Wall Hung Toilet

[Bin J]

Right, so a wall hung toilet (with concealed, in-wall cistern) needs an access door . . . I've searched the internet and can't see an example of this anywhere.


Both the plumber (a family friend) and the builder half rolled their eyes when I said I wanted a wall hung toilet - why is this? Is it just a bit fiddlier that normal?


Does the access have to be from behind? Or can you rig something up that is removable beneath the buttons. (I've attached a rough pic of what I've got in mind). What are some suitable materials? (eg. sheet laminate?, painted board etc etc)<O</O

If it is fitted to an outside wall, because the concealed cistern is wider than a normal wall cavity, could you build some kind of box to the outside wall to house it? I live in an area prone to frosts so this may not be very good?<O</O

What is the normal thing to do?

[Eastie]

Arghhh - a jail dunny......

As for the access, have you ever helped deliver a cow? A little more access space would make any future repairs/adjustments much easier....

[ozwinner]

have you ever helped deliver a cow? ....

I used to deliver news papers when I were a lad, does that count?
You would need to be Desperate Dan to deliver a cow......

Al

[Robert WA]

Give yourself plenty of room by putting the systern in the roof cavity above the loo.
It is done in commercial buildings and I don't see why it can't be done in a house.
Rob

[Jacksin]

From the ones Ive worked on (and its been a while) there is an opening left in the wall, either front or rear in a cavity wall during construction and the cistern is fitted after and covered by a fair sized stainless plate. So the hole needs to be big enough to remove cistern when/if it needs replacing.

Personally, its not worth the effort.

[seriph1]

While I like the idea of them, I too am against them for practical reasons, though I have to admit I have only ever had to change a cistern once and a cistern's O ring twice - the last time was a few weeks ago at my folks'place and it was very straightforward - the innards seemed very simple and I guess I would say tjhat if youre committed to the project (and why shouldnt you be) it might be a good idea to create an entire, nicely trimmed, removable panel that surrounds the area which is likely to require access....... Also, if you do decide to go the cistern-in-the-roof route, be sure to place an appropriate restricter in the pipe as the water will come out of the cistern with some hillarious force (hilarious to anyone hearing about it afterwards anyway)

[silkwood]

Firstly many plumbers (not all) will advise against anything which either makes more work for them or they are not familiar with (I deal with this every day at work).

There are a number of options for wall-hung toilets. Do you need wall hung, as opposed to wall faced? Wall hung may require a separate frame inside the wall to support the pan. This frame can also support the cistern if need be. A wall faced pan will support itself, possibly eliminating one hassle. An access panel does need to be large enough to remove the cistern if necessary. I have heard of problems if the unit is exposed to an uninsulated rear wall in very low temperatures.

You can mount the cistern in the ceiling though this means extra work for plumbing in. It WILL NOT make the water flush dramatically differently!

Another option is a "flush valve" which requires no cistern, has electronic buttons and is a small valve mounted conveniently (e.g. in the ceiling). These are terrific and extremely reliable, but it will cost you about $800-$1000 (not including the pan). Mind you this is often offset by the lower installation costs (depending upon the situation) and the convenience of not having to install an access panel.

My view (for what it's worth) is wall hung and wall faced pans are a great addition to an upmarket bathroom, can ease cleaning chores and can add value. Is it worth it in your case? No idea!

Cheers, hoping the job turns out well and you're flushed with success! (sorry)