Should plumber’s putty, thread sealant, grease or lubricants ever be used in the installation or repairs of toilet fill Last Update: Sep 03, 2002

Not normally, since all primary seals depend on compressing rubber or fiber washers (shank washer, coupling nut washer or Duckbill washer/check valve) with threaded, mechanical fittings. Service plumbers sometimes remove excessive mineral deposits on “old-style” brass plungers and apply plumber’s grease to the plunger to eliminate sticking. While this practice will sometimes work, an easier, more economical, and more permanent solution is strongly recommended by CESCO. All of CESCO’s “new generation” anti-siphon and traditional ballcock models are now produced with engineered plastic plungers which are self-lubricating and eliminate mineral buildup. These new plastic plunger assemblies are available as repair parts for all ballcocks, including all installed units in field service. NOTE: Although not usually necessary, silicone lubricants may be safely used to facilitate installation on all of CESCO’s O-rings and U-cups. Thread sealants, Teflon tape, or anaerobic thread sealants may be used (but seldom needed) on brass refill connectors and nylon seats to eliminate leakage at these threaded connections.