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Cistern valve replacement in Sawbridgeworth.

Is your toilet flushing continually, or can you hear the cistern water inlet hissing as it lets in water long after filling is complete, or maybe your cistern is just taking too long to fill after flushing.
If this sounds familiar then its possible your cistern valves are not functioning properly, this is most probably caused by limescale build up which is very common in Sawbridgeworth, Bishops Stortford due to these being hard water areas.
Keeping your toilet flush in good working order makes environmental and economic sense because it saves you water and money.
Toilet flushing accounts for 20% of domestic water consumption, so a simple leak soon becomes a bottomless pit for your hard-earned wedge. That's why you need to act quickly if your cistern develops a fault.
Don't wait until this becomes an emergency plumbing nightmare.

Call me today and for as little as £99 I can replace all your cistern valves leaving you sitting comfortably when the need arises.

Toilet

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Main Components of a Cistern:

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  1. Fill Valve (Inlet Valve) – Controls the flow of water into the cistern after a flush.

  2. Float (Ballcock or Float Valve) – Regulates water level by rising and shutting off the fill valve when the tank is full.

  3. Flush Valve – Releases water into the toilet bowl when flushed.

  4. Flapper (or Flush Seal/Diaphragm Washer) – A rubber or plastic seal that lifts to allow water to flush and then closes to refill the cistern.

  5. Overflow Tube – Prevents water from overfilling by directing excess into the bowl.

  6. Handle Mechanism or Flush Button – Activates the flush by lifting the flapper or opening the flush valve.

  7. Seals and Washers – Found throughout the system to prevent leaks.

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What to do when limescale has built up:

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Limescale (calcium deposits from hard water) can cause blockages, leaks, and malfunctions. The most commonly affected parts include:

  • Fill Valve – Limescale can clog the valve, reducing water flow. If cleaning doesn’t work, replace it.

  • Float Mechanism – Can become stiff or stuck due to deposits, preventing proper water regulation. If cleaning doesn’t work, replace it.

  • Flush Valve & Seal – Build-up can cause leaks or weak flushing. If cleaning doesn’t restore function, replace the seal or the whole valve.

  • Flapper or Diaphragm Washer – Often hardens or deteriorates due to limescale, leading to continuous water flow into the bowl.

       If cleaning doesn’t work, replace it.

  • Inlet Pipe & Seals – Deposits can weaken rubber seals, causing leaks.

  • Flush Handle/Button Mechanism – If the internal components seize up, it may need replacing.

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Prevention & Maintenance Tips:

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  • Regularly clean with a vinegar soak or limescale remover.

  • Use water softening tablets if in a hard water area.

  • Check components periodically for early signs of damage.

Cistern Components
Cistern full of limescale

So what is in my cistern & what is affected by limescale build-up?

So how can I help and what can you expect with my service?

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Most toilets have standard un-concealed, bottom entry cistern units.

I can replace all the necessary valves in a one of these for just £99. I can also do this with non standard, concealed or older cisterns but this may incur an additional cost if more work or more expensive parts are needed.

If you are unsure what type of cistern you have, you can call me to discuss. I can advise on the best way forward for you. Its usually easiest to send me a pic of your cistern to quickly determine the details.

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If you decide to go ahead and book me to fix your cistern you can expect the following service from me:

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  1. Punctuality: I’ll arrive on time, ready to get to work.

  2. Personalised setup: We’ll start with a quick consultation to clarify exactly what I'll be doing and how long the job will take.

  3. I'll put all necessary covers and protection down in the work area to ensure nothing is damaged in the process.

  4. I'll temporarily shut off your water supply, usually this can be done locally to the toilet.

  5. I'll get to work methodically removing and replacing each valve.

  6. I'll switch the water supply back on and thoroughly test all components and check the whole system is water tight.

  7. Clean-Up: I’ll clear away boxes, packaging and old components leaving your bathroom clean and tidy.

  8. With my service, you can enjoy stress-free repairs and a tidy home, all while focusing on what matters most to you.

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I can also help you with many other home projects and repairs. Click here to see my other services.

The Sawbridgeworth Handyman!

Service Areas

Sawbridgeworth

Bishops Stortford

Hatfield Heath

Hatfield Broad Oak

High Wych

Old Harlow

Much Hadham

Little Hallingbury

Sheering

Monday-Friday 9-5pm

​Saturday & Sunday - Closed

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Contact 

23 Greenstead

Sawbridgeworth

Hertfordshire

CM219NY

Public liability insurance

Tel: 07349726299

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