How to Choose a Toilet: A Comprehensive Guide
Knowing how to choose a toilet might seem like a straightforward task, but with the variety of options available today, it’s worth taking the time to understand your needs and preferences. From the type of toilet and its flushing technology to design features and budget considerations, this guide will walk you through the key factors to consider when selecting the perfect toilet for your home.
One-Piece vs. Two-Piece Toilets
The choice between a one-piece and a two-piece toilet is often the first decision homeowners face. Both options have distinct advantages depending on your priorities.
- Two-Piece Toilets: These are the traditional choice and remain popular for their affordability and ease of installation. They consist of a separate tank and bowl, which makes transporting and handling them simpler, especially for DIYers. Two-piece toilets are available in a wide range of styles, from basic models to more modern designs that fit contemporary aesthetics.
- One-Piece Toilets: These toilets are molded as a single unit, giving them a sleek, streamlined appearance. They tend to fit better in modern bathrooms and offer the added benefit of easier cleaning. Without the seams and crevices where dirt and grime can collect, maintaining a one-piece toilet requires less effort over time. While they were once significantly more expensive than two-piece toilets, the price gap has narrowed, making them accessible to more homeowners.
Plumber’s Tip: Some argue that two-piece toilets are advantageous because you can replace either the tank or the bowl separately if one part fails. However, in most cases, if your toilet is old enough to need such a repair, it’s more cost-effective and efficient to replace the entire unit.
Flushing Technology: What Works Best?
The flushing system of your toilet determines its efficiency and reliability, so it’s important to choose wisely. Here are some of the most common types:
- Gravity-Flush Systems: These are the most traditional systems, relying on the force of gravity to pull water from the tank into the bowl. They’re simple, effective, and require minimal maintenance.
- Pressure-Assisted Systems: For those looking for a powerful flush, pressure-assisted systems are a great choice. These toilets use pressurized air to force water into the bowl, which can handle larger loads but may be noisier than other options.
- Dual-Flush Toilets: These models offer two flush options—typically a half-flush for liquid waste and a full flush for solids. They’re an excellent choice for conserving water and are particularly popular in eco-conscious households.
At Aaron Services, we frequently recommend and install Toto Drake toilets featuring the Tornado Flush system. This innovative technology combines dual water entry points and siphoning action to ensure effective and thorough flushing. Paired with Toto’s durable glaze, these toilets stay cleaner for longer, making them a top choice for homeowners seeking quality and reliability.
Exploring Bidet Attachments
Bidet attachments have become a staple in modern bathrooms, offering enhanced hygiene and comfort. Among the many options available, the Toto Washlet consistently stands out. With features like adjustable water pressure, heated seats, and even air-drying options, these attachments provide a touch of luxury and practicality. Whether you’re upgrading an existing toilet or outfitting a new one, adding a bidet can elevate your bathroom experience.
How to Choose Toilet Design and Style Options That Best Fit You
The look and feel of your toilet can have a surprising impact on the overall aesthetic of your bathroom. Here’s what to consider:
- Go-To Models: The Toto Drake and American Standard Champion are two of the most popular choices for homeowners. These models balance high performance with versatile designs that suit a wide range of bathrooms.
- Flush Mechanisms: Traditional handle-operated toilets remain a reliable and easy-to-maintain option. However, if you’re looking to conserve water or modernize your bathroom, touchless or dual-flush mechanisms can be a great investment. Keep in mind that these features may require more expensive repairs if they malfunction.
- For Guests: When choosing a toilet for a guest bathroom, simplicity is key. Guests will appreciate a standard, reliable toilet that operates without any guesswork. Stick to well-known brands to avoid unexpected surprises.
Efficiency and Water Savings
Water efficiency is a significant consideration, especially for environmentally conscious homeowners. Federal regulations mandate that all new toilets use no more than 1.6 gallons of water per flush, but many models go even further.
High-efficiency toilets (HETs) use as little as 1.28 gallons per flush, saving up to 20% more water compared to standard models. Dual-flush toilets can provide additional savings by allowing users to choose a lower water volume for liquid waste.
Brands like Toto and American Standard offer models that excel in both efficiency and performance, ensuring that you won’t have to sacrifice flushing power for water savings.
Bowl Shape: Elongated vs. Round
The shape of the toilet bowl is more than just a matter of aesthetics—it also affects comfort and functionality.
- Elongated Bowls: These are the modern standard, providing greater comfort for most users. Their larger size and contemporary appearance make them a popular choice for master bathrooms and other frequently used spaces.
- Round Bowls: Ideal for bathrooms with limited space, round bowls are more compact but may feel less comfortable for some users.
Seat Height: Comfort vs. Standard
The standard height for toilet seats used to be around 15 inches, but the trend toward comfort height (16.5 inches) has changed the game. Comfort height toilets are easier to use, particularly for taller individuals, older adults, and those with mobility issues. For this reason, they’ve become the go-to option for most new installations.
Special Features to Consider
Modern toilets come with an array of features designed to enhance comfort and convenience. Today you can choose a toilet that meets your specific needs. Some of the most popular options include:
- Night Lights: A built-in night light can be a handy addition, but keep in mind that the illumination might be dimmer than expected.
- Heated Seats: Perfect for cold climates, heated seats add a touch of luxury to your bathroom. Just make sure you have an outlet nearby for power.
- Self-Cleaning Systems: Kohler’s ContinuousClean technology is a standout option. These toilets have a separate reservoir for cleaning tablets, protecting the tank components while keeping the bowl cleaner for longer.
Ease of Cleaning
If cleanliness is a top priority, a one-piece toilet is an excellent choice. The lack of seams and joints minimizes places where dirt and bacteria can accumulate. Additionally, look for models with a glazed P-trap, which reduces buildup inside the bowl and ensures smoother flushing.
Price: Finding the Right Balance
Toilets are available at a wide range of price points, from budget-friendly options to high-end models with advanced features. While it might be tempting to save money with a cheaper model, it’s important to consider the long-term costs.
- Budget Models: Often made from lower-quality materials, budget toilets may require frequent repairs and replacements. Their lower flushing power can lead to clogs, negating any initial savings.
- High-End Models: While feature-packed models like self-flushing or music-playing toilets may sound appealing, they often come with higher repair costs and limited availability of replacement parts.
- Mid-Range Models: For most homeowners, a mid-range model from a trusted brand like Toto or American Standard strikes the perfect balance between affordability and quality.
A Plumber’s Recommendation
At Aaron Services, we recommend investing in a reliable, mid-range toilet that meets your needs without breaking the bank. Whether you’re looking for a basic model or one with advanced features, our team is here to help you find the perfect fit. A quality toilet isn’t just a functional necessity—it’s an investment in the comfort and efficiency of your home.
Knowing how to choose the right toilet involves more than just picking a model that looks good. By considering factors like design, functionality, efficiency, and budget, you can select a toilet that will serve you well for years to come. If you’re ready to upgrade or need professional advice, Aaron Services is here to guide you every step of the way.