Toilet tanks are an integral part of the bathroom and need to be well-fitted for them to work as designed.
A lot of homeowners struggle with replacing a toilet tank and often wonder what to look for during the research phase. It’s essential to choose the right toilet tank when changing it.
A question most people will have is – Are toilet tanks interchangeable?
Toilet tanks are not interchangeable. Each toilet has specific dimensions and design elements that need to be accounted for when buying a replacement toilet tank. If a compatible version is not installed, the toilet will not function as expected. It’s best to look at the toilet’s model number to find an accompanying toilet tank.
If you attempt to take any random toilet tank and install it, the results will be inefficient. The toilet will begin to leak and it’s possible the fixture won’t function at all.
This is why it’s important to do your homework, look at the model number for the toilet, and then find a replacement toilet tank.
Here is a look at why toilet tanks are not interchangeable and what to look for when buying a replacement toilet tank.
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Reasons Toilet Tanks Are Not Universal
1. Specific Dimensions
The measurements are always different.
You will notice this when comparing toilet tanks with each other. Even a few inches can make a real difference in how the toilet tank fits and whether or not it sits in place once tightened.
As a result, it is important to take out a measuring tape and begin measuring the existing toilet. This will allow you to get a read on how big the toilet tank needs to be. Otherwise, you could end up with the wrong replacement.
You should always look at the dimensions as a starting point.
This will ensure you end up with something that’s a snug fit and will allow the toilet to function the way it is designed to. Any mistakes in this regard will cause the toilet to leak and/or break down quickly.
2. Unique Design Elements
You will want to take the time to look at the different models that are out there.
These can include:
- Moen
- Glacier Bay
- AquaSource
- ToTo
- Sterling
If you take the time to analyze each type of toilet tank, it will become obvious how different they are from each other. This is why it’s essential to take your time and analyze each brand’s models to find the right toilet tank for your needs.
This is the only way to ensure the fit is a good one and it doesn’t break down on your later on.
3. Wrong Tank Can Start Leaking
Let’s assume you try to use a Moen toilet tank on a Sterling toilet.
What will happen? Is it going to work?
No, it will not work because the toilet will be different in terms of dimensions, design elements, and anything else needed for the tank to be compatible. You cannot mix and match toilet parts because they are specifically designed for the model they come with.
For a replacement toilet tank, you will want to record all of this information down. Otherwise, it is common for the wrong toilet tank to cause the fixture to leak.
Your goal should be to find an exact match for the toilet. It’s the only way for things to work out.
4. Specialized Installation Process
Toilet tanks are not universal because of the installation process.
Each toilet tank is going to have a unique set of instructions associated with how to install them. Some are going to be straightforward while others are going to have added steps that need to be taken into account.
This is why toilet tanks are not interchangeable. You will have to find the model number and measure the toilet before finding a good toilet tank.
It’s the only way to see good results.
Final Thoughts
Are toilet tanks interchangeable?
Toilet tanks are not interchangeable. It is important to measure the toilet and find the model number inside the existing toilet tank before finding a replacement. Using a random toilet tank will lead to inefficient results including leaking, cracking, and general performance issues.
It’s important to find a fully compatible toilet tank to ensure the replacement is a good one. This is the only way to feel assured about what you are installing and how well it’s going to work over the long term.
Settling for a random toilet tank is never a good idea. It will not perform the way you want and it could also ruin the floor if water starts to spill everywhere.
Be patient and look to find a fully compatible toilet tank for your toilet.
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