Toilet handles are an important part of any toilet system. They allow you to flush the toilet and control the water flow. With different types of toilet handles available, it can be confusing to know which one to choose for your bathroom. This article will explore the 5 main types of toilet handles and provide tips on how to select the right one.
Lever Handle
The lever handle is a very common type of toilet handle. It consists of a horizontal lever arm that is depressed to flush the toilet.
Benefits:
- Easy to use and intuitive design
- Flushes with little effort
- Stylish and sleek appearance
Considerations:
- Not as hygienic as hands-free options
- Lever can occasionally get stuck or break
The lever handle works well in both residential and commercial bathrooms. It provides a simple yet effective flushing mechanism. This type of handle has a timeless look and comes in a variety of finishes to match any décor.
Button Flush Handle
The button flush handle is a round button mounted on top of the toilet tank. Pushing down on the button opens the flush valve in the tank to flush the toilet.
Benefits:
- Very easy to operate
- Takes up less space than a lever
- Simple mechanism with few parts to break
Considerations:
- Button can get stuck at times
- Repeated pushing can wear out the button
- Not as visually appealing as some other options
Button flush handles are a straightforward option well-suited for both household and public restroom applications. They are very intuitive to use but lack some of the aesthetic appeal of other choices.
Dual Flush Handle
Dual flush handles allow you to choose between two flush volumes – a full flush or reduced flush. This helps conserve water.
Benefits:
- Allows you to save water by choosing reduced flush
- More eco-friendly option
- Provides flexibility in flushing
Considerations:
- Handle design can look overly complicated
- Users may not understand dual flush function
- Requires user education on how to use properly
These handles work best for environmentally conscious households. The dual flush mechanisms require proper usage to realize their full water savings potential.
Sensor Flush Handle
Sensor flush handles automatically detect hand motion and flush. They are hands-free for added hygiene and convenience.
Benefits:
- More hygienic, no need to touch the toilet
- Convenient for public restrooms
- Low maintenance with few moving parts
Considerations:
- Requires electricity
- More expensive than other options
- Can malfunction if dirty or damaged
Sensor flush handles are ideal for busy public restrooms. For residential use, the added cost may outweigh the benefits unless hands-free operation is a priority.
Foot Pedal Flush Handle
Foot pedal flush handles allow flushing by pressing a pedal located at the base of the toilet. This is another hands-free option.
Benefits:
- Completely hands-free operation
- Great for accessibility and senior use
- More hygienic than manual handles
Considerations:
- Can collect dirt easily
- May be awkward to use
- Need to bend down to press pedal
Foot pedals offer exceptional hands-free flushing. However, they require proper cleaning and placement to avoid issues. Pedals located too far back can be hard for some users to reach.
Choosing the Right Toilet Handle
When selecting a toilet handle, consider the following:
- Setting – Home, public restroom, commercial space? Lever and button handles work well in most settings.
- Hygiene – Sensor and foot pedal handles are more hygienic for heavy use.
- Water savings – Dual flush handles allow you to conserve water.
- Accessibility – Foot pedals provide hands-free ease for users with limited mobility.
- Aesthetics – Lever handles come in attractive designs to match your bathroom décor.
- Durability – Opt for durable materials like metal if the handle will get a lot of use.
- Ease of use – Lever, button, and sensor handles are very easy and intuitive to operate.
Proper installation is also key for a toilet handle to function optimally. Hire a professional plumber for best results. With several types to choose from, select the toilet handle type that best fits your needs and bathroom design. This helps ensure years of reliable flushing performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which toilet handle is easiest to use?
The easiest toilet handles to use are the lever, button, and sensor types. They require minimal effort and are very intuitive in their operation. The lever handle just needs to be pushed down, the button pressed, and the sensor handle will detect motion automatically to flush.
Q: Are foot pedal toilet handles ADA compliant?
Yes, foot pedal flush handles comply with ADA regulations and make flushing more accessible for people with limited mobility. The pedal does not require hand dexterity or strength to operate. Foot pedals should be installed to meet ADA height and proximity requirements.
Q: Do all dual flush toilets save water?
The dual flush toilet mechanism allows water savings, but actual usage determines how much water is conserved. Users need to consciously choose the reduced flush option when appropriate. Installing a dual flush handle alone does not guarantee water conservation.
Q: Which type of toilet handle is best for toddlers?
For toddlers and young children, lever handles tend to work best. The lever offers an easy to understand design that is simple to operate with little hand strength required. Button handles can be difficult for small hands. Always supervise children around toilets.
Q: How do I stop my toilet handle from sticking?
If your lever or button toilet handle is sticking, try lubricating the mechanism with white plumber’s grease. Removing mineral deposits with vinegar can also help. For persistent sticking, the internal handle components may need replacement by a plumber.
Conclusion
With lever, button, dual flush, sensor, and foot pedal options, there is a wide selection of toilet handle types. The right choice comes down to your priorities like ease of use, hygiene, accessibility, water savings, and visual appeal. Consider the setting, user needs, design, durability, and maintenance requirements when picking a toilet handle. Proper installation and operation helps ensure your toilet handle works smoothly for years to provide reliable flushing performance.
