The functionality of plumbing is constantly growing. Another novelty is of interest - a toilet lid with a micro-lift.
At first glance, it seems that this is not such an important part of a plumbing fixture. But sometimes it’s not always possible to hold the lid when lowering, as a result of which it falls down, causing irritation. In this case, the plastic may crack or scratches will remain on the surface of the toilet. In a similar situation, a cover with a micro-lift helps.
How does a microlift work?
The effect of the new device is to smoothly and slowly lower the cover onto the rim. As a result, no loud noises from impact are generated and the surface of the device is not damaged. Ceramics always require careful handling, since it is impossible to restore it to its previous state.
The micro-lift operates according to the principle of a door closer, only smaller. The mechanism consists only of a spring with a rod and hinges. It is calculated according to the weight of the cover in order to smoothly brake it when lowering. This function is performed by the spring. The rod serves to hold the lid and fix it in the lower and upper positions.
It is impossible to disassemble the design. When reassembling, it will no longer work as before.
The cover is lifted manually. To lower it, it should be given a slight push, after which it begins to independently move down under the action of the spring.
An expensive lid for a toilet with a microlift contains a motion sensor, which, when a person enters the toilet, rises and falls when it exits.
Advantages
Not everyone knows the benefits of sitting with a lift, which are as follows:
- ease of installation;
- silent lowering;
- automation in expensive models;
- possibility of use for any toilet:
- protection of the ceramic rim from cracks and scratches.
The micro-lift makes it possible to maintain an aesthetic appearance of the toilet for a long time. Modern models can no longer be released without it, since it is an indicator of prestige.
Which seat to buy for the toilet?
When choosing covers for a toilet seat with a microlift, the price matters, but you should still buy models from well-known manufacturers. Buying an expensive product from a well-established manufacturer in a specialized store, you get a quality guarantee, and sometimes the ability to replace an element damaged during operation in a service center. Prices for European-quality microlift covers start at $ 100 and up, while elite models start at $ 1,000.
Preference should be given to American or European companies manufacturing plumbing, which have long mastered its production and have proven themselves well. In addition, they have more variety of shapes, dimensions and colors, which makes it possible to choose a suitable design for the interior of the bathroom.
Choosing a seat with a microlift should be subject to the following features:
- you don’t need to buy cheap products, but it’s better to choose a mid-range price;
- the model should match the interior of the bathroom;
- attention should be paid to the material of the product;
- the device should be practical, convenient and fit the toilet;
- Before purchasing, you need to collect all possible information about the product;
- models may have additional functions: seat heating, automatic cover lift by a signal from a human presence sensor , etc.
Material
The most common lid for a toilet seat is with a duroplast microelevator, which is characterized by great strength and resistance to mechanical damage. The material serves for a long time, is resistant to aggressive chemical environments, is easy to clean, maintaining its original color. High quality hard plastic are distinguished by products of the brand Roca Dama Senso (Spain). Duroplast lids are often found in public toilets, but they can also be used at home.
Wooden covers are also often used, but they require special care.
On some models, the toilet lid mount is easy to remove for cleaning. They can be recognized by the Quick Release function.
Cover for a toilet bowl with a microlift: repair
The durability of the cover with a microlift largely depends on the correct operation. If it is sharply lowered, the mechanism will quickly fail. A light push is enough to power the device. Adults quickly learn the rules of using a micro-lift, but in children this does not always work out. The mechanism spring is not designed for sharp compression. It can withstand a certain number of cycles of lowering the lid, but can lose its properties once. Sharp mechanical influences lead to breakdowns that cannot be repaired.
The reason for the rapid wear of the micro-lift mechanism may be the wrong model choice, as well as errors during installation and operation. When purchasing a cover with a microlift, the following should be considered:
- compliance with the shape of the toilet and the method of attachment;
- choose products from trusted manufacturers;
- focus on your own experience.
Externally, the lowering mechanism device looks simple. But it should not be disassembled. The setting is made due to the spring, which is balanced by the weight of the cover.
Cover removal
A sign that the mechanism is broken is the lowering of the lid with a blow to the rim of the toilet bowl. The easiest way is to replace the cover. To do this, you need a tool:
- suitable socket wrench;
- pliers;
- hacksaw for metal.
With prolonged use, the fastening thread becomes dirty and it is difficult to unscrew the fastener. It is clamped with pliers and the bolt is turned with a wrench. If it does not give in, they cut it with a hacksaw.
Installing a new seat
The new cover is easy to install by hitting the mounts in the grooves of the toilet.
Then the bolts are tightened. The threads should be pre-lubricated with silicone, so that later they can be unscrewed. Before the final tightening of the bolts, the structure is leveled, and its fit to the toilet rim and height are adjusted. When installing, be sure to read the instructions, where each operation is described in detail. For some products, the covers are equipped with special hinges and can be easily removed. The durability of the device depends on the correct seat adjustment.
It is especially important to carefully consider the procedure for mounting the cover with a micro-lift when the device has several functions. If used incorrectly, it can be easily damaged.
After dismantling the device, the microlifts on the right and left sides are disassembled. If they include cylinders with pistons, check the lubrication inside. When accumulating in one place of the cylinder, it is distributed evenly over the entire surface and, if necessary, is added to the desired amount or completely replaced. If there is a lack of lubrication or a change in its structure, the lid begins to creak when opening or closing. It is also important to apply the correct lubricant composition.
It is difficult for an ordinary user to find a micro-lift for a toilet lid separately for sale.
Components for repair have service centers where you should contact for help. It does not hurt to inquire about the price of repairs. If it is one order with the cost of the product, it is better to purchase a new cover.
Manufacturers
The most famous manufacturers of sanitary products, including toilets with seats on microlifts are European companies. The Spanish company Roca produces covers with pneumatic micro-lifts Roca Dama Senso. They are made of stainless steel and are reliable and durable. In them, functionality is combined with various styles for the choice of the buyer. Strict forms of models are suitable for both floor and hanging toilets.
In Russia, a joint venture Santek, producing these products. Spanish products have a higher quality of materials, but domestic products are not much inferior to them at affordable prices.
High quality products are manufactured by GUstavsberg (Sweden) and Orsa (Italy). They can be purchased at average prices, but there are also expensive premium models.
The nano-coated toilet seat for the toilet seat is manufactured by Portu, a Chinese company. Products are distinguished by a variety of color schemes and new styles.
Conclusion
The lid for the toilet with a micro-lift is available complete with the toilet by all well-known manufacturers of plumbing, as it is an indicator of the prestige of the product. It should be handled carefully, since the non-separable design of the actuator is generally not repairable.