Which Pressure Assist Toilet Is Most Recommended
When shopping for a new toilet, more and more homeowners are looking into pressure assist models. Pressure assist toilets provide powerful flushing capabilities that can tackle heavy waste removal while using less water per flush. With robust flushing power and added efficiency, pressure assist toilets are an appealing option for many bathrooms.
But with so many models on the market, how do you determine which is the best pressure assist toilet?
What is a Pressure Assist Toilet and How Does it Work?
Unlike a standard gravity flush toilet that relies solely on the force of gravity to flush, a pressure assisted toilet uses both gravity and air pressure to create a strong siphon during flushing. Here's an overview of how they work:
- There is a sealed tank inside the toilet tank that is pre-pressurized with compressed air, usually around 25 psi.
- When the flush handle is pushed, the pressure tank releases water into the bowl at a high velocity.
- The added force creates a powerful siphon that pulls the contents of the bowl into the trapway with significant strength.
- This flushing action scrubs the bowl and fully evacuates the waste, reducing clogs.
Unlike gravity flush toilets that can require multiple flushes to clear heavy waste loads, the robust siphon action of a pressure assisted toilet allows it to fully clear the bowl in just one flush. This makes them well-suited for high traffic bathrooms.
Key Benefits of Pressure Assist Toilets
Here are some of the main advantages pressure assist toilets offer compared to gravity flush models:
- More effective at removing solid waste and clearing the bowl.
- Significantly reduces the likelihood of clogs.
- Uses less water - averages 1.0-1.6 gallons per flush.
- Creates a more powerful siphon during flushing.
- Reduces the need for multiple flushes.
- Performs consistently even after years of use.
Top Pressure Assist Toilet Brands
Several leading toilet manufacturers offer pressure assist models. Here are some top brands to look at:
Kohler Pressure Assist Toilets
Kohler is a well-known plumbing fixture brand that offers several pressure assist toilet options like the Highline, Cimarron, and Wellworth models. Their pressure assist toilets feature sturdy construction and powerful flushing capabilities.
American Standard Pressure Assist Toilets
American Standard is another prominent toilet brand that manufactures a line of VorMax pressure assist toilets. They are designed for bulk waste removal and combine floor-mounted actuators with pressure tank technology.
Toto Pressure Assist Toilets
Toto produces the Neorest pressure assist toilet series with integrated cleansing technologies. Their Drake II models also utilize pressure assist flushing for a robust flush.
Niagara Pressure Assist Toilets
Niagara specializes in high-efficiency toilets, including pressure assist models like the Stealth toilet. Their pressure assist toilets focus on water conservation without sacrificing performance.
Gerber Pressure Assist Toilets
Gerber offers several pressure assist toilets like the Viper and Avalanche models which have oversized fully-glazed trapways and pressure tanks to create a powerful flush.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Pressure Assist Toilet
With many options on the market, keep the following factors in mind when selecting a pressure assist toilet for your bathroom:
Flushing Performance
Look for a toilet that can completely clear waste in just one flush. Check toilet reviews, product specs, and flushing demos to evaluate performance. Prioritize models with strong flush ratings.
Water Efficiency
Choose a water efficient model that uses 1.6 gallons per flush (GPF) or less. Check for EPA WaterSense certification. This helps conserve water without sacrificing flushing power.
Bowl Design and Comfort Height
Consider the shape and size of the toilet bowl. Elongated bowls offer more comfort but require more space. Comfort height models (15-17 inches high) are easier to sit on or stand up from.
Noise Level
Pressure assist toilets are quieter than gravity models but still produce some noise during flushing. Check owner reviews for noise ratings. Newer models tend to be quieter.
Durability and Warranty
Opt for a durable vitreous china toilet with a strong flush mechanism. Also look for comprehensive warranties that cover the tank, seals, bowl, and key components.
Style and Design
Choose a style and color that matches your bathroom decor. Available styles include modern, traditional, contemporary, and more across one and two-piece configurations.
Ease of Installation
Consider a toilet with standard 12" rough-in size for easier retrofitting. Also look for pre-installed lugs and caps to simplify installation.
Reviews of the Best Pressure Assist Toilets
Based on the above criteria, here are 5 of the top-rated pressure assist toilet models:
1. Kohler Highline Classic Pressure Assist Toilet
This Kohler toilet combines a compact elongated bowl with a pressure assist flushing system. The pressure tank provides robust siphon flushing action to quickly evacuate waste using just 1.6 GPF.
Owners praise its powerful flush and reduced clogging. The durable canister flush valve and glazed vitreous china construction ensure years of reliable performance.
2. American Standard VorMax Pressure Assist Toilet
The VorMax utilizes a seatside pressurized flushing system combined with an extra-large fully glazed trapway. This allows it to flush 700 grams in a single flush using only 1.6 GPF.
It resists staining, wear, and clogging while providing effective bulk waste removal. The EverClean surface also inhibits mold, mildew, and bacteria growth inside the bowl.
3. Toto Drake II Pressure Assist Toilet
This Toto Drake II model comes in both round and elongated bowl options. It couples a wide 3" valve with a pressure vessel tank to generate significant flush power and efficiency.
Owners like its easy installation process, comfortable height, and quiet operation. The trapway is computer designed for optimal waste flow and minimal clogging issues.
4. Niagara Stealth Pressure Assist Toilet
Certified by the EPA WaterSense program, this Niagara toilet uses only 0.8 GPF for effective flushing. The sealed pressure vessel provides the added oomph needed to clear the bowl.
It resists leaks, cracks, and erosion thanks to the durable one-piece construction. Owners highlight the easy installation process using existing toilet connections.
5. Gerber Viper Pressure Assist Toilet
Gerber outfits the Viper with an oversized fully glazed trapway and 2" pressure tank valve to power an efficient high-velocity flush using just 1.6 GPF.
The elongated bowl provides added room and comfort. Owners like the heavy-duty construction that prevents sweating tanks or premature leaks. The Viper comes backed by a 10 year limited warranty.
Shopping Guide for the Best Pressure Assist Toilet
Follow this shopping checklist to select the right pressure assist toilet for your bathroom needs: