This guide aims to help you navigate these murky waters and emerge with a new throne that best fits your needs and your bathroom.

Entering the world of homeownership often comes with its fair share of mysteries, not least of which is the intricacies of the plumbing system. One common quandary is when the time comes to choose a new toilet. This task may seem daunting, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the vast range of types, sizes, and features available in modern toilets. Fear not! This guide aims to help you navigate these murky waters and emerge with a new throne that best fits your needs and your bathroom.

Understanding Different Types of Toilets

In the fascinating world of toilets, you’ll soon discover that they come in more varieties than you might have imagined. Essentially, there are three main players on the field: the one-piece, the two-piece, and the wall-mounted.

The one-piece is like the luxury vehicle of toilets, with a unified design that makes cleaning a breeze. However, just like a high-end car, it comes with a higher price tag. The two-piece, on the other hand, is your reliable sedan, with a separate tank and bowl. It’s a common choice and easier on the wallet.

The wall-mounted model is like the trendy electric car. It’s not as common in the residential world, but it boasts a sleek, space-saving design. Be warned, though, they might be a bit trickier when it comes to installation and future repairs. As you navigate your way through the different types, consider the pros and cons of each model in relation to your needs and budget.

Considering Size and Shape: A Perfect Fit For Your Bathroom

Think about it, your new toilet should be like a bespoke suit, perfectly tailored to fit your bathroom and your comfort. It all begins with the “rough-in” measurement – the distance from your bathroom wall to the center of the floor bolts that will anchor your toilet. This little number will be your guiding star when deciding on the size of your new loo. It’s a bit like knowing your shoe size before you go shoe shopping!

Next on the agenda is the shape of your toilet bowl. You’ll come across two main contenders in this ring – the round bowl and the elongated bowl. The round ones are compact, space savers, perfect for smaller bathrooms or tight corners. In contrast, the elongated bowls boast a little extra room for comfort, the luxury sedan of toilet bowls if you will!

But remember, it’s all about what works best for you. Much like choosing a new pair of glasses, you want your new toilet to complement the overall layout and design of your bathroom, and most importantly, cater to your comfort. So, arm yourself with that tape measure, think about your ideal comfort level, and start your journey in finding that perfect toilet for your home.

toilet buying guide

Exploring Flushing Systems: Power vs. Water Efficiency

Imagine this: you’re at the crossroads of power and water efficiency in the great flushing system debate. On one side, we have the familiar and dependable gravity-feed system. This system is like the classic rock of toilets, using the good old force of gravity and the weight of the water to perform its duty. These types are typically less expensive and tend to serenade you with a more tranquil flush.

On the other side of the flushing spectrum, we have the bold and the boisterous – the pressure-assisted systems. These are the heavy metal of toilets, using pressurized air to generate a forceful flush. They tend to have a more powerful sound, reminiscent of a mini waterfall in your bathroom, and can be a bit more pricey than their gravity-fed counterparts.

Each type has its own unique rhythm, creating different notes in power and water efficiency. The key here is to decide on your flushing preference. Do you lean towards a gentle lullaby of a flush, or do you prefer the powerful roar of a waterfall? As always, it comes down to your personal needs and preferences. So go ahead, pick your flushing anthem and let the symphony begin!

Embracing Water Efficiency: Save Money and the Planet

In the grand scheme of toilets, water efficiency has taken center stage. Why? Because it’s like hitting two birds with one stone. You’re not only doing your wallet a favor but also giving Mother Nature a helping hand. So, how do you ride this wave of water efficiency? Well, let’s dive in!

Consider the dual-flush toilet, the superhero in the realm of water-saving toilets. It flaunts two flush options – one for liquid waste and another for solid waste. It’s a clever way to control your water usage, and ultimately, your water bill.

And then, there’s the green star of toilets – the ones flaunting the EPA’s WaterSense label. These are the crème de la crème of water-efficient models, using a whopping 20% less water than their standard counterparts.

In short, with the power of a water-efficient toilet, you’re in control. You can manage your water usage, keep your bills in check, and play an active role in conserving our planet’s precious resources. It’s like you’re becoming a green superhero, one flush at a time! So, why not embrace water efficiency and join this eco-friendly revolution? It’s a small step for you, but a giant leap for the environment. Happy toilet hunting!

Budgeting Wisely: Initial Costs vs. Long-term Savings

Embarking on the journey to find your new throne may be fraught with decisions, and one of the most crucial ones revolves around the delicate balance of cost. It’s essential to navigate the vast seas of price tags with a keen eye, not just for the initial outlay but also for the long-term implications. It’s like setting sail with a treasure map, where X doesn’t always mark the most obvious spot.

Imagine this: a pricier, water-efficient toilet may seem like a hefty investment at first glance. But like a magical money-saving charm, it could lead to lower water bills over time, offsetting its initial cost and potentially even saving you money in the grand scheme of things.

On the other side of the budgeting spectrum, you might stumble upon a less expensive model, sparkling like fool’s gold. Sure, it’s tempting, and your wallet might thank you at first. But beware! Like a pesky sea monster, it might be prone to malfunctions, dragging you into the deep waters of repair costs, which can add up over time.

So, as you chart your course in the toilet-selection journey, remember to take a panoramic view of your budget. Consider not just the immediate costs, but also the long-term treasures and pitfalls that lie ahead. After all, you’re not just buying a toilet; you’re investing in the future comfort and efficiency of your home. Aye, it’s a grand adventure indeed!

Toilet Buying Guide: DIY or Hiring a Professional?

So, you’ve navigated the vast seas of toilet types, sizes, flushing systems, water efficiency, and budgeting. Now comes the final stage in your quest for the perfect throne: the installation process.

Think of it as a choose-your-own-adventure story. You’ve got two paths laid out before you – one marked ‘DIY’, and the other, ‘Hire a Pro’. If you’re feeling confident and handy, perhaps you’ll want to brave the DIY route. Many toilets come packaged with detailed, easy-to-follow instructions, like a friendly guide on your DIY adventure. Just remember to keep your trusty toolbox at hand!

However, if you find yourself hesitating at the thought of wrangling with wax rings and bolts, or if your choice fell on a stylish but somewhat temperamental wall-mounted model, consider opting for a local plumber. Yes, it might mean parting with a few extra pieces of your treasure, but the assurance of a job well done is priceless.

FAQs

How can I determine which toilet to purchase?

Ensure that the new toilet not only possesses excellent water efficiency, but also exhibits sufficient flushing power to effectively handle waste with a single flush. Alternatively, the potential cost savings associated with a low-flow toilet may be negated by the need for multiple flushes.

What is the most optimal type of toilet?

Gravity-fed toilets utilize the force of gravity to draw water from the tank and propel it through the bowl, effectively eliminating waste. Gravity-flush toilets offer numerous advantages. They include a low noise level, necessitate a reduced number of components, and are highly straightforward to upkeep. In addition, they have a lower probability of encountering a blockage.

Is a two-piece toilet preferable to a one-piece?

Although one-piece toilets have a contemporary and streamlined style and offer convenience in terms of cleaning, they are typically pricier and more challenging to install. In contrast, two-piece toilets are less expensive and provide a greater variety of choices, although they can be larger and more difficult to clean.

Conclusion

In essence, regardless of whether you decide to put on your do-it-yourself hat or seek the assistance of an experienced professional, the most important thing is to make a selection that is suitable for your level of comfort and guarantees that the installation of your new toilet will go off without a hitch. As a matter of fact, it is not every day that you go on a mission of such a noble kind!

Related Content: Basement Bathroom Addition

clovis plumbing services
Why Choose Clovis Plumbing Services?

We Focus On Getting The Job Done Right the First Time!

Address:

Clovis/Fresno Ca​

Open Hours:

Mon-Sat: 7am – 5pm

Clovis Plumbing Services
Scroll to Top