If you’re like most people, you probably take your toilet for granted. But have you ever stopped to think about how it works? A standard toilet relies on gravity to flush waste away. But a pressure-assisted toilet uses water pressure to help dislodge and flush waste away. This can make them more efficient and less likely to clog. If you’re considering replacing your old toilet, a pressure-assisted toilet may be the right choice for you. In this post, we’ll break down everything you should know about pressure-assisted toilets.
What is a pressure-assisted toilet?
A pressure-assisted toilet is a toilet that makes use of the pressure of water to make flushing more efficient. This technology uses a small tank on top of the main one, which is filled with air and pressurized.
How does a pressure-assisted toilet work?
A pressure-assisted toilet works in the same way as a standard pressure-assisted device but is built into the design of a toilet instead. The flushing mechanism uses water from the bowl to fill an airtight chamber above it before pressing against the trap door and forcing the contents out of the bowl and into waste pipes below.
Benefits of a pressure-assisted toilet
- The pressure-assisted toilet is more efficient than a standard toilet in that it eliminates clogs and doesn’t require you to hold down the handle. It needs less water than a regular flush, yet is capable of clearing waste easily.
- Pressure-assisted toilets are much easier to clean – all you need to do is turn the water on and brush it down. No scrubbing required!
- Water efficiency is significantly improved, as pressure-assisted toilets only use 1.6 gallons per flush compared to a standard toilet which uses 3 or more gallons for each flushing. In today’s times of global warming and water shortages, this is a big thing as well as a money saver as there is no need to keep the water running while cleaning.
Drawbacks of a pressure-assisted toilet
- Pressure-assisted toilets cost significantly more than standard ones – $400-$900 whereas standard ones only cost about $100. However, since they do not require replacement parts and will last much longer, in the long run, they would actually bring down your expenses.
- These toilets do not work as effectively with lower water pressure as they can clog up even on a small blockage of the pipe. In such cases, it is best to use a standard toilet that works well even with reduced water pressure.
- In certain areas where space is limited, the tank may still need to be placed on the ground to allow for easy access. However, in most houses, the tank can conveniently be placed above the main toilet for added space.
Are pressure-assisted toilets safe?
Pressure-assisted toilets are safe. Under normal conditions, the only maintenance it would require is an occasional scrub to help with stain removal and mineral build-up around the tank.
Are pressure-assisted toilets loud?
Pressure-assisted toilets are not known to be particularly loud. Some might find the flush noise a bit embarrassing, but it is only a matter of getting accustomed to it.
Do pressure-assist toilets need electricity?
Pressure-assisted toilets do not require electricity. They only need to be connected to a water source and can operate using gravity alone.
What is the cost of installing a pressure-assisted toilet?
The installation cost of a pressure-assisted toilet varies depending on the type you want. Standard ones that fit into your existing plumbing system will cost anywhere between $200 and $500.
What is the cost of operating a pressure-assisted toilet?
The running cost of a pressure-assisted toilet is very low, thanks to its water efficiency. The energy required for flushing is far less than that needed for regular toilets, so you can use it worry-free.
Are pressure-assist toilets new?
While they have been around since the 1940s, this innovative technology is still fairly new when compared to regular flushing toilet systems, which have been around for centuries.
How to fix a pressure-assisted toilet?
A pressure-assisted toilet cannot be fixed without a plumber. It is a complex device that works by pressurizing water and using it to force waste out of the bowl rather than pushing it along with flushing.
Why should I buy a pressure-assisted toilet?
Because they are eco-friendly, consume less water, require no electricity, are safer, and easy to clean.
Who makes pressure-assisted toilets?
Pressure-assisted toilets are primarily manufactured by American Standard, TOTO and Kohler.