A handy guide on how to install a cistern and toilet

Do you have a toilet that constantly requires repairs or a cistern that’s gone leaky or won’t flush? Then, it may be time to replace your toilet and cistern. In this article, we’ll walk you through how to install a toilet and cistern. That way, when you get a plumber to do the necessary bathroom renovations, you know what to expect from them!

Types of toilets

Since you’re in the market for a new or replacement toilet, it’s good to know the different kinds available. When you’re installing a toilet, it can be any of the following:

• Two-piece toilets – The most common type of toilet, this type has a separate cistern and bowl.
• One-piece toilets – This sleeker design combines the tank and the bowl. Other than its design, it’s quite similar to the standard two-piece toilet.
• Wall-mounted toilets – If you’re looking to save floor space, this model has the tank hidden in the wall. What’s great about this model is that it makes your bathroom look sleek and easier to clean. The downs

Although not known, the height of a suspended toilet bowl is adjustable during the cistern installation process by means of simple hooks. This height, usually 40 cm above the ground, can be lowered to 30 cm for toilets used by children.

Most manufacturers offer complete, ready-to-install packages, including bowl and tank, recessing liners, easy-to-assemble plumbing fittings, and accessories. It is first necessary to compare the general characteristics of the equipment: dimensions of the bowl, the design of the trigger plate, the size of the tank, the noise level of the filling and the like.

Cost of installing a new toilet

There is no set price for toilet installation, as it varies depending on the type of toilet, its installation method, etc. If you want a proper installation, especially when you’re setting your budget for your bathroom renovation, you should hire a professional plumber.

Tools you’ll need for installing a cistern and toilet

How to install a toilet and cistern includes learning what tools and materials you’ll need. Here’s what to get at the hardware store:

• Adjustable wrench
• Screwdriver
• Pipe wrench
• Utility knife
• Level
• Tape measure
• Wax ring
• New toilet (bowl, cistern, seat)
• Bolts and stainless steel washers
• Stainless steel screws
• PVC primer
• PVC cement
• Plumber’s putty
• Plumber’s tape
• White silicone sealant
• Gloves and mask
• Old rags

How to install the toilet cistern

Are you ready to install your new toilet? Below are the things to expect when a licensed plumber installs a toilet cistern:

Step 1: Empty the cistern

First, your plumber will flush the toilet and turn off the stop tap. Then, they’ll switch off the main water supply. They do this to avoid dealing with a messy, flooded bathroom floor.

Step 2: Remove the cistern

The plumber will get a wrench and loosen the inlet pipe at the bottom of the toilet tank. Then, they’ll separate the cistern from the back of the toilet.

Step 3: Disconnect the cistern from your water supply line

Using a screwdriver, the plumbing professional will disconnect the cistern from the water supply line, and the bowl from the cistern. Expect some residual water to come out of the hose when they do this.

Step 4: Connect your new cistern

Next, the plumber will connect the cistern to your toilet bowl. They’ll make sure the gaskets and washers are lined up correctly, and the bolts are nice and tight.

Step 5: Reattach the hose to your cistern

Your plumber will apply some plumber’s tape to the inlet. Next, they’ll reattach the water supply hose to your replacement cistern. After this, it’s just a matter of redoing the nuts and bolts. Fitting a toilet cistern is just uninstalling it, in reverse!

Step 6: Check for leaks

The plumbing expert will do a couple of practice flushes without the water on. Once they’re satisfied, they’ll turn on the water supply. Once the new toilet tank is full, it’s time to try flushing. Ideally, you should have a good, functional cistern with no leaks or flushing problems.

How to install the toilet bowl

Toilet bowl installation is another task best left to the pros. Here’s how they typically fit or replace a toilet to fix your loo:

Step 1: Prepare the installation area

First, the plumber will inspect the area around the bowl. For new toilet installation, they’ll simply want to keep the area debris-free. But for toilet replacement, the plumbing professional will need to remove old wax and grime around the floor and toilet flange.

Step 2: Remove the old toilet

Next, the plumbing professional will flush the toilet, turn off the stop tap, and switch off the main supply line. They will unthread the main coupling nut to the water supply, the tank bolts, and any nuts or bolts attaching the bowl to the floor.

Step 3: Remove the wax rings

The plumber will use a putty knife to scrape off the wax rings from the old toilet. Then, they’ll get some rags to plug up the drain hole–prepare the rags ahead of time and place them where accessible to use when things get messy. Installing a replacement toilet can get smelly!

Step 4: Inspect the closet flange

Now, the plumber will check that the closet flange is still attached securely. If they’re installing a new closet flange or replacing an old one, here’s how they’ll do it:

• First, your plumber will get some PVC primer and cement. They’ll apply PVC primer on the inside of the closet, and then on the outside of one end of your soil pipe. Next, they’ll apply PVC cement on top of the primer and twist the soil pipe into the closet bend.
• Next, the plumber will take the other end of the soil pipe and the inside of the closet flange. They’ll put PVC primer and cement on those, too. They’ll twist and press the ends together. Eventually, the soil pipe’s collar should be attached to the floor. The plumber will rotate the soil pipe collar until the slots are on the right and left sides of the hole. The goal is to get the bolts parallel with the back wall (behind your cistern).
• Finally, the soil pipe collar is secured to the floor using stainless steel screws. These screws should be long enough to reach the subfloor for a secure fit.

Step 5: Apply the new wax ring

Now, the plumber will place the new wax ring over the closet flange, making sure it’s centred. They’ll get long brass closet bolts and thread them end up into the flange collar’s slots. Then, they’ll place a washer over each bolt.

Next, the plumber will press the wax ring over the flange, flat side down.

Step 6: Install the toilet bowl

Now, your plumber can place the toilet bowl over the flange. While lifting the bowl, they’ll align the holes in the base with the closet bolts. Once they’re lined up, they’ll lower the toilet over the wax ring and hold the toilet down to press it into place.

Your plumber will put a washer and a nut on each base bolt and tighten them. Note that they really won’t overtighten these bolts since this can cause cracking.

Step 7: Make sure the toilet bowl is level

Your plumber will use a level to ensure the toilet is set evenly on your bathroom floor. They may add shims under the base to troubleshoot any slants.

Step 8: Prepare the flush and cistern

Following the manufacturer’s instructions, the plumber will prepare your toilet’s flush button or handle. Then, they will fit sealing rings as needed. Afterwards, they’ll assemble the cistern and fit the pump and other interior workings into place.

Step 9: Position the cistern

For this step, the plumber will put the cistern on top of the bowl. They’ll align the mounting holes, then use bolts, nuts, and washers to secure the cistern over your toilet. Again, they won’t overtighten when connecting the cistern to the toilet to avoid cracking.

Step 10: Position the valves and tighten the bolts

The plumber will adjust the toilet fill valve position as needed to get the right fit. Then, they’ll put washers on the bolts and fix them in place.

Step 11: Reconnect the water supply

Your plumber will get a pipe wrench and reconnect the water supply line to the valve at the bottom of your cistern. They’ll turn on the water line and wait for the tank to fill. While this is happening, they’ll check for leaks around your bowl.

Step 12: Install the toilet seat

The plumber then takes the toilet seat and aligns it with the bowl’s mounting holes. Once they’re aligned, the plumber will screw the seat into place.

Step 13: Apply sealant to the toilet base

For this step, your plumber will get some white silicone sealant and apply it all along the base of your new toilet. This will prevent leaking and seeping.

Step 14: Final inspection

The last step to toilet set up is to do some quality checks. Your plumber will do some practice flushes and make sure the toilet and cistern are working properly. They’ll look for leaks in and around the parts. They may even sit on the toilet and make sure it’s level and bolted down securely. Once they’re happy and you’re satisfied, your new toilet and cistern are ready to use!

Safety precautions when installing a cistern and toilet

Stay safe when supervising your toilet and cistern installation. Here are some guidelines to keep in mind:

• Turn off the water supply before your plumber starts. This helps prevent accidents due to a wet, flooded floor.
• Wear gloves and a mask – especially when working with drain holes! Avoid touching or inhaling any toxic waste.
• Make sure there is enough ventilation when working with adhesives like sealant. Crack open a window and keep your mask on.
• Lift heavy objects carefully. Ceramic toilets and cisterns and a damp floor require extra caution.

When to hire a professional plumber

Toilet installation can get messy and complicated. So, it might be best to get a plumber to replace your toilet.

In fact, Australian law requires that only licensed plumbing professionals work with sewage systems, including your toilet and cistern. Also, your area may have certain building codes and regulations for toilets and cisterns that a pro will already know about.

Another great thing about hiring a plumber is that they already know how to install a toilet, cistern, and other bathroom renovation and repairs you might need.

Prepare for a new toilet installation

Installing or replacing a toilet and cistern can be taxing—you’ll work beside a smelly drain, lift heavy things, and tighten washers just right. But now that you’re “flush” with knowledge of the tools, steps, and tips for toilet and cistern installation, you know what to expect from a professional plumber.

A properly installed toilet is a must for every home, and getting a professional plumber is now easier–you can find reputable contractors or service providers and check their credibility online. Just remember to also understand the toilet installation costs before finding a plumber to help you out in a tap!

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FAQs on how to install a toilet and cistern

Can I install a cistern myself?

Australia requires that only licensed professionals execute work involving sewage systems, including installing a toilet or cistern. Unless it’s a minor repair like fixing a float valve or unblocking a drain, you should leave it to your plumber to replace your toilet.

Do you need a plumber to install a toilet cistern?

Yes, you’ll need a licensed plumber when fitting a toilet cistern or even having a new toilet installed. This is to comply with Australia’s plumbing code. Plus, it helps keep you safe from any complications from your sewage system.

What is the average cost to install a new toilet?

A plumber could cost $120-230 per installation. Your locale and the complexity of the task may affect the rate. These plumbers can also repair your shower or fit bathtubs, so you can book one for your bathroom renovation tasks!

Can I replace my old toilet with a new toilet?

Yes, you can ask a pro plumber about getting a replacement bowl before you buy one for your toilet bowl installation. Generally, you’ll need to consider three things:

• Tank height – This is the cistern’s height; ensure that the new toilet setup will fit under your shelves.
• Toilet depth – This is the span from the front of the seat to the back of the tank; you may want a similar, deeper, or shallower bowl versus what you have now.
• Rough-in measurement – This is the distance between the back wall and the centre of the waste pipe; your new toilet should fit the rough-in.