When choosing a new toilet, most people focus on the appearance and size, but an important consideration is the type of cistern that best suits your bathroom. Cisterns, the water-holding tanks that flush the toilet, come in several designs, each with its benefits and potential drawbacks. Understanding the various types can help you make the right choice for your home in terms of both functionality and style.
Low-Level Cisterns – A Traditional Favourite
Low-level cisterns are the most common and traditional toilet setup in many Australian homes. The cistern is mounted on the wall, just above the toilet bowl, with a short flush pipe connecting the two. This design is both practical and easy to maintain, offering reliable flushing power without taking up too much wall space.
High-Level Cisterns – Vintage Appeal
For people with a taste for vintage or retro styles, high-level cisterns are an eye-catching option. These cisterns are mounted high on the wall, with a long flush pipe extending down to the toilet bowl. The dramatic height of the cistern offers powerful flushing, and the chain-pull mechanism adds a touch of traditional elegance. However, they require more wall space, which may not suit smaller bathrooms.
Concealed Cisterns – Modern and Minimalistic
Concealed cisterns are becoming increasingly popular in modern Australian homes due to their sleek, space-saving design. As the name suggests, the cistern is hidden within the wall or behind a cabinet, leaving only the flush plate visible. This minimalistic approach creates a clean, uncluttered look in the bathroom; however, they can be more difficult to access for repairs.
Wall Hung – Floating Style
Wall-hung cisterns take the concept of concealment even further, with the toilet bowl mounted on the wall and the cistern hidden behind it. The result is a floating toilet that saves space and makes cleaning the floor underneath much easier. Whilst ideal for a minimalist, high-end aesthetic, this type of cistern may require additional wall support to bear the toilet’s weight.
Close Coupled – Compact and Simple
Close-coupled cisterns are a compact option where the cistern sits directly on top of the toilet bowl, creating a single, unified unit. This design is space-saving and easy to install, making it a popular choice for smaller bathrooms. Close-coupled toilets offer efficient flushing without taking up extra room, but they may not provide the same sleek look as a concealed or wall-hung cistern.
Considerations and Benefits
Choosing the right cistern for your bathroom comes down to a few key considerations.
- Assess your available space as some designs, such as high-level or wall-hung cisterns, require more room, while close-coupled or concealed options work well in tighter areas.
- The overall bathroom aesthetic is another factor to consider, with traditional homes often favouring low-level or high-level cisterns and modern homes leaning towards concealed or wall-hung designs.
- Water efficiency is another important factor when choosing a cistern. Many modern cisterns come with dual-flush systems that allow you to choose between a full or half flush, helping you conserve water and lower your utility bills.
Expert Installation Is Key
Some designs, like concealed or wall-hung cisterns, require more complex installation and may involve accessing electrical or plumbing systems. At Toscano Plumbing, we ensure your new toilet is installed correctly, preventing future leaks or issues.
Making the Right Choice for Your Bathroom
Choosing the right toilet cistern involves balancing style, space, and practicality. Whether you prefer a traditional look or a modern, minimalist design, understanding the different types of cisterns can help you make an informed decision.