What is a rimless toilet?

A rimless toilet is the latest flushing technology in toilets! It is also considered to be modern, sleek and stylish over its traditional predecessor.

With traditional toilets, the rim (known as the ‘box rim’) borders the top of the toilet bowl – the water flush is distributed in a downward motion evenly around the bowl. A rimless toilet has almost the whole bowl exposed to the top edge – the water is propelled down into the bowl (from the back) in a vortex / whirlpool like motion.

Is a toilet with a vortex flush better?

The vortex flush (direct flush) is more powerful and thorough than a box pan. The stronger flush spreads the water more evenly with a rotational sweep, therefore efficiently cleaning the entire surface of bowl. Potentially, this may reduce the amount of toilet cleaning products (particularly, harsh chemicals) used to keep the inside of the toilet from looking unsightly.

Are rimless toilets more hygienic?

Definitely! As almost the whole bowl is exposed, it is far easy to clean than a box rim toilet (the space under a box rim toilet can harbour bacteria, mould and grime which can be very hard to get to).

Also, with the vortex flush technology, there is less splashing of water reducing the amount of airborne waste particles.

Do rimless toilets use more or less water than a box pan toilet?

This can depend on the model (just like a box rim toilet). Generally though, with every full flush, a traditional toilet uses about 6 litres of water, whereas most rimless toilets only use about 4.5 litres. Potentially, a rimless toilet may contribute to reducing a water bill.

The WELS star rating, in Australia, provides an indication of water efficiency (look for the sticker on the bowl or cistern when shopping for a new toilet).

Do rimless toilets cost more?

Just like box rim toilets, rimless toilets are available from the low end of the market to the high end of the market.

Do rimless toilets come in traditional styles for an older home?

Yes – rimless toilets are available in traditional styles right through to sleek wall mounted systems where the cistern is hidden in the wall.

What are the different designs of toilets called?

BACK TO WALL TOILETS: Along with the cistern, the pan sits flush to the wall, therefore concealing the inlet and waste pipes. As well as being aesthetically pleasing, this makes cleaning around the toilet so much easier as you don’t have to reach around the back of the pan to clean the floor.

CLOSE COUPLED TOILETS: The cistern sits flush to the wall and the pan is offset from the wall meaning you have to reach around the back of the pan to clean the floor.

WALL HUNG / WALL FACED: As well as being an ultra-modern and minimalist look, a wall-hung toilet is ideal for small bathrooms and powder rooms – the pan is hung from the wall giving the illusion of more space as you see more floor. The cistern is concealed by being installed behind the wall.

If you have any questions about a rimless toilet for your home or would like to book us in to install a new toilet, please don't hesitate to contact us. Howzat Plumbing are based in Chermside, however our team of plumbers and gas fitters can complete jobs throughout the Brisbane northside and southside, the Moreton Bay and Samford Valley regions, along with Brisbane's East, Bayside, Western suburbs, CBD and inner-city.