Jim The Bathroom Guy

If you’re renovating a bathroom or doing a new build, you’ve probably seen those sleek wall-hung toilets with in-wall cisterns. They look modern, save floor space, and give bathrooms a clean, minimalist vibe. But are they really worth it? And what problems should you be aware of before spending big?

I’ve been in bathrooms for most of my life, so I am here to give you a straight-up, practical guide about in-wall cisterns in Australia.

What Is an In-Wall Cistern?

An in-wall cistern is a toilet tank hidden inside the wall or a frame. Only the pan and flush plate are visible. They’re often part of a wall-hung toilet system, which lifts the bowl off the floor for a modern, space-saving look.

Benefits you’ll see in showrooms:

• Clean, minimalist look
• Easier to clean under the bowl
• Saves space in small bathrooms
• Can match modern styling trends

But as you’ll see, the showroom rarely shows you the hidden risks.

Common Questions Homeowners Search for

Below are the common questions I will cover that I get asked every week about in wall toilets.

• Are in-wall cisterns reliable?
• Do they leak behind the wall?
• Can they be repaired if something goes wrong?
• Which brands are best in Australia?
• Are they worth the extra cost?
• Installation requirements (wall depth, framing, waterproofing)

I cover everything below to take the stress away for you in one place.

Reliability and Maintenance

Truth: Good brands installed correctly are very reliable. Cheap brands or poor installation will give you headaches. The combination of the last two is the worst-case scenario for in-wall systems.

Problems I see on jobs:

• Leaks behind the wall (rare with quality brands, but expensive to fix)
• Faulty flush mechanisms (more common in cheaper imports)
• Access issues (you can only get to most cisterns through the flush plate)
• Replacement parts are not available for some brands

Pro tip: Stick to reputable brands in Australia. That usually means Geberit, Caroma, TECE, Parisi or R&T. Check my full list below

Installation Requirements

This isn’t just dropping a tank into the wall. You need:

• A framed cavity (typically 90–150mm depth)
• Solid support for the pan and user weight
• Proper waterproofing if it’s in a wet area
• Correct wall access for servicing

Not every wall can take an in-wall cistern. Brick walls, external walls, or certain renovations may need extra framing or modifications due to a lack of depth of strength.

Cost Comparison

An in-wall cistern costs more than a standard toilet suite. You’re paying for:

• The frame and tank
• Extra carpentry or framing work
• Labour for installation and waterproofing
• Higher-skilled tiling around the pan and often the finishing edge

Expect $2,000–$5000+ per installation more in Australia, depending on brand and complex nature. This costings is how much in comparison to a standing floor standing back-to-wall toilet

Think of it this way: you’re paying for look, space-saving, and overall clean feel.

When They’re Worth It

In-wall cisterns are great when:

• Looking to create the feeling of space in your bathroom.
• You’re doing a full bathroom reno with modern styling
• The wall can support it easily
• You’re using a quality brand and skilled installer
• You want that minimalist feel for a bathoom

When They’re Not

Skip them if:

• You’re on a tight budget or doing a DIY job
• The wall can’t easily take the frame
• It’s an investment property where repairs will be expensive
• You want a “low maintenance forever” solution without thinking about parts

Top Brands in Australia

Below are some in wall sytems I have used before I can recommend that suit a bunch of different budgets.

• Caroma – Iconic Australian brand with concealed cisterns paired with quality pans (Cleanflush series). Often paired with Geberit frames for added reliability.
• TECE – European system known for slim profiles, strong engineering, and modern design.
• Parisi – Stylish and reliable in-wall cisterns with good availability in Australia.
• Oliveri – Australian-branded bathroomware including concealed cistern systems seen in trade projects.
• R&T – Frequently paired with designer flush plates, offering dependable concealed cistern technology.
• Grohe – Global brand offering quality concealed systems with water-efficient features and strong build.
• Toto – International bathroom brand with reliable in-wall cistern options.
• Duravit – German premium brand offering in-wall cistern systems and solid engineering.

Stick to these and you reduce the risk of future headaches.

Why In-Wall Cisterns Can’t Go Straight into Double Brick Walls

I get this one alot so I need to explain. Most in-wall cisterns need a framed cavity to support the pan and cistern, route plumbing, and allow future servicing. Double brick external walls are too solid and shallow to safely hold the frame or provide access. Adding an extra layer (stud framing or a false wall) gives the support, plumbing space, and waterproofing room needed for a reliable, long-lasting installation.

That is not to say that in all cases you can’t it is generally most likely an extra frame of wall will be needed

My Verdict

If installed properly with a quality brand, in-wall cisterns work brilliantly. They look modern, save space, and make cleaning easier.

But if corners are cut, cheap brands are used, or the wall isn’t suitable, you can end up with expensive and stressful problems.

My advice is if you have the money for a better quality in a wall toilet and the labour installation to do it, then definitely put one in if it works with your space. If your room is too small and the half wall is really going to impact your bathroom functioanlity I wouldn’t bother, but it definitely screams high end when you see it.

Disclaimer: The advice on this website is for general information only. I draw on years of experience in bathroom renovations and tiling, but every home and project is different. Always consult a licensed tradesperson, plumber, or builder before starting any renovations, installations, or repairs.

Want to take your bathroom to the next level? Why not pair it with a Hidden Toilet Brush Holder (Tap Here For More Hidden Bathroom Storage Ideas)