While you can select almost any fixture from a wide range of options for your bathroom, there are a few City codes to bear in mind. For instance, the Ontario Building Code requires that all new constructions used water-saving 6 litre toilets. While it is not required when replacing existing toilets, municipalities now offer incentives to do so in order to reduce water consumption and to be environmentally responsible. Toilets also have to pass testing requirements to be certified.
Similar codes apply to showers, and it would be best to speak to your Toronto plumber for specifics before you buy plumbing fixtures.
Lately, plumbing fixtures have undergone a modern, minimalistic make-over and today we will look at some of the popular options for you to look at when it comes to choosing bathroom fixtures.
1. The Pedestal Sink
Pedestal sinks were very popular before they were pushed aside in favor of vanity cabinets with the storage advantage.
Recently, pedestal sinks have made it back into the home design preferences of many homeowners for their simplistic, minimalistic style.
Of course, not everyone likes pedestal sinks, and the hoarders among us still like the idea of having a cabinet in which we can store all our goodies.
Pedestal sink prices range from $100 to top-of-the-line models for up to $3, 000. If you like the vintage look, you may opt for a restored model for that somewhat rustic look at a fraction of the price. However, if the sleek, modern look does it for you, you can take your pick from the broad range of brand new models.
2. The Low-Flow Toilet
Designed to reduce water consumption, the low-flow toilet is an environmentally-friendly option that is also easy on the pocket. Older toilets used up to 7 gallons per flush, while low-flow toilets use no more than 1.6 gpf. However, the fact that it uses much less water, does not mean that its performance is affected.
When you decide to replace your old water-guzzler with a sleek new low-flow toilet, speak to your Toronto plumber first. Some low-flow toilets rely on a plastic compression tank which is concealed within the vitreous china tank. It uses pressure from the supply line to blast water out of the tank and that produces are whooshing sound.
3. The High-Efficiency Showerhead
If you have not switched to a low-flow showerhead, now is the time to do that. Just because it reduces water flow and as a result the water and heating costs, does not mean that it doesn't still result in a great shower experience.
A 2006 study showed that apart from Ontarians, mostly Eastern Canada households used low-flow showers. The study also showed that those who were more likely to use low-flow showers and other water-saving fixtures, were those households who earned less, which might point to the fact that it was done more for the benefit of cost-saving than for the environment.
When it comes to bathroom fixtures, you should weigh up your options, while considering city codes, functionality, the environment and your personal preferences. Speak to your Toronto plumber for advice on some of the best fixtures and why certain plumbing fixtures are more popular.