Installing a wall-hung toilet system can bring both style and space-saving functionality to your bathroom. The minimalist, streamlined look of a wall-mounted toilet not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also makes cleaning easier, as it eliminates the hard-to-reach areas around traditional floor-mounted toilets.
However, installing a wall-hung toilet system requires careful planning and attention to detail. With the right tools, a step-by-step guide, and some patience, you can successfully install a wall-hung toilet in your bathroom. Here’s everything you need to know.
1. Understand the Components of a Wall-Hung Toilet System
Before diving into the installation, it’s important to familiarise yourself with the components of a wall-hung toilet system. A typical setup includes:
- Toilet Bowl: The bowl that mounts to the wall.
- Concealed Cistern: The tank that holds the water, usually installed inside the wall.
- Mounting Frame: A steel frame that provides structural support for the toilet.
- Flush Plate: The visible part on the wall is used to flush the toilet.
Each component is crucial for the proper function and durability of the toilet system, so ensure you have all parts available before starting.
2. Choose the Right Location
Determine where you want the toilet to be installed. Typically, a wall-hung toilet and wall-hung basins need a solid wall for mounting. If your bathroom has drywall, consider reinforcing the area with additional bracing, as the toilet needs to support the weight of an average adult. The ideal height for the bowl is around 16–19 inches from the floor, but this can vary based on user preference and building codes.
3. Prepare the Plumbing
Since the cistern will be concealed within the wall, you’ll need to ensure all plumbing is correctly aligned before proceeding. This involves positioning the water supply line and waste pipe where they’ll connect to the cistern and toilet bowl.
- Waste Pipe: Align the waste pipe to fit with the toilet’s waste outlet. The diameter should typically be at least 3 inches for effective waste disposal.
- Water Supply: Position the water supply line within the wall where it will connect to the concealed cistern.
Double-check that all connections are secure to prevent leaks after installation.
4. Install the Mounting Frame
The mounting frame is the backbone of a wall-hung toilet system. Follow these steps to set it up:
- Assemble the Frame: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for assembling the mounting frame. Most frames are adjustable, so set it to the desired height for the toilet bowl.
- Position the Frame: Place the frame within the wall cavity. Ensure that it is level and plumb (perfectly vertical and straight). Use a spirit level to check alignment.
- Secure the Frame: Use anchor bolts to fix the frame to the floor and wall. The frame must be securely fastened, as it will bear the load of the toilet.
This step might require adjusting the height and depth of the frame, so take your time to make sure it’s correctly positioned.
5. Connect the Cistern and Flush Mechanism
With the frame in place, the next step is to install the concealed cistern:
- Install the Cistern: Attach the cistern to the mounting frame as per the manufacturer's instructions. Make sure the water inlet and flush pipes are correctly aligned and connected.
- Attach the Flush Plate Bracket: Install the flush plate bracket to the wall so that it aligns with the cistern’s mechanism. The flush plate should be accessible from the outside, allowing easy access for maintenance.
This part of the installation is important to get right, as a malfunctioning flush plate or misaligned cistern can lead to operational issues.
6. Install the Wall Finish
Before attaching the toilet bowl, it’s best to finish the wall around the cistern and frame. This will hide the components and give your bathroom a polished look. Choose a water-resistant material, such as moisture-resistant drywall or tile, to finish the wall surface.
Cut an access panel for the flush plate if necessary, and ensure that the panel aligns with the flush mechanism.
7. Mount the Toilet Bowl
Once the wall is complete, it’s time to attach the toilet bowl:
- Align the Toilet Bowl: Position the toilet bowl on the frame’s mounting bolts and align it with the waste pipe.
- Attach the Bowl: Secure the bowl to the frame by tightening the bolts. Be careful not to over-tighten, as this could crack the ceramic bowl.
- Check Alignment: Ensure the bowl is level and aligned with the wall.
After mounting, double-check the bowl’s stability by applying a gentle weight. It should feel solid without any wobbling or shifting.
8. Connect and Test the Water Supply
With the toilet bowl in place, you can now connect the water supply line to the cistern and test the system:
- Turn on the Water Supply: Open the water valve to fill the cistern.
- Test the Flush Mechanism: Press the flush button to ensure the system is working correctly. Check for any leaks around the bowl or cistern.
If there are leaks, tighten the connections and re-test. A properly installed system should have a powerful flush with no signs of leakage.
9. Install the Flush Plate
Once you’re satisfied with the performance, install the flush plate:
- Attach the Flush Plate: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to attach the flush plate to the wall bracket.
- Test the Flush: Again, press the flush plate to confirm that it’s working smoothly and that the toilet flushes properly.
The flush plate serves as both the control mechanism and the access panel for the cistern, so it’s important that it fits snugly and operates smoothly.
10. Final Adjustments and Finishing Touches
Make any final adjustments to ensure everything looks and functions perfectly. Clean up any construction dust or debris, and check all connections one last time.
Also read: Wall-Hung vs Close-Coupled Toilets: Which One Suits You Best?
Final Thoughts
Installing a wall-hung toilet system can be a rewarding project that significantly elevates the look and functionality of your bathroom. While the installation process may seem challenging, following these steps will guide you through each stage, from preparing the plumbing to attaching the flush plate.
A wall-hung toilet not only saves space but also offers a modern, clean aesthetic that’s easy to maintain. With a bit of patience and precision, you’ll have a fully functional, stylish, wall-mounted toilet that enhances both your bathroom's appearance and usability.