Get to Know Different Kinds of Toilet Tank Systems
Toilet tanks are an integral yet often overlooked part of the modern bathroom. While we may not give them much thought, the toilet tank plays an important role in operating our toilets effectively. Beyond the standard tank, there are a variety of toilet tank systems to choose from these days, each with their own sets of pros and cons.
Dual-Flush Toilet Tanks
One of the most popular modern toilet tank systems is the dual-flush tank. As the name suggests, these tanks have two flushing modes - a full flush and a partial flush.
What Are Dual-Flush Toilet Tanks?
Dual-flush toilet tanks are designed to save water by giving users a choice between two flush volumes. There is a setting for a full flush, intended to clear solid waste, that utilizes the full water capacity of the tank. Then there is a partial flush setting that uses less water, intended for liquid waste only.
How Do Dual-Flush Toilet Tanks Work?
Inside the dual-flush toilet tank are two flush valves - one for the full flush that opens fully to let through the maximum amount of water, and one for the partial flush that only opens partially. To operate, the user presses either the full or partial flush button on top of the tank, which pulls the chain connected to the corresponding valve and initiates the flush.
The amount of water usage can be customized when installing a dual-flush toilet. Typically the full flush uses 1.6 gallons while the partial flush uses 1 gallon or less. Many newer dual-flush toilet models also allow users to easily adjust the water volumes if needed.
Benefits of Dual-Flush Toilet Tanks
There are many benefits that come with installing a dual-flush toilet tank system:
- Saves water by giving users a lower flush volume option
- Reduces water bills due to lower overall water usage
- Eco-friendly and sustainable option for bathrooms
- Easy for users to operate two flush settings
Considerations for Dual-Flush Toilet Tanks
Dual-flush toilet tanks may have some additional pros and cons to weigh:
- Higher upfront investment than standard gravity tanks
- Relies completely on user participation to maximize water savings
- May experience reduced flush performance compared to full 1.6 gpf flush
Pressure-Assisted Toilet Tanks
While similar to gravity tanks in appearance, pressure-assisted tanks contain additional internal components to produce a robust flush each cycle. They can be beneficial in handling heavy usage demand.
What Are Pressure-Assisted Toilet Tanks?
Pressure-assisted toilet tanks utilize compressed air, rather than just gravity, to force the tank water into the bowl at a higher rate of pressure. When the handle is pressed, the drop in tank air pressure propels the water out rapidly.
How Do Pressure-Assisted Toilet Tanks Work?
Inside the tank is both water and a sealed air bladder containing pressurized air. As the water leaves the tank, this pressure differential forces the bowl-cleaning siphon to evacuate dramatically faster than a gravity tank can achieve on its own.
The pressurized air is recharged between flushes as room air reoccupies the tank space left as the water exits. Each flush essentially resets itself.
Benefits of Pressure-Assisted Toilet Tanks
Pressure-assisted toilet tanks provide several notable benefits:
- Extremely powerful and effective flushing action
- Excellent waste removal even with low-flush 1.1 gpf units
- Handle heavy usage and traffic well
- Clog-resistant
Considerations for Pressure-Assisted Tanks
While performance is a major plus, pressure-assisted toilet tanks also come with some important considerations:
- Priced higher than standard gravity toilet tanks
- Noise from both tank filling and bowl evacuating flush
- May need replacement air chambers eventually
Additional Modern Toilet Tank Systems
Aside from dual-flush and pressure-assisted tanks, there are additional high-tech toilet tank systems available to consumers as well with unique benefits.
Touchless Toilet Tanks
For a completely hands-free flushing experience, touchless toilet tanks feature a sensor that can detect hand movements near the toilet. Wave a hand toward the sensor and the flush initiates without needing to even lift a finger!
Smart Toilet Tanks
Smart toilet tanks take convenience even further by connecting electronically with smart devices and home automation systems. These tanks can be controlled remotely by phone, as well as provide usage reports and maintenance alerts to inform homeowners.
WaterSense Certified Toilet Tanks
Bathroom products that have earned the EPA WaterSense label have passed independent testing for maximum water efficiency and performance. Any dual-flush or pressure-assisted tanks with the WaterSense markings make excellent eco-friendly selections.
Traditional Toilet Tank Materials and Types
While newer toilet tank technology continues advancing, traditional tank designs remain common in most bathrooms as well. There are a few materials and configurations to note with these classic gravity tanks.
Vitreous China Toilet Tanks
The gorgeous white toilet tanks most recognize are constructed from vitreous china. This dense porcelain ceramic is extremely durable, smooth, non-porous and stain resistant - no wonder it has been the golden standard of toilet tanks for decades.
Round Toilet Tanks
While elongated toilet bowls have taken over recently, round bowls paired with round tanks still have virtues. The circular footprint hugs walls efficiently and maximizes space in small bathrooms. Just be aware comfort and leg room suffers some.
Elongated Toilet Tanks
Working in tandem with elongated bowls, elongated toilet tanks provide superior ergonomics and comfort for users. The extended shape offers increased back support. But remember the longer length eats into bathroom dimensions significantly.
Customized and Specialty Toilet Tanks
To satisfy any unique bathroom plans or needs, there are even customizable and specialized toilet tanks available.
Rough-In Toilet Tanks
For new construction and toilet installs taking place during finishing phases, rough-in toilet tanks can be an ideal choice. These tanks are embedded into walls and prepped for tailored flush system setups down the road.
Wooden Toilet Tanks
Certain antique reproduction toilets are manufactured with charming wooden tanks in lieu of porcelain finishes. Along with metal mechanisms inside to operate flushing, these wooden tanks can offer a vintage aesthetic.
There is a toilet tank system that is suited for every bathroom's needs and wants. As we have illustrated throughout this article, keeping toilet tank options and innovations in mind while planning your home's plumbing system can lead to a much more satisfying and effective flushing experience all around.