Ever flushed a toilet and worried where all that… stuff… is going when you’re in the basement? Basements can be tricky when it comes to plumbing. You need a toilet that can handle the uphill battle of getting waste to your main sewer line. Finding the right toilet for your basement can prevent messy backflows and costly plumbing nightmares. Let’s look at some top contenders to keep your basement bathroom worry-free.
Product Overview / Quick Summary:
- Saniflo Saniaccess 3: Macerating toilet, ideal for challenging plumbing setups.
- Liberty Pumps Ascent II: Another powerful macerating option with easy access for maintenance.
- KOHLER Highline Classic: A reliable, standard toilet that might work if your basement plumbing is already prepped.
- American Standard Cadet 3: A strong flushing toilet known for its clog-resistance.
- WOODBRIDGE T-0001: A sleek, modern one-piece toilet with a powerful flush.
Top 5 Best Toilets For Basement
1. Saniflo Saniaccess 3
The Saniflo Saniaccess 3 is a macerating toilet system. This means it grinds up waste and pumps it to the sewer line, which is super useful when your basement is below the main drain. It’s a self-contained unit, making installation easier than you might think.
Pros:
- ✅ Eliminates the need for major plumbing renovations.
- ✅ Can pump waste up to 15 feet vertically.
- ✅ Compact design fits well in small basement bathrooms.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be a bit noisy when macerating.
- ❌ Requires electricity to operate.
- ❌ More expensive than standard toilets.
Verdict: If you have limited plumbing infrastructure in your basement, the Saniflo Saniaccess 3 is a solid investment to avoid costly and extensive renovations.
2. Liberty Pumps Ascent II
The Liberty Pumps Ascent II is another macerating toilet system designed for below-grade installations. What sets it apart is its maintenance-friendly design. It has readily accessible service panels, so you don’t have to disconnect the whole unit for basic maintenance, which, trust me, is a huge plus.
Pros:
- ✅ Easy access panels for maintenance and servicing.
- ✅ Powerful macerating and pumping capabilities.
- ✅ Relatively quiet operation compared to other macerating toilets.
Cons:
- ❌ Higher price point.
- ❌ Needs a dedicated electrical circuit.
- ❌ May require some plumbing knowledge for installation.
Verdict: The Liberty Pumps Ascent II is a great choice if you want a reliable macerating toilet and value easy maintenance access down the line.
3. KOHLER Highline Classic
The KOHLER Highline Classic is a standard, non-macerating toilet known for its reliability and efficient flushing. It features a classic design that fits well in most bathrooms. If your basement already has the plumbing infrastructure in place (i.e., a rough-in that’s properly positioned and graded), this could be a simple and cost-effective choice.
Pros:
- ✅ Reliable flushing performance.
- ✅ Affordable price point.
- ✅ Easy to find replacement parts.
Cons:
- ❌ Not suitable for basements without existing plumbing.
- ❌ Requires sufficient water pressure for optimal performance.
- ❌ Standard design might not appeal to everyone.
Verdict: If you have pre-existing plumbing in your basement and want a dependable, no-frills toilet, the KOHLER Highline Classic is a solid option.
4. American Standard Cadet 3
The American Standard Cadet 3 is designed for powerful flushing and clog resistance. This two-piece toilet has a larger-than-average trapway, which helps to prevent blockages. It’s a good choice if you’re concerned about the toilet handling heavy use.
Pros:
- ✅ Powerful flushing action minimizes clogs.
- ✅ Durable construction for long-lasting performance.
- ✅ Affordable price point.
Cons:
- ❌ May require existing plumbing infrastructure.
- ❌ Two-piece design can be harder to clean than one-piece toilets.
- ❌ Standard design may not be the most stylish.
Verdict: For a budget-friendly and reliable toilet that can handle heavy use, the American Standard Cadet 3 is worth considering, assuming you have suitable plumbing in place.
5. WOODBRIDGE T-0001
The WOODBRIDGE T-0001 is a one-piece toilet that boasts a sleek, modern design. Beyond its looks, it features a powerful and quiet flushing system. The one-piece construction also makes it easier to clean than traditional two-piece toilets.
Pros:
- ✅ Modern, stylish design.
- ✅ Powerful and quiet flushing.
- ✅ Easy to clean one-piece construction.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be more expensive than two-piece toilets.
- ❌ Requires existing plumbing.
- ❌ One-piece design can be heavier and harder to install alone.
Verdict: If you value aesthetics and easy cleaning and have the plumbing in place, the WOODBRIDGE T-0001 is a great choice for a basement bathroom.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right toilet for your basement involves a few key considerations:
- Plumbing Situation: Does your basement already have the necessary plumbing (a drain line)? If not, you’ll likely need a macerating toilet.
- Pumping Height: For macerating toilets, check the vertical pumping height to ensure it can reach your main sewer line.
- Water Usage: Look for WaterSense-certified toilets to save water and reduce your water bill.
- Bowl Height: Consider comfort height (also known as chair height) toilets for easier sitting and standing, especially for older adults.
- Budget: Toilets range widely in price. Set a budget before you start shopping to narrow down your options.
- Installation: Macerating toilets are generally easier to install in basements without existing plumbing, but all toilet installations can be tricky. Consider hiring a professional plumber.
FAQs
Q: What is a macerating toilet?
A: A macerating toilet grinds up waste into a slurry and pumps it to the sewer line. It’s ideal for basements without existing plumbing below the main drain line.
Q: How high can a macerating toilet pump waste?
A: It varies by model, but most macerating toilets can pump waste vertically up to 10-15 feet.
Q: Can I install a regular toilet in my basement?
A: Yes, if your basement already has the necessary plumbing infrastructure, including a drain line that slopes correctly to the main sewer line.
Q: Are macerating toilets noisy?
A: Yes, they can be, especially during the macerating process. Some models are quieter than others, so read reviews carefully.
Q: Do I need a plumber to install a basement toilet?
A: While some DIYers can handle toilet installations, it’s generally best to hire a plumber, especially for complex installations or if you’re unfamiliar with plumbing.
Conclusion
Choosing the best toilet for your basement ultimately depends on your existing plumbing setup and your budget. If you need to install a toilet where there’s no existing drain line, a macerating toilet like the Saniflo or Liberty Pumps model is the way to go. If you already have plumbing, a standard toilet like the KOHLER Highline or American Standard Cadet 3 can be a reliable and cost-effective choice. And if you want something modern and stylish, the WOODBRIDGE T-0001 is a great option. Weigh your options, consider your needs, and choose the toilet that will keep your basement bathroom functioning smoothly.
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