The Ultimate Guide to Bidets and Your Plumbing

Mar 13, 2024
Bidet

Bidets have gained popularity as a luxurious addition to bathrooms, offering a cleaner and more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional toilet paper. If you're considering installing a bidet, this ultimate guide will walk you through the selection and installation process, and what a bidet means for your plumbing.


What You Need to Know Before Purchasing a Bidet

There’s a few things to keep in mind when deciding which bidet is right for your home and plumbing system:


Electrical Considerations for Bidets

When considering an electric bidet seat, it's crucial to keep the electrical requirements in mind. The bidet seat needs a power source, but don't worry – all you need is a standard 110-120v, 15amp, 3-prong outlet, the kind you find all around your home.


However, because the outlet is in a bathroom where moisture is a factor, plumbing codes require a GFCI (ground-fault circuit interrupter) outlet. This safety measure protects against electric shock in case water gets into the outlet. If there's no existing outlet conveniently placed near your toilet, it's a good idea to hire a qualified electrician to take care of this part of the installation process.


Determining Your Current Toilet’s Bidet Compatibility

Adding bidet seats to your bathroom is usually a straightforward process for most standard toilets with an elongated bowl. But if your toilet bowl is round your choices are more limited. We recommend measuring your toilet carefully before purchasing to make sure the bidet seat fits properly. (More on this below.) Alternatively, you might want to consider the convenience of a toilet that already has a built-in bidet seat (a bidet-toilet combination, also known as a smart toilet) for a guaranteed and trouble-free fit. 


What Types of Bidets Are There?

Before diving into the installation process, it's essential to select the bidet type that best suits your needs. There are several types of bidets available: 

  • Standalone bidets/bidet toilets: Standalone bidets are separate and permanent appliances for the toilet. They are usually the most expensive bidet option due to their premium features and technical needs.
  • Bidet toilet seats/bidet seats: Bidet seats are designed to be installed on your existing toilet. Bidet seats connect to the toilet for water and vary in features. Some offer water temperature control, different jet options, and a plastic or stainless steel nozzle for water spray. Styles include attached or hand-held remotes for controlling flow patterns, strength, and temperature. Certain models include heated seats, and there are manual and electronic options based on personal preference.
  • Bidet attachments: These are also compatible attachments for your toilet, and are the most affordable and renter-friendly bidet option. You can install your bidet attachment on the side of the toilet, a nearby wall, or any suitable spot in your bathroom, connecting it to the toilet for water. This space-saving option is hands-on but provides manual control over water pressure.


How to Measure a Toilet for a Bidet: Do You Have a Round or Elongated Toilet?

Choosing the right bidet also comes down to the measurements and type of toilet. This is because not every bidet seat is available for round toilets, our experience finds that they are universally offered in elongated toilets.


How to Measure Your Toilet

Measure from the center of the fastening/bolt holes to the front of the toilet. Generally, round seats measure about 17 inches or less, while elongated seats measure 17.5 inches or more. Measure from the fastening holes in the toilet to the front of the rim.


The standard distance between bolt holes is 5.5 inches but can range from 5.5 to 7.5 inches. If your bolt holes fall within this range, you're in luck, as most bidet seats are adjustable to fit this.


Another crucial measurement is the distance from the bolt holes to the front of the tank. Most bidet seats require at least 1.75 inches of space, although there are a couple of models that only need 1.5 inches.


For a comprehensive fit, consider the overall length of bidet toilet seats. Round toilet seats typically have an overall length of 19.5 inches, while elongated ones measure 20.5 inches. To ensure compatibility, measure from the front of the tank to the very front of the toilet.


Will You Need a Plumber To Install a Bidet?

While some bidet installations can be tackled by non-plumbers, hiring a qualified plumber often ensures the most successful outcome. Bidet attachments can be self-installed by utilizing the water supply line for the toilet. However, standalone bidets and smart toilets require professional installation. Connecting directly to the plumbing system makes them a less suitable DIY project.


Call Plumb Works for Bidet Installation

Look no further than Plumb Works for a hassle-free bidet installation. Our experienced team of plumbers is ready to ensure a seamless integration of your bidet, whether it's a straightforward attachment or a more complex standalone unit. We prioritize efficiency and precision in every installation, leaving you with a fully functional and professionally installed bidet. Give us a call at 404-524-1825 or schedule a service today!

31 Oct, 2024
As fall brings cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage, it’s easy to forget that falling leaves can create significant problems for your storm drains. Both residential and commercial properties are at risk, especially when regular maintenance is neglected. In this blog, we’ll discuss the importance of cleaning storm drains, how leaf buildup leads to overflow, and why keeping up with maintenance can prevent expensive repairs. The Problem with Leaf Buildup in Storm Drains Fallen leaves may look harmless, but when they accumulate in storm drains , they create blockages that prevent water from flowing freely. This can cause: Overflowing drains in parking lots Water damage to building foundations and basements Unpleasant smells, especially for commercial properties that haven’t maintained their storm drains in 5+ years Leaf buildup is often forgotten until it’s too late and the water starts overflowing. Regular cleaning is the key to preventing these issues. Why Regular Maintenance is Essential Storm drain maintenance should be conducted at least once a year, or every other year in lower-risk areas. This can include: Camera inspections to check for blockages or damage. Jetting lines to clear out leaves and other debris. Maintenance is especially critical if your home or commercial property sits below street level. Properties at a lower elevation are more susceptible to flooding, and clogged storm drains can make this worse. If your house or business is above street level we recommend you perform storm drain maintenance once every 2 years unless you notice frequent leaf buildup in the storm drain grates on your property. The Dangers of Waiting Too Long All it takes is one large storm for clogged drains to cause a sewer overflow. While overflow often occurs in parking lots, the worst-case scenario involves water backing up into your building’s foundation or basement. This can lead to structural damage, mold, and costly repairs. For commercial properties, water damage can also disrupt business operations and create liability concerns. Property owners who neglect maintenance for five or more years might even notice persistent foul odors, which could indicate significant buildup and the presence of trapped debris or stagnant water. How to Prevent Overflow After a Storm The best way to prevent storm drain overflow is to stay on top of regular maintenance. However, if a storm hits and you suspect your drains may be blocked, it’s important to act quickly: Check for standing water in low-lying areas or parking lots. If you notice an overflow, call a professional to inspect and clear your storm drains immediately. After heavy storms, consider scheduling a post-storm inspection to ensure everything is functioning properly. Protect Your Home and Business With Plumb Works Storm drain cleaning is an easy task to forget, but it’s crucial for avoiding water damage and keeping your property safe. By maintaining your drains yearly or every other year, you can rest easy knowing your property is protected from the dangers of leaf buildup and storm drain overflow. Whether you own a home or a commercial building, regular inspections and maintenance will save you from costly repairs in the future. Don't wait until after the next big storm— schedule your storm drain cleaning with Plumb Works today!
16 Oct, 2024
 We are excited to announce that Plumb Works has been recognized as the 2024 Residential Contractor of the Year, an accolade that speaks to our unwavering commitment to providing exceptional service and superior workmanship. This accolade, awarded by Plumbing & Mechanical Magzine, is given to contractors that foster long-standing customer relationships, a strong work ethic, and a deep-rooted commitment to quality service. You can read the full article here . What This Award Means to Us At Plumb Works, delivering quality service to our Atlanta community is at the core of everything we do. Our team works diligently to ensure each customer receives reliable, efficient, and friendly service, whether it’s a small plumbing repair or a large-scale project. Receiving the 2024 Residential Contractor of the Year award is a testament to the dedication and expertise of our plumbers, and we are truly honored by this recognition. Our Commitment to You This accolade is a reminder of why we do what we do. We believe that every home deserves dependable plumbing services that leave you confident in your system's performance. Whether you need routine maintenance, emergency repairs, or a complete overhaul, Plumb Works is ready to help. As we celebrate this recognition, we want to thank all of our loyal customers for your trust and feedback. You inspire us to improve and grow every day. Experience Award-Winning Plumbing Services with Plumb Works If you’re looking for a plumbing company that’s as dedicated to customer satisfaction as we are to solving your plumbing problems, look no further. Call Plumb Works today or fill out a form to schedule your next service and see firsthand why we’ve earned the 2024 Residential Contractor of The Year.
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On October 13, Jerome Sabol, the award-winning master plumber and owner of Plumb Works, made a return visit to “Lenz On Business,” a one-hour business talk program, which airs weekly on WSB Radio. Sabol dispensed his own brand of tricks and treats by sharing plumbing maintenance suggestions with listeners. Sabol began his conversation with host Jon Waterhouse by sharing a little bit of Plumb Works’ history, how the independent company came to be, and its continued growth through the years. With fall in the air, Jerome discussed seasonal considerations listeners should keep in mind, including pre-winter preparations such as winterizing outside faucets, draining down water lines, becoming aware of shut-off valves, checking water heaters , and other considerations. The most common issue during winter months, he said, would be freezing pipes and water lines in outside walls that homeowners aren’t aware of. According to Jerome, heat pump water heaters are a highly efficient option for homeowners looking to reduce energy costs. In fact, Georgia Power is currently offering rebates to those who install these energy-saving systems, making it a great time to upgrade. Federal tax credits for heat pump water heaters , he said, are also available. Jerome also discussed the recent complications caused by Hurricane Helene and some of the challenges area residents faced in its aftermath. He recommended homeowners prepare for future hurricanes by properly maintaining their storm drains , and making sure they’re clear and functional. Additional topics ran the plumbing gamut from the key elements of commercial plumbing to Plumb Works’ annual maintenance plans, which come with a free inspection each year. Sabol closed the show by sharing advice with aspiring plumbing professionals, pointing them in the right direction on how to best set up their careers for success by attending industry expos, participating in apprenticeships, and more. Schedule a Service With Plumb Works If you have questions or would like to schedule a service visit with a Plumb Works professional, visit the schedule service page or call 404-524-1825.
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