Turn off the water, remove the old flush plate, fit the new one, then test for leaks.
FP-01Find and test your isolation valveMost concealed cisterns have a small isolation valve behind the flush plate or in a nearby inspection hatch — turn it clockwise with a flat screwdriver to shut it. If you can't find one, turn off the main stopcock (usually under the kitchen sink) and check it turns before you start. This way, if anything goes wrong, you can stop the water straight away.
FP-02Drain the cisternPress the flush to empty as much water as possible with the valve shut. There will still be some water sitting in the cistern and pipework, so keep an old towel and a small bowl handy for the next step.
1 each · Small bowl or bucket FP-03Take a photo, then remove the old platePhotograph the plate and the gap behind it before you touch anything — this saves guesswork later. Most plates either unclip by pressing one edge so the plate tilts forward, or are held by small screws under a trim strip. Work gently; the plastic clips are easy to snap if forced.
1 each · Small flathead screwdriver FP-04Disconnect the flush mechanismBehind the plate you'll find a push rod (single flush) or two cables/rods (dual flush) connecting to the flush valve inside the cistern. Note which rod does what, then unclip or unscrew them from the old plate. Keep the old rods safe — some new plates reuse them, others come with their own.
FP-05Fit the new flush plateConnect the new plate's rods or cables to the flush valve first, matching them to the buttons the same way as the old plate. Check the manufacturer's instructions for rod length — most new plates let you trim or adjust the rods so the plate sits flush against the wall. Clip or screw the plate into the frame once the linkage is connected.
1 each · Dual-flush plate kit FP-06Turn the water back on and testOpen the isolation valve or stopcock slowly and let the cistern fill. Press each button in turn and watch the flush valve move correctly — a weak or uneven flush usually means a rod is misaligned. Check around the frame and buttons for any drips.
FP-07Fine-tune the flush volumeMany dual-flush plates have small adjustment screws or a dial behind the buttons that control how much water each flush uses. Adjust these so the full flush clears the pan properly without being wasteful, then flush a few more times to settle the setting.
FP-08Tidy up and check again laterWipe down the plate and surrounding tiles or wall, and dispose of the old plate and any packaging. Come back in 30 minutes and check the floor behind the toilet is still dry — a slow leak often only shows up after a bit of use.
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