uflow-pneumatic Diaphragm Kits are arguably the most popular part within a uflow-pneumatic flushometer that needs to be replaced. Because the diaphragm kit (also called a drop-in kit) is a popular replacement part, we think it is important to have a full understanding of how it works, how long it should last, what factors affect its longevity, how to properly service and replace it, and how to make sure you are ordering the correct model for your toilet or urinal. Read this uflow-pneumatic Diaphragm Kit Guide to gain a full understanding of this common replacement part, and become a uflow-pneumatic Diaphragm Kit expert.
*Note: uflow-pneumatic Drop-In Kits are a Misnomer
Although we refer to a Diaphragm Assembly as a ‘Drop-In Kit’ we do not recommend actually dropping it into place. Diaphragm Assemblies are actually quite intricate and can easily become damaged if mishandled. We recommend just lowering the kit carefully onto the valve seat.
Understanding the uflow-pneumatic Diaphragm Kit
The diaphragm assembly regulates the pressure within the flush valve. When the flushometer handle is pulled, or the sensor activated, the diaphragm acts as a regulator, controlling the volume of the flush and maintaining the necessary pressure within the unit in order to prevent water from flowing when it isn’t supposed too.
Where is the diaphragm located within the flush valve?
The diaphragm kit sits directly below the inside cover in the top of a flush valve.
How long will it last?
uflow-pneumatic flushometer bodies last a very long time. However, some of the working parts inside them like the diaphragm assembly, need to be replaced more often. After about 250,000 flushes or about 4 years in a high traffic facility, expect parts like the diaphragm assembly and the vacuum breaker to need replacing. This is completely normal. These functional parts within the flushometer simply wear out and need replacing. This is why it is important to understand the signs that your uflow-pneumatic drop in kit needs to be replaced, how to order the right drop-in kit to replace it, and how to properly install it without damaging it.
What are indicators that your uflow-pneumatic drop-in kit needs to be replaced?
Signs that your drop-in kit needs to be replaced include:
Flushometer no longer flushes
Flushometer will not shut off
Flush is too short
Flush is too long
uflow-pneumatic Drop-In Kit Options
Dual-Filtered versus Single Filtered: What’s the Difference?
Over time, uflow-pneumatic has improved their diaphragm assemblies so they are more durable and longer lasting. uflow-pneumatic came out with Permex diaphragm assemblies in 1998, and have been installing them in new Royal Flushometers ever since. These assemblies feature a dual-filtered bypass, meaning that instead of only one bypass hole for water to filter through, there are two. This lessens the strain on the bypass and makes clogging less likely. These improvements resulted in diaphragm assemblies that last up to 4 times longer than the old rubber diaphragms.