How To Choose And Install The Right Bathroom Wall-Mounted Toilet

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Choosing and installing a wall-mounted toilet can be a significant upgrade for your bathroom, offering both aesthetic and functional benefits. These toilets are designed to save space, enhance the modern look of your bathroom, and provide ease of cleaning. However, selecting the right model and ensuring proper installation are crucial steps to ensure that your new toilet functions efficiently and safely.

Why Choose a Wall-Mounted Toilet?

Wall-mounted toilets have become increasingly popular due to their space-saving design and sleek appearance. Here are some key reasons why you might consider installing one:

Space Efficiency

Wall-mounted toilets can save anywhere from 8 to 12 inches of floor space compared to traditional floor-mounted toilets. This is particularly beneficial in smaller bathrooms where every inch counts.

Adjustable Height

One of the significant advantages of wall-mounted toilets is that the bowl height can be adjusted at installation. This feature is particularly useful if you have an old toilet that is too short or if you prefer a higher seat for better comfort.

Ease of Cleaning

The elevated position of wall-mounted toilets makes it easier to clean underneath the toilet, eliminating the often-neglected area behind the toilet that can accumulate dirt and grime.

Design Aesthetic

Wall-mounted toilets offer a sleek, modern look that can enhance the overall design of your bathroom. They come in various shapes, sizes, and finishes, allowing you to choose a model that complements your bathroom's aesthetic.

Key Features to Consider When Choosing a Wall-Mounted Toilet

When selecting a wall-mounted toilet, there are several key features to consider:

Bowl Type

Wall-mounted toilets come in two main types of bowls: round and elongated. Elongated bowls offer more ergonomic benefits but may require more space. Round bowls are more compact and can be a better fit for smaller bathrooms.

Flushing Mechanism

The flushing mechanism is another critical aspect to consider. Wall-mounted toilets often feature single or dual-flush systems. Dual-flush systems allow you to choose how much water to use for each flush, which can significantly reduce water consumption.

Design and Finishes

The design and finishes of your wall-mounted toilet should match or complement your bathroom's existing style. You can choose from various materials such as ceramic or porcelain stoneware, ensuring durability and reliability.

Water Efficiency

Water efficiency is an essential consideration when choosing a toilet. Look for models with water-saving features like dual-flush systems, which can save up to 13,000 gallons of water annually.

Installation Requirements

Installing a wall-mounted toilet requires careful planning and execution to ensure proper function and safety. Here are some key installation requirements:

Framing

Before installing your wall-mounted toilet, you need access to the framing, waste pipes, and water supply lines. The original bathroom configuration should be assessed to determine the best placement for the new toilet, ensuring that plumbing codes are met.

Plumbing Adjustments

Wall-mounted toilets require the waste pipe to drop straight down inside the wall and through the bottom plate. This necessitates either mostly or completely removing a section of the bottom plate. It is crucial to add nail plates or metal strapping to protect the waste pipe when installing the finished wall.

Clear Space Requirements

Plumbing code requires 15 inches of clear space on either side from the center of the toilet. This space is necessary for proper installation and maintenance of the toilet.

Professional Installation

While it is possible to install a wall-mounted toilet yourself, it is highly recommended to hire a professional plumber or technician who is familiar with wall-mounted toilet installation. Their expertise ensures a correct installation, minimizes the risk of potential future problems, and ensures optimal performance of the toilet.

Steps for Installing a Wall-Mounted Toilet

Here is a detailed guide on how to install a wall-mounted toilet:

Preparation

1. Assess Your Bathroom Layout: Measure the size and layout of your bathroom to determine if a suspended toilet is suitable. Consider the space-saving design and how it will fit into your bathroom.
2. Check Wall Support: Ensure that the walls can support the weight of the toilet and any potential loads during use. If necessary, reinforce the wall to ensure safety and longevity.
3. Plan Plumbing Adjustments: Determine where the waste pipe will drop inside the wall and through the bottom plate. Plan for necessary plumbing adjustments to meet plumbing codes.

Framing and Preparation

1. Access Framing: Ensure you have access to framing, waste pipes, and water supply lines. If you are remodeling both bathrooms, you may have this access readily available.
2. Stud Spacing: Note that Geberit Duofix tank frames require stud spacing of 19 3/4 inches. Plan accordingly to ensure proper installation.

Installation

1. Mounting Bolts: Use mounting bolts provided with your tank frame. However, be aware that these bolts may be loose fits in the threads of the frame. Securing them with washers and nuts can save time and effort during installation.
2. Install Waste Pipe: Ensure that the waste pipe drops straight down inside the wall and through the bottom plate. Add nail plates or metal strapping to protect it during installation.
3. Secure Toilet: Once the waste pipe is in place, secure the toilet to the wall using the mounting bolts. Ensure it is level and properly aligned.

Final Touches

1. Finish Details: Complete any finish details such as installing the flush actuator plate or custom fabricating it to match your bathroom's finish trim.
2. Inspections: Conduct inspections to ensure that all plumbing codes are met and that there are no leaks or other issues with the installation.

Maintenance and Cleaning Tips

To maintain your wall-mounted toilet in pristine condition, follow these tips:

Regular Cleaning

• Underneath the Toilet: Use a non-abrasive cleaner to clean underneath the toilet, ensuring that dirt and grime do not accumulate.
• Flush Actuator Plate: Regularly check and clean the flush actuator plate to ensure smooth operation.

Water Efficiency

• Dual-Flush System: If your toilet has a dual-flush system, use it to minimize water consumption. This can save up to 13,000 gallons of water annually.

Additional Features

• Soft-Close Seats: Look for features like soft-close seats that enhance comfort and reduce noise during use.
• Accessibility Features: Consider adding accessibility features such as grab bars or bidet toilet seats, especially for people with limited mobility.

Conclusion

Choosing and installing a wall-mounted toilet is a significant investment in your bathroom's functionality and aesthetics. By considering key features such as space efficiency, adjustable height, ease of cleaning, design aesthetic, and water efficiency, you can select the right model for your needs. Proper installation requires careful planning and execution, ensuring that all plumbing codes are met and that the toilet functions efficiently and safely. With regular maintenance and cleaning, your new wall-mounted toilet will provide years of comfort and style in your bathroom.