Toilets come in several main types. In pressure-assist toilets, the toilet's water supply provides pressure to compress air within a sealed plastic reservoir inside the tank. Power-assist toilets plug into a standard GFCI outlet and use electricity to power a pump that pushes water into the toilet bowl. In vacuum-assist toilets, the tank houses a vacuum chamber that works like a siphon to pull air out of the trap below the bowl so that it can quickly fill with water to clear waste. Gravity toilets are the most familiar type. Water drops from the tank into the bowl and trap, moving waste down the drain. Gravity does all the work. Be sure to compare like categories when you are shopping.

The following is what experts say about choosing a toilet:

  • Determine which type of toilet you prefer. Gravity-fed toilets are simplest mechanically (so they are easy to repair), but in reviews, the more expensive gravity toilets perform best. Gravity toilets are generally quieter than pressure-assist toilets. Pressure-assist toilets have the most powerful flush, but they can be noisy. Budget pressure-assist toilets are usually better than budget gravity toilets. In general, reviews say to expect to pay between $200 and $350 for a good toilet.
  • Dual-flush toilets save water. Solid waste flushes with 1.6 gallons but liquid waste requires only 0.8 gallons to flush. These toilets can save about 25 percent water over a regular 1.6-gpf toilet. However, the water level in the toilet remains very low compared to others, which can make cleaning a hassle and may contribute to more odors. Good dual-flush toilets can perform just as well as other types. Most dual-flush toilets are gravity toilets.
  • One-piece toilets are easier to clean, but more expensive. A one-piece toilet is easier to clean, doesn't leak between the bowl and tank, and is typically more expensive than a two-piece toilet. Two-piece toilets are less expensive and more familiar looking.
  • Round toilet bowls save space; elongated bowls are more comfortable. Elongated bowls are usually 2 inches longer than round bowls. Most toilets are available in both variations.
  • Check your water pressure. Pressure-assist toilets require at least 25 pounds per square inch (psi) of water pressure to function correctly. If in doubt, you can check your home's water pressure with an inexpensive gauge (available in hardware stores). If your home has low water pressure, go for a gravity toilet, which can work well with levels as low as 10 psi.
  • Toilets come in more colors these days. White is still the standard, but you can find shades of beige or even brighter colors.
  • Don't forget the seat. Two-piece toilets don't usually come with a seat, so remember to budget extra for a compatible seat (*est. $20 to $70).
Sponsored Links

Back to top