Choosing a New or Replacement Toilet Suite

When it comes time to shop for a new toilet—whether you’re replacing an old one or outfitting a brand-new bathroom—you might find yourself saying, “Wow, there are so many options! Where do I even start?” Trust me, you’re not alone! With so many styles, setups, and designs out there, it can feel a bit overwhelming. But don’t worry, we’ve got your back!

Let’s face it: everyone needs a toilet. But nowadays, they’re not just functional—they can also be a stylish centerpiece in your bathroom! With features like water-saving tech, soft-closing lids, and sleek designs, toilets have come a long way.

Here’s a Quick Rundown:

Wall-Faced Toilet Suite:
These modern toilets sit flush against the wall, hiding all the plumbing inside. They look sleek and make cleaning a breeze, perfect for a contemporary bathroom vibe.

Close Coupled Toilet Suite:
A favorite for mid-range renovations, this style features the cistern sitting right on top of the toilet pan, creating tidy lines and easy cleaning.

Link Toilet Suites:
These toilets have a separate pan and cistern connected by a pipe that can either be hidden or left exposed. They’re great for renovations since you can adjust the distance between the pan and cistern during installation.

Concealed Cistern:
For a discreet look, the wall-hung toilet pan mounts to a bracket in the wall, saving space and providing a clean look. The cistern is hidden inside the wall, leaving just the flush buttons visible. These toilets are super stylish and easy to clean!

Important Setup & Specifications

Set-Out:
Before you pick a toilet, it’s essential to figure out the “set-out,” which is the distance from the wall to the center of the waste outlet (for S-trap toilet pans, where the waste goes into the floor). In new homes, the standard set-out is usually around 140-165mm, which accommodates most toilets. If your set-out is more than 200mm or less than 100mm, you may have limited options, so be sure to check first!

Style:
Toilet suites come in various styles! Close-coupled suites have integrated pans and cisterns, while link suites allow for some flexibility in placement. All new toilets in Australia must have a water-saving rating—most modern toilets flush with just 4.5 liters, which is pretty impressive!

Traps:
There are two types of traps: S-trap (waste outlet in the floor) and P-trap (waste outlet in the wall). Most Aussie homes have S-trap pans, while P-traps are common in high-rises and hotels.

Cisterns:
Cisterns also come in many styles and prices, from all-china to plastic. If you’re thinking about a concealed cistern, remember to leave access for maintenance just in case! Cisterns have either bottom or top inlets, which determine how water fills them. Make sure your plumber knows which type you’re going with to avoid any plumbing mishaps.

With this handy guide, you’re ready to tackle your toilet shopping with confidence! Happy hunting!