rolling toilet chair

Chair Height vs. Comfort Height Toilets Explained

Standards evolve and many have in the bathroom. While "standard height" toilet was the norm for many years, plumbing and bathroom fixture dealers, distributors, and purchasers will find that chair height toilets, as well as comfort height toilets, are very commonly used terms. In this guide, we will explain the chair height toilet concept, and as a bonus, we will also cover comfort height toilets. Let's take a look at both.

Significance of Toilet Height

There are several reasons why toilet height is important. It has a direct impact on the comfort of the user. While many consider aesthetics when purchasing toilets, poor toilet height will lead to a poor user experience, and at times, poor hygiene. In addition, accessibility has also become a concern, with more legislation taking place in this regard. ADA has recommended height requirements for all toilets in this regard. It is therefore critical for all dealers and distributors to be aware of such height differences and related information. Let's now take a look at both chair height toilets as well as comfort height toilets. We start with the former.

Chair Height Toilet

Specifications

Chair height toilet is another term for what is commonly known as "comfort height" toilets. The height of such toilets typically range between 16 to 18 inches from the floor to the toilet seat. This makes it a comfortable chair height for all to sit on. Manufacturers design these toilets with a slightly taller height in mind to provide increased comfort for all users. This is especially helpful for users who experience strain in the knees and back when using toilets of a lesser height. Chair height toilets are often marketed to target senior citizens or anyone with physical disabilities and have become a popular choice in households that have elderly members.

Benefits

The following are the benefits of installing a chair height toilet.

1. Comfort: This should be a no-brainer, but the main advantage of using a chair height toilet is the comfort that it provides. Chair height toilets make it significantly easier to get on and off the toilet, especially for elderly persons, reducing their risk of injuries when using such toilets.

2. Hygiene: A higher chair allows the user to sit in a more upright position as compared to low toilets. This is associated with better hygiene when using the toilet.

3. Good looking: Chair height toilets come in a variety of attractive designs, making them a popular choice for builders and homeowners, as they are good looking and add a special touch to any bathroom.

Installation Issues

While installing a chair height toilet is no different from a regular toilet, it is important to take note of the height of the existing toilet in the bathroom, if there is one already. The installation of a new toilet will require some plumbing adjustments if the existing toilet is either a standard height toilet or even another chair height toilet.

Comfort Height Toilet

Specifications

Comfort height toilet is also a bit of a misnomer, as is the case with chair height toilets, and many people use the two terms interchangeably. In general, comfort height toilets are slightly taller than normal toilets and are typically found at heights of between 17 to 19 inches. This is the industry standard and is widely accepted by both users and installers.

Benefits

Following are the main benefits of using comfort height toilets.

1. Comfort: Comfort height toilets are best suited for a larger audience as the toilet seat height is taller than regular toilets but are not as tall as chair height toilets. They are also useful for elderly and physically disabled users, making them an ideal choice for multi-generational families.

2. Reduction in knee and back strain: Like chair height toilets, comfort height toilets reduce knee and back strain when using the toilet.

3. Market preference: One of the other advantages of installing comfort height toilets is that they are the toilet of choice for many people, and you will easily sell these models, when compared to regular toilets.

Installation Issues

One of the installation issues to be considered with comfort height toilets is that their taller stature requires that they are made to fit well in the existing bathroom layout. One will also have to take note of surrounding bathroom fixtures such as the bathroom cabinet, sink, and others to determine whether they will be at a convenient height as compared to the comfort height toilet.

Chair Height Toilet vs. Comfort Height Toilet

Difference

While the height of chair height toilets and comfort height toilets do not differ by much, the former is specifically meant for ease of use and access by the elderly and physically challenged persons. This is the difference between the two, although comfort height toilets are not used that much and are frequently substituted by chair height toilets. Users, on the other hand, have specific needs and some will prefer chair height toilets, while others will opt for comfort height toilets.

Final Thoughts

Dealers, distributors, and purchasers of plumbing fixtures and bathroom fittings, as well as bathroom remodelers and all other stakeholders in this industry would benefit by understanding the use of chair height toilets as well as comfort height toilets and the differences between the two. With consumers now being well-informed and well-educated on these issues, dealers will have a competitive edge by being prepared and knowledgeable in this regard. Armed with this knowledge, toilet dealers and bathroom remodelers will ensure their customers are well-served and, as a result, ensure repeat business, which is the life-blood of all businesses.

सामान्य प्रश्न

Q. What is the standard chair height toilet?

A. Chair height toilets typically range between 16 to 18 inches in height from the ground to the toilet seat. It is called so as the seat height is designed to be that of a standard chair.

Q. Are comfort height toilets good for all users?

A. Comfort height toilets are also slightly higher toilets and are suitable for all users, including the elderly and physically challenged users. They have an increased height when compared to standard height toilets.

Q. How do I select between a chair height toilet and a comfort height toilet?

A. You should always consider the users when making a decision in this regard. If the users are predominantly elderly and have a difficult time when using standard toilets, you might want to consider chair height toilets. However, if your household has different height ranges, you might consider comfort height toilets.

Q. What should I know about installing a chair height toilet or a comfort height toilet?

A. As with any other plumbing fixture, it is necessary to consider the available space, as well as the existing bathroom layout when installing these toilets. In addition, the existing plumbing used for the previous toilet should also be noted as some plumbing changes might be necessary in both cases.

Q. Can I install the toilet by myself?

A. Yes. You can install a toilet by yourself and all the hardware that is necessary to complete the task is available in any DIY store. However, a professional plumber will have the relevant experience, and will be able to install the toilet with ease and without making any mistakes or omissions during the installation.