Rear discharge toilets, particularly those with a tank, offer a unique solution for bathroom plumbing challenges. This comprehensive guide explores the advantages, disadvantages, and considerations when choosing a rear discharge toilet with a tank for your home renovation or new construction project.
What is a Rear Discharge Toilet?
A rear discharge toilet, unlike its more common gravity-fed counterparts, discharges wastewater out the back of the bowl, rather than through the floor. This feature provides crucial flexibility in bathroom design, particularly in situations where floor space is limited or where plumbing configurations are unconventional. The tank, usually situated behind the bowl, provides the water for flushing.
Advantages of Rear Discharge Toilets with Tanks
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Space Saving: The rear discharge mechanism opens up possibilities for tighter bathroom layouts. You can position the toilet closer to walls or other fixtures without worrying about floor space constraints for the drainpipe.
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Flexibility in Plumbing: Rear discharge toilets offer increased flexibility for rerouting waste lines, which is especially helpful in older homes or during renovations where altering existing floor plumbing is difficult or expensive.
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Aesthetic Appeal: Some homeowners appreciate the cleaner lines and more streamlined appearance that a rear discharge toilet can offer, particularly in modern or minimalist bathroom designs.
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Reliable Flushing: Tank-fed rear discharge toilets utilize gravity to flush, offering reliable performance without the need for electricity or high water pressure.
Disadvantages of Rear Discharge Toilets with Tanks
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Installation Complexity: Installing a rear discharge toilet can be more complex than installing a standard toilet due to the need for careful planning and precise pipework connection at the rear. Professional installation is often recommended.
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Higher Cost: Rear discharge toilets, especially those with higher-quality construction and features, can be more expensive than standard toilets.
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Limited Availability: Rear discharge toilets are not as widely available as standard toilets, potentially leading to longer lead times or difficulties finding specific models in certain regions.
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Potential for Leaks: If not properly installed, rear discharge toilets can be susceptible to leaks at the connection points between the toilet and the waste pipe.
What are the Different Types of Rear Discharge Toilets with Tanks?
While the core function remains consistent, you might find variations in design features such as:
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One-piece vs. Two-piece: One-piece toilets have the tank and bowl molded together, while two-piece toilets have a separate tank and bowl, impacting installation and aesthetics.
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Height: Standard, comfort height, and even taller options might be available depending on the manufacturer.
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Styling: Although rear discharge toilets might be less common, you still might find varied styling options reflecting modern, traditional, or transitional design elements.
How Much Does a Rear Discharge Toilet with Tank Cost?
The price of a rear discharge toilet can vary widely depending on factors such as the brand, features, and materials used in its construction. You can expect prices to range considerably more than standard models. It's advisable to check prices from several suppliers.
How Difficult is it to Install a Rear Discharge Toilet with Tank?
Installing a rear discharge toilet is more involved than installing a standard toilet, requiring careful measurement, precise pipework connections, and often professional expertise. Attempting a DIY installation without adequate plumbing experience could lead to leaks and other plumbing problems.
Are Rear Discharge Toilets Worth the Cost?
Whether a rear discharge toilet is "worth it" depends entirely on your specific needs and circumstances. If your bathroom design requires flexibility in plumbing and space is extremely limited, the extra cost and installation complexity might be justified. However, if you have ample space and standard plumbing configurations, a traditional toilet might be a more cost-effective and simpler solution.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of rear discharge toilets with tanks. Remember to carefully consider your specific needs, budget, and plumbing situation before making your decision. Consulting with a qualified plumber is highly recommended, especially before purchasing and installing a rear discharge toilet.
