A cistern is used in modern toilets to store and reserve the exact amount of water needed to flush the toilet bowl. It used to be positioned high above the toilet bowl and connected to it by a long conduit in older toilets. To flush the toilet, you had to pull a hanging chain that was connected to a release valve inside the cistern. Close coupled toilets have them installed directly on the toilet bowl with no intermediate piping. The flush mechanism (lever or push button) is commonly located on the cistern in this configuration. There are also concealed cistern toilets or flush tanks, which have the cistern incorporated into the wall behind the toilet and are available in different price ranges.
Cisterns come in a variety of sizes, ranging from small to large, and can hold thousands of cubic litres of water. Because a cistern must store water, it must be made of extremely durable and waterproof materials. Galvanized mild steel, polypropylene, and glass-reinforced polymers are available. To carry the tremendous load, insulation and sturdy supports are also required. These come with a cover to protect the stored liquids from contamination.
Types of cisterns
1. Bell-shaped: These were once common, but are now nearly extinct in modern times. These are made of cast iron and can be found in older buildings such as factories and schools. To flush, pull the chain that is connected to a bell, which triggers the flush. When flushing, these bell-shaped cisterns generated a lot of noise and that is the reason of their low price.
2. Disc type: These cisterns are often built of ceramic and can be found in a variety of constructions. A lever triggers the cistern flush, which uses siphonic action to remove water. The siphonic action produces a flush when the lever is pressed down and released. These can be either single or dual levers.
3. Automatic flushing: These activate using sensors and are mostly used in commercial settings. Especially useful in school where users may not be able to reach the lever for flushing.
4. Concealed: It is called concealed when the cistern is hidden from view and only the flush plate is visible. It can be concealed behind a wall, suspended from the ceiling, or integrated into a piece of furniture. Flush tanks that are hidden or concealed are becoming increasingly popular. From an aesthetic standpoint, these are the cisterns of choice since they provide the interior with a sophisticated appearance. Furthermore, flush plates are available in a variety of styles to suit your demands. Concealed cisterns are also a good alternative for smaller bathrooms since they create a sense of spaciousness while leaving plenty of floor space.
Brands
1. Cera
2. Hindware
3. Kohler
4. Grohe
5. American Standard
6. Schell
7. Geberit
8. Hafele
9. Roca
10. Jaquar