Choosing the Right Toilet
When it comes to toilets, they all do pretty much the same thing. Folks do their business and flush. So shopping for a new toilet should be fairly straightforward, right? Well, not exactly. While the “business” aspect is shared by just about every traditional toilet, shape, style and efficiency varies greatly.
In the market for a new toilet?
Let’s take a look at what’s out there.
Shape
Toilets come in two main shapes: round bowls and elongated bowls. Like their names imply, round toilet bowls are shaped like a circle, while elongated bowls are shaped like an oval. Round bowl toilets are typically more affordable and take up less space. Toilets with elongated bowls are more comfortable and offer more support to the person sitting down.
If you’re working with a small bathroom or tight budget, consider a round bowl toilet. If you have the space or are shopping for a comfortable commode, opt for an elongated bowl.
Height
Traditionally, toilet seats are about 14-15 inches off the ground. However, toilets with a height of 17-19 inches are becoming more popular. These taller toilets are ADA approved and make going to the bathroom easier for the disabled and elderly, as well as taller people.
Flushing Power
With any toilet, clogs are bound to happen. You may have seen videos of certain toilets flushing dozens of golf balls with ease. While you might not need that much power in your own bathroom, a stronger toilet will help prevent the need for a plunger. Consider who will be using the toilet and shop for models accordingly.
Efficiency
On the flip side of flushing power is water usage. A big chunk of our utility bills go to flushing toilets at home. Want to cut back on wasted water? Upgrade your toilet to a higher-efficiency model. Look for the WaterSense label. By law, new toilets cannot use more than 1.6 gallons per flush, and models featuring the WaterSense seal use even less without sacrificing performance.
The up-front costs of installing a new low-flow toilet can be recouped by the reduced water usage and savings you’ll see on future utility bills.
Design
Toilet companies offer different options when it comes to component design. One-piece toilets feature a tank and bowl that are permanently connected. Likewise, two-piece toilets have a separate tank and bowl that must be connected during installation. Most toilets are floor-mounted, but some models may be mounted to the wall instead. Each design style comes with pros and cons, so consider your personal needs before shopping for something new.
Whether you’re looking to upgrade a master bathroom or replace an old commode down in the basement, there is a toilet that is right for you. Have questions or need help with your search? Mister Quik features a full selection of toilets in all shapes and sizes. We don’t just sell toilets either; we offer professional installation, maintenance and repair.
Toilets may all look alike, but remember these factors when you start your search!