Finding the right toilet for your home is not as easy as it seems. Many homeowners do not rank their household toilet very high on the list of priorities. However, the toilet is often the centerpiece of most bathrooms – it is a key fixture of a modern and well-functioning home. When building a home, or even remodeling your bathroom, it is important to find the right toilet, both functionally and aesthetically.

Remember, all toilets are not built alike! No matter what the style of your bathroom, you want to choose a toilet that compliments your overall design for the room.

There are two main choices when it comes to the shape of a toilet bowl: an elongated bowl or a round front bowl. A round front is shorter, so it works well for smaller spaces, while a larger elongated front can be more comfortable and sanitary.

In the U.S., it is the law that all toilets must have a 1.6 gallon tank to conserve water. These toilets are referred to as “low flow” because they use less water to achieve the same flushing performance as high water usage toilets, such as the 3.5 or 5 gallon flush toilets that used to be standard in most homes. There are many benefits of a “low flow” toilet such as reduction of your sewer and water bill and reduction in the amount of waste water being produced and treated.

However, with the water conserving toilets, you really do get what you pay for. Buying an unbranded “low flow” toilet can result in more time and money spent on having it fixed than you will ever save on it. DO NOT SKIMP on the cost of installing a high quality low flow toilet – you will regret it in the long run.

Many toilets have features that are designed to make them easier to maintain. For example, American Standard has an Easy-Clean design, while Kohler offers an insulated tank, which prevents moisture build up on the outside due to condensation.

Toilets can be one-piece or two-pieces designs. One-piece toilets are typically five or six parts that are connected into one piece. They are often more expensive and stylish, but they are also easier to clean and more ideal for small spaces. Two-piece toilets are more common and inexpensive. They have a separate tank and bowl connected when the toilet is installed.

Below are some checklist items to remember when buying your new toilet. Sticking to as many of these as your budget can afford will help you save on repair costs in the long run and help you find the right toilet for your home.

1. The toilet must conform to local standards.
2. Try and stick to a brand name toilet.
3. Decide in advance if you want a one-piece or two-piece toilet.
4. Determine whether a round or elongated toilet bowl is best for you.
5. Choose a toilet that fits your decorating style.
6. Take into account that most toilets should be mounted 12 to 14 inches from the wall.

We hope that you are now equipped with the right knowledge to make an informed decision. Remember, if you need help choosing the right toilet for your need, or with installation, you can always call the experts at C.J. Erickson Plumbing – we’re always here to help!

Check back with our blog soon… an exciting “toilet challenge” is coming next week!