Why smart toilets might actually be worth the upgrade
Smart toilets are environmentally friendly and make your bathroom feel swankier.
Delta Brevard with FlushIQ Technology
Whether you're remodeling your bathroom or you're just considering a new toilet, smart toilets are worth a look. Not only are they cool and super techy, they also make your life a little easier. Though there are many types of smart toilets, most have some basic features in common.
Futuristic flushing
First and foremost, they flush without being touched. Each toilet has a sensor that activates the flushing mechanism. Either it senses when a body has moved away from the toilet and activates a flush or you can wave a hand in front of the sensor to get it to activate.
If you're cursed with family members who forget to flush, the first type of sensor is ideal. No matter which one you choose, the perk of having a sensor instead of a handle is that germs won't get transferred from hands to the toilet and then to the next person who flushes.
Overflow protection
As a mom, one of the must-haves on my list when I refurbished my bathroom was a toilet that doesn't overflow. I chose the Delta Brevard with FlushIQ Technology. It stops you from flushing if the toilet is clogged, which keeps water levels in the bowl low.
Water savings and power sources
Smart toilets save water, but they also use electricity, so their environmental benefit is questionable. But you'll see a difference to your water consumption. Smart toilets sense how much water is needed and flush using just the right amount. The smaller flushes can use as little as 0.6 gallons per flush (GPF). A basic toilet that doesn't have smart flush technology uses around 1.6 gallons.
The flipside? All of that swanky technology needs power. There are two power options. Some smart toilets use batteries to power their smart functions, while others need to be connected to your home's wiring system. The battery option is best for those who don't want to call an electrician, though a wired system may suit you if you'd rather not regularly change your toilet's batteries.
More smart toilet features
Smart toilets range in price from a couple hundred dollars to thousands, depending on the features. You can get a basic toilet with just automatic flushing and water sensors, or you can get a fully loaded version with all of the bells and whistles, such as the New Waves Smart Toilet. Here are some options that are available:
- Massaging bidet wash
- Air dryer
- Heated seating
- Foot warmer
- Automatic flush
- Remote control
- Self-cleaning features
- Built-in sensors that alert you to possible tank leaks
- Self-deodorizer
- Emergency flushing system during power outages
- Nightlight
- Slow closing lid
- Bluetooth and MP3 capabilities so you can listen to tunes while you go
