Choosing the Perfect Throne: A Guide to Selecting the Right Toilet for Your Home

Size and Shape

When it comes to toilet bowls, there are two main options: standard and elongated. Standard bowls are round in shape and generally take up less space, making them a good choice for smaller bathrooms. Elongated bowls, on the other hand, are oval-shaped and tend to be more comfortable to sit on, as they provide more room for your legs.

Advantages of standard/round bowls:

• Take up less space, making them ideal for smaller bathrooms
• Usually less expensive than elongated bowls
• Can be a good choice for children or shorter individuals

Disadvantages of standard/round  bowls:

• Maybe less comfortable for some people, as they provide less seating room
• Can be more challenging to keep clean, as they have a smaller surface area

Advantages of elongated bowls:

• Generally more comfortable to sit on, as they provide more legroom
• Easier to keep clean, as they have a larger surface area
• Maybe a better choice for taller individuals or those with mobility issues

Disadvantages of elongated bowls:

• Take up more space than standard bowls, making them less ideal for smaller bathrooms
• Tend to be more expensive than standard bowls

Selecting the right toilet that fits your bathroom space

When selecting a toilet, it’s important to consider the size and layout of your bathroom to ensure that you choose a toilet that fits comfortably in the space. Here are some tips:

• Measure the available space in your bathroom before you begin shopping for a toilet.
• Consider the location of the toilet’s rough-in (the distance between the wall and the center of the toilet’s drainpipe). Make sure it matches the rough-in in your bathroom to avoid any installation issues.
• Consider the shape of the toilet bowl (round or elongated) and whether it will fit comfortably in your bathroom space.
• Consider the overall height of the toilet and whether it is appropriate for your needs (e.g. a higher toilet may be more comfortable for taller individuals or those with mobility issues).

Selecting the right toilet Flushing Mechanism

Normal Handle Flush vs. Pressure-Assisted Flushing

The flushing mechanism of a toilet is an important factor to consider when choosing a toilet. The two most common flushing mechanisms are normal handle flush and pressure-assisted flushing.

Normal handle flush: This is the most common type of flushing mechanism. It uses gravity to flush waste and water down the toilet bowl and into the sewer line.

Pressure-assisted flushing: This type of flushing mechanism uses compressed air to force water and waste out of the toilet bowl and into the sewer line. It provides a more powerful flush than a normal handle flush, but it can be louder and more expensive.

Dual-Flush vs. Single-Flush Toilets

Another factor to consider when selecting a toilet is whether to choose a dual-flush or single-flush toilet.

Dual-flush toilets: These toilets have two buttons on the flush mechanism, one for a partial flush (for liquid waste) and one for a full flush (for solid waste). Dual-flush toilets can help save water and reduce utility bills.

Single-flush toilets: These toilets have only one button on the flush mechanism, which releases the same amount of water for every flush. They are generally less expensive than dual-flush toilets, but they can be less water-efficient.

Water Efficiency and Conservation

Water efficiency and conservation are important factors to consider when selecting a toilet. Low-flow toilets use less water per flush than traditional toilets, which can result in significant water savings over time. Look for toilets that are certified by organizations such as WaterSense or LEED for their water efficiency.

Selecting the right toilet Height

Standard Height vs. Right Height Toilets

Toilet height is another important factor to consider when selecting a toilet. Standard-height toilets are typically around 15 inches from the floor to the top of the bowl. Right-height toilets, also known as comfort height toilets, are around 17 to 19 inches from the floor to the top of the bowl. Right-height toilets are designed to be more comfortable and accessible for individuals with disabilities or mobility issues.

Comfort and Accessibility

The height of a toilet can significantly impact comfort and accessibility, particularly for individuals with disabilities or mobility issues. Right-height toilets can make it easier for individuals to sit down and stand up from the toilet, reducing the risk of falls or injuries.

Selecting the right toilet Style and Design

Color and Material Options

Toilets come in a variety of colors and materials, including white, off-white, and beige, as well as ceramic, porcelain, and plastic. Consider the color and material of your toilet when choosing a style that fits your bathroom decor.

One-Piece vs. Two-Piece Toilets

One-piece toilets are molded into a single unit, while two-piece toilets consist of a separate bowl and tank. One-piece toilets are generally more expensive, but they offer a sleeker, more modern look and can be easier to clean.

Skirted vs. Non-Skirted Toilets

Skirted toilets have a smooth surface around the base, which makes them easier to clean and gives them a more modern look. Non-skirted toilets have a visible tramway, which can be more difficult to clean.

Decorative Details

Toilets can also have decorative details such as patterns, textures, or embellishments on the tank or bowl. These details can enhance the aesthetics of your bathroom and add a personal touch to your toilet choice.

Features and Accessories

Bidet or Washlet Options

Bidets and washlets are toilet accessories that use water to clean the user after using the toilet. They can be particularly helpful for individuals with mobility or hygiene issues.

Heated Seats, Air Deodorizers, Night Lights, and Smart Technology

Toilet features and accessories can also include heated seats, air deodorizers, night lights, and smart technology such as automatic flushing or voice-activated controls. These features can enhance the comfort and convenience of your bathroom experience.

Bathroom Comfort and Convenience

Toilet features and accessories can contribute to the overall comfort and convenience of your bathroom experience. Consider which features are most important to you and your household when selecting a toilet.

Maintenance and Cleaning

When it comes to selecting a toilet, it’s important to choose one that is easy to clean and maintain. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Look for toilets with smooth surfaces and minimal crevices to reduce the accumulation of dirt and bacteria.
• Consider toilets with powerful flushing mechanisms that can clear waste in one flush, reducing the need for additional cleaning.
• Choose a toilet with a durable material that can withstand frequent cleaning without deteriorating.

Durability and lifespan are also important factors to consider when selecting a toilet. Here are some things to keep in mind:

• Look for toilets made of high-quality materials, such as porcelain or vitreous china, which are durable and long-lasting.
• Consider toilets with strong flushing mechanisms that can withstand frequent use without breaking down.
• Look for toilets with warranties and good customer support to ensure that any maintenance or repair needs are covered.

Budget Considerations

Toilets come in a wide range of prices, and it’s important to balance affordability and quality when selecting a toilet. Here are some things to keep in mind:

• Prices for toilets can range from under $100 to over $1000, depending on the type, features, and materials.
• Consider the long-term savings from water-efficient toilets, which can reduce your water bill and offset the initial cost of the toilet.
• Don’t sacrifice quality for a lower price. Investing in a higher-quality toilet can save you money in the long run by reducing maintenance and repair costs.

Selecting the right toilet requires careful consideration of several important factors. These include the size and shape of the bowl, the flushing mechanism, the height, the style and design, the features and accessories, the maintenance and cleaning requirements, and the budget considerations.

To ensure ease of maintenance and cleaning, it is recommended to choose a toilet that is easy to clean and maintain, with a durable lifespan, and good warranties and customer support. Additionally, water efficiency should be considered as a potential cost-saving measure in the long run. Based on the above factors, it is important to find a balance between affordability and quality when selecting a toilet that best meets your needs.

At Everest Drain & Plumbing, we offer a range of toilet installation and repair services to help you with your toilet needs. Contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)