Top 5 Quietest Toilet Fill Valve: Noise Level Comparison and Reviews

When we think of noisy toilets, one part that’s often overlooked is the fill valve. As the name implies, it’s the part that fills the tank with water when you flush.

It can be one of the noisiest parts, as it does a lot of the work involved in flushing a toilet. So, by looking for the quietest toilet fill valve, we can address much of the noise concerns associated with a toilet.

In this article, I review my top picks for the quietest toilet fill valve. Along with this, I look at the key considerations when picking a quiet toilet fill valve, along with reasons why it might be noisy.

Hopefully, by the end, you’ll have all the information you need.

Our Top 5

My main factor for these picks is, of course, noise level. But, they’re also rated on things like value, ease of installation, and longevity.

Read on for my top picks for the best quiet toilet fill valve.

1. Top Pick: Korky 528MP QuietFill Valve

This toilet fill valve is a universal model that fits 99% of toilets made since 1994. It lists major brands such as Kohler, Toto, American Standard, and more. Importantly, it states it fits toilets that flush 1.6 gallons or less.

As the name implies, this is a specifically quiet toilet flush valve. This is because the ballcock is housed in the flushing mechanism and all flushing systems are also housed.

Usefully, it’s very easy to install. It features a twist-lock mechanism that doesn’t require any tools and Korky claims it takes less than 5 minutes. The company has even released a video with installation instructions.

You can adjust the valve’s size from 7.75” to 13.5”, allowing it to fit almost all toilets. While it might help to check your toilet’s current valve, this model’s 99% universal fit means this probably isn’t necessary.

There are 3 different models in the range that include leak protection, greater universality, and toilets with a larger flush. Be sure to look into this further to ensure you’re buying the right model.

Some users reported issues with noise levels and fill rates. But, this is related to the valve not being adjusted properly. Both are easy issues to fix with the correct adjustment, so make sure you measure and then play around with it after a few test flushes.

2. Top Budget Pick: Fluidmaster 400AH PerforMAX Toilet Fill Valve

According to various user reviews, this quiet toilet fill valve is made to the same specification as the Kohler valve reviewed below. The only difference is that this is universal and so will fit any toilet.

It’s compatible with both single and dual flush toilets. While it’s designed for high-efficiency flush toilets, you can still fit it in older models with no issue. It also claims to refill the toilet twice as fast as other valves.

The valve features an adjustable shank that ranges from 10” to 15”. This makes it easy to install in most toilets, but you might need to play around with the shank length to get the right flush.

Importantly, its design means that the outlet pipe in the toilet tank is below the waterline. This is what helps to eliminate noise and it’s noticeably quieter than older fill valves.

Installation is fairly easy, and the valve can adjust the water flow rate, which helps with water conservation. However, some users reported that some settings cause the toilet to fill very slowly (taking longer than a minute).

While not the worst thing, bear this in mind if you want an efficient model that conserves water, as this one arguably doesn’t fit that brief.

3. Kohler GP1138930 Silent Toilet Fill Valve Kit

While this quiet toilet fill valve is specifically for Kohler toilets, it’s a great choice if you own one. Also, it’s slightly pricier than other models on this list, but that’s because it’s a genuine part.

There’s no clear information as to why this valve is quieter than other models, but plenty of users reported that it’s much quieter than their previous fill valves. It’s likely due to updated technology and better housing. Either way, it’s got plenty of positive feedback on its noise level.

If buying this model for your Kohler toilet, make sure you choose the right one. There’s an option to enter your model number to check its compatibility. I recommend doing this before buying.

That said, you can adjust the height to fit various Kohler toilets, and the pack comes with fill rate inserts. These allow you to adjust the water flow and performance of your model.

Some users reported that the instructions were confusing even though installation is very easy. These users stated they had to find video instructions, which you can watch here.

Other than that, the only other critique was that it fills the toilet slowly. But, unless you plan on flushing several times quickly, this isn’t really an issue.

4. iFealClear Universal Rapid Toilet Fill Valve

This silent toilet fill valve locates the outlet pipe below the waterline, much like the Fluidmaster 4000AH. As a result, it’s one of the quietest models you’ll find.

It’s a universal model that adjusts between 9.6” and 13.1”. This means it’s not as tall as the Fluidmaster or Korky 528MP but should still be suitable for most toilets. Just make sure you measure things before buying.

Luckily, it’s easy to install and doesn’t require any tools because it uses a twist-lock system. It comes with instructions, which previous buyers state are easy to follow.

You can also adjust the water flow, and, unlike some other models, this doesn’t impact the speed at which the tank fills. Instead, it just adjusts how much water enters the tank.

This fill valve also comes with an extra water pipe in case your drainage valve is in the wrong place or doesn’t fit. Importantly, this makes it properly universal.

Another great feature is the built-in filter, designed to catch debris. This helps to keep water flowing properly, and you can remove it and wash it separately. As debris can be a cause for noise in toilet refill systems, this is very useful.

But, some users report that this filter can result in leakage if not refitted properly. Just make sure you follow the instructions until you get the hang of it.

5. Fluidmaster 400CRP14 Universal Toilet Fill Valve

Fluidmaster has something of a monopoly on this market, so it’s unsurprising to see them appear twice on a list of quiet toilet fill valve reviews. Unlike the Fluidmaster PerforMAX above, this fill valve includes a flapper repair kit.

It’s designed for toilets with a flush capacity of 3.5 gallons or more, whereas others on this list are for smaller flush capacities. So, if you have a large toilet, this might be the one for you.

Its adjustable height means it’s compatible with most models, although the flapper is 2”, which might limit its compatibility. The whole setup is corrosion-resistant and is suitable for hard and chlorinated water.

As you’d expect from a high-profile toilet repair brand, this model is easy to install. Also, it comes with instructions and you should be able to install it in around 10-15 minutes.

But, some users reported problems during installation. Specifically, the fill valve rotates when tightening the water supply couplings. The suggested solution is to hold it in place using a pair of pliers. While not a massive issue, consider watching an installation video in advance.

Why is a Fill Valve Noisy?

If you’re looking for a silent toilet flush valve, chances are your existing valve is making more noise than usual.

As I explain in my article on quiet toilets, the standard toilet flush is between 30 and 60dB. Much of this is the water flowing into the bowl, but the fill valve contributes some noise.

Knowing why your toilet fill valve is making noise will help you to decide if it needs replacing.

How a Toilet Fill Valve Works

A toilet flush valve isn’t a complicated piece of kit. As the name implies, it controls the toilet’s flush. Here’s how it works:

1. You press the flush button or press down on the paddle.
2. Doing so pulls a cable, which opens the toilet flush valve.
3. After the tank empties, the toilet fill valve kicks in to replace the water.
4. It’s connected directly to the water mains line, which it uses to refill the tank.
5. It stops filling once the water reaches the fill line, which is determined using a float (the ballcock).
6. The water level depends on where the float is set. You can adjust the fill level by moving the float up or down.

Consider watching this video from Korky on how a toilet flush works.

As with any moving device, its parts can wear down over time. This is often what leads to unnecessary noise.

Why is my Toilet Fill Valve Making Noise?

The most common noise for a toilet fill valve to make is a hiss. This happens because the rubber seal on the flush valve hasn’t closed properly, allowing water or air to flow through the system.

Hissing happens because the small gap creates an area of pressure escaping, much like how wind whistles through a small opening in a window.

Also, a leaking flush valve causes the fill valve to constantly run, as it attempts to keep the tank water level maintained. This results in a constant sound of running water.

There are several reasons why this might happen, including:

• Debris in the valve.
• The rubber seal has perished with age.
• The diaphragm gasket inside the fill valve has hardened.

All these issues are pretty easy to diagnose. You simply need to take the fill valve out and inspect it for damage. But, this also makes it a good time to replace it if there are any worn parts.

On average, a toilet fill valve can last anywhere up to 10 years, but some need replacing after 5 years. If you’re looking for a silent flush toilet valve, make sure it comes with a warranty that matches this lifespan.

Key Considerations Before Buying

Unlike when choosing a quiet toilet, which I discuss elsewhere, there are fewer factors to consider when choosing a quiet toilet fill valve.

That said, these factors are more technical, as you need to ensure it fits your toilet.

So, here are the main things to think about when picking a quiet toilet fill valve.

Compatibility

The most important factor is compatibility with your toilet. To be on the safe side, consider choosing a universal model. All but one on this list are universal models for this exact reason.

If you want to go with a branded quiet toilet fill valve, check your toilet’s model number. You’ll find this on the back or underside of the cistern. You can type this into the manufacturer’s website to find out compatibility.

Universal models have an adjustable shank. A typical range is between 7” and 14”, which should fit most toilets.

But, you also need to measure the fill valve hole, either on the side or the bottom. It’s typically 2” in diameter, although it might vary.

You also need to think about the valve’s connection to the water supply. In the USA, this is usually ⅜”, but make sure you check your toilet first.

Noise Level

Another important factor when discussing the quietest toilet fill valve is noise level. But, you won’t find a specific decibel rating on most models.

Instead, look for ones that locate the outlet pipe below the water line in the cistern. This means you won’t hear flowing water during refill, although you’ll still hear the flush.

Refill Rate

The refill rate is, unsurprisingly, the rate at which the fill valve replaces water in the cistern.

A faster refill rate means water enters the cistern more quickly. High-efficiency toilets need a higher refill rate than standard models.

Ideally, choose a universal fill valve with an adjustable refill rate. It can help you to conserve water because you can simply get it to fill up less. Make sure you research how to properly adjust the refill rate, too.

Households with 3 or more occupants would benefit from a higher refill rate. But, couples and those living alone can get away with a slower refill rate because they theoretically won’t use the toilet as often.

Installation

Installing a silent toilet fill valve shouldn’t be difficult. Some don’t require tools, as they use a twist-lock system. This means you don’t have to adjust any washers or screws to keep them in place.

Models that require tools will usually only require a pair of pliers or a wrench. These aren’t difficult tools to get, but make sure you check in advance whether you need them.

Also, some models that need a tool for installation will supply the tool, much as you’d find with flat-pack furniture. This can be the best of both worlds.

Installing a toilet fill valve isn’t a difficult job and should only take 15 minutes or so. I explain the process in detail below.

Seal and Filter

As I mentioned above, the most common reasons for a noisy fill valve are trapped debris and a leaking rubber seal. Some quiet toilet fill valves come with a leak-proof seal in the form of an extra O-ring.

Also, look out for filters for trapping debris. Stopping this from entering the fill valve makes cleaning much easier and increases the lifespan of the valve. A good filter is removable and washable for this reason.

Some filters (such as the one linked above) cost more than the fill valve itself. But, it’s worth the investment to keep the whole system free from debris.

Warranty

A quiet toilet fill valve isn’t an expensive product. Even so, most come with a warranty because they’re designed to last. Typically, this’ll be between 5 and 7 years, but might be more.

I stated above that the average lifespan for a fill valve is 5 years, so a 5-year warranty is about right. It simply protects you from faults and breakdowns, although won’t usually cover wear-and-tear.

How to Install a Fill Valve

As you might have gathered, replacing a toilet fill valve isn’t a complicated job. You might even be able to do it without any tools depending on the model.

Here’s a quick guide on how to install a silent toilet fill valve.

What You’ll Need

• The new fill valve
• A bucket
• Pliers
• Wrench
• Some towels

Method

1. Turn off the water supply

There should be a water valve for the toilet, located around the back. It’s a screw or valve on a pipe. Turning it clockwise until it’s tight will turn it off.

After this, drain the tank by flushing it. It might help to remove the lid so you can see when there’s no water left.

Loosen the water supply line using a wrench. Have the bucket and towels on hand to catch any water left in the pipe or fill valve.

2. Locate and remove the existing valve

The fill valve is inside the tank and looks like a plastic column. Older models will have a separate ballcock, so remove this too.

You’ll need to loosen the nut on the bottom or side of the tank that holds the fill valve in place. Use the pliers or wrench depending on the attachment. Also, remove the water supply line.

3. Install the new valve

Put the new valve into place inside the tank, adjusting the height of the shank if necessary.

The valve should come with washers for fixing it in place. Make sure you install these as per the instructions.

Twist-lock fill valves don’t use washers or nuts. Instead, they simply screw together on either side of the tank. Again, the valve’s instructions will tell you specifically how to do this.

4. Make sure it’s tight

If the fill valve has a lock nut, make sure it’s tight. It’s best to do this by hand, as tightening it with a tool could cause the new fill valve to crack.

The fill valve might move around when you try to do this. If this happens, use a pair of pliers to hold it in place.

5. Reconnect the water supply

Attach the water supply line to the bottom of the new valve and use a wrench to tighten it. This should be a case of the reverse of the first step.

Then, turn the water back on. Providing everything is tight enough, no water should leak out. If it does, turn the supply off again and check your connections.

6. Check the float

Allow the tank to fill up and check the float. It should sit about 1” below the overflow pipe on the water’s surface.

You can adjust it using a clip or a screw on top; it depends on the model.

That should be everything you need to know. If you prefer a more visual explanation, I’ve linked several installation videos in my reviews above.

Final Thoughts

Hopefully, this list of quiet toilet fill valve reviews has helped you to find the right product for your needs.

My top pick for the quietest toilet fill valve is the Korky 528MP QuietFill Valve. It’s good value for money, easy to install, and is very quiet.

But, the Fluidmaster 400AH PerforMAX Toilet Fill Valve is a close second. Made by one of the largest toilet repair companies, its universal compatibility makes it a great choice.

Do you have any advice for anyone trying to diagnose or fit a quiet toilet fill valve? Let me know in the comments below.