The toilet is one of those things people rarely give a thought to unless it’s not working properly, then you start wishing you had the best toilet in 2020. But why wait for something bad to happen when you can get your hands on the best models right now?
If you’re thinking of replacing your toilet because the performance leaves a lot to be desired, then check out my toilet reviews.
Best Toilets in 2021 – Comparison
| Picture | Product Name | Weight (pounds) | Water Consumption | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Saniflo 023 SANICOMPACT 48 | 62.2 | 1.28 GPF | Check Latest Price |
 | TOTO MS604114CEFG#01 | 99 | 1.28 GPF | Check Latest Price |
 | TOTO CST744SG#01 Drake 2-Piece Toilet | 103 | 1.6 GPF | Check Latest Price |
 | TOTO CST744SL#01 Drake 2-Piece | 92 | 1.6 GPF | Check Latest Price |
 | American Standard Two-Piece Efficiency | 90 | 1.28 GPF | Check Latest Price |
 | American Standard 2988.101.020 | 75 | 1.28 GPF | Check Latest Price |
 | American Standard One-Piece Toilet | 118 | 1.6 GPF | Check Latest Price |
 | KOHLER K-3819-0 Memoirs Comfort | 98 | 1.6 GPF | Check Latest Price |
 | KOHLER 3810-0 Santa Rosa | 102 | 1.28 GPF | Check Latest Price |
 | KOHLER K-3609-0 Cimarron | Text | Text | Check Latest Price |
Best Toilets Review in 2020
Now let’s check the details review one by one:
1. Saniflo 023 SANICOMPACT 48 One Piece Toilet
The Saniflo 023 SANICOMPACT 48 One Piece Toilet is feature-packed and is also one of the most practical toilets available. It sports a tankless design so you’ll be able to fit this even if your bathroom has limited space. With 100 ft. horizontal and 9 ft.
Vertical pumping, a sink connection is possible. This is difficult to do with other toilets but it’s been simplified here.
The Sanicompact uses just one gallon per flush, making it one of the most efficient toilets today. Even though it uses less water the flush system is very powerful in that it takes only a flush to get rid of waste.
Style-wise the Sanicompact is streamlined, tight, and the chrome edges give it a striking appearance. The toilet measures 18.2 x 14.5 x 15.8 and weighs just 62.2 lbs. As its name makes perfectly clear, this is self-contained and suited for use in small bathrooms.
The goal of all toilets it to be efficient without using up a lot of space and the Sanicompact does both. Its 1 gal per flush is one of the best you can get, and its small footprint is a boon. You can install this in a standard bathroom, the garage, basement, upper floor, etc.
2. TOTO MS604114CEFG#01 One Piece Toilet
The Toto Ultramax II has proven to be a big hit among homeowners owing to its function and versatility. It also happens to be available in various colors: Sedona beige, cotton white, cotton, colonial white and bone.
As is the trademark of Toto toilets, the Ultramax II is water efficient, using only 1.28 gallons with each flush. With older models you often need to flush several times and they’re very loud. But the Toto Ultramax II is quiet by comparison.
At 17 ¼ inches, the seat’s height is ideal for people of every size, and the Double Cyclone technology provides this elongated bowl with a powerful flush.
Throw in the SanaGloss and it’s not surprising that it’s one of the most products when it comes to flushing away wastes. Toto is known for their efficiency and aesthetics and they deliver here.
The Toto Ultramax II is smooth, has a nice finish and is known for reliable performance. If you have not used a 1.28 gal per flush bathroom before, you may be concerned about its efficiency. But there is no need to be as there are no issues to deal with, and installation is straightforward.
3. TOTO CST744SG#01 Drake 2-Piece Toilet
Toto makes a lot of quality and best toilets and the Toto Drake is one of their top offerings. The high profile design is one of the more notable characteristics of this model, but its main selling point is its performance.
Every time you flush, the SanaGloss technology goes to work, removing waste and cleaning the toilet. While the flush is quieter than most models, it does a better job of cleaning.
Flushing is so quick thanks to its flushing valve. With the G Max mechanism and the flush valve, you get a flush valve that works powerfully but quietly. TOTO CST744SG#01 Drake 2-Piece Toilet doesn’t just move waste as it also performs a thorough cleaning job.
There is also a trapway measuring 2 1/8 inches to ensure there is no blockage. The Toto Drake 2 is 28.5 inches high, 19.5 inches wide and 26.3125 inches deep, providing plenty of space so you can sit in comfort, but not having a large footprint.
The Toto is a highly efficient unit. The SanaGloss feature works very well and its flushing power is reliable. The fact is the flush is powerful enough to handle waste that ordinary toilets cannot cope with, while with other toilets you spend most of your time removing blockages.
4. TOTO CST744SL#01 Drake 2-Piece Ada Toilet
Toto makes a lot of models to the point that some of them are not as widely recognized or appreciated, and the Drake 2 Piece is one of those. What quickly stands out is its water consumption efficiency at 1.6GPF/6.0LPF.
This is possible with its G Max flushing system that optimizes performance without causing your utility/water bill to soar. Beautifully designed, the Drake model incorporates SanaGloss technology, providing the toilet with a consistent shine even with consistent use.
With other best toilets, the flush simply removes the waste, but the Drake does more as it cleans with very flush. Also notable is TOTO CST744SL#01 Drake 2-Piece Ada Toilet’s G Max flushing mechanism and the two inch flushing valve.
It is this combo that really spells the difference it makes the Drake both quiet and efficient. With other models you have to put up with a loud flush that can awake the household: with the Drake it’s not going to be a problem and there is no need for repeated flushes too.
Quality wise the Drake is comparable to commercial products in terms of quality, and the inclusion of a 2 1/8 inch trapway is a nice touch that ensures optimum performance. The dimensions are 28 x 19.5 x 28.5, so it doesn’t take up a lot of your space.
5. American Standard Two-Piece Efficiency Toilet
The Cadet 3 Right Height is the perfect example of a well-designed elongated bowl and tank. The Cadet 3 is solidly built, easier to clean up and made for long term use.
As is typical of other Cadet 3 models, the Right Height has an efficient but powerful flush so it gets rid of waste efficiently. The EverClean surface has antimicrobial properties so that’s another plus, and like the other Cadet 3 this is easy to clean up.
Another notable feature is the 3 inch flush valve. It is larger compared to those on other toilets, and it’s a good thing as it’s easier to grab. The flush is very responsive and is chemical resistant too.
The one constant with the Cadet 3 is the smartness of the design. Its flush is more powerful than with a regular toilet but uses less water. The Cadet 3 Right Height looks good and you cannot complain about the performance as it is very effective.
If you’re used to the old toilets, the design and flush might take some getting used to. However once you have installed the Cadet 3 you will never settle for anything less again as it is very effective.
6. American Standard 2988.101.020 Cadet
The American Standard Cadet 3 was built with high performance in mind. A solid two piece unit, the Cadet 3 flushing mechanism can dispose of 1,000 g of solid waste with one flush. The rim is pressurized so each flush washes the bowl.
For all its power the Cadet 3 only consumes 1.28 gal each flush, almost 20% less than a typical model. Aside from being powerful the Cadet 3 surface is easier to clean, and it is resistant to mildew and mold.
Of all the features on the toilet the most important one for people would be the flushing system we spoke of. Because it is capable of removing a lot of solid waste with a single flush, there is less need to flush twice, reducing the amount of water you use.
As is typical of other Cadet 3 units, this model has the three inch flush valve. The valve is resistant to chemicals and makes it possible for more water to get in the bowl, giving you a more powerful flush.
The valve is durable, doesn’t distort or warp either. The toilet also has a bigger trapway, measuring 2 1/8 inches in diameter. With a two inch ball pass it prevents clogging so even a large mass can go through it without difficulty.
7. American Standard 2034314.020 One-Piece Toilet
The Champion series is among American Standard’s better known products, and the Champion 4 is top of the line. There are a lot of notable things that can be said about it, but the most impressive feature is clearly its powerful performance.
American Standard 2034314.020 One-Piece Toilet is clog free, and the flush is powerful yet quiet. The flush power in particular is noteworthy because it can dispose of 75% larger mass than your standard toilet. The Right Height models also have an enhanced rim so you’re more comfortable and at ease.
Sporting a one piece design, the Champion 4 also has the EverClean surface so cleaning is easier. Not only does the surface make cleaning more straightforward, but it will remain cleaner. It also comes with the slow and quiet close toilet seat so no more loud slamming.
There are a few more features worth adding here: the siphon action is powerful, and its water consumption is only at 6.0 Lpf/1.6 gpf, saving you water without compromising performance.
In addition the Champion 4 has the Accelerator flush valve for efficient flushing. It also comes with two bolt caps and the 16-1/2 inch rim height makes it extra comfortable. Taking everything into consideration, the Champion 4 is an outstanding model.
8. KOHLER K-3819-0 Memoirs Comfort Toilet
The KOHLER Memoirs Comfort Height delivers on its promise. The seat is as high as a standard chair height so you don’t have to crouch when sitting down. With its clean white design, the Comfort Height is as functional as it is aesthetically pleasing to the eye.
There are two models to choose from, the Stately with its crisp, streamline look, and the Classic which looks like crown molding.
As an elongated model, the Memoirs is more effective than your typical round toilet. With its powerful flush you will rarely if ever, have to use a plunger to remove any blockage. The Memoirs is a two-piece toilet, but unlike other elongated units it is more effective at flushing and is comfortable to use regardless of your height or age.
With other elongated toilets they’re only comfortable among larger individuals, but not here. When you combine its 2-1/8-inch glazed trapway with the 1.6 gal per flush, the Memoirs Comfort Height is as powerful as advertised.
Aside from the power, the Comfort Height is easier to clean as well so maintenance won’t be an issue. If you’re looking for a toilet that is quiet, powerful and reliable, the Memoirs Comfort Height is a good choice.
9. KOHLER 3810-0 Santa Rosa Comfort Toilet
The Santa Rosa is a one-piece toilet that combines the bowl and tank into one. Just like the other best toilet models in the Comfort Height line, the Santa Rosa provides seating at chair heights so sitting and standing up is more comfortable.
While this is an elongated model, it doesn’t take as much space as other models. In fact the bowl occupies the same area that a round front bowl does.
The Santa Rosa comes with the AquaPiston canister and this enables more water to flow inside the bowl. The end result of all this is each flush is more effective than your typical model. With a standard toilet you often have to flush twice but with the Santa Rosa one will do.
The Santa Rosa is notable for its efficiency: its’ flush uses 1.28 gallons, and this translates to savings of 16,500 gallons every year. In terms of performance it is as powerful as a 3.5 gallon flush but is more effective. When it comes to toilets what you want is a powerful flush option that doesn’t use a lot of water, and that is what you get here.
10. KOHLER K-3609-0 Cimarron Comfort Toilet
The Cimarron Comfort Height is a two piece toilet and provides trouble-free installation. Smart design elements are prevalent here in particular the tank. At the bottom of the tank you’re going to find a steel bracket, and with this you no longer have to drill any bolt holes.
This does away with any potential water leak problem, which is common in best models in the market. Concealed in the Cimarron is the AquaPiston flush which enables the water to move in the bowl in all sides.
The end result of all this is you get a more powerful flush that removes waste quickly and efficiently. The Cimarron also comes with the WaterSense label, so it adheres to the EPA guidelines for flushing.
Each flush saves up to 20% more water than a regular toilet, but it does not compromise when it comes to performance. And as the name makes plain enough, the height is similar to a regular chair height so it feels natural.
What it all comes down to is the toilet works well and has the features you would want. It doesn’t use a lot of water, the flush is powerful and installation is easy. The Kohler series are known for their reliable performance and the Cimarron is right up there with the best toilet they have to offer.
Things to Consider When Buying Best Toilets
A toilet is a considerable investment, so you will want to make sure you get your money’s worth.
Durability: It must be built to last. The flush needs to be strong so it doesn’t break off with repeated use, and there must be a durable finish too. Warranty plays a role here of course as well as the toilet brand’s reputation, and you should also read the product description if there is any information on what materials were used in the construction.
Eco-friendliness: A green toilet is one that uses the optimum amount of water per flush. The most eco-friendly models use around 1 to 1.28 gallons per flush, a lower volume compared to the old ones that waste up to 3 gallons.
However, green models are still effective in waste removal as the flushing system is more powerful.
- Rim cleaning: The toilet’s rim should be easy to clean up. Vinegar or citric acid can be used on most models, but read the instruction manual first. Some models have a special finish that could get damaged by abrasive and harsh chemicals.
- Price Ranges: Price is always going to be a concern, but the general rule is to get the toilet you can afford. The more feature packed a model is the more it costs, but competition has helped bring down the price so they’re more affordable.
- Materials: Toilets are made from various materials. Solid wood and plastic are common as are polypropylene, vinyl and some have padding so it’s even more comfortable to sit on. Solid wood is comfortable and will last a long time, but it look best when installed in bathrooms with similar fixtures. Plastic is versatile and come in different forms, including some that are very durable.
- Measure Your Bathroom: Measurement is very important. If you’ve got a round toilet and plan to switch to an elongated one, measure your bathroom decor to ensure the model will fit. This is especially important if you’ve got a small bathroom with a tankless model and you plan to buy an elongated toilet with a tank.
- Noise Level: The noise levels when you flush can be so loud on some models it will wake people up. If your model is situated within earshot of the kitchen, you will want a model that flushes quietly. The good part is a lot of today’s toilets are quieter today. Not only are flushes more effective, but they’re less noisy too.
- Color: There was a time when toilets were sold in just one color: white. Most still pick white, but you’ve got other options now like beige, cream, black, light blue, and some even have exotic designs. If you’re tired of the traditional color and want something different, there are alternatives.
- Trapways Assessment: 2 inch trapways used to be the standard, but now 2 1/8 or 2 3/8 are more common as they’ve proven to be more efficient in waste removal. You need to assess the trapways you required before you can decide a design and model.
Types of Toilet: One Piece or Two Piece?
Toilets come in one or two pieces. A two piece model comes with a tank that is installed over the bowl. In terms of function a one piece model is not that different from a 2-piece, but the 2-piece is less expensive. However, the advantage of a 1-piece toilet is easier cleaning.
A single piece toilet is more stylish as there are no joints or gaps between the body and tank. However in terms functionality and size, they’re the same. A one piece model is easier to install however because the two components are joined together. As mentioned, cleaning and maintenance are easier with a one piece.
If you’re going to buy a two piece toilet, look for one that has a superior quality sanitary bar so liquids won’t accumulate at the back of the bowl or below the tank. Liquid accumulation could lead to fixture degradation.
This is where the wall toilets can come in handy because they’re easy to maintain. The drawback of course, is the need for separate plumbing. Since wall toilets have a more complicated installation, they’re more suited if you’re planning a complete renovation instead of just replacing toilets.
Type of Bowl: Round vs Elongated Toilets
Round models have been around for a long time and were the only option, but now there are elongated models available.
In fact it has reached the point that elongated toilets are now more commonplace in public restrooms and commercial establishments because they are Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliant.
Now which of the two should you use? It is a matter of experiential preference, but here are a few important things you need to keep in mind.
- First, round toilets don’t take up as much space as an elongated model, so if you’ve got a small bathroom that is one factor that you have to consider. A round toilet is 3 to 6 inches shorter than an elongated model, and that makes a huge difference.
- Elongated toilets are ADA compliant, so if you’ve got a disability or an injury, an elongated toilet is the best option. Most people also find them more comfortable to sit on, and they’re available in a wide range of styles.
- Some of them are also tankless, great if you’ve got limited space in your bathroom.
- Another issue is potty training: children are usually easier to potty train on round seats, but elongated toilets can have special potty seats installed, though it is an additional expense.
- Elongated bowls give you a couple more inches to sit on. This is a significant feature if round toilets make you uncomfortable.
- Don’t forget to check the height of the toilet as well. Most toilets, round or elongated, are 14 to 15 inches high from the floor to the top of the bowl.
Keep in mind this measurement is provided by manufacturers with the seat up. Most people are comfortable with the standard height, but others prefer a higher seat around 17 to 19 inches.
Older people and those with disabilities will have an easier time with a higher seat, and toilets with higher seats are also ADA compliant. For a toilet to be ADA compliant the seat height needs to be at least 16.5 inches.
The problem with a higher toilet seat is children and small individuals might have a difficult time using the toilet. Rather than buy a shorter seat toilet, it’s better to use a platform to help them use the toilet, as the kids will grow up and find the higher seat more accommodating.
Toilet Water Usage
A typical home uses up to 100 gallons of water a day, and a good deal of that comes from your toilet. One of the reasons to replace your toilet is because today’s newer models are more efficient.
Back in the days a toilet would use 3 to 4 gallons of water per flush, but now 1.6, 1.28 and even 1 gallon per flush are commonplace.The fact that toilets today use less water per flush is good for your utility/water bill, but it does raise the question of efficiency.
In theory, less water use per flush increases the odds of stains being left, necessitating repeat flushes. However, the spouts inside these toilets have been designed for optimum performance so each flush makes the most of the water.
The three most common water usage levels are 1.6, 1.28 and 1 gallon. The one gallon uses the least amount of water, but while waste is removed, there is no enough water for cleaning.
1.6 gallons removes waste and cleans your toilet, but water consumption may be too high if you really want to cut back on water use. With this scenario your best option would be the 1.28 toilet, but again it’s about your personal choice.
What is the Best Toilet Brand?
The top brands are Toto, American Standard, Kohler and Saniflo. Some will prefer one brand over the other, but the truth is any toilet from these manufacturers won’t disappoint.
- Toto is best known for their innovative toilets, and a lot of features that are now standard fare were introduced by Toto. The company is known for luxury toilets but they’ve got budget units available too.
- Kohler is widely recognized for the comprehensive warranty of their products as well as reliable customer service. Installation is quick and painless, and they have a lot of locations so it won’t be hard to find one.
- Saniflo is not as popular as American Standard or Toto, but it is gaining a lot of customers with their dependable toilets. Their toilets come with essential features while still being affordable.
- American Standard is a well-known brand and is recognized for their reliability. They use a traditional approach when it comes to toilets, but the classic look is combined with the latest technology for the ultimate in comfort.
As you can see, each brand has something unique to offer. They manufacture different kinds of toilets so you have a good number of options to choose from.
Does Warranty Help?
Yes the warranty is going to help, as is the case with any product. The question that should be on your mind is the length of the warranty. The rule of course, is the longer the warranty the better, but you also need to consider the brand’s reputation.
If the toilet is made by a reputable company, you can make do with just a one year warranty: well-known brands like the ones featured here won’t sell you lemons and they have good customer support.
Bottom line: the warranty is important and should be one of the factors to consider when making a purchase. Knowing what the warranty covers is essential so take the time to read it.
Should I Go for a Tankless Design Toilet?
If you’re interested in saving space a tankless toilet is the ideal option. You don’t need to do measurements to know that tankless toilets take up less space. Because they don’t have a tank you can install it in an RV. Some of these toilets also let you hook it up with a sink. To sum up the pros and cons:
Pros:
- Tankless toilets don’t take up a lot of room. This is the biggest advantage it offers especially if space is at a premium in your bathroom.
- Can be installed in RVs: provided there is plumbing and the right setup in your RV, you can install a tankless toilet. This isn’t possible with a regular toilet so it’s something you will want to consider if you use your RV a lot.
- Gives your bathroom clean lines and aesthetically pleasing. A tankless toilet doesn’t only consume less space, but the absence of a tank allows the toilet to blend in more easily with your other bathroom aesthetics.
- You can install the toilet anywhere close to a water source. These toilets install in different ways, but if you follow the instructions it should be straightforward.
Cons:
- They are more expensive, though the price difference depends on other factors like the brand and where you buy. The features also determine the cost.
- What it all comes down to is the amount of space you can spare. If there is sufficient room then there’s no need to go tankless. But if you want to reclaim space, the tankless toilets are ideal.
Off-the-Wall Designs
Off the wall designs can be found throughout Europe, and it is a good choice if you’ve got a small bathroom. With an off the wall design you can save anywhere from 9 inches to a foot of flooring because the tank is set behind the wall. This not only leaves plenty of room but also simplifies cleaning.
Because of its convenience, the off the wall designs are making their way to the United States, and it’s worth looking into. If you do opt for one of these, you have to purchase a carrier system and install it on the bathroom wall so the flush activator, bowl and tank are held in place.
Think About Your Comfort
When it comes to toilets you have to consider your comfort level. Often we think of its efficiency, durability and so on, but what about your comfort? This is especially important if you or anyone in your household has a disability and must use the toilet. An ergonomically designed toilet will also appeal to the elderly.
Integrated vs. Concealed Base Style
The base of your toilet is something you should look into for aesthetic and maintenance purposes. The simpler the base is the easier it will be to maintain. If the base is complex, the more likely mold and soil will grow. But no matter what kind of base you have, problems with soil and grime can be avoided with regular cleaning.
Flushing Technology/ Options to Consider
I have spoken about the importance of water usage earlier, but now we need to look at the actual flush systems and mechanisms that you can find in more detail.
- Gravity-fed: Gravity fed flushing systems work by using gravity to move water in the bowl from the tank. This produces a siphoning action that pulls waste down. Gravity fed flushing technology is widely used and one of the most efficient.
- Pressure-Assisted: Pressured assisted toilets have a tank that is sealed internally. As water accumulates air pressure grows, and it is this pressure that produces enough water to reduce the waste when you flush. While effective, these toilets are rather noisy, but manufacturers have been looking for ways to reduce noise without affecting efficiency.
- Power-Assisted: These toilets have an electric motor that generates air pressure inside the tank. Power assisted flushing systems work in different ways, but they all contain some pressurized water which flushes out the waste.
- High Efficiency: Efficiency is a broad term, but generally it refers to the amount of water the toilet uses per flush. The most cost efficient are those in the 1.28 to 1 gallon per flush range.
- Dual Flush Option: A dual flush option toilet lets you choose between a full 1.6 flush and a low flush, i.e. use the low volume flush for liquids and full 1.6 for solids. This design is slowly becoming commonplace due to their practicality.
- Touchless Flushing: Have you seen those flushing toilets that open when you place your hand near it? The same technology is now available for flushing too. Using sensors, you can now flush a toilet without touching it. This feature is not yet widely available though some toilets already have it.
- Lever vs. Push Button: Most toilets use the lever for the flush, but newer models now have a push button design.
Both of them are effective and should not cause any problems, so it is a matter of personal preference.
Gravity-Fed vs. Pressure-Assisted Toilets
Gravity fed toilets make good use of gravity, so even with just 10 lbs. of per sq. in. of water pressure it can do the job of flushing. More powerful toilets have 3- 3 ½ or 4 inch flush valves and they provide more thrust than the 2 or 2 ½ inch valve.
The advantage of gravity fed toilets is the quieter flush, but you need to look for a good model, otherwise there could be a problem with disposing of waste. A pressure assisted toilet relies on water pressure to flush away waste. They’re powerful and ideal for a large household, but the flush is louder.
If you’re going to buy a pressure assisted toilet, make certain your home has at least 25 lbs. per sq. in. of water pressure. That is the minimum necessary for the toilet to work, and if the pressure is higher that’s even better.
So which of the two is better? They’re both good and it really depends on what you need. If your toilet tank keeps dripping, a pressure assisted toilet may be the better option as the water is contained inside. If you still want a gravity fed toilet, look for a model that has tank insulation.
Try Not To Go Under Budget
You don’t want to spend too much on toilets, but don’t go for the cheap ones either. Poorly made toilets can and will cause a lot of problems such as leaks, scratches and the need for repeated flushing. They’re also hard to install and generally not worth the price.
What Makes For the top Toilet Possible?
The top toilet needs to be water efficient. In the past toilets needed to use a lot of water to flush waste, but technology has improved so that flushing technology and trapways dispose of waste even with 1.28 or just 1 gallon of water.
- The toilet should be easy to install. You’ve probably read reviews of poorly made toilets that cause all kinds of problems during installation and replacement so they’re best avoided.
- The toilet should be easy to clean and resistant to chips and dents. The seat should be comfortable and whether it’s elongated or round, not take up too much room.
- The best toilets also have slow and quiet closing lids, so if you’re tired of hearing someone slam the toilet seat, this is what you’ll look for.
What Are the Benefits of Having the Right Toilet?
First, they’re comfortable to use. Most people take the toilet for granted until they have to sit on one that is uncomfortable. Whether it’s for kids, adults or the elderly, the right toilet will always be comfortable to use.
The right toilet should be green, i.e. use just as little water as possible without compromising waste disposal. The right toilet doesn’t need a lot of bells and whistles, but have to be water efficient, ergonomic and easy to set up. If you have a small bathroom, you also want the toilet to be compact.
The right toilets also have special coating that not only protects the surface from damage, but also serves as fungal and bacterial protection. These toilets are a bit more expensive but will prevent mildew, odors and mold from developing.
What Are the Common Problems of Bad Toilets?
Bad toilets can cause a number of problems:
- Weak flush: this is common among toilets manufactured from the mid-1990s and before. Poorly made toilets also suffer from strong but partial flushes, and these can be difficult to fix. With a partial flush, installing a new flapper is the best solution, while with a weak flush, muriatic acid can be used.
- If the bowl water level is going down, it could be a sign there is a crack in the piping or the interior colon, in which case a new bowl is required.
- Other common problems are dripping, leaks and the tank fills slowly. Fortunately a lot of these problems can be avoided by purchasing a good quality toilet.
- Think Carefully Before You Buy a Bigger Bowl
- This comes down to a matter of space. I have discussed this in the round vs. elongated toilet section, so just keep in mind that in the end it’s all about your comfort level and what you want to use.
Skirted, Concealed or Visible Trapways
The trapways are the bends at the rear of the toilet, situated behind the bowl. Visible trapways used to be the only choice, but now skirted and concealed trapways are becoming common.
Skirted trapways come with clean lines from the back to the front of the toilet, while concealed trapways have a smooth surface. Skirted and concealed trapways are the better options since they make cleaning easier and they look better too.
Quality Water Supply Lines
It’s time you got some flexible stainless steel lines in lieu of the old chrome plated type. Braided lines make it easy to do repairs, and they’re also less vulnerable to leaks. If you’re still using an old system it’s time you install one along with the new toilet you’re buying.
Should I Replace My Old Toilet?
Yes, you should. Even if they appear to be working “perfectly all right”, they are using way too much water when flushing, and even then just aren’t effective in removing waste. Since 1994 the Federal standard has been 1.6 gallons, and as I have pointed out here, today’s toilets can do better than that.
This has become possible because now toilets have bigger trapways, bigger flush valves and more effective in preventing clogging. This is the reason why even with a single flush more waste is removed.
Be Wary of Special Features
In an effort to stay ahead of the competition, companies add all kinds of special features like unique flush systems and customized seats.
They look cool and make your toilet stand out, but that could be a problem if the replacement parts need to be changed. The more complex the feature or component is, the more difficult it will be to replace it.
Examine all the Options Available
From bathroom showrooms to home centers to catalogs and websites, there is no shortage of options for the buyer.
You can find all the information you want and compare the prices, and there is no reason to hurry up the buying process. If you want a toilet that flushes waste and cleans the bowl without make use a lot of water, get a new model.
The Toilet Seat
Many toilets are sold without the seats, so if that’s the case you have to buy one. Even if you have a quality toilet it’s not going to do you any good if the seat isn’t up to par and causes discomfort.
If you have to buy a toilet seat, make sure it’s compatible with your toilet. If possible get a seat from the same brand so there is no problem with compatibility. The toilet bowl shape needs to be the same shape as your toilet.
If your toilet bowl is round then the seat has to be round must, and if the bowl is elongated so must the seat. Just like the bowl, toilet seats are made from a wide array of materials like polypropylene, plastic, vinyl and wood.
If you’re into cutting edge technology and want maximum comfort, get a bidet seat. Bidet toilet seats keep you warm, and many now have deodorizers and warm air that circulate the toilet, so you’re comfortable and at ease. These features might seem like overkill, but if it’s cold in your area, they could be worth looking at.
Final Verdict:
There are so many best toilets nowadays, but the problem is deciding what type to buy. It is only natural for manufacturers to say they have the best toilet, but you can decide that after checking the features.
No doubt there are a lot of good toilets (you have seen 10 of them on our toilet reviews) but since you don’t have the time to read all the product descriptions and reviews, you can just use my guide and have a worry-free and fully functioning toilet right now.