Toilet that does not flush properly.

[Louisegregory2912]

Hey, when we flush our toilet it attempts to refill but it seems not to fill to the right amount. I have checked the float and that still moves up and down freely. We was able to push the float down and let it fill and then flush it, which worked for a while. But doesnt do the trick now. It doesnt flush properly at all. HELP!! We also have a downstairs toilet, which is working fine but sometimes we find no water in the basin. Not sure if its because we are pumping the upstairs toilet too much which is causing problems with the water amount downstairs....?
Its an old house with old toilet system...... We cant afford plumpers, so rather try and fix it ourself so if anyone can help that would be great!! Ta!!!

[rosebery]

From your description you have an older technology loo with a ball valve and a syphon. If you are having to pump it to make it work the diaphragm in the syphon has had it and requires to be replaced. Cost of replacement part - about 10p but you will need to drain the cistern and remove the syphon from the cistern to do this.

Cheers