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Manufacturers concealing the trapway of toilets has become a bit of a design trend that caters to peoples tastes for several reasons. The first being they're very easy to clean and maintain, the second, they are typically a more aesthetic option that come with a combination of rounded and straight edges, removing the visibility of ugly pipes.
Finding the right toilet for your needs can be a difficult task. However, we want to make the process easier by outlining the good and bad points of individual units so that you can make a more informed decision. To help get the ball rolling, we've compiled a list below that rate and review each model.
| Image | Product | Rating |
|---|---|---|
  |
American Standard 2989.101.020 Cadet 3 | 88% |
  |
KOHLER K-3940-0 Kathryn | 87% |
  |
TOTO CST416M#01 Aquia II | 86% |
  |
KOHLER K-3981-0 Tresham | 86% |
Those of you who've begun to research through the various units available will no doubt of heard of this brand. They are well known and in most cases, have a good reputation, which is always a good start. But what specifications does this particular model have?
Well to start with, it has a right heigh bowl, which is described as the manufacturer as complying with ADA standards, and sharing similarities to that of sitting on a chair. To give you a rough idea of its height, you're looking at between sixteen and seventeen inches, which is slightly above traditional options. It's more accessbile, and suitable option for people with disabilities and mobility issues.
One thing we always suggest our readers look into before you make any decision is the amount of gallons used in each flush. This model is certainly a more eco friendly option using just 1.28 gallons to clear the bowl of waste. This can save you up to 20% more water compared to several competitors on the market.
Combine the lower consumption with the oversized flush valve that measures three inches, and you have a formula for waste removal performance, whilst saving cash on water bills.
Then you have the external design itself. It has a nice mix of curves and straighter edges giving off a modernistic, yet basic feel.
This unit, unlike some others, comes with a seat which has the slow close property to stop it slamming shut.
However, with all the positive feedback found from consumers, plus a good list of features, you can't expect to get your hands on this when working with a lower budget.
The K-3950-0, a KOHLER toilet from the Kathryn range comes in second place on our list, with some decent specs that will work well within the modern household.
Aside from it having the skirted design, this is a one piece option that also includes some nice straight edges that give it a more traditional look. The tank has a more unique design than some, and the chrome polished trip lever is located on its side rather than the front. Additionally, it's finished in a nice white color that will work well in a well lit room.
Like the model above, this utilizes 1.28 GPF and will ultimately provide everyday flushing performance whilst using up less water. Used alongside the AquaPiston canister, you can expect it to remove waste with ease, whilst allowing water to pour into the bowl from every angle, creatintg a much cleaner and hygienic environment after every use.
It's equipped with an elongated bowl which works well with the comfort height spec.
In our research process, we've found that it's received some good feedback from consumers. However, it's a more expensive choice, so for those wanting something to install on the cheap, this isn't a model that we recommend.
What makes this model from the Aquia II range of TOTO different from the others above? Well to start with, a different flushing mechanism gives users a choice of how much water they need for different types of waste. By this, we mean a dual flush mechanism that will send either 1.6 or 0.9 gallons into the bowl for waste removal. The lower of which is generally used for liquid waste, and the other solid. This is operated with the push of a button rather than a trip lever.
In addition to the above, this is a two piece option that comes with a nice and smooth, rounded bowl that is of a contemporary design and finished in a cotton white color.
If you're leaning towards getting this one, make sure you set aside some cash in your budget to purchase a toilet seat, as it doesn't come included.
On the whole, we've looked at various sources online, and there is a lot of feedback to be found at various stores. Many of which carry higher than average ratings. However, be sure to look out for any potential problems people have encountered too.
If uniqueness is something that describes what you search for when shopping for new bathroom accessories, then you will most likely appreciate the Tresham tank style. The thing that stands out for us is that it doesn't comply with what the majority of people think about when they think about tanks. It works well with the flatter sides and gives off a smooth and modernistic appearance.
The AquaPiston style flush is operated from a left hand, chrome trip lever, and it will consume up to 1.28 gallons in a flush which is all rather efficient, saving up to twenty percent compared to its 1.6 GPF cousins.
Additionally, two user comfort features stand out in the design, the first being the right height seating which is that little bit taller than traditional bowls, which reduces the amount of movement and bending needed to get seated. The second is the elongated bowl. It can be argued that this is a better option than round front because your legs are in a more natural position on the edges.
However, with all its inclusions, you can expect to be splashing out an above average price for it.
Compare our selected hidden trap toilets below
| American Standard 2989.101.020 | KOHLER K-3940-0 | TOTO CST416M#01 | KOHLER K-3981-0 Tresham | |
| Type | Two piece | One piece | Two piece | One piece |
| Flush | HET | HET | Dual | HET |
| GPF | 1.28 | 1.28 | 1.6 | 1.28 |
| Bowl | Elongated | Elongated | Elongated | Elongated |
| Comfort height | ||||
| Color | White | White | Cotton | White |
| Dimensions | 30.2 x 30.2 x 15.8" | 28 x 17.5 x 28.6" | 27.5 x 15.2 x 30.2" | 28.2 x 17.3 x 28.5" |
| Weight | 110 lbs | 105 lbs | 96.5 lbs | 95 lbs |
| Rating | 88% | 87% | 86% | 86% |
Style - As with many household goods, how something looks can play an important part in consumers decision making process. This particular design focuses on the exterior and how the pipe area looks. Manufacturers do their utmost to cover the ugly parts and modernize the units as a whole.
Cleaner - Because there are less gaps and ridges to get into, one could argue that cleaning them becomes a lot simpler. Although, some people argue that an open back behint the skirting can be just as problematic for maintenance.
It doesn't matter if you've already made your choice for the style of loo you want, there are still important things to know about that may help you decide if a product is of a higher quality or not. We list out a few of these below to get you started.
Flush mechanism - Understanding the kind of flush a product operates on is a smart move on your part. Some come with cerain advantages that are better suited to specific tasks. From gravity and dual, to siphonic and wash down, there is plenty to take in. The same applies to the waste outlet. You're going to come across both floor and back flow and you'll want to decide what works best for you.
Brand - When analyzing all the potential options available to you, you're going to come across a variety of different brands, each with their own unique touches. Now, I'm not going to tell you which one to choose, however, we believe that you can't go far wrong with TOTO and KOHLER. However, there are also some alternatives that offer some good quality units too. These include Mansfield, and Gerber.
GPF - Look into whether it's a WaterSense option, or just standard. Those labelled with WaterSense stickers have the capacity to save you money as they consume less with every flush.
Rough in size - Find out what size your rough in is before you make a purchase. Whilst many people tend to fit twelve inches, there are also many that fit slightly smaller and larger than this. The last thing you want is to have your product delivered and installed, only to find it doesn't fit.
When all is said and done, there isn't an awful lot of difference between standard untis and concealed trapway toilets. The main differences between them comes down to how much easier they're to clean, as well as for many, they are easier on the eye. Outside of these properties, much of the functionality is the same as much of the industries. But if, you have your heart set on this particular style, the models picked out above are worth your consideration.
Confused about any of the phrases and terms used here? Check out our terminology page here. Alternatively, if you want the latest news, or just general plumbing tips, check out our blog.