Toilet Cistern Levers

Cistern levers can give an older toilet a fresh look or replace a broken handle. The right one needs to suit your cistern as well as your bathroom, so here's what to know before you buy.

 

What is a cistern lever?

A cistern lever is the handle on the outside of the toilet cistern. It lifts the flushing mechanism inside, releasing water into the toilet pan.

Most replacement levers fit a ½in BSP opening, but some cisterns, including some Ideal Standard models, need a ⅜in fitting. Before buying, compare your existing opening with the product details; some universal levers include adaptors for different sizes.

Cistern levers are available in materials such as ceramic, chrome-plated brass, zinc and ABS plastic, with finishes including chrome, gold and white.

 

Will a replacement cistern lever fit my toilet?

It depends on your toilet cistern. The flush handle needs to suit the hole at the front or side, while the arm inside needs enough room to move and connect to the flush mechanism. Some toilet cistern levers are also made for a particular left or right hand position.

 

Does a new toilet handle come with everything I need?

It depends on the handle. Some come with the arm that goes inside the toilet and the parts needed to attach it; others don't. If the arm has broken too, see what's included before ordering.

 

How do I replace a toilet cistern lever?

Replacing a cistern lever is usually straightforward. The cistern lid needs to come off first so you can unhook the old arm or C-link from the flush mechanism. Once the retaining nut is off, the old handle can be removed and the new one fitted through the hole.

Many cistern lever nuts have a reverse thread, so they loosen clockwise and tighten anticlockwise. Your model's instructions will confirm which way to turn it. Once the new handle is secure, the arm should lift the flush mechanism straight up without catching on the cistern sides. If the arm connects to a chain, a little slack lets the mechanism drop back into place after flushing.

 

Will a new cistern lever feel firm when I flush?

It should sit securely and move freely once fitted, but the feel can depend on the handle and how it connects inside the cistern. A loose or rattling toilet handle may need its fittings adjusted. If the lever doesn't return after flushing, the arm could be catching or the problem could lie with the flushing mechanism.

 

Will replacing the handle fix a toilet that won't flush?

It can if the toilet flush handle or its connection to the internal arm has broken. If the arm still moves when you press the handle but the toilet doesn't flush, another cistern part may need attention instead. Our toilet troubleshooting guide can help you work out what's causing the problem.