Ace Hardware Toilets: Ultimate Guide [Must Read]

Flushing Away Confusion: Your Guide to Ace Hardware Toilets

Ace Hardware stands as a cornerstone in the home improvement landscape, a trusted name synonymous with quality tools, reliable advice, and a comprehensive selection of plumbing essentials. When it comes to choosing a new toilet, the sheer variety of options can be overwhelming. This guide is designed to navigate that complexity, transforming a potentially daunting task into an informed and confident decision.

Selecting the right toilet is about more than just finding something that fits in your bathroom. It’s about ensuring optimal performance, water efficiency, comfort, and long-term satisfaction. A poorly chosen toilet can lead to frequent clogs, excessive water bills, and even unnecessary strain on your plumbing system.

Why Choose Ace Hardware for Your Toilet Needs?

Ace Hardware distinguishes itself through its commitment to customer service and its curated selection of products. Unlike big-box retailers, Ace often provides a more personalized shopping experience.

Their knowledgeable staff can offer tailored advice, helping you consider crucial factors such as:

• Bathroom Size and Layout: Ensuring the toilet fits comfortably within the available space.
• Plumbing Configuration: Matching the toilet to existing drain lines and water supply.
• Personal Preferences: Selecting features that cater to your specific needs and comfort levels.

What This Guide Will Cover

This guide will serve as your comprehensive resource, covering everything you need to know to select the perfect toilet at Ace Hardware. We will explore:

• Brand Overview: Examining the strengths and weaknesses of leading toilet brands carried by Ace, such as Kohler and American Standard.
• Toilet Types: Differentiating between one-piece, two-piece, and wall-hung models, highlighting their pros and cons.
• Essential Features: Understanding the impact of flushing power, bowl shape, and toilet height on performance and comfort.
• Water Efficiency: Identifying WaterSense-certified toilets and analyzing their long-term benefits.
• Toilet Seat Selection: Choosing the right seat to complement your new toilet.
• Troubleshooting and Maintenance: Providing practical advice for basic repairs and preventative care.
• Installation Considerations: Weighing the pros and cons of DIY installation versus hiring a professional plumber.

By the end of this guide, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge and confidence to make an informed decision. You will be ready to select a toilet that perfectly meets your needs, enhances your bathroom, and provides years of reliable service. Prepare to flush away the confusion and embark on a journey to toilet-buying clarity!

Ace Hardware’s Toilet Showcase: A Brand Overview

Having established Ace Hardware as a reliable source for all things plumbing and highlighted the importance of making an informed toilet purchase, let’s delve into the specific brands you’ll encounter while browsing their aisles or website. The brand you choose is a crucial factor, impacting everything from long-term reliability to aesthetic appeal. Ace Hardware typically stocks a curated selection of trusted names, each with its own distinct characteristics.

Popular Brands at Ace: A Comparative Look

While availability can vary by location, some of the more commonly found toilet brands at Ace Hardware include Kohler, American Standard, and possibly newer or regional brands that offer different price points and features. Let’s examine the strengths and weaknesses of each.

Kohler: Innovation and Premium Quality

Kohler is a well-regarded brand synonymous with innovation and a higher-end aesthetic. They often incorporate advanced flushing technologies and sleek designs, making them a popular choice for homeowners seeking both performance and style.

Pros:

• Exceptional build quality and durability.
• Wide range of styles, from traditional to contemporary.
• Innovative flushing systems, including powerful single-flush and water-saving dual-flush options.
• Strong customer satisfaction ratings for performance and longevity.

Cons:

• Generally, more expensive than other brands.
• Replacement parts can sometimes be pricier.
• Some intricate designs may require professional installation.

American Standard: Reliability and Value

American Standard has a long-standing reputation for producing reliable and affordable toilets. They offer a broad range of models suitable for various budgets and plumbing configurations.

Pros:

• Affordable price point, making them accessible to a wider range of consumers.
• Proven track record for durability and dependable performance.
• Wide availability of replacement parts.
• Easy to install, making them suitable for DIY projects.

Cons:

• Designs can sometimes be considered less stylish than Kohler.
• While reliable, their flushing systems may not be as powerful or water-efficient as some premium models.
• Some base models may lack advanced features.

Considerations Beyond Brand

Keep in mind that even within a single brand, there can be significant variations in quality and features. Always check customer reviews specific to the model you are considering. Factors like flushing performance (MaP score), bowl shape, and height can vary considerably.

Finally, be sure to inquire about any exclusive models or promotions available at your local Ace Hardware. Sometimes, manufacturers offer special editions or bundled packages specifically for Ace customers, potentially offering added value.

Decoding Toilet Types: One-Piece, Two-Piece, and Beyond

Having explored the brand landscape at Ace Hardware, it’s time to dive into the fundamental differences in toilet types. Beyond aesthetics and brand preferences, the type of toilet you select significantly impacts installation, maintenance, and overall bathroom design. Ace Hardware typically carries a range of options, primarily focusing on one-piece, two-piece, and increasingly, space-saving wall-hung models. Let’s unpack the nuances of each.

The Classic Two-Piece Toilet: Practicality and Affordability

The two-piece toilet is arguably the most common type found in homes. As the name suggests, it consists of two separate components: the tank and the bowl.

This design offers several advantages, primarily in terms of cost-effectiveness and ease of installation. The separate components make the toilet lighter and more manageable to transport and maneuver during installation.

Furthermore, replacement parts are typically readily available and relatively inexpensive. This is a significant benefit for long-term maintenance and potential repairs.

However, two-piece toilets also have some drawbacks. The seam between the tank and bowl can be a potential area for leaks and may require more frequent cleaning to prevent the buildup of grime and mildew. Aesthetically, some find the two-piece design less streamlined than its one-piece counterpart.

The Sleek One-Piece Toilet: Modern Design and Easy Cleaning

One-piece toilets offer a more contemporary and seamless aesthetic. In this design, the tank and bowl are molded together as a single unit, eliminating the gap found in two-piece models.

This design choice has several benefits. Cleaning is simplified, as there are fewer nooks and crannies where dirt can accumulate.

The absence of a seam also reduces the risk of leaks, contributing to long-term reliability. Aesthetically, the one-piece design often presents a more sophisticated and modern look, enhancing the overall bathroom design.

However, one-piece toilets come with some trade-offs. They are generally more expensive than two-piece models, reflecting the more complex manufacturing process. Due to their single-unit construction, they are also heavier and can be more challenging to install, potentially requiring professional assistance.

Wall-Hung Toilets: Space-Saving and Modern

Wall-hung toilets represent a more modern and space-conscious approach to bathroom design. As the name implies, these toilets are mounted directly to the wall, with the tank concealed within the wall cavity.

Benefits of Wall-Hung Toilets

This design frees up floor space, making it ideal for smaller bathrooms or for creating a more minimalist aesthetic. Wall-hung toilets also offer adjustable bowl height, providing greater flexibility and accessibility for users of different heights and mobility needs.

The concealed tank design contributes to a cleaner and more streamlined look, as it eliminates the visible tank.

Drawbacks of Wall-Hung Toilets

However, wall-hung toilets also have their challenges. Installation is more complex and costly, requiring reinforcement of the wall to support the weight of the toilet and user.

Access to the tank for maintenance and repairs can also be more difficult, as it is concealed within the wall. These toilets also tend to be more expensive than traditional floor-mounted models.

Ultimately, the choice between one-piece, two-piece, and wall-hung toilets depends on your individual needs, budget, and aesthetic preferences. Consider the pros and cons of each type carefully, taking into account space constraints, installation requirements, and long-term maintenance considerations.

Must-Have Toilet Features: Flushing Power, Bowl Shape, and Height

Beyond the basic choice of one-piece or two-piece construction, several key features significantly impact a toilet’s performance, comfort, and water consumption. Understanding these features – flushing technology, bowl shape, and height – is crucial to making an informed decision that suits your specific needs and preferences.

Flushing Technology: Single vs. Dual Flush

The flushing mechanism is the heart of any toilet, and advancements in this area have led to greater efficiency and performance. Ace Hardware offers toilets with both single-flush and dual-flush systems.

Single-Flush Systems

Traditional single-flush toilets release the same amount of water with each flush, regardless of the waste being disposed of. While often less expensive upfront, they can be less water-efficient over time.

Dual-Flush Systems

Dual-flush toilets, on the other hand, offer two options: a partial flush for liquid waste and a full flush for solid waste. This allows for significant water savings, reducing both your water bill and your environmental footprint.

The EPA estimates that WaterSense-labeled dual-flush toilets can save a household an average of 13,000 gallons of water per year. This makes them a compelling choice for eco-conscious consumers.

When choosing a flushing technology, consider your household’s water usage habits and long-term cost savings. While the initial investment in a dual-flush system may be higher, the water savings can quickly offset the difference.

Bowl Shape: Round vs. Elongated

The shape of the toilet bowl affects both comfort and space utilization. Ace Hardware typically carries toilets with round and elongated bowl options.

Round Bowls

Round bowls are more compact, making them ideal for smaller bathrooms where space is at a premium. They are also generally more affordable than elongated bowls.

However, some users may find round bowls less comfortable, particularly for men.

Elongated Bowls

Elongated bowls, as the name suggests, are longer and provide a more comfortable seating area for most adults.

The elongated shape is often preferred for master bathrooms and larger spaces where comfort is a priority.

Keep in mind that elongated bowls require more space than round bowls, so be sure to measure your bathroom carefully before making a decision.

Toilet Height: Standard vs. Comfort Height

Toilet height is another crucial factor to consider, particularly for individuals with mobility issues or those who simply prefer a more comfortable seating position.

Standard Height

Standard-height toilets typically measure around 14-15 inches from the floor to the top of the seat. This height has been the industry standard for many years.

Comfort Height (ADA Compliant)

Comfort-height toilets, also known as chair-height toilets, are designed to be taller, typically measuring around 17-19 inches from the floor to the top of the seat.

This height is similar to that of a standard chair, making it easier for people with mobility issues, seniors, and those with joint pain to sit down and stand up.

Comfort-height toilets are also compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), making them a suitable choice for homes accommodating individuals with disabilities.

While comfort-height toilets offer numerous benefits, they may not be ideal for young children, who may find them too tall.
When selecting a toilet height, consider the needs and preferences of all members of your household.

Going Green: Water Efficiency and WaterSense Toilets at Ace

In today’s world, making environmentally conscious choices has become more important than ever. When it comes to home improvement, selecting water-efficient fixtures is a significant step towards sustainability. Toilets, often overlooked, are actually major water consumers in most households. Choosing a water-efficient model can drastically reduce your water bill and minimize your environmental impact. Ace Hardware offers a variety of toilets designed with water conservation in mind, including WaterSense-certified models.

Understanding Water Efficiency in Toilets

Water efficiency in toilets refers to the amount of water used per flush (GPF). Traditional toilets can use as much as 3.5 gallons per flush, while older models may use even more.

Modern, high-efficiency toilets (HETs) are designed to use 1.6 GPF or less. This reduction in water usage translates to substantial savings over the lifespan of the toilet.

The benefits of water-efficient toilets extend beyond just saving water. They also:

• Reduce strain on municipal water systems.
• Lower energy consumption (less water needs to be treated and pumped).
• Contribute to a more sustainable future.

Spotting WaterSense-Certified Toilets at Ace Hardware

The WaterSense label, administered by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), helps consumers identify water-efficient products that meet specific performance criteria.

WaterSense-certified toilets must use no more than 1.28 gallons per flush.

This standard ensures significant water savings without compromising flushing power.

When shopping at Ace Hardware, look for the WaterSense label prominently displayed on the toilet packaging or product description. The label typically features a blue "WaterSense" logo with a drop of water.

Ace Hardware’s website also allows you to filter your search results to specifically show WaterSense-certified toilets. This makes it easy to find models that meet your water efficiency goals.

Quantifying the Financial and Environmental Benefits

Investing in a WaterSense-certified toilet offers both financial and environmental rewards. The savings can be significant over time.

Cost Savings

A typical household can save thousands of gallons of water per year by replacing an old, inefficient toilet with a WaterSense model. This translates directly into lower water bills.

The exact amount of savings will depend on your water rates and usage habits, but the EPA estimates that a family can save more than $110 per year on their water bill by replacing older toilets with WaterSense-labeled ones.

Environmental Impact

Beyond financial savings, WaterSense toilets help reduce your environmental footprint. By using less water, you:

• Conserve precious water resources.
• Reduce the energy needed to treat and distribute water.
• Minimize the strain on local water supplies.

Choosing a WaterSense toilet is a simple yet powerful way to contribute to a more sustainable future. By reducing your water consumption, you’re helping to protect our planet’s valuable resources for generations to come.

Crowning Glory: Selecting the Right Toilet Seat

After investing in a new, water-efficient toilet, the final touch is selecting the right toilet seat. It’s easy to overlook, but the toilet seat plays a significant role in overall comfort, hygiene, and bathroom aesthetics. Ace Hardware offers a diverse selection, ensuring you find the perfect complement to your new throne.

Navigating Toilet Seat Materials

The material of your toilet seat impacts its durability, comfort, and ease of cleaning. Here’s a look at common options:

• Plastic: Plastic seats are the most common and budget-friendly. They are durable, easy to clean, and resistant to staining. However, lower-quality plastic seats can feel cold to the touch and may be less comfortable than other options.

• Wood: Wood seats offer a more premium feel and a warmer surface. They come in various finishes and can add a touch of elegance to your bathroom. However, wood seats require more maintenance to prevent moisture damage and can be more susceptible to scratches and stains. Painted wood seats are available as well, but can chip over time.

• Molded Wood: Molded wood seats are made from compressed wood fibers and a resin binder. They offer a balance of affordability and durability. They are often more scratch-resistant than solid wood seats.

Ensuring Compatibility: Shape and Size Matter

Toilet seats come in two primary shapes: round and elongated. It’s crucial to choose a seat that matches the shape of your toilet bowl for a proper fit.

• Round bowls are more compact, making them ideal for smaller bathrooms.

• Elongated bowls provide more seating area and are often considered more comfortable.

Measure your existing toilet bowl to determine the correct shape before purchasing a new seat. Installing the wrong seat can lead to instability and discomfort.

Beyond the Basics: Exploring Added Features

Beyond material and shape, consider these additional features to enhance your toilet seat experience:

• Soft-Close Hinges: Soft-close hinges are a game-changer, preventing slamming and reducing noise. This feature is particularly useful in households with children or light sleepers. The hinges ensure the seat closes gently and quietly.

• Quick-Release Hinges: These hinges allow you to easily remove the seat for thorough cleaning. This feature simplifies maintenance and improves hygiene. A quick release toilet seat makes cleaning those hard to reach areas less of a chore.

• Heated Seats: For ultimate comfort, consider a heated toilet seat, especially during colder months. Heated seats often come with adjustable temperature settings for personalized comfort.

• Bidet Seats: These seats include integrated bidet features, offering a more hygienic and refreshing cleansing experience. Bidet seats come in both electric and non-electric models.

By carefully considering these factors, you can select a toilet seat that perfectly complements your new toilet and enhances your overall bathroom experience, finding a perfect fit with the help of Ace Hardware.

After investing in a new, water-efficient toilet, the final touch is selecting the right toilet seat. It’s easy to overlook, but the toilet seat plays a significant role in overall comfort, hygiene, and bathroom aesthetics. Ace Hardware offers a diverse selection, ensuring you find the perfect complement to your new throne.

Navigating Toilet Seat Materials
The material of your toilet seat impacts its durability, comfort, and ease of cleaning. Here’s a look at common options:

Plastic: Plastic seats are the most common and budget-friendly. They are durable, easy to clean, and resistant to staining. However, lower-quality plastic seats can feel cold to the touch and may be less comfortable than other options.

Wood: Wood seats offer a more premium feel and a warmer surface. They come in various finishes and can add a touch of elegance to your bathroom. However, wood seats require more maintenance to prevent moisture damage and can be more susceptible to scratches and stains. Painted wood seats are available as well, but can chip over time.

Molded Wood: Molded wood seats are made from compressed wood fibers and a resin binder. They offer a balance of affordability and durability. They are often more scratch-resistant than solid wood seats.

Ensuring Compatibility: Shape and Size Matter
Toilet seats come in two primary shapes: round and elongated. It’s crucial to choose a seat that matches the shape of your toilet bowl for a proper fit.

Round bowls are more compact, making them…

Toilet Troubleshooting: DIY Repairs and Maintenance Tips

A smoothly functioning toilet is essential for any household. However, even the most reliable models can encounter issues over time. Fortunately, many common toilet problems are easily addressed with some basic DIY skills and the right tools. Ace Hardware is well-stocked with the necessary supplies to keep your toilet running smoothly. Knowing how to troubleshoot common problems and perform preventative maintenance can save you money and prevent bigger issues down the road.

Common Toilet Problems and Solutions

Running Toilet: A running toilet is a common and frustrating problem, often caused by a faulty flapper.

The flapper is the rubber seal at the bottom of the tank that lifts to allow water to flush the bowl.

Over time, it can degrade, warp, or accumulate mineral deposits, preventing it from creating a tight seal.

Solution: Replace the flapper. Ace Hardware carries a variety of flappers designed to fit different toilet models. Simply drain the tank, detach the old flapper, and install the new one.

Ensure the chain connecting the flapper to the flush lever has the correct amount of slack. Too much slack will not lift the flapper sufficiently to start the flush; too little and it will hold the flapper up constantly, causing a continuous drain of water.

Weak Flush: A weak flush can be caused by several factors, including low water level in the tank, clogged rim jets, or a partially blocked drain.

Solution: First, check the water level in the tank.

There should be a fill line indicator on the tank wall or flush valve. If the water level is too low, adjust the fill valve. Next, inspect the rim jets—the small holes under the rim of the bowl. These jets help direct water around the bowl for a complete flush. Use a wire or small tool to clear any mineral deposits or debris blocking the jets.

If the weak flush persists, the problem may lie in the drainpipe. A plunger can often dislodge minor blockages.

Ace Hardware Essentials for Toilet Repair

Ace Hardware offers a comprehensive range of products for DIY toilet repairs.

Here are some of the essentials you should consider having on hand:

• Plunger: A quality plunger is indispensable for clearing clogged toilets.

• Flapper: Keep a spare flapper on hand to quickly address running toilet issues.

• Fill Valve: A replacement fill valve can resolve problems with low water levels or a continuously filling tank.

• Toilet Auger (Snake): A toilet auger is a flexible tool designed to reach further down the drainpipe to dislodge stubborn clogs that a plunger cannot handle.

• Adjustable Wrench: An adjustable wrench is useful for tightening or loosening bolts and fittings during repairs.

• Toilet Bowl Cleaner: Helps in maintaining cleanliness and preventing mineral build-up. Consider brands available at Ace Hardware known for their effectiveness.

• Gloves: Protect your hands during repairs.

Preventative Maintenance: Keeping Your Toilet Trouble-Free

Regular maintenance can prevent many common toilet problems from occurring in the first place.

Here’s a simple maintenance schedule to follow:

• Monthly: Clean the toilet bowl regularly with a quality toilet bowl cleaner to prevent mineral buildup and stains.

• Quarterly: Check the flapper for signs of wear and tear, such as cracks or warping. Replace it if necessary.

• Semi-Annually: Inspect the fill valve and flush valve for leaks or damage. Consider replacing these components if they are showing signs of wear.

• Annually: Turn off the water supply to the toilet and flush the tank completely to remove sediment buildup. This can help improve flushing performance and prevent clogs. Also, inspect the supply line for any signs of deterioration and replace it if needed.

By following these simple troubleshooting and maintenance tips, you can keep your toilet running smoothly and avoid costly plumbing repairs. Ace Hardware provides all the necessary products and expertise to empower you to tackle these tasks yourself. Remember, a little preventative care goes a long way in maintaining a healthy and efficient bathroom.

After the perfect toilet seat, the final step in completing your bathroom upgrade is installation. But before you reach for your wrench, consider whether you’re up for the task.

Installation Insights: DIY vs. Calling a Plumber

Installing a toilet isn’t the most glamorous of home improvement projects, but with the right preparation, it can be a manageable task for the average DIY enthusiast. However, it’s crucial to be realistic about your skills and the potential pitfalls. Making the wrong move could lead to leaks, property damage, and a very unpleasant mess.

A Simplified Look at the Toilet Installation Process

The basic steps for toilet installation are relatively straightforward:

1. Turn off the water supply to the existing toilet and disconnect the water line.
2. Remove the old toilet, being careful to rock it gently to break the wax ring seal.
3. Clean the flange (the metal ring that connects the toilet to the drainpipe) and inspect it for damage. If the flange is corroded or broken, it may need to be replaced—a task often best left to a professional.
4. Install a new wax ring onto the flange or the bottom of the new toilet.
5. Carefully position the new toilet over the flange and press down firmly to create a tight seal.
6. Bolt the toilet to the flange using the provided hardware.
7. Connect the water supply line and turn the water back on.
8. Check for leaks and make any necessary adjustments.

Essential Tools and Equipment for DIY Installation

Having the right tools on hand will make the installation process much smoother. Here’s a checklist of essentials, all readily available at Ace Hardware:

• Adjustable wrench: For loosening and tightening bolts.
• Putty knife or scraper: For removing the old wax ring.
• Toilet auger: To clear any obstructions in the drainpipe.
• Level: To ensure the toilet sits level.
• Gloves: To protect your hands from grime and bacteria.
• Bucket and sponge: For cleaning up any spills.
• New wax ring: A crucial component for a watertight seal. Consider a wax-free alternative for easier installation and resealing in the future.
• Toilet shims: To level the toilet if the floor is uneven.

Assessing Your Skill Level: When to Call a Pro

While the steps seem simple, several factors can complicate a toilet installation. It’s essential to honestly assess your abilities before diving in.

Ask yourself these questions:

• Have you done plumbing repairs before? If you’re comfortable with basic plumbing tasks like replacing a faucet or fixing a leaky pipe, you may be well-equipped to handle a toilet installation.
• Are you comfortable working in tight spaces? Bathrooms can be cramped, and maneuvering around pipes and fixtures can be challenging.
• Are you physically able to lift and maneuver a toilet? Toilets can be heavy and awkward to handle, especially one-piece models.
• Are you comfortable troubleshooting unexpected problems? If you encounter a damaged flange, a leaking pipe, or other unexpected issues, will you be able to diagnose and fix the problem?

If you answered "no" to any of these questions, or if you simply feel uncomfortable tackling the project yourself, it’s best to call a licensed plumber. A professional plumber has the experience, tools, and expertise to ensure a proper and leak-free installation. While it will cost more upfront, it can save you time, frustration, and potential costly repairs down the road.

Consider these situations as automatic red flags that warrant professional help:

• Damaged or corroded flange: Replacing a flange requires specialized tools and knowledge.
• Water damage or mold: If you find evidence of water damage or mold around the old toilet, it’s essential to address the underlying cause before installing a new one.
• Unfamiliar plumbing system: If your home has an older or unconventional plumbing system, it’s best to consult with a professional who understands its intricacies.

Ultimately, the decision of whether to DIY or call a plumber is a personal one. By carefully evaluating your skills, the complexity of the project, and the potential risks, you can make an informed choice that will ensure a successful and stress-free toilet installation.

So there you have it – your go-to guide for navigating the world of toilets ace hardware! Hopefully, you’re feeling a little more confident about finding the perfect fit for your needs. Happy plumbing!