A wall hung cistern is a toilet flushing mechanism that is concealed within the wall cavity, furniture, or a dedicated boxing, rather than being visible as a separate unit behind the toilet pan. This design choice is fundamental to modern bathroom aesthetics, offering a sleek, minimalist look and contributing to space efficiency.
Understanding the Concept
Traditionally, toilet cisterns are bulky ceramic or plastic tanks mounted directly onto the toilet pan or on the wall above it. A wall hung cistern, also known as an in-wall cistern or concealed cistern, revolutionizes this by hiding the entire flushing apparatus.
Key characteristics of a wall hung cistern:
- Concealed Installation: The primary feature is its hidden nature. The cistern component is typically installed into the wall cavity directly behind the toilet pan using a purpose-built frame. This frame provides the necessary support for both the cistern and often the toilet pan itself if it's a wall-hung toilet. In some cases, these in-wall cisterns can also be installed discreetly behind bathroom cabinets or within custom-built boxing.
- Minimalist Aesthetics: By removing the visible tank, the bathroom gains a clean, uncluttered appearance. Only the toilet pan and a flush plate are visible.
- Space-Saving: Hiding the cistern inside the wall frees up valuable floor space, which is particularly beneficial in smaller bathrooms or powder rooms.
- Enhanced Hygiene: With fewer exposed surfaces and no bulky tank, cleaning around the toilet area becomes significantly easier.
Components of a Wall Hung Toilet System
While the cistern itself is hidden, it's part of a complete system that includes:
- Concealed Cistern: The tank that holds water for flushing, along with the fill and flush mechanisms.
- Purpose-Built Frame: A robust metal frame that supports the cistern and, crucially, bears the weight of a wall-hung toilet pan and the user. This frame is anchored to the floor and/or wall studs.
- Wall Hung or Wall Faced Pan: The actual toilet bowl (pan) that is either suspended off the floor (wall-hung) or sits flush against the wall with the waste outlet concealed (wall-faced).
- Flush Plate: The only visible part of the cistern system, typically a stylish button panel mounted on the wall above the toilet pan, which activates the flush. These often offer dual-flush options (full or half flush) for water conservation.
Benefits of Choosing a Wall Hung Cistern
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Aesthetics | Creates a sleek, modern, and uncluttered bathroom environment by concealing the bulky cistern. |
| Space Saving | Frees up floor space, making bathrooms appear larger and more open, ideal for compact layouts. |
| Cleaning | Easier to clean around the toilet area as there are fewer nooks and crannies, and the toilet pan itself is often off the floor. |
| Noise Reduction | The in-wall installation can help muffle the sound of the cistern refilling, contributing to a quieter bathroom. |
| Design Flexibility | Offers greater freedom in bathroom layout and design, allowing for bespoke cabinetry or tiling options around the toilet area. |
Installation and Maintenance
Installing a wall hung cistern requires careful planning and professional expertise, as it involves integrating plumbing within the wall structure. The purpose-built frame is crucial for stability and support.
- Access for Maintenance: Despite being concealed, modern wall hung cisterns are designed with accessibility in mind. Maintenance and repairs are typically performed through the flush plate opening, allowing technicians to access internal components without having to dismantle the wall. This ensures that routine checks or part replacements are straightforward. For more information on modern bathroom plumbing, consult a professional.
Is a Wall Hung Cistern Right for You?
Wall hung cisterns are an excellent choice for those seeking a contemporary bathroom design, wanting to maximize space, and prioritizing ease of cleaning. They elevate the overall look and feel of a bathroom, offering a sophisticated and highly functional solution. For further insights into bathroom design trends, consider exploring specialized resources.
