Flush tank water saver

4825478
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Inventors

Harris, John L.

Application #

096058

Filed

Sep-14-1987

Published

May-2-1989

Current US Class

004/381
004/415

International Classes

E03D 001/00

Field of Search

4/415 4/324 4/325 4/391-397 4/381-387 4/405 4/378 4/379 4/427

Examiners

Pellinen; A. D.

US Patent References

4032997   Flush toilet accessory
4135261   Floatable deodoran...
4388737   Toilet tank insert wa...
4483024   Variable flush wate...

Referenced by:

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Citation

Cite This Patent

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Abstract
A water saver outlet valve mechanism for a flush tank includes a latch for holding the valve open when pulled open by the flush handle. This latch is released by a float either at a water saving intermediate level, or when the tank is empty for a full flush, as selected by the user. A full flush is obtained by retracting an operator for the latch to an inoperative position at the water saving level, allowing the float to pass without releasing the latch. This retraction is done when the flush lever is pushed to start a flush. The float locks the latch in retracted position if the water level drops a predetermined amount before the flush lever is released.
 
Claims
I claim:

1. In a water saver for a toilet flush tank having a bottom, an outlet with a valve seat, a valve for controlling the outlet and a flush control operated by the user for opening the valve to start a flush, the combination of, a float movable with water level, first closing means operated by the float for closing the valve at an intermediate water saving level, second closing means operated by said float for closing the valve at the end of a full flush, and selective means controlled by the user for selecting which closing means shall be operative.

2. The combination recited in claim 1 in which the selective means includes the float.

3. The combination recited in claim 2 in which the selective means is constructed and arranged to disable the first closing means when the water level drops to a predetermined level while the user holds the flush control in flushing position.



Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to toilet tank controls for selectively providing a water saving flush or a full flush.

It has long been recognized that toilet flush tanks are one of the worst water wasters in existence. They are flushed often and each time use a full tank of water even though less than half would give an adequate flush for most uses.

Many attempts have been made to develop suitable devices giving the user a choice between a short flush and a full flush. However, none has been marketable.

This application is a continuation of the developments disclosed in my applications Ser. No. 07/030080 filed Mar. 26, 1987 and 07/067494 filed June 29, 1987.

Those prior applications are for attachments to existing flush tank valves to provide water savings. These attachments include a float controlled means for pushing the outlet valve closed at a water saving level. In order to provide a full flush a locking means controlled by the user stops the float before the water saving cut-off point is reached.
 
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