What is the difference between pressure assist and power flush?

Author: Abbie Crist IV  |  Last update: Monday, January 12, 2026

A pressure-assisted toilet—also known as a power flush toilet—contains a sealed pressure tank that houses air and water. The vessel traps air, and as it fills with water, it uses the water supply line pressure to compress the trapped air inside.

Is a pressure-assist toilet good?

These toilets are more efficient than gravity-fed models, flushing more quickly with less water. PATs are also quieter than most other types of toilets since they use air pressure to push waste down the drain instead of gravity. Additionally, their powerful flush means fewer clogs and backups.

Which type of toilet flush is best?

A dual flush system offers a good option for water conservation by offering a choice between two options - a full flush for larger, more solid water, and a partial flush for liquid. Typically, this is controlled by two separate buttons on the toilet for each corresponding flush.

What are the cons of power flush toilets?

Cons of Pressure-Assist Toilets
  • Noisy. If you've ever been startled by a flushing toilet in a public bathroom, then you know how loud a pressure-assist toilet can be. ...
  • More Expensive. Pressure-assist toilets can cost twice as much as gravity-flush toilets. ...
  • Difficult to Repair.

Can you convert a pressure-assist toilet to a regular toilet?

The trip-lever activation usually requires more force than is required by gravity toilets. A pressure-assist toilet cannot be converted to a gravity toilet.

How Flushmate Works

Is flush valve same as pressure assist?

When you pull down on your toilet handle, a gravity-flush toilet will open the flushing valve, allowing water into the bowl and flushing out the waste. Pressure-assisted toilets use air and water pressure to force water into the toilet bowl, flushing the waste.

Can you put a flushmate in a regular toilet?

Can I Install Flushmate® in my existing toilet? No! FLUSHMATE cannot be retrofitted to an existing gravity bowl.

What is the problem with pressure-assist toilets?

Noise. Due to the pressure used in these systems, they generate a considerable amount of noise every time they are used. The noise level is consistent with the flush that you would hear in a public bathroom at a restaurant or stadium.

Which is better, gravity fed or pressure-assist toilet?

Power Flush Toilets Deliver Water Savings and More

Pressure-assisted toilets are effective using as little as 1 gallon per flush (gpf), while gravity toilets often use 1.6 gpf or more in older models. Pressure-assisted toilets are also less likely to need double-flushing, because waste is pushed out on the first flush.

Do I really need a power flush?

If you want to keep your system in tip-top shape then power flushing every 5 to 6 years is a good idea. Still, you should be able to get away with power-flushing your radiators every 8 to 10 years depending on the quality of the materials used in your system.

What toilet is best for not clogging?

Pressure-assisted toilets offer even more flushing power than gravity or dual-flush. “A pressure-assist toilet has additional pressure that will give you a more powerful flush, which is more resistant to clogs, uses less water, and can be easier to clean,” says Hicks.

What is the new flushing technology?

Our Revolution 360 swirl flushing technology sends 360 degrees of water through the bowl for complete coverage. Water is propelled from our patented AquaPiston flush canister through a powerful jet to ensure optimal bowl coverage and cleanliness. A cleaner bathroom starts with a cleaner bowl.

Which toilet flushes better round or elongated?

Elongated toilets can have a more powerful flush system, which may avoid having to “double flush.” Elongated toilets require more room than a round toilet, so take this into consideration if space is an issue. Round toilets can be installed for potty training, then replaced with an elongated one as your child goes up.

Do pressure assist toilets clog less?

Pressure-assisted toilets are much less likely to clog, because they exert far higher water delivery force on solid waste than ordinary gravity toilets.

Are pressure assist toilets noisy?

Pressure assisted toilets are noisier than traditional gravity fed models. The sound will dissipate in approximately four seconds. If you want to provide some sound insulation, you can use rugs on the bathroom floor and be sure the seat lid is down prior to flushing.

Can pressure assisted toilets leak?

While pressure-assisted toilets can develop leaks, the risk is relatively low compared to other toilet types. Regular maintenance and prompt repairs are essential in preventing leaks and ensuring the long-term performance of these toilets.

What are the pros and cons of a pressure-assisted toilet?

Is a Pressure-Assisted Toilet Right for your Home?
  • Less Frequent Cleaning. A key benefit of power flush toilets is the reduced need for cleaning. ...
  • Reduced Risk of Clogs. ...
  • Tank Design and Condensation Reduction. ...
  • Higher Cost and Noise Level. ...
  • Maintenance and Part Availability. ...
  • Installation Challenges.

Why do commercial toilets flush better?

Because commercial toilets typically get a lot more use than residential toilets, they need a more powerful flushing system to handle all the traffic. Commercial toilets in high-use areas use a sensor to automatically flush the toilet. This sensor makes it less likely the toilet will get clogged or overflow.

Who makes the best pressure-assisted toilet?

Our Top Picks
  • Best Overall: American Standard 1.6 GPF 2-Piece Elongated Toilet at Amazon $338. ...
  • Best Value: Glacier Bay Power Flush 1.28 GPF Elongated Toilet at Home Depot $199. ...
  • Best One-Piece: Swiss Madison Dreux One-Piece Elongated Toilet at Amazon $407. ...
  • Best Two-Piece: ...
  • Best Chair Height: ...
  • Best Dual Flush:

Which is better, gravity flush or pressure-assisted flush?

Gravity-assisted toilets are the most popular and most economical options as they are cheap and effective. In general, gravity toilets are more than sufficient to meet the needs of most household and commercial settings but can be less than optimal in terms of sheer volume efficiency than pressure-assisted varieties.

Why does my toilet not have a lot of pressure when I flush?

Clean the Bowl and Jets: Use a toilet-safe cleaner to remove buildup and keep the bowl and rim jets clean. Monitor Water Pressure: Low water pressure can affect flushing performance. Contact a plumber if you notice a consistent issue.

Can you put a power flush in any toilet?

Unfortunately, it's not possible to convert a low-flow toilet to a high-flow or pressure-assisted toilet. The only option is to replace a gravity-flush toilet with a pressure-assisted flush toilet.

Why does my Flushmate toilet keep running?

A run-on condition may be caused by insufficient water pressure, an improperly adjusted Flush Valve Cartridge, or a clogged inlet screen. Refer to "Installation Requirements" for recommended minimum pressure.

Does Kohler use Flushmate?

Most Complete Variety: Kohler

Kohler, a highly respected manufacturer with a rich history of quality and stylish products, provides three lines of toilets equipped with Flushmate.

Are Flushmate toilets safe?

Units can burst, causing injuries and property damage

Learn more. Flushmate has recalled almost 1.5 million pressure-assisted toilet flushing systems because they can burst, causing the toilet tank to shatter and pose impact and laceration hazards to consumers and their property.

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