I recently invested in two new toilets for my residence in Berkeley, California. Like most people, I had never bought a new toilet before. So I did some research. I searched on the internet for sites comparing different models and offering performance test results. I visited local suppliers, such as Home Depot and inquired about the models on the floor. For example it is possible to purchase a shiny new toilet for less than $200, seat and wax ring included. When I inquired as to why this model was so cheap, I was told that the trap was not glazed...and therefore is easily clogged with waste that cannot smoothly slide through to the plumbing line. On a side note, I discovered that Urban Ore, a building materials salvage yard in Berkeley, California sells used toilets and toilet seats. The used toilet seats are way overpriced. In fact, they typically cost more than brand new ones. Used toilets are a better deal...but In my opinion it makes no sense to spend the time and energy refurbishing and installing obsolete technology, no matter how charming. Perhaps some creative person will discover a great use for obsolete toilets and they will have a second life.

Back to the topic. EBMUD has good information on the performance of different models and also available rebates for purchasing what they call a "High Efficiency Toilet" Performance ratings depend on water usage and also the success of the flush. A toilet that uses little water but needs to be flushed several times to eliminate the waste is clearly worthless. Terry Love also has fairly comprehensive toilet reviews.

I was motivated in my selection by a concern for water conservation, and I admit that there is some question in my mind about the trade off of the disposal of my perfectly good but waterhog old toilet and the water savings. I have not done the extensive research that would be required to determine the precise effect of my toilet replacement on our happy survival as a species, but since I am an architect I figured it was worth a bit of consumption to educate myself.

Below you will find a comparison of the two toilets that I chose. In summery, they are both fine, except for the problem of not enough water in the bowl to keep waste from smearing the porcelain. The solution to that problem might very well be a device called flushmate. This is a pressure assisted flushing system. According to the manufacturer it forces waste at 70 gallons/ minute, strong enough to clean the bowl with every flush. The pre-flush water level in the bowl is also higher, which helps keep the bowl clean as well. Many different toilet manufacturers offer the flushmate system at 1.6 gal/ flush, 1.0 gal/flush, or less. The flushmate website has links to them. Make sure you claim your rebate money if you install one of these high efficiency toilets!

The two toilets that I selected were the Caroma Caravelle and the Toto Aquia

Both have a dual flush mechanism, allowing the user two options for water usage depending on what they are flushing and how much water might be required. (1.6 and .8 gallons for the caroma and 1.6 and .9 gallons for the Toto. Compare this to older models that typically use between 3 and 7 gallons per flush) Both have what I would descibe as modern lines...mainly an aesthetic based on functionality, not traditional toilet aesthetics and nostalgia. Both have sleek bases that are easy to keep clean...not a lot of nooks and crannies for dust and bathroom scum to collect.

Other assessments:

1. It seems like even less water is needed for flushing only urine. (the caroma does better in this area)

2. Both of these toilets have one BIG problem.

Because of the low water level in the bowl, and a low surface area of water, they need to be cleaned with a brush every time someone defecates. I am all for saving water, but I am not sure how this problem can be solved. Perhaps there needs to be a pre-dump lever to add more water to the bowl when user anticipates taking a dump. Maybe you can learn to aim.

Time to look into waterless composting toilets?

I have first hand experience with the Toto Aquia and the Caroma. Definitely mixed reviews...I like the way they look and they are sleek on the outside...easy to keep clean...but the bowl staining is a problem. My brother chose a Gerber toilet (highly recommended by Terry Love) that has a power assist flush and a large surface area of water. I don't think it is very good looking, but now they offer this toilet in dual flush. If aesthetics are not a primary concern for you, this might be the best toilet available now: Gerber Ultra Dual Flush.

This toilet also comes in a wide array of colors...which might appeal to the more daring among you.