Q: Dear Ed: We’ve been in our present home for a few years and decided to install a new toilet. I know this sounds funny but it’s the first time we’re going toilet shopping. Can you please lend us a helping hand with some features to consider?

— Jeff, New York state

A: As far as toilet bowl style (elongated or round), colors and if you want a one- or two-piece toilet, that will be up to you. What I can suggest is to look for my three favorite features found in many of today’s toilets.

Comfort height: These toilets are a little taller than standard toilets (about chair height), giving many users a comfortable sitting position.

Skirted trapway: This is a smooth side toilet with less nooks and crannies for easier cleaning.

High-efficiency flushing: Look for approved water-saving toilets for your area that also meet bulk flushing standards.

Add up all these features and you should end up with a tip-top toilet.

———

Master Contractor/Plumber Ed Del Grande is known internationally as the author of the book “Ed Del Grande’s House Call,” the host of TV and Internet shows, and a LEED green associate. Visit eddelgrande.com or write eadelg@cs.com

About the Author

Featured

Angie McBrayer, ex-wife of James Aaron McBrayer, leans her head on her son Sam McBrayer as she and her three children and two grandchildren (from left) Jackson McBrayer, 3, Piper Jae McBrayer, 7, Katy Isaza, and Jordan McBrayer, visit the grave of James McBrayer, Thursday, November 20, 2025, in Tifton. He died after being restrained by Tift County sheriff's deputies on April 24, 2019. His ex-wife witnessed the arrest and said she thought the deputies were being rough but did not imagine that McBrayer would die. (Hyosub Shin/AJC)

Credit: HYOSUB SHIN / AJC