Definition

1. Noun:
   • A device that controls the flow of water into a tank, cistern, or toilet bowl: A ballcock is a mechanism consisting of a hollow, floating ball attached to a lever arm. As the water level rises, the ball floats and lifts the arm, which eventually shuts off the inlet valve. When the water level drops, the ball falls, opens the valve, and allows water to refill the tank.

Usage

• The ballcock is a common component in residential and commercial plumbing systems, primarily found in toilet tanks and some types of water storage tanks. Its purpose is to maintain a consistent water level by automatically starting and stopping the water flow.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The constant hissing sound was caused by a worn-out ballcock.
  • I had to replace the ballcock in the toilet because it was leaking.
  • The plumber adjusted the float arm on the ballcock to raise the water level in the tank.

Advanced Usage

• "Ballcock assembly": Refers to the complete unit, including the float ball, the lever arm, and the inlet valve.
  • The entire ballcock assembly was corroded and needed replacement.

Variants and Related Words

• Float valve: A more general technical term for a valve controlled by a float, synonymous with "ballcock."
• Filler valve: Another term sometimes used, especially for modern versions of the device.
• Float ball: The specific spherical, hollow component that rises and falls with the water level.

Synonyms

• Float valve
• Filler valve
• Inlet valve (specifically when referring to the valve component controlled by the float)

Related Phrases

• To adjust the ballcock: To change the setting that determines the water level by bending the float arm or adjusting a screw.
  • If the toilet isn't flushing properly, try adjusting the ballcock.
• A faulty ballcock: A ballcock that is not functioning correctly, often leading to continuous running water or an incomplete fill.
  • A faulty ballcock can waste a significant amount of water.

Noun

1. floating ball that controls level in a water tank