Choosing the right toilet for your bathroom can be a challenging task. With various models, features, and designs available, it’s essential to make an informed decision. How To Choose A Toilet? This guide will help you navigate the process, ensuring you select the best toilet to meet your needs and preferences.
Contents
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Toilet
1. Bowl Shape
Toilet bowls come in two primary shapes: round and elongated.
- Round Bowls: These are more compact and suitable for smaller bathrooms. They are typically less expensive and take up less space.
- Elongated Bowls: These offer more comfort due to their extended length. They are ideal for larger bathrooms and provide a more comfortable seating experience.
2. Flush Performance
Flush performance is crucial for efficient waste removal. Here are the main types of flushing mechanisms:
- Gravity Flush: Uses the weight of the water to generate a powerful flush. It is common in residential toilets and known for reliability.
- Pressure-Assisted Flush: Utilizes pressurized air to enhance flushing power. This type is more water-efficient but noisier and more complex to install.
- Dual Flush: Provides two flushing options—one for liquid waste (using less water) and one for solid waste. This system conserves water and meets EPA’s WaterSense criteria.
3. Water Efficiency
Water efficiency is not only eco-friendly but also cost-effective. Toilets with the WaterSense label use 20% less water than standard models.
- Standard Toilets: Use 1.6 gallons per flush (GPF).
- High-Efficiency Toilets (HET): Use 1.28 GPF or less, saving significant water annually.
4. Height
Toilet height affects comfort, especially for elderly or disabled individuals.
- Standard Height: Approximately 15 inches from floor to seat.
- Comfort Height: 17 to 19 inches, making it easier to sit and stand.
5. Style
The toilet’s style should match your bathroom decor and personal taste.
- One-Piece Toilets: Feature a seamless design, making them easier to clean but typically more expensive.
- Two-Piece Toilets: Consist of a separate tank and bowl. They are usually more affordable and easier to transport and install.
6. Rough-In Dimension
The rough-in is the distance from the wall to the center of the toilet flange. The most common rough-in size is 12 inches, but 10-inch and 14-inch rough-ins are also available.
How to Choose a Toilet
| Feature | Description | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bowl Shape | Round, Elongated | Round: Compact, less expensive<br>Elongated: More comfortable, better for larger bathrooms | Round: Less comfortable<br>Elongated: Takes up more space |
| Flush Type | Gravity, Pressure-Assisted, Dual | Gravity: Reliable, easy maintenance<br>Pressure-Assisted: Efficient, powerful<br>Dual: Saves water | Gravity: Less efficient<br>Pressure-Assisted: Noisy, complex installation<br>Dual: Higher cost |
| Water Efficiency | WaterSense certified, Standard 1.6 GPF, High-Efficiency 1.28 GPF or less | WaterSense: Saves water, cost-effective | Higher initial cost |
| Height | Standard (15 inches), Comfort (17-19 inches) | Comfort: Easier to sit and stand, better for elderly and disabled | Standard: May be less comfortable for some users |
| Style | One-Piece, Two-Piece | One-Piece: Sleek, easy to clean<br>Two-Piece: More affordable, easier to transport and install | One-Piece: Higher cost<br>Two-Piece: More seams, harder to clean |
| Rough-In | 10, 12, 14 inches | 12 inches: Most common, widest selection | 10, 14 inches: Limited options |
In-Depth Questions and Answers
What is the best flushing system for a home toilet?
The best flushing system depends on your priorities.
- Gravity flush systems are reliable and easy to maintain, making them a common choice for residential use.
- Pressure-assisted flush systems offer powerful flushing and water efficiency but can be noisy and require professional installation.
- Dual flush systems provide flexibility and water conservation, allowing users to choose a lower water usage option for liquid waste.
How does toilet height affect user comfort?
Toilet height plays a significant role in user comfort, especially for the elderly and disabled.
- Standard height toilets (about 15 inches) are suitable for most users but may require more effort to sit and stand.
- Comfort height toilets (17 to 19 inches) offer easier access and are recommended for those with mobility issues. They are also more comfortable for taller individuals.
What are the advantages of one-piece toilets over two-piece toilets?
- Seamless Design: One-piece toilets have no crevices between the tank and bowl, making them easier to clean and more hygienic.
- Aesthetic Appeal: They offer a sleek, modern look that can enhance the bathroom’s overall design.
- Compact Size: Ideal for small bathrooms, as they often have a lower profile.
However, they tend to be more expensive and heavier, which can make installation more challenging.
How do I determine the right rough-in size for my bathroom?
- Measure the distance from the wall behind the toilet to the center of the toilet’s flange bolts.
- The most common rough-in size is 12 inches.
- If your measurement is 10 or 14 inches, you will need to find a toilet that matches these less common sizes.
Conclusion
Choosing the right toilet involves considering various factors like bowl shape, flush performance, water efficiency, height, style, and rough-in dimensions. By understanding these features, you can select a toilet that meets your needs and enhances your bathroom experience.
For more bathroom renovation tips, visit how to make a small bathroom look bigger, how to decorate bathroom shelves, and what to do first when renovating a bathroom.
Contact Verified Builders today to get expert advice on choosing the perfect toilet for your home and professional installation services. Our team is here to help you make the best choice for your bathroom needs.
