How to Choose Your Ideal Toilet: A Buyer’s Guide

When it comes to purchasing a new toilet, the variety of options available can be overwhelming. From different flushing systems to water efficiency, and different bowl shapes to height options, there are numerous features to consider. Here are the top 5 features to look for when buying a new toilet.

Flushing System:

When picking a new toilet, the type of flushing it has is really important. There are two main kinds: gravity-feed and pressure-assisted. Gravity-feed toilets, which are more common, use the weight of the water itself to flush things down. While they are reliable, they might sometimes struggle with tougher blockages due to their gentler flush.

Pressure-assisted toilets, on the other hand, use air to make the flush stronger. This added power is particularly useful in clearing blockages, as it provides a more forceful and effective flush. This means they’re really good at getting rid of waste in one go, so you probably won’t have to flush twice. However, they can be pretty loud when you flush and usually cost more than regular toilets that just use water for flushing. This might be important to think about if you’re trying to save money.

The dual-flush mechanism is another innovation in toilet technology. This system offers two flushing options: a full flush for solid waste and a reduced flush for liquid waste. The full flush option in dual-flush toilets is designed to be powerful enough to clear solid waste and potential blockages effectively. By allowing the user to select the appropriate flush strength, dual-flush toilets can significantly conserve water, which not only benefits the environment but can also lead to noticeable savings on water bills. This feature makes them an efficient and cost-effective choice for modern bathrooms, especially in preventing toilet blockages.

Water Efficiency:

When choosing a new toilet, it’s really important to think about how much water it uses. Toilets use a lot of water in homes, so getting one that saves water can cut down your water bill and is better for the environment. Look for toilets with a WaterSense label from the Environmental Protection Agency. These toilets are proven to be efficient, using 4.85 litres or less per flush, which is much less than the usual 6.06 litres. This can make a big difference over time.

Bowl Shape and Height:

Toilets usually have either elongated or round bowls. Elongated bowls are often more comfortable because they have more space, but they also take up more room in your bathroom. When it comes to height, regular toilets are about 38 centimetres from the floor to the seat. There are also “comfort height” toilets, which are taller, between 43 and 48 centimetres. These can be great for tall people or those who have trouble moving around, but they might not be as good for kids.

Style and Colour:

Aesthetic considerations should not be overlooked. Toilets are available in various styles. When picking a toilet, how it looks is also important. Toilets come in different styles, from classic to modern, and in many colours, though white is the most common. Some have hidden trapways which give them a sleeker look, but this might make them a bit harder to clean.

Price and Warranty:

Finally, think about the cost and the warranty. Toilet prices can vary widely, from less than £100 to over £1,000, so it’s a good idea to decide how much you want to spend before you start looking. The warranty is also important. It can give you peace of mind in case there are any problems or defects. Some toilets offer a limited lifetime warranty, while others might be covered for just one or two years.

Taking into account these various aspects and conducting thorough research, you can select a toilet that not only operates efficiently but also complements your bathroom’s aesthetic. A bit of investigation will help you find a toilet that meets your needs and satisfaction for years to come.