Toilets are an essential fixture in every household and public facility. They come in various types, each designed to meet specific needs and preferences. In this overview, we will explore some of the most common types of toilets available today.
Toilets are categorized into 3 styles: traditional, transitional and contemporary. These terms refer to the design and look of the toilet. Any of the 3 styles can still feature the latest in technology and water conservation.
Traditional toilets feature classic design, usually with thoughtful edge details and more intricately designed trip levers. A good example would be Icera's Richmond model.
Contemporary toilets are characterized by clean lines. They usually have fully skirted trapways that facilitate easy maintenance and understated seats and trip levers. Icera's Muse model is a good example.
Transitional toilets blend traditional and contemporary designs, featuring sleek yet classic lines that provide a timeless aesthetic. They are versatile and can fit well in various bathroom styles. Icera's Julian model is a transitional-style toilet - more detailed than a contemporary toilet but features a skirted trapway which gives it a hint of modernity.
Two-Piece Toilets:
Two-piece toilets are the most traditional and widely used type. They consist of a separate tank and bowl that are connected during installation. The tank sits on top of the bowl and is secured with bolts. Two-piece toilets are relatively affordable and offer a wide range of options in terms of style, flushing mechanism, and features.
One-Piece Toilets:
One-piece toilets are a more modern and streamlined alternative to two-piece toilets. As the name suggests, these toilets are manufactured as a single unit, with no seam between the tank and bowl. One-piece toilets are known for their sleek design and ease of cleaning. They are often more expensive than two-piece toilets but are considered to be more visually appealing.
Wall-Hung Toilets:
Wall-mounted toilets are a space-saving option commonly found in commercial buildings and high-end residential settings. These toilets are mounted on the bathroom wall, with the tank hidden inside the wall or in a separate enclosure. Wall-mounted toilets offer a clean and minimalist look as they leave the floor area beneath the toilet clear. However, they require professional installation and can be more expensive than other types. Icera produces wall-hung bowls only; the in-wall tank must be sourced elsewhere. Some popular in-wall tank manufacturers include Geberit and Viega.
Intelligent Toilets (sometimes called Smart toilets, depending on level of functionality):
With the advancement of technology, intelligent toilets have become increasingly popular. These toilets offer a range of high-tech features such as heated seats, bidet functions, automatic flushing, and motion-activated lids. Some have built-in air dryers and deodorizers. While these types of toilets can be quite expensive, they provide added comfort and convenience for users.
Dual-Flush Toilets:
Dual-flush toilets are designed to conserve water by offering two flushing options - one for liquid waste and another for solid waste. The liquid waste option uses less water, while the solid waste option uses more water for a more powerful flush. Dual-flush toilets are an eco-friendly choice as they help reduce water consumption and lower utility bills. At the writing of this guide in early 2024, Icera had several dual-flush models in development. Feel free to ask your manager for more details.
In conclusion, toilets come in a variety of types to suit different needs, preferences, and budgets. Whether you're looking for a traditional two-piece toilet, a modern one-piece toilet, or a high-tech smart toilet, there is a wide range of options available to choose from.