Heated seats, high performance, color options — we’re not talking about your checklist for buying a new car.

Toilets. Yes, believe it or not, the “standard” toilet is going the way of the dodo, and consumers have more choices than ever when it comes to deciding which model is going to be sitting in their bathroom. Between something that gets the job done and a comfortable seat with a shockingly powerful flush, your options are plentiful.

Before you make your purchase, sit down and think about what features you’d like for your toilet. It’s OK to be picky given this toilet is going to be around for the foreseeable future — maybe longer than the vehicle you’re currently driving! Check out 5 things to consider when buying a toilet.

1. Rough-in size

The first thing you’ll want to do is measure the rough-in size. The rough-in is the distance from the wall behind the toilet to the middle of the drainpipe on the back of your toilet. Typically dimensions will range from 10 to 14 inches. It’s best to take this measurement with your old toilet and get an accurate number.

2. Height and comfort

When you sit down, you probably don’t think about how tall your toilet is; but don’t overlook your options. Standard toilets are about 15 inches, whereas higher, more comfortable models can be as tall as 17 inches. If you have children, a shorter model is likely more ideal. But maybe a taller toilet is more in line with your preferences.

3. Water usage

In a sense, with the wrong toilet, you could be flushing money down the drain. Water usage adds up, and when it comes to your toilet, there are ways to conserve and stay efficient. Certain high efficiency models offer rebates and can even pay for themselves after only a few years.

4. Flushing Power

There’s a certain feeling you get when the water in your toilet is slowly swirling toward a potential bathroom flood. Flush power can relieve worries of clogs or overflows. But we warned that flushing power goes right along with water usage. Be sure to choose an option right for your lifestyle and budget.

5. Toilet bowl shape

Round or elongated? The choice is yours. Elongated shapes are typically more comfortable, while a round toilet bowl might fit better in your bathroom. If you’re all for luxury, maybe an elongated bowl shape is best. If you’re struggling to get ready in the morning in your tiny bathroom, a round bowl could save you some precious space.

6. Price

If you’re budget-conscious when it comes to home upgrades, the features of your future toilet will likely be decided for you. Expect to pay a few extra bucks for a high efficiency model or that taller toilet that’s going to function better in your master bathroom. But don’t let the numbers scare you – this is an investment in your home that you’ll be using quite often. Make sure you’re choosing the right toilet.

If you’re still unsure of the best toilet for your home or you’d like the experts to install it for you, call the punctual plumbers at Benjamin Franklin Plumbing® of Dallas. We’ll be at your home on time with the knowledge and expertise to fix or install your new toilet. Give us a call today to schedule your appointment.