What are the Different Types of Toilet Cistern?

A toilet cistern is an essential part of any bathroom; the part of the loo that controls its flushing and water usage. With different types of toilet cistern available, choosing the right one depends on your bathroom’s layout, space and efficiency needs.

There are various types to choose from, with each boasting unique benefits. Whether you want a modern cistern with a space-saving design or something with vintage charm, there’s an option suitable for every home.

Let’s look at some of the most popular options you’ll commonly find in homes across Australia, and how to choose the best toilet cistern for your bathroom.

Close Coupled Cisterns: The Most Popular Choice

Arguably the most commonly found toilet cistern in both modern and traditional bathrooms is the close-coupled cistern. This design sees the cistern sit directly above the toilet bowl, making it a compact and efficient unit.

Close-coupled cisterns are great for smaller bathrooms, as they use less physical space while keeping superior flushing performance. In line with the Australian Government’s Water Efficiency and Labelling Standards (WELS) scheme, all new close-coupled toilets come with a dual flush cistern as standard. It allows you to use half-flush for number 1s and full-flush for number 2s, so you save water.

With its space-saving design and low maintenance requirements, a close-coupled toilet makes sense for most bathroom layouts and water usage needs.

Concealed Cisterns: A Sleek and Modern Solution

For a more modern and minimalist aesthetic, a concealed cistern is the way to go. It’s an option that hides the entire cistern behind a wall or inside a vanity unit.

Also known as a wall-hung or in-wall cistern, the concealed cistern design is perfect for wall-hung and back-to-wall toilets. It delivers a clean look while optimising your available space in smaller bathrooms. Tucking the cistern away eliminates visible pipework, which makes it significantly easier to clean and maintain your bathroom.

As concealed cisterns need an in-wall installation, you’ll need a licensed and qualified plumber to install it properly and comply with AS/NZS 3500 plumbing standards. With the right setup, a concealed cistern improves both the bathroom’s functionality and design preferences.

High Level Cisterns: Vintage Charm with a Classic Feel

If you live in a well-established period home and don’t want clashing styles with a concealed cistern, or you simply prefer a more traditional design, you’ll do well to consider the vintage charm of a high-level cistern.

Mounted high on the wall and connected to the toilet bowl via a long flush pipe, this classic style has a unique look while maintaining an effective flush. Unlike modern toilet buttons, high-level cisterns open up the flush valve with a pull chain that helps them lean into their old-world feel. Though they take up more space than close coupled cisterns, they work well in bathrooms with higher ceilings.

With proper installation, they fit seamlessly into modern plumbing systems while retaining their heritage look. A qualified plumber will get the complete cistern in peak working condition. They’ll make sure it’s as efficient as it is aesthetically appealing.

Dual Flush Cisterns: Water Saving Solutions

Dual flush toilet cisterns are one of the best ways to improve water efficiency in any bathroom. So much so, that any new toilet installation in an Australian home must be dual flush.

Unlike older model toilets that use a single flush, a dual flush system offers two options:

• a half flush for liquid waste
• a full flush for solid waste

The dual flush functionality cuts down on wasted water and also lowers water use, which makes the system a highly eco-friendly choice.

Whether you’re installing a brand-new cistern or replacing your old one, a dual flush model will likely translate to long-term water (and therefore money) savings.

Tips for Choosing the Perfect Cistern

When choosing the right toilet cistern for your home, consider:

• Bathroom size – A space-saving design, like a concealed cistern or wall-hung toilets, is best for smaller bathrooms.
• Water efficiency – A dual flush cistern reduces wasted water and lowers water usage.
• Installation type – Close-coupled cisterns are easier to install, in-wall cisterns require more work.
• Design preferences – A modern cistern is for contemporary homes, a high-level cistern adds vintage charm.

Choosing the right toilet cistern is about balance of style, bathroom functionality and water flow, so your bathroom is both efficient and comfortable.

Always Use a Licensed Plumber for Installation and Repairs

Installing or repairing a toilet cistern may seem straightforward but it’s always best to hire a qualified plumber. This will go a long way towards ensuring proper, compliant installation and long-term reliability.

A professional plumber understands the ins and outs of how toilet cisterns work. They can connect the water supply correctly, preventing leaks and inefficient water flow. Their skill and expertise are a must for avoiding costly mistakes, whether you’re fitting a new cistern, replacing an old model or needing minor repairs (for example, fixing a cistern that isn’t filling up). This expertise is particularly necessary for concealed cisterns, wall-hung cisterns and dual flush cisterns where incorrect installation can mean hidden leaks or flushing issues.

Calling on a licensed plumber also helps you to comply with the plumbing system regulations of your state. You’ll keep your bathroom’s functionality intact while improving water efficiency and reducing wasted water.

Find the Right Toilet Cistern for Your Bathroom

Choosing the right toilet cistern makes a big difference in bathroom functionality and water efficiency. With so many different types of toilet cisterns, from close coupled to concealed cisterns and everything in between, there’s one to suit every bathroom’s layout and design preference.

Whether you need a space-saving design for a small bathroom or a dual flush cistern to reduce wasted water, the right choice improves both style and performance. Installing a replacement cistern or upgrading your toilet cistern will enhance comfort and water usage while reducing environmental impact.

To ensure proper installation, always use a qualified plumber, so you get a leak-free and efficient plumbing system that lasts.

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