Plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey teaches host Kevin O’Connor what to know about bidet retrofit seats as an affordable alternative to expensive combination units.
What is a Bidet Retrofit?
Rather than a toilet-bidet combination, which is expensive and might only be practical during a remodel, there are bidet retrofit models. These are essentially toilet seats with bidet functions built in, and they attach directly to the toilet. They’re much less expensive than a full unit and they can be added to almost any toilet.
Two Types of Bidet Retrofit Seats
There are two types of bidet retrofit seats. The first is a non-electric model, which simply uses standard cold water for washing, and there aren’t any heated air or fan functions for drying. These are affordable, usually around $60 or so. The second is an electric model, which features water heaters, fans, and remotes.
How They Attach
Bidet retrofits are easy to attach, though they all have their own methods. In general, the user removes the toilet seat and attaches a bracket with adjustable adapters inside the toilet itself. Then, the seat attaches to the brackets and is held in place by the seat bolts.
There Are Levels of Luxury
Basic models don’t have hot water or fans. They simply attach to the seat and have a valve that can be turned on and off manually. The next step up would be an electric model which does heat the water (around $300). They may or may not come with remotes, but they have additional features like water heaters, front and back jets, seat warming, and warm air for drying. On the high-end (around $900), a bidet retrofit may have an automatic lid and seat, a remote control function, adjustable water and air temperatures, night lights, and separate jets.
Resources
Richard discusses options available to retrofit a toilet into a bidet.
Richard first talks about non electric bidet options. This bidet attachment uses the current toilet seat and connects to a water source. It has a t-valve installed at the water connection to the tank and utilizes dual nozzles.
Next, Richard talks about electric bidet options available. These require an outlet within four feet of the toilet to plug into. The first design he mentions is slim and replaces the current toilet seat. It uses a special t-valve to attach two hoses, the flush hose and the bidet hose, to the toilet.
The second electric design Richard considers to be as close as you can get to the bidet toilet combo without replacing your toilet. It has a similar install to the previous seat. The major difference is it’s remote controlled, much like a bidet toilet. It’s functions include: opening and closing the lid and seat. It also includes a front and rear bidet and uses a stainless steel nozzle. It has a dryer, nightlight, and adjustable temperature for the seat and water.
One of the products Richard tests is the Bio Bidet Bliss BB2000 which retails for about $500, manufactured by Bio Bidet.