How long should it take to fill the tank and how can that be regulated? Author: Paul Bergstrom Last Update: Jun 08, 2006

The time to fill the tank varies with the design and size of the tank, which can be from 1.6 to 7+ gallons. The flushing action normally takes about 10 to 15 seconds (or less with the new 1.6 gallon toilets). Refilling the tank generally is in the range of 45 seconds to 1-1/2 minutes. If water pressure is low (under 30 psi), select a fill valve (like CESCO’s) which gives good flow rates and operates equally well at all pressures. If the water pressure is high (above 50 psi), install a fill valve that regulates the water pressure (like CESCO’s Burlington Model 20A) and enables the installer to control both the time and noise level when the tank is refilling. Partially closing the supply valve is suggested by some sources to reduce flow and noise, but we have found that this can add to the noise problem and reduce the quantity of water needed to flush and refill the bowl adequately.