Cistern Types: A Guide

If you’ve ever had a toilet that just won’t stop running or a flush that’s lost its power, you’ve probably thought more about cistern types than you ever wanted to. As the owner of All Needs Plumbing, I see this every week: homeowners and business owners calling up, frustrated by a toilet that’s letting them down. The good news? Understanding your options makes it much easier to get the proper fix and enjoy a bathroom that works perfectly every time.

What’s a Toilet Cistern and Why Does It Matter?

Your toilet cistern is the water tank behind or above your toilet bowl. It stores the water released with every flush, ensuring everything goes down smoothly. Inside the cistern, you’ll find parts like the float, fill valve, flapper, and overflow pipe working together to deliver that all-important flush. When any of these parts go wrong, you’ll notice right away: a weak flush, constant running water, or leaks. Knowing the type of cistern you have can help you understand what might be causing the problem and how best to fix it.

Main Cistern Types in Australia

Let’s break down the most common cistern types you’ll find in Aussie homes and businesses, and where they shine:

Close-Coupled Cisterns

This is the classic Aussie setup. The cistern forms a single unit on top of the toilet bowl. Because of this design, installation is straightforward, and replacement parts are easy to find. These cisterns come in various styles and sizes, making them versatile for most bathrooms. 

I’ve installed hundreds of close-coupled cisterns and can tell you they’re a solid choice if you want something reliable without fuss. They’re also easier to clean since the cistern and bowl are connected, so there are no gaps where dust and grime can build up.

Pro-Tip: Close-coupled cisterns make life easy if you’re after a quick fix or a simple upgrade. Keep the internal parts clean and check the flapper regularly to avoid leaks and running water.

Concealed Cisterns

Concealed cisterns are hidden inside the wall or a cabinet, with only the flush buttons visible. This setup is perfect if you want a modern, minimalist bathroom look or need to save space. Concealed cisterns are standard in new builds and renovations where aesthetics and space-saving are priorities. 

While they look great, they can be trickier to access if something goes wrong. Repairs usually require removing a wall panel or cabinet door, so it’s best to call a professional plumber to handle any issues.

High-Level Cisterns

A high-level cistern is attached to the wall high up. It is linked to the toilet bowl by a long pipe and is usually controlled by a pull chain. These cisterns are often found in heritage homes or bathrooms designed in a vintage style. Thanks to gravity, these cisterns deliver a powerful flush, but they’re less water-efficient than modern options. They also occupy more wall space, which might not suit smaller bathrooms.

Low-Level Cisterns

Low-level cisterns sit above the toilet bowl and connect via a short pipe. They offer a traditional look and easier maintenance access than high-level cisterns. This type is a great choice if you want to keep some old-school charm but prefer something more practical and easier to service.

Dual Flush Cisterns

On double-flush cisterns, you can choose between a half-flush and a full flush to save water. This simple feature can save thousands of litres of water annually, which is good for your water bill and the environment. Dual flush systems have become standard in new toilets across Australia, and upgrading to one is smart if you want to reduce water usage without sacrificing performance.

Pro-Tip: If upgrading your toilet or cistern, always use a dual flush system. It’s a small change that makes a big difference in water savings and can even increase your property’s value.

Single Flush Cisterns

Single-flush cisterns release a fixed amount of water with every flush. They’re simple and reliable but use more water than dual-flush systems. You’ll still find them in older homes and some commercial settings. While they’re less efficient, their straightforward design makes them easy to maintain and repair.

Wall-Hung Cisterns

Wall-hung cisterns are part of a setup where the cistern and toilet pan are mounted on the wall, with no visible pipes. This design maximises floor space and gives your bathroom a sleek, modern look. Wall-hung toilets make cleaning easier since there’s no base touching the floor. 

However, installation is more complex and costly because it involves reinforcing the wall to support the weight and plumbing behind it. These are great for high-end renovations or commercial bathrooms where style and hygiene are priorities.

FAQs About Cistern Types

How Do You Identify Your Toilet Cistern?

If you’re unsure what type of cistern you have, start by looking inside the tank. The brand and model number are often stamped on the inside of the lid or the tank’s inner wall. You might also find markings on the toilet bowl near the seat bolts. If you’re still stuck, snap a photo and send it to us. We can help identify the cistern type and recommend the best solution.

Which Is Better: Pneumatic or Mechanical Cistern?

Mechanical cisterns use a lever or button to trigger the flush through a system of mechanical parts like valves and floats. They’re simple, reliable, and cost-effective. Most toilets in Aussie homes use mechanical cisterns because they’re easy to repair and maintain. 

Pneumatic cisterns, on the other hand, use air pressure to activate the flush, usually with a soft-touch button. They’re quieter and easier to use, especially for people with limited mobility or children. However, pneumatic systems can be more expensive to install and fix if something goes wrong.

How Many Types of Flushing Cisterns Are There?

There are several flushing cisterns, including close-coupled, concealed, high-level, low-level, dual flush, single flush, and wall-hung cisterns. Each type has unique features and suits different bathroom layouts, styles, and water efficiency needs. These choices will help you pick the best one for your home or business.

Can Any Cistern Fit Any Toilet?

No, cisterns aren’t one-size-fits-all. The toilet bowl's shape, the water inlets' location, and the flush mechanism all need to match. Installing the wrong cistern can cause leaks, poor flushing, or damage. Getting professional advice is vital before buying or replacing a cistern. We can check your existing toilet and recommend the perfect match.

What Is a Modern Cistern?

A modern cistern usually means one that’s water-efficient, stylish, and easy to use. Dual flush and concealed cisterns fit this description perfectly. They save water, look great, and often come with features like soft-close lids and quiet flushes. Modern cisterns help you reduce your water bills and keep your bathroom looking fresh and clean.

What If I Want to Know More About Cistern Types?

If you’re still not sure which cistern type is right for your home or business, or you want a professional to take a look, we’re here to help. At All Needs Plumbing, we offer a $0 callout fee, so you can get expert advice without paying a cent upfront. We’re available 24/7 for same-day service, so you won’t be left waiting. 

If you’re a senior, you get a 15% discount, and right now, you can save $150 off any hot water system. Give us a call, and let’s get your bathroom sorted- no fuss, just friendly, honest service from your local plumbing pros.

With the right cistern, your toilet will work better, save water, and look great. Don’t risk a DIY disaster- let us handle it for you. We’ve seen it all and know how to get your bathroom back in shape quickly and affordably.

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