Toilets are pretty common. In fact, some houses have more than one.
In all seriousness, there are so many types of toilets out there, but not enough information about the differences. How on earth does someone shop for a toilet?
Fortunately, I’ve been shopping for a toilet for a few months. Here’s what I’ve learned. We’re starting with the different types of classifications.
One Piece Versus Two Piece
I’m listing this one first because it’s most important for homeowners. Do you want a toilet that has the tank attached or separate? Two piece ones are a lot easier and more common. Some people like the look of a one piece toilet because they’re sleek and all one smooth material. Personally, I think they look like a bad modern design choice for cheap hotels.
Wall Mounted Toilets
Wall mounted thrones are also an option. Again, they look modern and like they belong in a commercial setting. However, they are an incredible space saver, so if you have a tight bathroom, wall mounted may be the way to go. The bathroom I’m shopping for is very tight, so I’ve considered this. However, aesthetically, I think this is a no-go for me.
Sometimes, wall mounted toilets have a tank hidden in the wall between the studs.
Gravity Fed Versus Pressure Assisted Toilets
Functionally, gravity fed versus pressure assisted is the primary question. Pressure assisted uses way less water. They tend to be a little bit more expensive. However, the water savings will make up for it.
If they break, they are more complicated to fix. Gravity fed toilets are the most common and easiest to fix. Way fewer components to worry about!
Flush Type
Flush type is not something most people worry about. If it’s something you care about, there are fortunately not that many options. You get one flush, double flush, or no flush. No flush is a porta potty. That doesn’t belong in a house.
One Flush. A one flush toilet is exactly what it sounds like. You push the handle, the toilet flushes. That’s the deal. Pretty simple.
Double Flush. Double flush toilets have two modes. They can come with a handle or a button. The first mode is for liquids and the second mode is for solids. The liquids mode empties a smaller amount of liquid from the tank into the bowl. The solids mode empties the entire tank into the bowl. The double flush feature is helpful in water conservation.
Toilet Height
Are you short or tall? Do you want a toilet specifically for small kids? Toilet height can make a difference. Weirdly, there is no standard height. However, they range from 15 to 19 inches in seat height.
Toilet Bowl Shape
Toilet bowls are generally either round or elongated. All of them are measured in width and length. Your bowl shape is largely a matter of preference. However, round bowls work better in smaller bathrooms. Keep in mind that your toilet seat must match your bowl.
Trapway
The trapway is the pipping that runs from the bowl down into your plumbing. How your trapway looks is solely a matter of aesthetics. Some bowls have different styles.
Toilet Seat
Toilet seats probably have the biggest variety of any toilet features. Most toilets come with a seat already, but they’re extremely replaceable. The most important thing to do is get a seat that matches the size and shape of the bowl.
Toilet seats can be attached a variety of ways. I recommend the quick release ones or ones attached by metal bolts. The quick release ones make it really easy to clean because you can take the entire seat off when cleaning.
Handle
I don’t care what my handle looks like, but you might. Bowls will come with handles, but if you want it to look differently, these are also easy to replace.
Bidets & Smart Toilets
Again, not my cup of tea, but you get toilets with bidets and smart toilet features. I’m not going to go into these, but they exist and you should know about them.
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