Types & Choices
First of all, there are two major categories of toilet and these are “one-piece” and “two-piece”. Some refer to the two-piece approach as “close-coupled” toilets and cisterns but this is simply another description for the same type of toilet. See the images below for examples of one-piece and two-piece toilets:
One Piece Toilet - Short One piece toilet - Tall
Two Piece Toilet - Modern Two piece toilet - Antique
Flushing Approaches
Again, there are two major categories. The more traditional is the gravity-fed flushing mechanism. The other, and more modern approach is the pressure-assisted flushing mechanism.
In basic, gravity-fed systems operate using the pressure created by the weight of the water in the cistern. The water is released into the pan through a much smaller vessel than the one in which it is stored. In other words, the pipe connecting the cistern to the pan is of a smaller diameter than the cistern itself and this increases the force of the flush.
The additional water volume that results in the pan forces the water stored in the u-bend to overflow into the drainage pipework/soil stack. With the speed at which this occurs a siphon is set-up in which wastewater and waste material in the pan is both flushed (pushed) out and siphoned (pulled) out.
The pressure-assisted means of flushing has multiple variations, but in essence it operates using an airtight cistern. The air stored within this cistern cannot escape. As gases, including atmospheric air, are compressible a pressurised feed into the airtight cistern is required when the flush mechanism is activated. Mains pressure cold water will suffice in some areas, but check with the cistern manufacturer and you local water authority if unsure. The mains feed pressure compresses the air trapped in the cistern and when a pre-determined pressure or water volume (depending on cistern design) is reached, the flush valve opens and the compressed air is allowed to expand again. This release forces the water in the cistern out of the cistern and into the pan at a higher rate than would be normally possible using only gravity fed systems.
More modern cisterns offer dual flush operation, where you may opt for a half flush or a full flush. This is to conserve water, by half flushing liquid waste and full-flushing solid waste. The user opts for which using separate buttons, usually a circle for full and a crescent moon for half. These may operate via gravity or pressure assisted means, but the latter is likely the safest bet, especially when a lesser volume of water is being used with the half flush option. Regardless of which you choose, both will work. Look for recognised manufacturers and the WRAS logo for reassurance of product quality. The logo is included below for reference:
WRAS - Logo
Toilet Height
Be sure to consider other family members and other frequent users. Older people may find bending down very difficult and even impossible or dangerous. Young children may find a toilet that is too high impossible to use. If both elderly and young people will frequently use the toilet and you have a seemingly “catch 22” situation purchase a step-up podium for the child so they can reach and the elderly person does not have to risk injury in bending or sitting too low down.
Title:
Choosing
The
Right Toilet
Author:
A.Jeffers
Date Written:
22 Aug 07
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