While a blocked toilet is a hassle, it can usually be fixed easily. The first step is to determine if the toilet is actually blocked, and then you can try several methods for a blocked toilet fix. It would help if you first looked at how the toilet drains. A clogged toilet will drain water slowly after it has been flushed. Blocked toilets will also sometimes make a gurgling noise or even overflow after they are flushed. You may also notice a foul odour coming from the toilet or bathroom. Outside, you may see water and toilet paper around the relief gully in your yard.
How to unclog a toilet with a plunger
To unblock a toilet, use either a standard plunger or a plunger with a flange. The flange fits snugly over the hole in your toilet bowl, which gives you more suction power. Because plunging can be a dirty job, you want to wear disposable gloves and use old drop cloths. Place the cloths on the floor around the toilet in case there is overflow. Insert the plunger into the blow. If your plunger has a flange, be sure the flange goes into the drain hole. Hold the plunger so that the handle points straight up. Push the plunger forcefully up and down and do not hold it at an angle. You may need to push up and down for about twenty seconds. A plunger is a commonly used tool to unblock a toilet, and this is because it’s a convenient and inexpensive way to fix a toilet not flushing. Plunging a toilet is also easy and doesn’t require the services of a professional plumber.
A plunger is one of the easiest ways to unblock a toilet / Source: Shutterstock
How to unblock a toilet without a plunger
How to unblock a toilet with baking soda
Start by pouring a cup of baking soda into your toilet, and then chase it with a mixture of two cups of hot water with two cups of white vinegar. Let it sit for about thirty minutes, and after that time the clog will generally come loose, and you can flush the toilet as usual.
How to unblock a toilet with hot water
Fill a kitchen pot with hot water from the tap. Pour the water into the toilet bowl, and if it starts to drain, then the blocked toilet drain is fixed.
How to use a coat hanger on a clogged toilet
Unwind a wire coat hanger so that it’s straight except for the hook, and then wrap a tiny rag around your hook to prevent scratches on the inside of the toilet bowl. Put on disposable gloves and put the hook down the drain to find and remove the clog.
How to use a sewer snake on a toilet (aka an auger)
Put the auger’s cable into the toilet, aim it toward the back drain and then crank the handle in a clockwise motion to release and extend the cable into the drain. Once you have reached the clog, pull back on the snake; you’ll feel resistance when you have hooked the clog, and you should turn the crank in the other direction to pull the clog out, which is the easiest way to use an auger for toilet clogs.
How to use a chemical toilet unblocker
Remove the drain stopper and pour the drain unblocker steadily and slowly into the clogged toilet. Be sure to follow all safety instructions on the label, and be sure to wear gloves and open windows when using any acidic or caustic chemicals.
Contact local plumbers
Is it bad to leave a clogged toilet overnight?
Some people don’t know how to fix a blocked toilet or even how to use a plunger. In these cases, the person might leave the toilet blocked with paper overnight. While some people claim that a toilet left alone overnight can unclog itself, it’s probably not best to leave a toilet clogged. The last thing you want is to leave a running or leaking toilet sitting for hours at a time. The toilet could overflow and cause water damage to your floors. In the worst of scenarios, you might even flood the room and get toilet water leaking into other rooms or spaces as well. The cleanup could take hours, and the damage to your property can be pretty extensive. It’s best not to risk it.
A licensed plumber is a well-versed toilet unblocker. A plumber will know how to fix a slow draining toilet and how to fix a blocked toilet. However, knowing how to plunge a toilet and the best way to unblock a toilet yourself will save you money. Plumber’s fees typically can cost between $50 to $200 per hour, depending on where you live in Australia. To save that money, you could try the hot water method or vinegar and baking soda or one of the other methods above before you call a plumber.
Specific government authorities govern the licensing of plumbers in Australia. Regional authorities oversee both the issuance and renewal of licences. To get a licence, plumbers must typically do the following:
Complete all required and accredited courses in the field.
Must complete vocational, on-the-job work experience.
The plumber must also have an approved qualification.
The specific state or territory regulates the profession in Australia. Plumbers can receive a variety of classes of licences. The specific class depends on the local government requirements in terms of the type of work to be performed. It is unlawful for a plumber to carry out work that is not specified by his or her licence class. For instance, one plumber might need a particular licence to install drains.
If you’re looking for ways to reduce your water bill, low taps are are in ideal solution.
What are low flow taps?
Low flow taps are deceiving by name. You may think that because they’re called low flow taps, you won’t have high-pressure water coming out, but this is the contrary. Regular taps use more water and therefore produce more water pressure which results in increased water flow. However, low flow taps also produce a high power water flow, but it does this by mixing air into the water, which gives the appearance of a higher flow; although the pressure feels just about the same.
A normal tap lets out up to 18 L of water per minute whereas the low flow taps only use about 2 L of water per minute, which really saves you a tremendous amount on your water bill. When looking for low flow tap, you may run into the Acronym WELS. WELS is a water efficiency labeling scheme. WELS rates items according to efficiency and it allows you to see how much you’re saving and how efficient the product is before purchasing it. WELS has a six star rating system with the higher stars being more efficient and the lower stars being less efficient. Any water producing item that you purchase is rated by WELS.
Advantages of using low flow taps
Low flow taps help to stop water wastage and also provides you with a better source of water. In addition, they decrease your water cost and are more energy-efficient. This might be an ideal solution in a household that has high water usage or higher water bills. Besides simply saving you money on your water, there are two other benefits to using low flow taps. These benefits include saving money on electricity and reducing water wastage.
Low flow toilets
As one of the most essential fixtures in your home, the toilet is also the most consuming of water. By installing low flow toilets, you will lose significantly less water (and see a lower water bill), without noticing a change in the toilet’s effectiveness. In addition to improving water efficiency, low flow toilets will ensure your home is up to code.
What are low flow toilets?
Other than outdoor irrigation, the standard toilet is the largest water consumer in your home. By installing a low flow toilet, you can reduce water usage while still performing the same function of removing bodily waste. To effectively remove waste, gravity assists during the flushing process allowing low flow toilets to only use six litres of water per flush. These toilets are available in the most basic models and also top-of-the-line units.
The most common type of low-flow toilet on the market is the dual flush model which has two buttons. The first button, known as the half flush, uses only three litres of water to eliminate liquid waste. The second button, referred to as the full flush, uses up to six litres of water to dispose of solid waste. Therefore, you are only using as much water as necessary for each visit.
Buying a low flow toilet
If you are in the market for a low flow toilet, there are a few considerations. First, ensure the toilet has been certified as water efficient. The amount of water used in the half and full flushes should be readily available. Second, ensure there is enough space in your bathroom to fit the new toilet. Third, there is a wide variety of designs including:
Colour
Height
Modifications (heated seats, bidet, etc.)
Shape (round or elongated)
Noisiness
Water saving tips
In addition to installing low flow taps, there are many other ways that you can reduce your energy costs and save wastage. Some of these tips include:
Installing low flow tabs on all sinks, tubs and basins in your home
Minimizing the temperature on your heater
Closing taps when you’re not using them and frequently checking any pipes for leakages
Remember a small leak can add up, so it’s best to have that leak under control before it causes more problems. Low flow taps can be a tremendous help, but if they aren’t maintained or used properly they can contribute to water wastage.
A toilet cistern, also known as the tank, is one of the most essential components of toilets and is where water is stored before it’s used to flush the toilet. It’s located above the toilet bowl and may also be higher above the toilet, connected by a single pipe. The cistern has a flushing mechanism in proximity to it to control the water.
Types of toilet cisterns in Australia
1. Concealed Cisterns: These cisterns are installed within the wall cavity, making them completely hidden from view. They are commonly used in modern bathrooms to create a sleek and minimalist look.
2. Close Coupled Cisterns: This is the most common type of cistern used in Australia. The cistern is mounted directly on top of the toilet bowl and connected with a flush pipe.
3. High-Level Cisterns: These cisterns are mounted high on the wall above the toilet bowl and connected with a flush pipe. They are a classic and elegant option often used in heritage homes or to create a vintage look.
4. Low-Level Cisterns: Similar to high-level cisterns, low-level cisterns are mounted on the wall, but much closer to the toilet bowl. They are a good option for those who want a traditional look without the height of a high-level cistern.
5. In-Wall Cisterns: These cisterns are installed within the wall cavity but have an access panel for maintenance. They are similar to concealed cisterns but are easier to access if repairs or maintenance are needed.
6. Dual Flush Cisterns: These cisterns have two buttons or levers that allow you to choose between a full flush or a half flush, depending on the amount of water needed to clear the bowl. They are a popular option for those looking to reduce their water usage.
7. Caroma Uniset Cisterns: This cistern is a specific type of close-coupled cistern that features a unique design and built-in inlet and outlet valves. It is a popular choice in Australia due to its ease of installation and water efficiency.
8. Fowler Ware Toilet Cisterns. These cisterns are known for their durability and reliability. They typically have a traditional design and are made of ceramic. These cisterns operate using a flushing mechanism that releases water from the cistern into the toilet bowl to remove waste.
What does a cistern do?
A cistern operates using a valve that controls the water flow with the help of a plastic float. The float is responsible for regulating the water level inside the tank by opening or closing the valve depending on how much water is present. The valve fully opens each time the toilet is flushed to allow more water to enter the cistern and refill it to the required level.
How to replace a toilet cistern?
Suppose the toilet cistern becomes damaged or develops flush tank water leakage. In that case, you’ll need to replace it by completing a few steps. You can complete the project yourself because it’s a simple and common plumbing repair. Start by turning off the shutoff valve clockwise and completely drain out all of the water from the tank. You can use a sponge to absorb any remaining moisture.
Use an adjustable wrench to hold the nut under the tank bolt and unscrew the bolts with a screwdriver. After completely removing the tank, lay it down. In some cases, the washer may not move and come loose. Try using an adjustable wrench to turn it. You can now insert the new spud washer before removing the bolts and gaskets.
You’ll then need to clean around the holes of the tank with a sturdy wire brush to remove any of the old bold gasket, which may still be present on the inside and outside of the tank. The new gasket will only seal properly if the surface is clean. The new gaskets will need to be firmly seated onto the bolts. Reinstall each nut on the bottom of the cistern and tighten them by hand until they feel secure.
The last step of the DIY leaking toilet repair process is tightening the nuts and bolts and alternating to each side until it looks like the gaskets are seated. It’s also important to avoid tightening the bolts too much, which can cause minor cracks to form on the toilet cistern.
How to repair a toilet cistern?
There are a few common ways to fix a leaking toilet cistern to restore its operation and prevent the problem from escalating.
1. Repairing the flush valve – Located in the middle of tanks, the flush valve is one of the main components of the leaking toilet cistern and operates with a float ball. Bend the float arm down to shut off the water. Adjust the water level and also consider replacing the ballcock valve with an updated float-cup style fill valve to avoid potential problems in the future.
2. Fixing a loose flush handle – The lift chain should be reconnected to the lift arm from the flapper. You can also adjust the handle mounting nut located inside of the cistern by rotating it counterclockwise.
Don’t let a leaking toilet cistern ruin your bathroom / Source: Euroluce Pty Ltd
Toilet cistern washer replacements
Cistern washer – Inlet
You can replace a leaking toilet cistern inlet valve by turning off the water supply to the toilet and flushing the toilet. Remove the blue top and remove the arm from the float cup adjusting rod. Remove the cap by turning the arm counterclockwise before removing the inlet valve head seal.
Cistern washer – Outlet
When you need to perform a toilet cistern washer replacement for the outlet, start by shutting the water off through the mains isolation or the stop tap. Thoroughly drain the tank and remove the old seating washer. The seat should be in good condition before you install the new cistern waster outlet. The seat should be smooth to prevent the new washer from leaking. Install the new piece and verify that the clips are in position.
How to fix leaking cistern valves?
Cistern inlet valve – Remove the lid and flush the system and turn off the water valve before draining all of the water out by flushing the toilet. Remove the broken parts and attach the new pieces onto the cistern inlet valve. As the tank fills with water, check the water level while tightening connections and looking for leaks.
Cistern outlet valve – Turn off the water supply and remove the lid on the toilet cistern. Flush the toilet to remove all of the water and use a sponge to absorb any remaining moisture.
How to fix a cistern flush?
You can fix a cistern flush to avoid wasting any more water when the inlet valve doesn’t shut off once the water reaches the desired level. Start by checking for leaks in the tank with the use of vegetable dye. Lower the float arm to ensure the ball starts to sit lower to ensure the inlet valve shuts off sooner.
Adjust the float levels by adjusting the screw on the float arm and ball to ensure the inlet valve shuts off. Keep a close eye on the water level markings to ensure the water hits the appropriate level. Gently remove the damaged parts and install the new pieces. Check to see everything fits securely. Place the lid back onto the cistern and connect the water valve. Flush the toilet again and check to see if the toilet is still leaking.
When should I call an expert?
It’s important to know when to contact a professional to ensure your toilet continues to operate correctly after you spot toilet leaking. Calling a plumbing expert will allow you to get the toilet back in working order and consult the help of someone with more training and experience.
Contact local plumbing experts
The Problem Persists
You’ll need leaking cistern repair if the problem isn’t resolved with your attempts. You may follow each step and still have questions. You may also have caused more extensive damage during your dripping toilet attempt.
The Parts Aren’t Damaged
After inspecting the parts on your leaking toilet tank, you may not spot any areas where the problem is located. Calling a professional will allow you to hire someone who can diagnose the problem and remedy it if it’s an underlying issue that’s not related to the parts.
You Have Questions
You may have further questions about the mechanisms and operation of your toilet cistern to address, which is when a professional can help. You may want to know how to stop a toilet cistern from overflowing or how to prevent damage or wear to the parts. If the above steps have not fixed your problem or if you lack confidence in your DIY abilities, it may be time to call a licensed plumber.
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
Source: Shutterstock
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.
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
Leave the toilet installation job to the pros | Source: iStock
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!
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.
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.
