All About Smart Toilets: Should You Buy One?

If you’re in the process of renovating your bathroom or looking for the latest technology trends, you may be curious about smart toilets. A smart toilet is appealing for many individuals to get some extra pampering and more convenience in their homes.

What are smart toilets?

Smart toilets use advanced, built-in smart technology. They are commonly found in smart homes all over the world, especially in high-tech areas like Japan. These toilets have a wide range of capabilities, including playing music, flushing mechanisms, and more, which we’ll delve into throughout this article.

How do smart toilets work?

These devices have many features and sensors installed that can perform various functions, and the high-end models can even connect to voice assistants like Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit. 

What features do smart toilets have?  

Smart toilets have various pricing options, from hundreds to thousands of dollars. A basic toilet usually features automatic flushing and water sensors, but there are many features to choose from depending on your preferences. Here are some of the most popular smart toilet features:

• Seat warmers
• Automatic lids and flushing
• Nightlights
• Spray pressure and water temperature adjustments
• Massaging bidet
• Air dryer 
• Heated seats and foot warmers
• Remote controls
• Self-cleaning
• Tank leak alerts and emergency flushing system
• Self-deodorizer
• Nightlight
• Bluetooth capabilities 

Here is a more detailed look into why people are choosing smart toilets for their homes:

Advanced Flushing Technology

One of the main benefits of having a smart toilet is that they will flush automatically without the touch of a button. They contain sensors that will enable the flushing capability to move away from the toilet or activate the flushing mechanism. Also, you can wave at the sensor to activate it. 

Having a sensor, as opposed to a handle, can also prevent the spread of germs from anyone who uses the toilet. 

Prevents Overflow

If you struggle with toilets that are continually overflowing, smart toilets don’t have this issue. Many smart toilets will stop flushing if they can sense a clog and ensure that water levels are low in the bowl. 

Good for Water Consumption 

When you use a smart toilet, you will see a positive change in your water consumption. These devices determine how much water is required and will flush using the correct amount. Some devices even eliminate the need for toilet paper, which also can be beneficial for the environment.  

Saves Space

Since smart toilets are smaller in size than regular ones, they can be a major space saver. If you live in a smaller home or apartment, they can give you the extra room you require. 

They’re More Hygienic

As previously mentioned, all smart toilets have touch-free capabilities, which makes it a more hygienic experience. There are even some models that are self-cleaning. 

Smart toilets are popular amongst the elderly population and individuals with disabilities since they offer various amenities and are optimal for looking after personal hygiene. 

A Few Cons of Purchasing a Smart Toilet

Although there are many benefits to buying a smart toilet for your home, there are also a few drawbacks:

They Can Be Expensive

Smart toilets range in prices, but they can end up being costly. Some of the top models cost thousands of dollars even at the base price, and can go up into the tens of thousands.

Repairs Can Be Costly

On that same note, since smart toilets will require maintenance and repairs, eventually, the costs can add up. Also, many plumbers in your area may not be able to repair or provide care for this type of toilet. 

If you are in the GTA, our team at Brothers Plumbing is equipped to maintain and repair smart toilets. That way, you don’t have to stress about finding someone to perform future repairs or maintenance. 

Consuming More Electricity

Having a smart toilet will reduce water consumption; however, it will use more electricity. If you purchase a smart toilet, you may notice that your electricity bill will be higher than usual. 

Smart toilets require more power, and you can choose between two options: batteries or connection to your home’s wiring system. If you don’t mind changing them often, then batteries should serve you well. However, if you want to have it installed within your wiring system, then hire a qualified plumbing professional service, like Brothers Plumbing, to make sure it runs smoothly.

There’s a Learning Curve

As with any new technology, it may take some time to learn how to use the smart toilet. Most are easy to use in general, but can become more complicated when there are more features. 

If you enjoy taking the time to understand new technology, you should have no issues, but you could become easily frustrated if you struggle with it. However, you can customize any smart toilet so that it works for you and your level of understanding its capabilities. 

Should you buy a smart toilet?

Choosing whether or not to purchase a smart toilet is unique to each individual and depends on your needs. For instance, if you are concerned about saving water or need an upgrade to your toilet system, a smart toilet may be an excellent option. On the other hand, if you can’t currently afford it, especially on repairs, it may not be the best investment. You could consider one in the future, though.

If you have decided that you want to install a smart toilet, be sure to hire a qualified plumbing team like the one at Brothers Plumbing. We have extensive experience installing smart toilets for various individuals in the GTA, and can help you get the process started. Give us a call today at 888-950-4276 to schedule a toilet repair service with us.