If you are having trouble with your toilet or if you are just ready for an upgrade, why not go all out and get a model that really takes your bathroom to the next level? No matter how you look at it, the toilet is a very important item in your home. IN terms of aesthetics, the color may matter to you, and considering your budget the cost may matter as well, but even more important is the functionality as well as how much water the toilet use – especially if you want your home to be eco-friendly.
A toilet often accounts for more than a third of the water usage in a household. Installing a state of the art high-efficiency toilet is not only recommended by the EPA, but it can also save approximately 4,000 gallons of water annually per person. Some city water utilities will even offer you rebates for installing a water saving unit in your home; it’s easy to check with your local city government and see what they have to offer.
Consider Repairing vs. New Installation
Over the years, your standard toilet will likely need a few repairs. The older it gets, the more the frequency of those repairs is likely to increase. Many common toilet repairs include installation of a new handle, fill valve, or flapper. While these are minor repairs, they do require some financial investment and they take time to install. It is a smart practice to consider weighing in the costs of repairing your current toilet versus actually installing a new one. If you are considering the long-term, it may be a better value to just go ahead and install a new high-efficiency toilet, even though it may cost a little more upfront, the overall savings can be even more beneficial.
Consider a low flow model
Since 1994, the federal standard in low-flow toilets has been a usage of 1.6 gallons per flush. Today, manufacturers have made significant improvements in what is available. You want your toilet to be anything but cheap, since this is an item in your home that is used multiple times a day; you want one that is going to stand up to the test of time while still making the most of the amount of water that runs through every time it is used.
A Gravity toilet can range anywhere from $100 up to $500 and a Pressure-assisted toilet can run anywhere from $225 up to $600. While these prices may seem a bit high, the trade-off is definitely worth it.
Is constant clogging a problem in your home? Try This.
If plunging seems to be a common occurrence in your home it may be time to replace the toilet. Many older generation low-flush toilets will often require more than one flush to get the job done. You shouldn’t have to sacrifice saving on water just to have a low flushing water saving system in your home. Today, there is a whole new line of water savers that work a lot better than the toilets of the past. Saving water can shave a lot off of your monthly water bill, which will help you contribute to saving the environment while you are saving money at the same time. As utility bills continue to rise, finding ways to cut costs and save on your home’s water usage is the sensible thing to do.
Tech-Based Wonders
Built-in sound systems or lid lifters that are automated may seem like a few great selling points, but you also want to make sure that that fancy new commode also comes with the WaterSense label from the EPA. This will mean your dazzling super toilet will not only be a top performer, it will use a lot less water so it can operate and peak efficiency. Consider these five options when shopping for your new toilet:
- Dual-Flushing Toilets: For the last couple of decades, eco-conscious Europeans have been using dual-flushing commodes. This money saving benefit has been a new thing for Americans. These tanks comes with a two-button setup that offer you an option for a full-sized flush or a lighter flush.
- Seats that are Heated: On a cold winter morning, nothing is worse than a frigid toilet seat. The simple luxury a heated seat can provide is something you will quickly appreciate. Many new models come with heated seating such as the Vacuum Flush Composting Toilet by Sancor. Other models like those from Kohler, will also play your favorite tune and even offer a light show. A more affordable option from Brondell is the LumaWarm that not only softens the chill, but also offers an LED with a soft blue glow that can double as a night light.
- Comfort Height Select Toilets: This model is approximately two inches higher than the more standard models. This makes it easier for aging individuals or those with mobility issues to get up and down. These toilets range between 17 to 19 inches in height and are similar to sitting in a chair. They are normally ADA compliant as well. You can find these types of toilets through American Standard, Kohler, and Toto with models available in a range of styles and pricing.
- Motion Activated Toilets: With an automated toilet lid men don’t ever have to be scolded for leaving the seat up anymore. The iTouchless model employs sensors that are infrared and raise up the lid as someone approaches it. The seat will rise with a mere raise of the hand, powered by a lithium-ion battery that has a three month lifespan.
