A Simple Guide to Commercial Toilets

Commercial toilets differ from residential toilets.

When outfitting a commercial building, commercial toilets are one of the most important fixtures to get right. Whether you manage an office, restaurant, shopping mall, hospital, school, or any other public facility, the choice of commercial toilets can significantly impact the user experience, water efficiency, and long-term maintenance costs. Unlike residential toilets, commercial toilets are engineered for heavy use, durability, and compliance with strict building codes. In this guide, we’ll walk through the essential factors to consider for commercial toilet replacement, commercial toilet installation, and ongoing maintenance, all from the perspective of professional plumbing services.

Understanding the differences between commercial and residential toilets

At first glance, a toilet may seem like a simple fixture, but commercial toilets differ from their residential counterparts in several ways. The size, shape, materials, mounting style, and flushing systems are all tailored to meet the demands of high-traffic environments. Commercial toilets are built to be sturdy, reliable, and durable, able to withstand years of continuous use by hundreds or even thousands of people.

In most commercial buildings, the toilets are designed without a traditional tank. Instead, they rely on a direct water line and a flushometer valve to deliver a powerful, efficient flush. This design saves space and reduces the risk of leaks and maintenance issues associated with tank-style toilets. When selecting commercial toilets, it’s important to consider both aesthetics and functionality, ensuring that the fixtures complement the overall design of the restroom while meeting the practical needs of users.

Types of commercial toilets

There is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to commercial toilets. Different facilities have different requirements, and the right choice will depend on space availability, expected foot traffic, and accessibility needs. Here are some of the most common types of commercial toilets:

Commercial wall-mounted toilet: These toilets are attached directly to the wall, with the plumbing and support structure concealed behind the wall. Wall-mounted toilets are popular in modern commercial restrooms because they are easy to clean around and provide a sleek, streamlined appearance. They are especially useful in facilities where hygiene and ease of cleaning are top priorities.

Commercial tankless toilet: As the name suggests, these toilets do not have a traditional tank. Instead, they use a flushometer valve connected directly to the building’s water supply. Tankless toilets are the standard in most commercial and industrial settings due to their efficiency and ability to handle high volumes of use.

Industrial toilet: Designed for the most demanding environments, industrial toilets are typically made from heavy-duty materials such as stainless steel. They are commonly found in factories, prisons, and other facilities where vandal resistance and durability are critical.

Other types of commercial toilets include floor-mounted models, ADA-compliant toilets for accessibility, and specialty fixtures for unique applications. A professional plumbing service helps determine the best type for your facility based on your specific needs and local code requirements.

Key parts of a commercial toilet

Understanding the main parts of a commercial toilet can help facility managers and building owners make informed decisions about installation, maintenance, and replacement. The essential components include:

Bowl: The main part of the toilet that receives waste. Bowls can be round or elongated, with elongated bowls offering greater comfort for users.

Flushometer valve: This is the heart of most commercial toilets. It delivers a powerful, measured flush directly from the water supply, eliminating the need for a tank.

Seat: Commercial toilet seats are typically designed for durability and easy cleaning. Some facilities opt for seats with antimicrobial coatings for added hygiene.

Supply line: This connects the flushometer valve to the building’s water supply.

Trapway: The curved channel inside the toilet bowl carries waste to the sewer line.

Each part must be selected and installed carefully to ensure reliable operation and compliance with plumbing codes.

Choosing the right bowl shape and mounting style

When planning a commercial toilet installation or replacement, one of the first decisions to make is the shape of the bowl and the mounting style. Facility managers can choose between round and elongated bowls. Elongated bowls are more comfortable, but require more space. Building codes may specify minimum distances between the wall and the toilet and between fixtures, so it’s important to consult with a professional plumber to ensure compliance.

Mounting style is another key consideration. Floor-mounted toilets are the traditional choice and are straightforward to install and maintain. On the other hand, wall-mounted toilets offer a modern look and make cleaning the restroom floor much easier. However, they require sturdy wall construction and may involve more complex installation.

Flush valves and flushing systems

The flushing system is arguably the most critical aspect of any commercial toilet. There are several types of flush valves to choose from, each with its advantages:

Manual flush valves: These are operated by a handle or push button. They are dependable and easy to maintain, making them a popular choice for many facilities.

Automatic flush valves: Equipped with proximity sensors, these valves initiate the flush automatically when a user moves away from the fixture. They are ideal for high-traffic restrooms where hygiene is a top concern.

Concealed flush valves: These are installed behind the wall, with only the actuator visible. Concealed valves are often used in restrooms with hidden plumbing for a clean, minimalist appearance.

Flushometer valves, in particular, are the gold standard for commercial toilets. They provide a powerful flush using a direct connection to the water supply, essential for keeping restrooms clean and sanitary in busy environments.

The importance of water efficiency

With water conservation becoming increasingly important, many commercial buildings are upgrading to water-efficient toilets. The WaterSense label, established by the EPA, is a trusted indicator of water-saving performance. Toilets and other plumbing fixtures that earn the WaterSense label meet strict efficiency and performance criteria, helping facilities save water and money without sacrificing performance.

A WaterSense-labeled flushometer valve toilet can significantly reduce water usage in a commercial building. For example, a facility with 1,000 occupants can save millions of gallons of water and thousands of dollars yearly by upgrading to high-efficiency toilets. In addition to the financial benefits, water-efficient toilets also help reduce your facility's environmental impact.

Why professional installation matters

While it may be tempting to cut costs by attempting a commercial toilet installation in-house, the reality is that these systems are complex and must be installed to exacting standards. Professional plumbers are experts in ensuring that every part of the system is properly installed, from the flushometer valve to the supply line and waste connections. They also have the tools and experience to troubleshoot any issues during installation, such as uneven floors, unusual plumbing layouts, or compliance with ADA and local building codes.

Professional services also offer valuable guidance when selecting the right fixtures for your facility. They can recommend the best commercial toilet for your needs, help navigate the wide range of options available, and ensure that the new toilets are functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Maintaining commercial toilets for long-term performance

Regular maintenance is essential once your new commercial toilets are installed to keep them operating smoothly. Professional plumbing services can provide routine inspections, cleaning, and repairs to prevent minor issues from becoming major problems. They can also advise on the best cleaning products and practices to maintain the appearance and hygiene of your restroom facilities.

Common maintenance tasks include checking for leaks, ensuring that flush valves operate correctly, and replacing worn or damaged parts. By partnering with a professional service provider, you can extend the lifespan of your commercial toilets and avoid costly downtime or emergency repairs.

When to consider commercial toilet replacement

Even the most durable commercial toilets will eventually need to be replaced. Signs that it may be time for a commercial toilet replacement include frequent clogs, persistent leaks, outdated or inefficient flushing systems, and visible wear or damage. Upgrading to modern, water-efficient fixtures can improve the user experience, reduce maintenance costs, and enhance the overall appearance of your restrooms.

When considering a commercial toilet replacement, consult a professional plumber to assess the current fixtures and recommend the best options for the facility. They handle every aspect of the replacement process, from removing old toilets to installing new ones and ensuring proper waste materials disposal.

The bottom line

Choosing the right commercial toilets is crucial for any facility manager or building owner. The right fixtures will enhance accessibility, hygiene, and user satisfaction while reducing water and maintenance costs. Working with a professional plumbing service ensures that your commercial toilet installation or replacement is done right the first time, with minimal disruption to your operations.

Whether building a new facility or upgrading an existing one, investing in high-quality, water-efficient commercial toilets is a smart move that will pay dividends for years. Contact a trusted local commercial plumber to discuss your options and take the first step toward a cleaner, more efficient, and more welcoming restroom environment.

Get high-quality commercial plumbing solutions from Simba Plumbing. From commercial plumbing installation, repair, and maintenance, to specialized plumbing services, our team can handle the diverse plumbing requirements of restaurants, churches, schools, local businesses, shopping malls, banks, office buildings, gas stations, hospitals, and commercial high-rises. Call today to learn more.