Accordingly, problems usually occur with them.
The most common failure is detachment and twisting of the lift base. This mechanism is located on the back of the seat, fixed on it by means of two bolts made of plastic. Actually, the fasteners are usually the problem.
Plastic is a fairly brittle material, so it's only a matter of time before these bolts break. Of course, in such a situation, they must be replaced and the elevator mechanism re-secured in its place.
Also, the spring is not immune from malfunctions. It can either break down or weaken over time, as a result of which it ceases to cope with its functions. It is also beyond repair, it can only be replaced with a new one.
The same applies to the stock. Strictly speaking, if a single element breaks down, it is really easier to replace it with a new one, since even in the event of a repair, it will not last long. And the components from such products are usually inexpensive.
However, several types of problems can still be corrected. For example, if the lid began to creak mournfully while raising and lowering, then this means that the mechanism has run out of lubricants. In this case, you just need to make up for their deficiency.
You can also fix some of the consequences of mechanical damage yourself. Most often, such incidents occur with the toilet lid. If, for example, someone carelessly managed to sit on it in the dark, then it can crack.
Of course, it’s a shame to change the entire structure because of one crack, especially if it belongs to a rather high price segment. Therefore, you can try to fix it yourself.
If the cracked cover is made of plastic, then drip acetone or dichloroethane over the entire length of the damaged area. Then hold it for a few minutes so that the edges of the crack fit tightly. After that, the damage will be repaired. If the product is made of a different material, then use liquid nails for repairs.
Cover replacement
The microlift is a rather delicate device, and repairing it yourself is usually impossible, except for the above cases. Therefore, in the event of a breakdown, it is most often necessary to either call professional craftsmen, or simply replace the entire cover entirely.
Just the last operation you can easily perform on your own, since this equipment is installed in the same way as the usual one, which does not have additional functions.
The main thing to pay attention to is the choice of a new cover. It must strictly correspond to the dimensions of the toilet bowl and the shape of its bowl. Often, breakdowns occur precisely because the lid used simply does not fit the product.
In addition to the overall dimensions, the distance between the holes on the toilet, which serve to mount the equipment, is also important. There are also fasteners on the roof itself, and it is necessary that they be able to stand in the appropriate places. Otherwise, the installation simply will not work.
The choice of the manufacturer should also be taken responsibly. Of course, it is always nice to buy a product from the lowest price category, while saving a considerable amount. But how long will this saving last, given the procedure for regularly replacing low-quality equipment? It is usually better to spend more, but once, while avoiding the hassle of endless breakdowns and repairs.
Well, we figured out the lid. In addition to it, for replacement you will need pliers, a hacksaw and a socket wrench, as well as waterproof silicone sealant - our true friend in almost any work with plumbing equipment. Let's get to work.
- Remove the old cover. To do this, unscrew the bolts holding it to the toilet. If they are made of metal, then it is likely that rust will firmly fix them. Then you need a special tool that freezes it. It can be purchased at any store of the corresponding direction. After spraying the product on rusted elements, you should wait a few minutes, and then finally remove them. If the bolts are plastic, but also stubbornly do not want to leave their homes, then simply cut them out with a very hot knife. The toilet will not suffer from this, then just clean off the melted plastic from it.
- We put fasteners in the freed holes.
- In the lower part of the new cover, we install the rubber insert included in the kit, which is responsible for the soft contact of the product with other elements.
- Using the fixing bolts, we fix the new lid on the toilet bowl.
- We make adjustments. This is especially important as a poorly adjusted cap will quickly fail. It must be level and firm.
Dear friends, now you know how to replace the microlift cover, and you can also fix minor problems if they occur. Share our article with your friends on social networks so that all of you have the opportunity to restore the already familiar level of comfort in a timely manner. Good luck!