Vertical or Horizontal Outlet: How to Choose the Right Toilet
Introduction
When you're replacing your toilet, the first thing to check is the outlet type. It's simple information but crucial, and many people forget to verify it before buying.
The outlet is where water and waste exit the bowl into the drainage system. There are two types: vertical outlet (goes down to the floor) and horizontal outlet (goes to the wall).
If you buy a toilet with an incompatible outlet, you'll find yourself with a problem: either return the product or pay a plumber to modify the drainage. In this article, we'll explain the difference in a clear and simple way.
What is a Vertical Outlet?
A vertical outlet means the drainage pipe goes directly down into the floor. Water and waste are evacuated downwards, towards the drain located under the floor.
How to recognise it?
- The drainage pipe is in the floor (not in the wall)
- The hole is covered by flooring when no toilet is installed
- Found mainly in older houses and villas
Advantages:
- Easier installation in new construction
- Cleaner look (no visible pipes)
- Faster drainage thanks to gravity
What is a Horizontal Outlet?
A horizontal outlet means the drainage pipe exits from the back of the toilet towards the wall. Water and waste travel horizontally before going down to the main drain.
How to recognise it?
- The drainage pipe exits from the wall (not the floor)
- You see a hole in the wall behind the toilet
- Very common in apartments and buildings
Advantages:
- Ideal for apartments and upper floors
- Easier for maintenance and repairs
- Allows changing the toilet position more easily
How to Know Which Type You Have at Home?
Before going shopping, you need to check your outlet type. Here's how:
Method 1: Look at Your Current Toilet
If you have an existing toilet, see where the pipe exits:
- Goes to the floor → vertical outlet
- Goes to the wall → horizontal outlet
Method 2: Measure the Distances
- For vertical outlet: measure the distance from the wall to the hole in the floor
- For horizontal outlet: measure the height of the hole centre from the floor
Method 3: Take a Photo and Send It
Not sure? Take a photo of the drainage area and send it to the shop before buying. Our team will help you choose the right toilet.
Important tip: Take measurements accurately! The horizontal outlet is usually 18-20 cm from the floor, and the vertical outlet is 10-12 cm from the wall.
Which is Better: Vertical or Horizontal?
The truth? Neither is better than the other. The choice depends on your home's infrastructure.
| Criteria | Vertical Outlet | Horizontal Outlet |
|---|---|---|
| Suitable for | Villas, ground-floor homes | Apartments, upper floors |
| Installation | Needs planning from the start | Easier to modify |
| Maintenance | Harder (pipe under floor) | Easier (pipe visible) |
| Drainage | Faster | Good with proper slope |
| Appearance | Cleaner | Pipes may be visible |
Bottom line: If your home has a vertical outlet, buy a toilet with vertical outlet. If it's horizontal, buy horizontal. It's that simple!
What If You Made the Wrong Choice?
Bought a toilet with the wrong outlet? Don't panic, here are solutions:
Solution 1: Return the Product
If you haven't installed it, you can return it to the shop and exchange it. Most shops accept returns if the product is in its original condition.
Solution 2: Use an Adapter
There are pieces called "elbows" or adapters that can convert from vertical to horizontal or vice versa. However:
- May affect drainage power
- Needs a professional plumber for installation
- Not always the ideal solution
Solution 3: Modify the Plumbing
In some cases, a plumber can modify the pipes. But this solution:
- Is expensive (requires breaking and rebuilding)
- Takes time
- Only recommended for complete renovation
Our advice: Prevention is better than cure. Check the outlet type before buying and save yourself the hassle and extra expenses.
Conclusion
Choosing the right toilet starts with knowing your outlet type: vertical or horizontal. It's a simple step that saves you from big problems.
Before buying:
- Check the outlet type
- Take exact measurements
- Consult our team if in doubt
At Sanitech, we offer a wide range of toilets with both outlet types: vertical and horizontal. Our team is ready to help you choose the product that fits your home exactly.
Need help? Contact us and we'll guide you to the right choice.
