A few years ago, we ran a column on choosing a new toilet. This article is an updated one, as so many people ask the question: Which one do I buy?
Replacing a toilet is a fairly simple job. The harder part is deciding which model to install.
There are many different choices, but basically, they are all installed in the same way. Most toilets come in two pieces, the bowl and the tank. They are usually bought separately, but you have to be sure to choose two that are designed to fit together (both being made by the same company). Today however, some manufacturers provide the complete kit in one box, to include the tank, bowl and even a wax ring and toilet seat. Another type of toilet is the “one-piece” toilet. The “one-piece” toilets are more expensive, slightly harder to install due to the weight, and the repair parts for these toilets are more expensive than the two-piece toilet.
You’ll need to decide on your color and also whether to get a round or elongated bowl. The round bowl is usually best for a small bathroom, where space is critical. An elongated bowl allows for more sitting room and comfort. Installation procedures are the same, so simply look at the two styles and decide which is best for you.
Another option to consider is purchasing a “comfort-height” toilet. This is a toilet that sits up slightly higher, about 2 inches. This is ideal for a taller person, someone with bad knees or someone who has trouble getting up and down. While 2 inches doesn’t sound like much, you will be amazed by the difference. More and more sales are in this comfort height category.
Some stores have designed a “Flush Performance” rating. This rating takes into account the outlet size at the bottom of the toilet, the flush valve size and other items, which are then factored into a rating system that will let you compare the efficiency of each toilet you’re considering.
All toilets purchased today will conform to a law passed in 1994, which states that no more than 1.6 gallons of water per flush will be used. Some toilets may even use less. For a few years after this law was passed, there were complaints that the water saver toilets didn’t do such a good job of disposing of the waste, requiring a second flush. This has changed quite a lot, as the newer toilets have been modified and do a great job. I am continually amazed by an American Standard Cadet toilet we have as to how quickly the flush occurs.
The last note to think about is the “footprint” of the old and the new toilet. If you have a tiled floor, the tile should cover the floor completely under the toilet. However, if by chance you have carpeting, the carpeting may only go up to the base of the toilet, and not underneath it. When you go to install the new toilet, you may have flooring exposed.
As to prices, toilets can vary quite a bit. I usually like to stay with a brand name that I’m familiar with, such as American Standard, Kohler, etc. Most toilets will be in the $200 to $400 range – just keep in mind that basically a toilet is a toilet.
source: http://www.stltoday.com/lifestyles/home-and-garden/which-toilet-should-you-buy/article_e8a5cb5e-e8ef-5007-931b-a2b1f3fedad4.html
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