Tiffany Haney
Fixing a cistern to a pan can be a complicated process, especially if you are installing a different style of pan and cistern. Before starting, it is important to turn off the cold water supply and drain the cistern. Then, you can mark the location of the partition on the floor and assemble the soil pipe connector, ensuring it protrudes beyond the partition line. Next, you can fix the pan to the floor by pre-drilling the floor through the screw holes in the base of the pan. After connecting the flush pipe to the pan, the cistern can be held in place, lining up with the base of the pan. To prevent leaks, washers can be used inside the cistern, and a smear of sealant can be applied between all surfaces. Finally, the cistern can be fixed to the wall using galvanised screws to prevent rusting.
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What You'll Learn
Using washers to fix leaks
Washers are an essential component of your cistern, and over time, the rubber seals inside your cistern can deteriorate, allowing water to seep out. If you notice damp patches, water pooling around the base of your cistern, or an increase in your water bills, it may be time to replace the washers.
To fix leaks using washers, you must first identify the source of the leak. Check the water level in the cistern and inspect the area for any signs of water stains or moisture trails. You can also try a dye test by adding food colouring to the water and checking for any colouring emerging on the outside of the cistern. Once you've identified that the washers are the issue, it's time to replace them.
Turn off the water supply to the toilet and locate the outlet valve. Flush the toilet to ensure no water is left in the bowl. If water enters the bowl, you've turned off the wrong tap! The correct tap will stop the water flow when turned clockwise. The outlet valve should be in the middle of the cistern. Now, remove the nuts under the cistern with your hands and, if necessary, pliers. Take out the outlet valve and replace the washers inside. You can use a screwdriver to pop out the old washers and then place the new ones in the same position.
After replacing the washers, return the outlet valve to the toilet and turn the water supply back on. Allow the cistern to refill, and then flush the toilet to check if the issue is resolved. If the problem persists, you may need to call a professional plumber for assistance.
It is important to note that you should always use high-quality replacement parts when fixing leaks in your cistern. This will ensure the durability of the repairs and help prevent further issues.
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Applying sealant to the pan
When applying sealant to the pan, it is important to use the correct type of sealant. A silicone sealant is often recommended for this purpose, as it can create a strong and durable seal. It is also flexible, which is important when dealing with materials that may expand and contract slightly.
Firstly, ensure the pan is clean and dry. Any dirt, dust, or debris will compromise the seal, so it is important to prepare the surface properly. If the pan has been used before, it is a good idea to give it a thorough clean with a suitable cleaning agent and then rinse it well with water. Make sure the pan is completely dry before applying any sealant.
Next, apply the silicone sealant to the base of the pan. Place a generous amount of sealant in a continuous bead around the base, ensuring that you follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding the amount of sealant to use and the method of application. The sealant should be applied evenly and smoothly, and you should ensure that it is pushed into any gaps or crevices.
At this stage, you may also want to apply a small amount of sealant to the flush valve and ball tap inside the cistern, as this will provide an extra seal. However, this is not always necessary.
Once the sealant has been applied to the pan, you can then carefully lower the pan into position on the floor, taking care not to disturb the sealant. If your toilet is being installed on a concrete floor, do not use cement or strong adhesives to fix the pan to the floor, as this can damage the pan and invalidate its warranty. Instead, rely on the sealant to hold it in place, leaving it for 24 hours to ensure the pan has bonded securely before fixing the cistern.
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Connecting the cistern to the wall
Next, hold the cistern against the wall and check that the lid fits snugly. If adjustments are needed, use tap washers against the wall to allow the cistern to protrude from the wall, ensuring the lid fits correctly. Remember to use washers inside the cistern to prevent water from leaking through to the wall behind.
Now, connect the flush pipe to the base of the cistern, using the appropriate connector. Finally, install the float valve and the flush mechanism inside the cistern. Modern cisterns are designed to overflow into the pan, so you should not need to install an overflow pipe unless you are swapping an old cistern.
It is important to note that the top panel, which sits above the cistern, should be removable to allow access for future maintenance.
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Attaching the flush pipe
First, ensure that the soil pipe is connected to the pan. Pre-drill the floor through the screw holes in the base of the pan. If you have a concrete floor, remember to drill and plug the holes. This step provides a secure foundation for the entire assembly.
Next, with assistance, hold the cistern in place. Line up the flush pipe with the base of the cistern, ensuring everything will connect smoothly. It is important to get this alignment right to avoid any leaks.
Now, connect the flush pipe to the pan. Use the appropriate connector for a secure fit. You may need to consult the manufacturer's instructions or seek advice from a plumbing supplier to ensure you are using the correct connector for your specific model.
At this stage, you can sit the pan on a bed of silicone sealant. This step is crucial to creating a watertight seal and preventing leaks. Push the screw sleeves into the screw holes, and then slowly rotate each screw 360 degrees in turn. This gradual tightening process helps to prevent cracking the pan.
If, for some reason, you are unable to fix the pan to the floor with screws, you will need to rely solely on the sealant. In this case, it is important to allow ample time for the sealant to cure and form a strong bond. Wait at least 24 hours before fixing the cistern to ensure the pan is securely bonded to the floor.
Finally, remember to avoid using cement or strong adhesives when fixing a pan to a concrete floor, as this can damage the pan and void its warranty.
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Drilling the porcelain
Drilling into porcelain or ceramic can be a risky process, and it is easy to crack the porcelain or fracture the cistern if done incorrectly. If you are looking to fix a cistern to a pan, there are a few options to consider before drilling. Firstly, check if the cistern and pan are a matching set, as they should be according to Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999. If the fittings do not match, it is recommended to replace the entire unit with a new, matching batch.
If drilling is absolutely necessary, it is possible to drill through glazed ceramic or porcelain, but it must be done with care. Ensure that no hammer action is used on the drill, as this will likely crack the porcelain. It is also important to note that drilling holes in the cistern for wall-mounting is risky, as the entire weight of the cistern will be held by the bolts connecting it to the pan.
An alternative to drilling is to use a bead of silicone to stick the cistern to the wall. This method provides a secure hold and allows for future removal if needed. Simply cut the silicone with a knife to detach the cistern from the wall. Another suggestion is to use adjustable mirror brackets to fix the cistern in place.
If you decide to drill, it is recommended to use a tile drill to create the holes, and to smear a sealant such as LSX between all the surfaces to prevent leaks.
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Frequently asked questions
Fixing a cistern to a pan involves the following steps:
- Pre-drill the wall for the cistern retaining screws.
- Hold the cistern against the wall and check that the lid fits snugly.
- Use galvanised screws to fix the cistern to the wall.
- Connect the flush pipe to the base of the cistern using the appropriate connector.
- Install the float valve and the flush mechanism inside the cistern.
Leaks can be caused by various factors, including faulty washers, loose nuts, or improper sealing. To fix a leaking cistern, identify the source of the leak and address it accordingly. This may involve replacing washers, tightening nuts, or applying sealants.
Different types of sealants can be used, such as silicone, plumber's putty, or PTFE tape. It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions and take the necessary precautions when working with sealants.
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