In the Hong Kong market, P-trap (univeral trap, free outlet) toilets have become increasingly popular due to their installation flexibility. The P-trap design features a water outlet that retracts into the toilet body, allowing greater adjustment during installation. The main advantage is its compatibility with drain pipes at various heights, particularly useful during renovations or toilet replacements when the exact height of existing drain pipes is uncertain. However, P-traps have drawbacks: their longer drain pipes create greater water flow resistance, potentially affecting flushing efficiency and being more prone to blockages.

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S-trap (high outlet) toilets are currently the most common choice in Hong Kong, mainly because new buildings in the past twenty years have adopted this design. S-traps excel in drainage efficiency due to sufficient drop creating stronger flushing power, and they're less prone to blockages. Their easy maintenance, allowing plumbers to access drainage components more easily, makes them popular. However, the exposed drain pipe may affect bathroom aesthetics.

 

Low-outlet toilets are mainly used in older buildings, especially those over 30 years old. While their drainage efficiency isn't as good as S-traps, they generally function adequately for normal use. However, current market options for low-outlet models are limited and often more expensive. Maintenance is more challenging due to the drain position being close to the floor, creating limited working space.

 

Floor-outlet toilets are common in old buildings and some new ones. Their main advantage is a clean appearance with drainage pipes completely hidden underground. However, maintenance is more complicated, potentially requiring major repairs when problems occur. The lack of vertical drop also results in relatively weaker flushing power.

 

Overall, Hong Kong residents mostly choose S-trap or P-trap toilets. S-traps are popular for their good drainage and easy maintenance, while P-traps offer installation flexibility, particularly when drain pipe height is uncertain. However, the most important factor is compatibility with existing drainage design. Even though P-traps offer greater installation flexibility, many plumbers still recommend choosing toilets matching the original drain pipe height for optimal performance.

Key Purchase Considerations: Flushing Systems and Water Efficiency
 

The flushing system is a core factor when choosing a toilet, as the primary need is to quickly and cleanly remove waste. Current market flushing technologies mainly include direct flush, whirlpool, and siphon systems.

1. Direct flush designs rely on water pressure for cleaning, offering strong water force for quick waste removal and reduced clogging risk, particularly suitable for smaller bathrooms. However, direct flush systems are louder and may splash, which might be a minor drawback for users prioritizing quietness.

2. Whirlpool systems create a vortex along the bowl's interior, offering quiet and water-efficient operation with broader cleaning coverage, but have higher installation requirements for small bathrooms.

3. Siphon systems use pressure differences to remove waste and are among the most popular systems, widely praised for their quiet operation and thorough cleaning. For example, TOTO and Roca's high-end models often use whirlpool or siphon designs, while Richford combines whirlpool and siphon technology in their SmartClean 3000 series, offering broad cleaning coverage and reduced water consumption, particularly important for energy-conscious Hong Kong.

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Feature Selection: Smart Technology Becomes the New Trend
With the increasing popularity of smart homes, toilets are no longer just cleaning fixtures. More brands are incorporating smart designs to provide premium user experiences.

 

Beyond traditional flushing functions, the following features have become major considerations for consumers when choosing toilets:

First is the heated seat function, particularly valuable in winter to avoid discomfort from cold seats. Models like TOTO's high-end series and the Richford ComfortPlus 5000 offer adjustable seat heating with multiple temperature settings, suitable for Hong Kong's variable climate needs.

Next is the automatic flush sensor function. This design eliminates the need for manual flushing, which is particularly relevant today with increased public hygiene awareness. The automatic sensing feature is not only convenient but also more hygienic.

 

Additionally, smart toilet cleaning functions are gaining popularity, including features like rear washing, feminine washing, and warm air drying, which have become essential for improved toilet hygiene. The TOTO Washlet series has been a market benchmark with its refined cleaning experience. Meanwhile, the American brand Richford's ComfortPlus 5000 offers similar features at a more affordable price point, making it a popular value-for-money choice.

These smart features represent a significant evolution in toilet technology, offering enhanced comfort, hygiene, and convenience. While they may come at a higher initial cost, many consumers find the improved quality of life worth the investment, particularly in a modern city like Hong Kong where home comfort is highly valued.

 

The integration of these smart features also reflects a broader trend toward bathroom automation and improved sanitation standards, with manufacturers continually innovating to meet evolving consumer expectations for both functionality and comfort.