Kohler vs Toto (quality & availability of parts)

[imi138]

Hi,
I need to replace a toilet in our apartment, and was leaning towards a Toto Drake.
I have been told that it is better to buy a toilet directly from the plumber instead of big box stores.

Unfortunately, most plumbers near me do not supply toilets and say I need to buy one myself and then they will install it.
The only plumber that allows me to buy directly from them uses Kohler, saying that Toto replacement parts are hard to find.

Is it true that Toto replacements parts are hard to find?
Is it worth getting a Kohler Wellworth instead of a Toto Drake just so that I can buy the toilet directly from a plumber?

Thanks

 

[imi138]

bump

 

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[whidbeyite]

I am just a homeowner, so you can take anything I say with a grain of salt.

It is relatively easy to replace parts on certain Kohler and American Standard toilets. It might be harder in your area to replace Toto parts.

Some plumbers I’ve known recommend going to a plumbing supply house (such as Ferguson) to purchase your toilet rather than a big box store. Unfortunately for us, the closest Ferguson does not answer the phone, is over an hour away, and is not well stocked.

I’ve heard good things and not so good things from owners of Kohler’s Wellworth toilets. Some didn’t feel the flush was great, and their standard height is low (14.5”).

The three different plumbers I’ve used in the past dozen years seem to recommend different brands: Kohler or Toto, American Standard (Cadet), and Gerber.

Good luck! It’s a jungle of information out there.

 

[BECplumbing]

Hi,
I need to replace a toilet in our apartment, and was leaning towards a Toto Drake.
I have been told that it is better to buy a toilet directly from the plumber instead of big box stores.

Unfortunately, most plumbers near me do not supply toilets and say I need to buy one myself and then they will install it.
The only plumber that allows me to buy directly from them uses Kohler, saying that Toto replacement parts are hard to find.

Is it true that Toto replacements parts are hard to find?
Is it worth getting a Kohler Wellworth instead of a Toto Drake just so that I can buy the toilet directly from a plumber?

Thanks

I think either one would be a decent option. Kohler would cost considerably less but would have similar performance

 

[oldVermonter]

I switched from a Kohler to a Toto Drake 1.6 gpf early this year.

--I can't speak to parts availability, since I have had no problems so far.
--The flush performance is startlingly better on the Toto.
--The Toto bowl is much easier to clean (and requires it less frequently). However, the underside of the Toto seat can be difficult to clean.