Factors to consider when choosing a toilet

Q I recently looked into getting a new toilet and was confused by all the choices I needed to make. Can you help guide me through the process?

A When it comes to choosing a new toilet, you need to consider available options and features that will work best for your home and family. I have made a "toilet checklist" that may help you.

Style: "One-piece" toilets can look trendy and be easier to clean, but "two-piece" toilets may fit your budget a little better.

Bowl shape: "Elongated" bowls give you a longer bowl, but for small bathrooms a "round front" bowl may fit the space.

Toilet height: If you need a taller toilet, "comfort height" toilets are about 2 inches higher than standard toilets.

Gallons per flush (gpf): Most standard toilets flush with 1.6 gpf, "high-efficiency" toilets flush with 1.3 gpf or less.

Flushing options: Gravity flush toilets can be available in single or "dual-flush" models. Dual flush gives the option of a full flush or a half-flush. Also available are "assisted-flush" toilets where air pressure can add flushing power.

Separate bidet fixtureQ I have read some of your articles on bidet-style personal washing toilet seats. While these seats did get me interested in adding a bidet to my new bathroom, I'm looking for a bidet that is separate from the toilet. Can you give me information on choosing a bidet plumbing fixture?

A Bidet-toilet seats have become very popular in recent years. A big reason for this is that bathroom space is usually a concern, and having a toilet-bidet combo unit can save you some room since you're installing only one plumbing fixture. But, if you have the space and you're looking to add a more traditional look to your bathroom, a separate bidet fixture can be a good option.

Here are a few things to consider when thinking about adding a bidet fixture to your bathroom:

First, consult a licensed plumber to see if a bidet can be installed in your present or proposed bathroom. Location, water connections, drain lines and code issues need to be addressed.

Then, decide if you would like a bidet with a "vertical" or "horizontal" spray. Also, choose a coordinating bidet faucet style that can match your sink, tub and shower faucets.