Know everything you need to know about toilets, from installation to maintenance. Discover different types, seats, common problems, cleaning tips, and more.
Toilets are more than just a household fixture; they’re essential for daily life. They keep our homes clean and sanitary, which is important for our health and comfort.
But there’s a lot more to know about toilets than just flushing and forgetting.
This guide aims to give you a complete understanding of toilets, from the different types available to how to install and maintain them.
Whether you’re choosing a new toilet or fixing an old one, the information here will help you make the best decisions.
So, let’s dive into the world of toilets, from installation to upkeep.
Types of Toilet
Choosing the right toilet can be confusing because there are so many options out there. Let’s break it down into simple terms:
Standard Flush Toilets
Features: Standard flush toilets, the most common type, operate using a gravity-flush mechanism where water from the tank flows into the bowl to remove waste.
Advantages: Standard flush toilets are a popular and affordable choice for residential settings due to their lower cost and ease of installation.
Best Suited For: Standard flush toilets are a popular and affordable choice for residential and commercial spaces that do not require advanced features due to their simplicity and cost-effectiveness.
Low-Flow Toilets
Features: Low-flow toilets are designed for water conservation and use about 1.6 gallons of water per flush, compared to the 3.5 gallons used by older models.
Advantages: The main benefit of low-flow toilets is their water efficiency, resulting in reduced utility costs and a smaller environmental impact.
Best Suited For: Low-flow toilets are ideal for areas with limited water resources or for environmentally conscious homeowners.
Dual-Flush Toilets
Features: Dual-flush toilets provide two flush options: a low-volume flush for liquid waste and a standard-volume flush for solid waste.
Advantages: Dual-flush mechanisms provide optimal water conservation without compromising performance.
Best Suited For: Dual-flush toilets are suitable for both residential and commercial installations, especially in water-conscious settings.
Wall-Mounted Toilets
Features: Wall-mounted toilets are attached to the wall, allowing for easier cleaning underneath.
Advantages: Besides the aesthetic appeal, wall-mounted toilets free up floor space and offer easier maintenance.
Best Suited For: Perfect for small bathrooms or modern, minimalist designs. However, they may require a thicker wall to support the wall-mounted fixture and tank.
One-Piece vs. Two-Piece Toilets
Features: One-piece toilets combine the tank and bowl into a single unit, while two-piece toilets have separate tank and bowl components.
Advantages: One-piece toilets are easier to clean and install, albeit at a higher cost, while two-piece toilets are more common and allow for easier repairs as the tank and bowl can be dealt with separately.
Best Suited For: One-piece toilets are recommended for smaller bathrooms due to their space-saving design, while two-piece toilets are a more cost-effective option that allows for easier repairs.
If you want to learn more about different types of toilets, click here to access our dedicated article that provides more detailed information.
Types of Toilet Seats
When choosing a toilet seat, it is crucial to consider comfort, practicality, and various features available. Let’s explore the different types, shapes, materials, and high-tech options to help you make an informed decision. For a complete guide on the types of toilet seats available, you can refer to our comprehensive guide.
Round vs. Elongated Seats
What’s the Difference?: Round toilet seats have a circular shape, while elongated seats are more oval and longer from front to back.
How to Choose: When choosing a toilet seat, consider the space available in your bathroom. Round seats are suitable for small bathrooms as they take up less space, while elongated seats are often preferred by adults for their added comfort due to the extra room.
It’s important to check the type of toilet you have before purchasing a seat as the two types are not interchangeable.
Material Choices
What’s Out There?: Plastic, wood, and cushioned seats are the most commonly used materials for toilet seats.
Comfort and Durability: Plastic seats are easy to clean and comfortable, but they may not be as durable.
Wooden seats are strong and can complement your bathroom decor, but they can be prone to scratches and chips over time.
Cushioned seats are the softest option, but they may be more susceptible to tearing and have a shorter lifespan.
How to Choose: When choosing a toilet seat, consider your priorities. If easy cleaning is important, opt for a plastic seat.
For a solid and stylish option, choose wood. If comfort is your main goal, go for a cushioned seat.
Specialty Seats
What’s Special About Them? Some toilet seats offer additional features like a bidet function for cleansing or a heating feature for added comfort on cold mornings.
How to Choose: If you’re seeking additional features and enhanced comfort, specialty toilet seats could be a suitable option.
While they may come at a higher cost, they provide added convenience and comfort. Prior to purchasing, it’s important to verify if these seats require special plumbing or electrical outlets.
When choosing a toilet seat, it’s important to consider the shape, material, and any desired extra features. This will help you find the seat that best suits your needs.
Parts of a Toilet Tank
Understanding the parts of a toilet tank is essential for troubleshooting and DIY repairs. The three main components to focus on are the fill valve, the flapper, and the flush handle and lever. For a detailed understanding of each component and its function, you can refer to our comprehensive guide on the parts of a toilet tank.
Fill Valve
Role in Tank: The fill valve controls the water level in the toilet tank. It refills the tank after each flush and stops filling when the water reaches the appropriate level, preventing overflow and ensuring an adequate water supply for the next flush.
Signs of Issues:If your toilet constantly makes noise like it’s running or takes too long to refill after a flush, you might have a fill valve issue. Another indication is a weak flush, which could be due to insufficient water in the tank.
Troubleshooting: One possible troubleshooting step is to check the float attached to the fill valve. Ensure that it moves freely up and down.
If adjusting the float does not resolve the issue, you may consider replacing the fill valve.
Typically, this is a straightforward do-it-yourself task that involves shutting off the water supply, removing the old valve, and installing a new one according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Flapper
Role in Tank: The flapper is a rubber or plastic lid that covers the opening between the tank and the bowl. When you flush, the flapper lifts, enabling water to flow from the tank into the bowl and initiate the flush.
Signs of Issues: If your toilet constantly runs or flushes by itself (known as a “phantom flush”), a malfunctioning flapper may be the cause. Additionally, a weak flush could indicate that the flapper is not fully lifting or closing too quickly.
Troubleshooting: To optimize the given text, you can try adjusting the chain that connects the flapper to the flush handle. If this adjustment does not solve the issue, you can replace the flapper. This process involves turning off the water supply, removing the old flapper, and installing the new one. Generally, replacing the flapper is a straightforward task.
Flush Handle and Lever
Role in Tank: The flush handle and lever are the controls used to initiate a flush. Pressing the handle lifts the lever, which in turn lifts the flapper and starts the flush.
Common Issues: Sometimes, the handle may become loose or the lever inside the tank can break or become disconnected from the flapper.
How to Fix: To tighten a loose handle, you typically just need to tighten a nut inside the tank. If the lever is broken or disconnected, you may need to replace it or reconnect it to the flapper. This is usually a simple task, and replacement parts are easily accessible.
Common Toilet Problems
Toilets are an essential part of our daily lives, but they can sometimes encounter problems. By understanding common toilet issues, homeowners can confidently address basic repairs and determine when professional assistance is needed. For a more comprehensive look at toilet issues and their solutions, consider our guide on common toilet problems. Here are some of the most common toilet problems and their solutions:
Clogs and Blockages
Symptoms: When the toilet doesn’t flush properly or water backs up into the bowl, it indicates a flushing issue or potential clog.
Solutions: When dealing with clogs, start by using a plunger to create a proper seal around the hole at the bottom of the bowl and plunge forcefully.
If the clog persists, consider using a toilet auger. Insert the end of the auger into the drain hole and rotate it to dislodge the blockage.
When to Call a Professional: If repeated attempts to plunge and use an auger do not resolve the issue, it could indicate a more serious blockage in your plumbing system that requires professional assistance.
Running Toilet
Symptoms: One common toilet problem is a running toilet, which constantly runs or refills, wasting water and creating noise.
Solutions: To address a running toilet, start by checking the flapper for proper sealing. Adjust or replace the flapper if needed. Then, inspect the fill valve to ensure it stops filling the tank when it’s full.
When to Call a Professional: If adjusting the flapper and fill valve fails to resolve the running toilet issue, it may indicate a more complicated problem, such as a tank leak or a malfunctioning fill valve. In such cases, it is recommended to seek professional assistance for proper diagnosis and resolution.
Leaks
Symptoms: When water pools around the base of the toilet or leaks from the tank, it indicates a leakage issue.
Solutions: To address leaks at the base, you can start by tightening the bolts that secure the toilet to the floor. If that does not resolve the issue, it may be necessary to replace the wax ring. Leaks from the tank often occur due to worn-out washers or bolts, which may need to be tightened or replaced.
When to Call a Professional: If tightening or replacing accessible parts does not resolve the leak, or if you are uncertain about removing the toilet to replace the wax ring, it is recommended to seek professional assistance.
Weak Flushing
Symptoms: A common problem with toilets is weak flushing, where the toilet flushes but does not clear all waste, often requiring multiple flushes.
Solutions: A weak flush is commonly caused by low water levels in the tank or blocked rim holes under the toilet bowl’s rim. You can improve the flush by adjusting the water level using the float on the fill valve or cleaning the rim holes with a wire or specialized cleaner.
When to Call a Professional: If adjusting the water level and cleaning do not improve the flush, it is recommended to consult a professional to inspect for more serious issues such as blocked plumbing vents or sewer lines.
Phantom Flushing
Symptoms: Phantom Flushing: The toilet flushes on its own.
Solution: Phantom flushing occurs when there is a slow leak from the tank to the bowl, typically caused by a faulty flapper or fill valve. Replacing these components usually resolves the issue.
When to Call a Professional: If replacing the flapper or fill valve does not solve the problem, a more serious issue, such as a cracked tank, may be the cause, and professional assistance may be necessary.
What Brand of Toilet is Best?
When it comes to selecting the right toilet brand, several names stand out in the market for their quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction. These include Kohler, TOTO, American Standard, and Swiss Madison. To make an informed decision tailored to your unique needs, read our comprehensive guide on what brand of toilet is best.
Kohler
Reputation: Kohler is a renowned plumbing brand known for its wide range of styles and durable construction.
Key Factors:
- Price: Generally moderate to high-end
- Design: Offers a broad array of styles and finishes
- Water Efficiency: Many models with low-flow and dual-flush options
- Customer Reviews: Often praised for durability and aesthetics
TOTO
Reputation: TOTO is a well-known Japanese brand recognized for its advanced technology, including automated flushing and heated seats.
Key Factors:
- Price: Usually on the higher end, reflecting its tech-forward design
- Design: Sleek and modern
- Water Efficiency: Excellent, with several eco-friendly models
- Customer Reviews: Highly rated for comfort and technology
American Standard
Reputation: American Standard is a reputable U.S.-based brand known for its reliable and durable products.
Key Factors:
- Price: Ranges from budget to moderate
- Design: Traditional to contemporary
- Water Efficiency: A variety of low-flow models available
- Customer Reviews: Generally commended for durability and easy installation
Swiss Madison
Reputation: Swiss Madison, a newer player in the market, is rapidly gaining recognition for its affordable prices and contemporary designs.
Key Factors:
- Price: Generally budget-friendly
- Design: Minimalist and contemporary
- Water Efficiency: Growing range of water-saving models
- Customer Reviews: Positive reviews for design but mixed feedback on durability
When choosing a toilet brand, consider TOTO if you prioritize high-tech features and water efficiency, or American Standard for a good balance between cost and durability. Ultimately, the ideal brand depends on your specific needs, preferences, and budget.
How to Clean the Toilet
Maintaining a clean and hygienic toilet is crucial for both aesthetics and health. Although it may not be the most glamorous task, using effective cleaning methods and adhering to a regular schedule can make it more manageable. For a detailed step-by-step guide on keeping your toilet in pristine condition, check out our comprehensive guide on how to clean the toilet.
List of Common Toilet Cleaning Products:
- Chlorine Bleach
- Advantages: Highly effective at killing bacteria and removing tough stains.
- Drawbacks: Harsh on plumbing, may corrode fixtures, and not environmentally friendly.
- Toilet Bowl Cleaners in Gel Form
- Advantages: Easy to apply, effective for deep cleaning and stain removal.
- Drawbacks: May contain strong chemicals that could be hazardous if ingested or come in contact with skin.
- Toilet Bowl Cleaners in Tablet Form
- Advantages: Convenient and hands-free, just drop in the tank and let it work.
- Drawbacks: Constant exposure can deteriorate rubber seals and other components in the toilet tank. May contain chemicals harmful to the environment.
- Multi-Purpose Bathroom Cleaners
- Advantages: Versatile, can be used on various surfaces in the bathroom.
- Drawbacks: May not be as effective for tough toilet stains or mineral build-up.
- Natural Cleaners (e.g., Baking Soda and Vinegar)
- Advantages: Eco-friendly, non-corrosive, and safe to use.
- Drawbacks: May require more scrubbing and not as potent in killing bacteria compared to chemical cleaners.
- Green-Certified Cleaners
- Advantages: Environmentally friendly and usually free from harmful chemicals.
- Drawbacks: Can be more expensive and may require more product for the same cleaning efficacy as traditional cleaners.
Consider the following factors when choosing a cleaning product for your toilet: your cleaning needs, environmental concerns, and the condition of your plumbing.
Environmentally Friendly Options: To clean your toilet in an environmentally friendly way, you can use natural cleaners such as baking soda and vinegar. These natural cleaners are highly effective at loosening grime and removing mineral deposits. Alternatively, you can choose cleaners that have a “green” certification, indicating that they meet specific environmental standards.
Cleaning Schedule
Consistency is crucial for toilet maintenance. Irregular cleaning can result in stain and bacteria buildup, making cleaning more challenging and creating an unsanitary environment.
To keep your toilet clean and prevent costly repairs, follow this suggested cleaning schedule:
- Daily: Wipe the seat and lid with a sanitizing cloth.
- Weekly: Scrub the bowl, clean under the rim, and wipe all exterior parts, including the base and behind the toilet.
- Monthly: In addition to the weekly routine, check for potential issues like leaks or rust, and clean hard-to-reach areas.
By using effective, environmentally friendly cleaning products and sticking to a regular cleaning routine, you can maintain a clean and hygienic toilet.
Toilet Installation and Repair
Installing and repairing a toilet requires careful attention to detail, whether you choose to do it yourself or seek professional assistance. For a comprehensive look at how you can best approach toilet installation and repair, we’ve put together a thorough guide. Understanding the essential steps for installation and common repair tasks can help you save time and money.
DIY Installation
Installing a toilet yourself can be a cost-effective way to upgrade or replace an existing unit. Here’s a simplified guide for DIY installation:
- Preparation: Turn off the water supply and remove the old toilet if present.
- Seal Installation: Place a new wax seal on the flange at the floor.
- Mounting the Bowl: Lower the toilet bowl onto the wax seal and tighten the bolts.
- Tank Assembly: Attach the tank to the bowl.
- Connect Water Supply: Reconnect the water supply line.
- Test: Turn on the water and flush several times to check for leaks and proper function.
Required Tools: Adjustable wrench, plunger, measuring tape, level, and pipe sealant.
Safety Precautions: Always turn off the water supply before starting and wear appropriate safety gear, such as gloves and goggles.
By following these steps, you can successfully install a toilet on your own.
Professional Installation
Hiring professionals for toilet installation offers several advantages over DIY installation.
- Expertise: Professionals are equipped to handle unexpected obstacles such as corroded pipes or uneven flooring.
- Efficiency: Hiring a professional installer offers several advantages over DIY installation. Professionals can complete the job more efficiently and with a higher success rate.
- Warranty: Professional installations often include a service warranty, providing added peace of mind and protection.
Finding Reliable Plumbing Services: When looking for plumbing services, it is recommended to seek licensed plumbers with positive reviews and ask for referrals from friends or family. Additionally, it is advisable to obtain a written estimate before proceeding with the service.
Common Repairs
Toilets can experience wear and tear, leading to various common issues that may require repairs.
- Leaks: Often occur around the base or from the tank. Silicone or wax seals may need replacing.
- Running Toilet: Toilets often experience issues due to a malfunctioning flapper or fill valve, both of which can be easily replaced.
- Weak Flushing: To address weak flushing, you can try adjusting the water level in the tank or cleaning the rim to resolve issues caused by low water levels or blocked inlet holes.
DIY Repairs vs. Professional Help: If you come across simple repairs like replacing a flapper or fixing a minor leak, you can easily handle them on your own. However, for more complex issues such as a cracked tank or persistent leaks, it is advisable to seek professional assistance.
Water Conservation and Toilets
Toilets can use up to 30% of a home’s water. Conserving water is crucial, and upgrading to a more efficient toilet can make a significant difference.
- Low-Flow Toilets: Regular toilets typically use 3.5 to 5 gallons per flush, while low-flow toilets reduce this amount to 1.28 to 1.6 gallons. Some low-flow toilets even have a dual-flush system for more water conservation, allowing users to choose between a lower volume flush for liquid waste and a higher volume flush for solid waste.
- Good for Earth:Switching to low-flow toilets can save up to 170 billion gallons of water per year in the U.S. alone, benefiting the local water supply and the planet.
- Saves Money: Switching to a low-flow toilet can lead to significant savings. A family of four can save over $90 per year and conserve nearly 13,000 gallons of water. Additionally, some locations provide rebates or tax breaks for making this eco-friendly switch.
Switching to a water-saving toilet is a great move. You’ll cut down your water bill and help the planet at the same time.
Conclusion
Picking the right toilet is more than just looks. It’s also about how it works and how much water it uses. From low-flow toilets that save water to seats with special features like heat, the choices matter for your wallet and the planet.
Knowing how to fix common toilet problems can save you money. And picking the right cleaning stuff helps keep things clean in a green way.
You can install a toilet yourself with the right guide, but pros can make sure it’s done right. Saving water is a big deal, so consider that when choosing.
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