When talking about any profession, most people tend to focus on the here and now. That's understandable. it's really important to know what's going on in the present tense. But you are missing out on some vital information if you never read and learn about the history of a profession. This applies to plumbing, in particular. You can really further your understanding of the profession by knowing how it began and what changes have been made over the years. That's why we sometimes reference the history of plumbing on this blog. We'll also dive into the future of the profession from time to time because, after all, you have to know where you're headed.
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If you are in the market for a new toilet, you may have a hard time selecting the right toilet with nearly infinite styles available. There are far more choices than color and shape that can have a dramatic impact on the efficiency of your toilet and reduce the chances of clogs.
Single-Flush
Single-flush toilets are the most common and least expensive option. Since this type of toilet is common, it is easier and less costly to repair and find replacement parts. Single-flush toilets are the least efficient of all the types of toilets because it uses a significant amount of water and the same amount of water to flush the toilet, regardless of the contents. These toilets also use a gravity-feed mechanism during flushing, meaning the force of water coming from the tank into the toilet bowl is what forces waste down the trap. Since there is only one mechanism with single-flush toilets that removes waste, this type of toilet is more prone to clogs because it is harder for waste to make it through the curves of the trap.
Dual-Flush
Dual-flush toilets have two separate mechanisms. One is used for liquid waste, whereas the other is used for solid waste. The separation of the flushing mechanisms allows the toilet to be more efficient in its use of water. Flushing liquid waste requires less water than flushing solid waste. Although dual-flush toilets use the same gravity-feed system, their larger trap path makes them less prone to clogs than a single-flush toilet. One challenge with dual-flush toilets is initiating the flushing. Most single-flush toilets have a simple lever to initiate the flush. This can be easier for people with hand problems because a dual-flush toilet may require more pressure to press the buttons. If you choose a dual-flush toilet, you will likely pay a higher upfront cost and more money if the toilet needs to be repaired or you need to have parts replaced.
Pressure-Assisted
Pressure-assisted toilets are both more effective at flushing and more efficient in water use than either single-flush or dual-flush toilets. This type of toilet uses both water and air pressure to flush the toilet. The major advantage of this type of toilet is it's less likely to clog and it does a more effective job at cleaning the entire toilet bowl after each flush. The main disadvantage of this type of toilet is the flushing is loud, much like toilets you find in some businesses. Since pressure-assisted toilets are more effective at keeping the bowl clean, they can be ideal for people who especially hate cleaning the toilet. Households with many people will benefit from both the cleanliness and water-saving properties of this type of toilet.
Macerating
Macerating toilets, which are also called upflush or power-assisted toilets, are likely the most powerful type of toilet on the market. Unlike other toilets that simply push waste down into the trap by various means, macerating toilets grind up waste. When the ground-up waste is mixed with water, it moves upward through a discharge pipe (hence the term "upflush"). The waste is capable of moving upward because it is pushed by an electric pump. Due to the maceration of waste, this type of toilet is the least capable of clogging. The main disadvantage of this type of toilet is its reliance on an electric pump. If the power goes out, you will not be able to flush the toilet. This type of toilet may be better suited for households with a backup generator.
With several types of toilets available, you may be tempted to try something other than the standard single-flush toilet. More complex systems are often better at conserving water and less likely to clog, which can be ideal for a high-traffic bathroom.
Contact a plumber to learn more.
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