A comfortable, functioning toilet is something many homeowners take for granted, but it’s also a necessary part of a well-lived life. So when your toilet stops functioning the way you need it to, it’s time to start looking for a new one. While cost and quality will obviously be important factors in determining the toilet you ultimately choose, they shouldn’t be the only factors your consider. Here are four other considerations to add to your list.
1. Design
There are two standard toilet designs: one-piece and two-piece. And they each have their pros and cons. Two-piece toilets are the least expensive option. Their water tanks come separate from the bowl and hang on the wall or rest on the base of the toilet. While they can be more difficult to install than a one-piece toilet, their replacement parts are easier to find. In addition to being easier to install, one-piece toilets are also generally cleaner, and they offer a more elegant, streamlined look, as the pieces are molded together. However, while they look nice and save you space, they may not necessarily save you money. Wall-mounted toilets are also available. They are the priciest of all the options, but could be perfect for someone who requires a wheelchair.
2. Height and Size
The dimensions of your new toilet should be considered in conjunction with its design. The standard rim height is 15 inches, but many homeowners are opting for “comfort toilets,” which are 2 to 3 inches higher, and more comfortable for adults. The highest option is an 18-inch rim, which functions perfectly for those who have difficulty lifting or lowering their bodies. The size of your toilet, which is mainly determined by the size of the seat, is dependent on the space you have available. So take a good look at your bathroom. If it has plenty of room, you may want to choose an elongated toilet with an oversized seat. But if you’re furnishing a half-bath, a toilet with a round bowl is your best option.
3. Flush
The flush of your new toilet is arguably its most important feature. First, consider how much flush power you need. Then, think about the type of flush power. Traditionally, toilets have used gravity-fed flushes, where the force of gravity helps suck the water down the pipes. But newer toilets often employ more energy-efficient designs. Pressure-assisted flushes, for instance, compress air in a chamber; when the toilet is flushed, the compressed air pushes water out at high speeds, meaning less water is needed overall. They’re also more powerful than traditional flushes, meaning your toilet is less likely to get clogged.
4. Energy Conservation
“Going green” seems to be the latest trend in home appliances, and even your toilet can pitch in toward a less wasteful environment. But beyond being good for the environment, purchasing a new energy-efficient toilet can be good on your wallet, instantly lowering your energy bill. In addition to the pressure-assisted flush mentioned above, the two-lever flush is also great for those who want to conserve. Two-lever flush discriminate between kinds of waste; the smaller lever uses less water to flush liquid waste, thereby conserving water (and your money) for when you really need it.