After two years of studying fluid dynamics, talking with consumers about what they want in a toilet, and extensive development and testing, American Standard introduced its new flushing technology, the America's Best Flushing System, at the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show this year. "We find that consumers don't even want to think about the toilet," says Robb Kass, vice president of marketing for American Standard.
Currently available only in the manufacturer's new Champion model, the system focuses on efficiency by improving the mechanism by which water flows into the bowl, scours it, and is then siphoned out.
Several unique features distinguish the system, according to Kass. The tank flapper mechanism was eliminated and replaced with the patent-pending Flush Tower. When the toilet is flushed, the tower mechanism opens the silicone-sealed flush valve and releases precisely 1.6 gallons of water in 0.75 seconds. Kass says the company chose to eliminate the rubber flapper because they can wear out or bind, causing problems. The tower shuts automatically after the water is released, even if the handle is held down. The Champion toilet meets most non-adjustability codes because the metered flush can't be adjusted.
The manufacturer also enlarged the flush valve to 3 inches, which makes possible the rapid transfer of water from the tank to the bowl. When the toilet is flushed, a measured amount of water is channeled to sweep under the bowl's rim. "As the water comes out the bottom of the tank, a plastic insert in the chinaware directs the water so it's already starting to circulate before it comes out of the rim," Kass says. Seventy percent of the water is directed into the jetway. After the bowl is scoured, this water jet forces the contents of the bowl into the trapway. Because the flush action was re-engineered, the trapway outlet could be enlarged in diameter to facilitate clearing of the bowl without clogging.
American Standard offers a 10-year warranty on the entire toilet. Kass says the system will be coming out in more styles in the future. The Champion toilet has a 16.5-inch-high seat that meets ADA requirements.
