Kohler vs. American Standard Toilets: Which One is Right for Your Home?

Benjamin Haberman
Editor in chief
Published
Nov 10, 2024 2:58 AM
Updated
Jun 4, 2025 8:00 PM

Kohler vs. American Standard Toilets: Which One is Right for Your Home?

Tired of toilets that waste water, constantly clog, or just don't match your bathroom style? Let’s explore two leading brands—Kohler and American Standard—to find your perfect match!

What Does WaterSense Certified Mean?

WaterSense certification means a toilet meets EPA standards for water efficiency and performance. Toilets with this label use significantly less water—typically 1.28 gallons per flush (GPF)—while maintaining excellent flushing performance. This helps you conserve water and save money on your utility bills.

Understanding Toilet Heights

Toilets generally come in two heights:

  • Standard Height (around 15 inches): Suitable for shorter individuals or families with children.
  • Comfort Height (around 17-19 inches): Similar to chair height, these toilets provide added comfort, especially beneficial for taller individuals, elderly, or those with mobility challenges. Comfort height models are usually priced slightly higher due to their enhanced ergonomics.

One-Piece vs. Two-Piece Toilets

  • One-Piece Toilets: Integrated tank and bowl, offering a sleek look and easier cleaning, but typically more expensive.
  • Two-Piece Toilets: Separate tank and bowl, easier to transport and install, usually more affordable but slightly harder to clean due to the seam between parts.

Why Don’t All Toilets Include a Seat?

Interestingly, many Kohler toilets do not include a seat by default, whereas American Standard toilets typically come complete with seats. This difference can confuse consumers, as it often goes unnoticed until after the purchase, requiring an additional cost and inconvenience.

Why This Matters:Manufacturers like Kohler sell toilet seats separately to offer customization options—such as soft-close lids, heated seats, or quick-release mechanisms. While this gives homeowners the ability to choose exactly what they prefer, it often leads to unexpected additional expenses.

Pro Tip:
When buying Kohler toilets, double-check whether a seat is included. If not, budget accordingly for the added cost of a seat.

 🚽 American Standard: Quality and Affordability

American Standard toilets are known for their reliability, innovative features, and budget-friendly pricing. For homeowners in Cape May County looking for a dependable option that combines quality with affordability, American Standard is an excellent choice.

A white toilet next to  table and toilet paper holder, against a seafoam green painted wall.
American Standard toilets are known for their reliability, innovative features, and budget-friendly pricing.

Pros of American Standard Toilets:

  • Affordability: American Standard offers high-quality toilets at a range of price points, making them accessible for homeowners looking to upgrade without breaking the bank.
  • Efficiency: Many American Standard models are WaterSense certified, using less water per flush while still delivering powerful performance—helping you save on your water bills.
  • Variety of Styles: American Standard offers a variety of designs and styles, including comfort height models and elongated bowls for maximum comfort.

Cons of American Standard Toilets:

  • Design Aesthetics: While functional, some homeowners might find the designs less luxurious compared to Kohler's high-end models.

🚽 Kohler: Luxury and Design

Kohler toilets are known for their luxurious designs, innovative flushing systems, and comfort. They’re a popular choice for homeowners seeking a toilet that combines aesthetics with advanced features.

A Kohler white toilet and white kitchen sink in a bathroom with light blue trim and black and white tiled flooring.
Kohler toilets are known for their luxurious designs, innovative flushing systems, and comfort.

Pros of Kohler Toilets:

  • Elegant Design: Kohler toilets often feature sleek and modern designs, making them a great option for those looking to elevate the look of their bathroom.
  • Quiet Flush: Kohler’s flushing systems are designed to be both powerful and quiet, which is ideal for households that value a noise-free experience.
  • Advanced Features: Kohler offers a range of advanced features, including touchless flushing, heated seats, and integrated bidets for added comfort and convenience.

Cons of Kohler Toilets:

  • Price: Kohler toilets tend to be more expensive than American Standard models, which may be a consideration for budget-conscious homeowners.
  • Maintenance: The advanced features offered by Kohler can also mean higher maintenance costs over time, particularly if repairs are needed.
  • Seats: Most do not come with seats which makes the ordering process more confusing.

Key Comparisons: Kohler vs. American Standard

  • Price: American Standard toilets are generally more budget-friendly, making them ideal for homeowners in Cape May County who are looking for value without sacrificing quality. Kohler, on the other hand, comes at a higher price point, which may be justified by its additional features and luxurious design.
  • Efficiency: Both brands offer water-efficient models, but American Standard has a broader selection of budget-friendly, water-saving options.
  • Design and Features: Kohler is well-known for its elegant designs and luxurious features, making it an excellent choice for homeowners looking for an upscale bathroom experience. American Standard, while more straightforward, offers dependable performance and a variety of comfortable options.
  • Installation and Maintenance: American Standard is easier and cheaper to install, which is great for local homeowners and plumbers in Cape May County. Kohler’s advanced features, while desirable, can sometimes lead to higher installation and maintenance costs.

Why Choose American Standard?

For homeowners, American Standard toilets offer a combination of affordability, efficiency, and reliability. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your bathroom or replace an old toilet, American Standard provides a wide range of models that suit different styles and budgets. At Budd’s Plumbing, we often recommend American Standard for its proven track record and value—making it the perfect choice for those who want dependable performance without the hefty price tag.

Ready to Upgrade Your Bathroom?

If you’re looking for a new toilet that combines efficiency, reliability, and value, Budd’s Plumbing is here to help. We supply and install American Standard toilets, ensuring you get the quality you need for your home in Cape May Court House and across Cape May County. Contact us today to learn more about our offerings and to schedule your installation—your bathroom upgrade starts here!

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