Proflo Elongated Toilet

Investing in a Top-Quality Toilet for Your Bathroom

If you’re in the market for a new toilet, you probably want one that will last for years while providing maximum comfort. As someone who just went through the toilet shopping process myself, I highly recommend considering the Proflo elongated toilet.

Proflo is a top name in plumbing fixtures, known for making high-end and durable toilets. I did a lot of research to find the perfect toilet for my master bathroom. After learning about the features and benefits of the Proflo elongated toilet, I knew it was the right choice.

In this buying guide, I’ll share everything I learned while researching Proflo elongated toilets. I’ll cover how they work, important features, installation, maintenance tips, pricing, and much more. Let’s dive in!

What Is a Proflo Elongated Toilet?

Proflo is a leading brand that designs elegantly-styled plumbing fixtures. They are known for pioneering the first elongated toilet in the 1970s.

Elongated toilets have a more oval-shaped bowl compared to a round bowl. This elongated shape adds an extra 2 inches to the size of the toilet seat.

The main benefit of an elongated bowl is that it provides more comfortable seating. There is more surface area to sit on and it distributes weight better. This makes it ideal for taller people and those who need extra space.

Proflo uses vitreous china in crafting their elongated toilets. Vitreous china has a glassy finish that resists stains, odors, and moisture. This material is very durable and built to last for decades.

Key Benefits of Choosing a Proflo Elongated Toilet

Here are some of the biggest advantages I found of going with a Proflo elongated toilet:

• Comfortable extra room – The elongated bowl offers more seating space and support.
• Powerful flush – Proflo toilets feature a Class Five flushing system, their most powerful and efficient flush.
• Water saving – Proflo toilets use 1.28 gallons per flush, meeting EPA WaterSense standards.
• Vitreous china material – This material resists stains, odors, chips, and moisture. Made to last for years.
• Quiet flush – Proflo toilets have a quieter flush compared to many other brands.
• Easy installation – Most Proflo toilets have a standard 12-inch rough-in size for a simpler installation process.
• Wide range of styles – Choose from various bowl shapes, seat heights, and design features. Models available for any bathroom décor.

How to Install a Proflo Elongated Toilet

Installing a new Proflo elongated toilet is a project any DIYer can tackle. Here are the key steps:

1. Turn off water supply – Locate the shutoff valve behind the toilet and turn it clockwise to shut off the water. Flush to empty tank.

2. Disconnect and remove old toilet – Disconnect supply line and unbolt toilet from floor. Remove wax ring.

3. Install new wax ring – Put a new wax ring on bottom of the toilet. This creates a seal between toilet and drain pipe.

4. Set toilet in place – Carefully set new toilet in place over drain pipe. Press down lightly to adhere wax ring.

**5. Bolt toilet to floor **- Use bolts on either side to secure toilet to flange on floor. Hand tighten nuts.

6. Connect supply line – Attach supply line from valve to bottom of toilet tank. Tighten with wrench.

**7. Turn on water **- Turn on shutoff valve to start water flow. Check for any leaks.

8. Finish installation – Install toilet seat, tank lid, and any other accessories. Caulk base.

Where to Buy a Proflo Elongated Toilet

Proflo toilets are sold through many home improvement stores, local plumbing supply stores, and online:

• Home Depot – Wide selection of Proflo models available. Free shipping over $45.
• Lowe’s – Another home improvement chain that carries Proflo elongated toilets.
• Ferguson – Large plumbing supplier that offers Proflo toilets in-store and online.
• Build.com – Online plumbing retailer with lots of Proflo toilet options,grouped by bowl shape, flush performance, etc.
• PlumbersStock – Sells Proflo along with other major toilet brands. Price match guarantee.
• Walmart – Budget-friendly Proflo toilet models available on Walmart.com and in some stores.

I recommend checking multiple retailers to find the best deal on the specific Proflo model you want. Be sure to factor in any shipping costs.

Key Features to Look for in a Proflo Toilet

Proflo offers many toilet options with varying features. Here are some key things to look for:

• Bowl shape – Choose from elongated, round-front, or dual flush. Larger trapway improves waste removal.
• Tank lever – Side mount levers are easier to reach versus top mount.
• **Flush system **- Select Class Five, Class Six, or vacuum-assisted for more power.
• Water usage – Look for EPA WaterSense models that use 1.28 gpf or less.
• **Toilet height **- Standard is 15 inches, but comfort heights are 17-19 inches.
• Toilet seat – Elongated with quiet-close lids are preferred for comfort and eliminating slamming.
• Color – Available in white, bone, linen, biscuit and black exterior.
• Fit with bathroom décor – Pick a style that matches your existing bathroom fixtures.

Prioritize the features that matter most to you, whether it’s added comfort, water savings, or flushing performance.

Maintaining Your Proflo Toilet

Proflo toilets are designed to provide years of lasting performance with minimal care. Here are my top tips for maintaining your elongated Proflo toilet:

• Clean regularly – Wipe down the exterior using a soft cloth and mild cleaner. Use toilet bowl cleaner and brush inside bowl.
• Remove hard water stains – Remove mineral buildup inside tank by scrubbing with baking soda and vinegar.
• Unclog blockages – Use a plunger or closet auger for clearing clogs. Avoid harsh drain cleaners.
• Tighten loose bolts – Re-tighten the bolts holding toilet to flange if any rocking or leaking occurs.
• Replace flapper – If toilet runs constantly, worn flapper usually needs replacing. Easy DIY fix.
• Check supply line – Inspect braided supply line periodically and replace if cracked or crimped.
• Seal the base – Reapply caulk around base if any cracks appear to prevent water leakage.

Following these tips will keep your Proflo toilet running like new. Contact a plumber for any persistent issues.

The Durability of Proflo Elongated Toilets

I was very impressed by how durable Proflo toilets are designed to be. Here are some key reasons they can last for decades:

• Vitreous china material – This material is fired at high temperatures to create a glassy, stain-resistant surface.
• Powerful flush – The Class Five system provides incredible flushing power to clear waste thoroughly.
• Minimal exposed seams – Few seams mean fewer places for leaks and cracks to develop over time.
• Reinforced trapway – This enclosed waste channel is computer designed for optimal waste passage.
• Heavy-duty factory testing – Proflo tests toilets to withstand years of residential use and meet industry standards.
• Warranty – Most Proflo models come with a limited lifetime warranty for the original owner.

As long as you care for it properly, a Proflo elongated toilet should easily last 15-20 years or more before needing replacement. The durability was a major factor in my choice to buy this brand.

Materials Used in Proflo Toilets

Proflo manufactures their toilets using only the highest quality materials:

• Vitreous china – This ceramic is fired at over 2,000°F, making it super strong, while the glaze resists stains and odors.
• ABS plastic – Durable plastic is used for parts like the tank, lid, and toilet seat. Withstands cleaning chemicals.
• Stainless steel – The flush valve components contain rust-resistant stainless steel for precision control.
• Neoprene – The gaskets are made from this synthetic rubber for a watertight seal. More flexible than wax.
• Brass – Small internal hardware pieces like bolts and supply nuts are made of solid brass.

The vitreous china bowl and the ABS plastic last for many years. Any internal parts that may eventually need replacing are easy to access.

Keeping Your Proflo Toilet Spotless

Proflo’s smooth vitreous china surface helps prevent ickiness from sticking, but regular cleaning keeps it spotless. Here are my best tips for cleaning a Proflo elongated toilet:

• Use a soft toilet scrub brush and non-abrasive cleaner for the bowl. Avoid anything gritty that could scratch the surface.
• Baking soda and vinegar make an effective home remedy for removing mineral deposits in the bowl or tank.
• For hard water stains, apply gel toilet bowl cleaner and let sit for 15-30 minutes before scrubbing and flushing away.
• Disinfect the whole toilet regularly with a spray cleaner containing bleach. Check that your product is safe for use on vitreous china.
• Use a disposable cloth to wipe down the outside when cleaning. Paper towels work well and help prevent streaking.
• Avoid toilet wands – The pads may contain gritty material that could ruin the glaze over time.
• Re-caulk around the base as needed to prevent grime from building up in any opened seams.

With regular cleaning, your Proflo toilet will continue sparkling like new. Taking good care of it protects your investment.

Understanding the Proflo Toilet Warranty

One major perk of choosing Proflo is that their toilets come with outstanding warranties. Here’s an overview of what the Proflo toilet warranty covers:

• Limited lifetime warranty – Covers defects in materials and workmanship for the original residential owner.
• 1 year warranty – Covers the replacement of defective parts that may fail during the first year.
• 5 year warranty – Applies to electronic components in Proflo smart toilets.

To enact the warranty, you’ll need to contact Proflo customer support with proof of purchase and defect details. They’ll send replacement parts or dispatch service repair.

Proflo warranties only apply to products bought from authorized dealers. Damage from improper installation or care isn’t covered.

Overall, it’s great peace of mind knowing Proflo stands behind their toilets for years to come. The warranty was a big factor in choosing this brand for my home.

How Proflo Elongated Toilets Work

Understanding the internal workings of a Proflo toilet helps you use and troubleshoot any issues. Here’s an overview:

When you flush, the flapper at the bottom of the tank lifts and the water rushes into the bowl via the flush valve. The direct water path generates a strong siphon effect.

The elongated bowl shape and fully glazed trapway help gravity swiftly pull waste through the S-shaped waste line out the exit.

Fresh water entering the bowl propels waste out while rinse water washes the bowl sides. The water level then refills in the tank, ready for the next flush.

This efficient waste removal process is powered by Proflo’s Class Five flushing system. The large 3” flush valve, 2-1/8” trapway, and bowl shape all contribute to robust flushing action.

Troubleshooting Common Proflo Toilet Problems

While Proflo toilets are highly durable, issues can occasionally arise. Here are some common problems and how to address them:

Clogged toilet – Use a plunger or closet auger to try clearing blockage. Check for low water level in bowl.

Running toilet – Replace flapper if it’s worn/warped. Make sure flapper chain has slack.

Leaking base – Tighten bowl bolts. Replace wax ring/gasket if needed. Recaulk around base.

Weak flush – Scrub mineral buildup with baking soda and vinegar. Replace flapper or fill valve if old.

Loose toilet – Tighten mounting bolts if toilet rocks. Ensure wax ring is seated properly.

Noisy tank – Adjust chain connecting flapper and fill valve. Replace fill valve if old.

Slow tank fill – Fully open supply valve. Replace fill valve if flow is weak.

What’s the Price Range for Proflo Toilets?

Proflo toilets are considered mid-range to premium models. Here’s what you can expect:

• Basic models – $150 – $300
• Mid-range models – $350 – $550
• High-end models – $600 – $1,000
• Smart models – $800 – $1,500

Factors like bowl shape, water usage, flushing tech, toilet height, seat features, color, and design details cause prices to vary.

I recommend deciding your must-have features and setting a maximum budget. Compare prices online to find the best Proflo model fitting your price range. Waiting for sales can provide major savings on higher priced options.

Repair vs. Replacement: Making the Call for Your Proflo Toilet

If you encounter issues with your Proflo toilet, you may wonder whether you should repair or replace it. Here are a few factors to consider:

• Age of toilet – If 10+ years old, replacement may make more sense than repairing outdated components.
• Extent of damage – Small fixes like flapper replacement are simple. Cracks or leaks indicate replacement.
• Availability of parts – Proflo still makes parts for models less than ~20 years old.
• Proflo warranty – May cover free replacement parts or toilet if under original warranty.
• Cost of repair vs. replacement – Compare repair cost to price of new model with desired features.

For example, if your 8 year old Proflo toilet just needs a new flapper, it’s very reasonable to repair it. But if the tank or bowl has cracked, replacement is the better option. Assess each situation carefully.

How to Remove and Replace a Proflo Toilet

If you need to replace your Proflo elongated toilet, the process is straightforward:

1. Turn off water and flush toilet. Disconnect supply line at shutoff valve.

2. Remove mounting bolts on either side of base using wrench. Remove old wax ring.

3. Disconnect and remove toilet. This step may require two people to lift.

4. Install new wax ring on bottom of new toilet. Lower toilet in place over floor flange.

5. Hand tighten mounting bolts on new toilet. Then give additional quarter turn with wrench.

6. Hook up water supply and turn on shutoff valve. Test for leaks.

7. Reinstall tank lid and seat. Make any adjustments needed. Caulk around new toilet base.

And that’s it! Overall, replacing a toilet takes less than an hour with some basic DIY skills. Just be sure to properly dispose of your old toilet.

Choosing the Right Size Proflo Elongated Toilet

One key decision is choosing what size Proflo elongated toilet is right for your space:

• Standard 12” rough-in – Fits with existing 12” gap between wall and toilet flange.
• 10” or 14” rough-in – Best if replacing a smaller or larger size toilet.
• Elongated bowl – Provides extra 1-2” space versus round bowl. More comfortable.
• Comfort height – For taller toilets (17-19”), select comfort height rough-in size.

You’ll also need to make sure you have enough clear floor space for an elongated bowl. Measure to ensure a minimum of 30-32 inches from wall to front of bowl. This size bowl protrudes 2 inches farther than a round bowl.

Be sure to account for both rough-in size and bowl shape when shopping for your Proflo. This ensures the proper fit and comfort.

Useful Accessories for Proflo Elongated Toilets

While Proflo toilets come ready to install right out of the box, there are some beneficial accessories:

• Toilet seat riser – Increases seat height 4-6”. Helpful for those who have difficulty standing from low toilets.
• Bidet seat – Easily attaches to toilet for a refreshing personal cleaning experience.
• Toilet supply line – Allows quick DIY replacement if your supply line fails. Choose braided stainless steel.
• Toilet auger – Essential for removing stubborn clogs from toilet trap. Much better than using chemical drain cleaners.
• Wax ring/gasket – Needed if replacing your Proflo toilet. Provides watertight seal to floor flange.
• T-bolts – Secures toilet bowl to floor flange. Replace rusted bolts.

Consider your needs and choose any add-ons that could improve your experience with your Proflo toilet.

Key Tips for Selecting the Perfect Proflo Toilet

With so many Proflo models available, here are my top tips for zeroing in on the right one:

• Take measurements of your space – room dimensions, rough-in, space from wall to flange.
• Decide on your must-have features like bowl type, seat height, flush performance.
• Compare the specs of various models to find ones matching your requirements.
• Read reviews and check ratings to confirm quality and durability.
• Make a shortlist of top choices and compare prices at major retailers.
• See display models in person at local stores, if possible.
• Ensure your selection fits your bathroom style and décor.

Doing the prep work of measuring, making a checklist, and comparing options ensures you find the ideal Proflo toilet for you. Taking time upfront prevents purchasing mistakes.

Avoiding Common Problems with Proflo Elongated Toilets

The best way to avoid problems with Proflo toilets is proper installation and maintenance. Here are key tips:

• Ensure toilet is installed on a level floor. Use toilet shims if needed.
• Tighten mounting bolts properly without overtightening.
• Don’t pound on toilet to seat it on wax ring. Gently set in place.
• Take care not to crack tank by overtightening fittings. Hand tighten nuts first.
• Avoid in-tank cleaners that can damage flapper and other components.
• Use non-abrasive cleaners only to preserve glossy finish.
• Shut off water and drain tank before any repairs.
• Replace flapper every 3-5 years to prevent leaks.
• Re-caulk base annually to prevent water seeping underneath.

Following Proflo’s care and maintenance guidance keeps your toilet performing like new for years of reliable service.

How to Fix a Leaking Proflo Toilet

If your Proflo elongated toilet is leaking, a quick fix may be all that’s needed:

• Damaged flapper – Most leaks are due to a faulty flapper. Just replace this inexpensive part.
• Cracked tank/bowl – Cracks indicate replacing the entire toilet. Proflo warranty may provide coverage.
• Poor wax ring seal – Remove toilet to inspect wax ring. Uneven flooring may require toilet shims.
• Bolts too loose – Remove tank and tighten mounting bolts on either side of bowl.
• Tank cracks – Fully hand tighten tank nuts without overtightening to avoid stress cracks.
• Supply valve issue – Inspect shutoff valve connections for drips. Replace valve if needed.

By methodically checking each area, you can often pinpoint the source of the leak and determine whether it’s a quick fix or requires replacing the whole toilet. Act fast to prevent damage.

Water Efficiency of Proflo Toilet Models

With water conservation being so crucial, I made sure to select a water efficient Proflo model. Here’s how their toilets save water:

• EPA WaterSense certified – Most Proflo toilets use 1.28 gallons per flush (gpf), 20% less than the standard 1.6 gpf.
• Dual flush – Some Proflo models offer a choice of 0.8 gpf for liquid waste and 1.6 gpf for solids. Saves more water.
• Powerful Class Five flush – The superior flushing action requires less water to effectively remove waste.
• Wide trapway – The 2-1/8″ glazed trapway helps water flow faster and more forcefully.

By choosing an EPA certified WaterSense Proflo toilet, I gain water savings while still getting superb flushing power. It’s a win-win.

Final Thoughts on Investing in a Proflo Elongated Toilet

I hope this comprehensive buying guide gives you all the details needed to choose the perfect Proflo elongated toilet. While these toilets have a higher upfront cost than basic models, I’m convinced the comfort, durability, and water savings make them well worth the investment. They truly are a step above in terms of quality.

If you’re looking for that dream toilet to upgrade your bathroom, be sure to put the Proflo elongated toilet at the top of your list. I know mine has become the throne of the house! Let me know if you have any other questions. Enjoy the buying process.