Last Updated on April 20, 2023
As an RVer, nothing is more frustrating than encountering an unfamiliar feature in your vehicle, especially when it’s your bathroom. One such feature that can leave you perplexed is a raised RV toilet. The question on your mind is probably, why is my RV toilet raised up?
RV toilets are often raised for several reasons. A higher toilet seat height can provide more comfort for tall or elderly individuals or those with mobility concerns.
Also, the raised design helps with proper water flow and prevents clogs in the RV’s plumbing system. Compliance with accessibility standards, such as those set by the Americans with Disabilities Act, is also a consideration.
Having a raised toilet seat allows for easier transfers from a wheelchair, increasing accessibility for users. The aesthetic factor cannot be overlooked, as a raised toilet can enhance the overall interior design of an RV bathroom, adding depth and dimension to the space.
Kick back and get comfortable because we’re about to dive into why your RV toilet might be higher off the ground than expected.
Why Is My RV Toilet Raised Up: Main Reasons
A raised RV toilet may seem unusual, but there are several reasons why it is a common feature in recreational vehicles. The following are some of the main reasons for raising an RV toilet.
1. Increased Comfort
A higher toilet seat height can offer a more comfortable experience, especially for tall or elderly individuals who may struggle to get up from a lower seat.
In addition to being more comfortable, a raised RV toilet can also offer other benefits. For example, it can help prevent leg and knee strain by reducing the amount of bending required to use the toilet. This can be especially important for those with mobility issues.
2. Plumbing System
The plumbing system is another reason for raised RV toilets. Unlike traditional homes, RVs have specific plumbing requirements that must be met to ensure proper functioning.
These requirements can differ significantly from those of a traditional home, so the toilet may need to be raised to accommodate these differences.
An RV toilet may be raised for plumbing purposes to create enough space for the holding tank below it. The holding tank collects waste until it can be emptied at a dump station.
To ensure that the waste flows properly into the tank, there needs to be enough clearance space between the toilet and the top of the tank. This clearance space can vary depending on the size and shape of the tank, as well as other factors such as piping and valves.
Another reason an RV toilet may need to be raised for plumbing is due to differences between traditional and RV plumbing systems. In a traditional home, waste flows through gravity-fed sewer lines that connect to a municipal sewer system or septic tank.
Waste must be pumped out in an RV using specialized equipment. This requires different piping configurations and valve placements than what you would find in a traditional home.
3. Accessibility and Safety Issues
Another reason for RV toilets being raised is accessibility and safety concerns. Regarding RV toilets, ADA compliance is an important factor to consider. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) sets standards for accessibility in public and commercial buildings, but it also applies to RVs.
The ADA says RV toilets have to be at a certain height for people with disabilities. The standard height for an ADA-compliant toilet is between 17-19 inches from the floor to the top of the seat.
Raising an RV toilet to meet ADA standards can make it easier and safer for people with disabilities or limited mobility to use the bathroom facilities. This can include those who use wheelchairs or walkers or have difficulty sitting down and standing up.
4. Aesthetic Factors
Regarding RV toilets, the aesthetic factor is not usually the other thing that comes to mind. However, having a raised toilet can actually improve the overall interior design of your RV bathroom.
One benefit of a raised toilet is that it can match existing bathroom fixtures. If you have a sink or shower with a higher height, having a raised toilet can create a cohesive look in your bathroom.
Also, some RV owners choose to upgrade their toilets as part of a larger renovation project and opt for a more modern or stylish design.
Another advantage of having a raised toilet is that it makes your bathroom feel more spacious. Lifting the toilet off the ground creates an illusion of more floor space which can be especially important in smaller RVs.
What to Consider When Raised Up RV Toilet?
When deciding to get a raised RV toilet, it’s essential that you look into several key points:
1. Height
When raising an RV toilet, it’s essential to consider the height. Firstly, ensure the height is comfortable for frequent users. It’s essential to evaluate the height of the most frequent user, so they can use the toilet comfortably.
Additionally, the raised toilet should not wobble or be unstable. Therefore, always check the stability of the RV toilet after raising it. This will prevent any accidents or injuries while using the toilet.
2. Space
To ensure a smooth installation process, it’s essential to consider the space available before raising an RV toilet. Consider if there’s enough space to accommodate the new height without obstructing other bathroom fixtures, such as cabinets or shower enclosures. Always measure the available space to help make an informed decision.
3. Plumbing
Raising an RV toilet may also require modifications to the plumbing system. It’s crucial to check the plumbing and ensure it can handle the new system changes. Consulting with a professional plumber can save time and reduce installation hassles.
A professional plumber has the skills to make the required changes and ensure that the system can accommodate the newly raised RV toilet.
4. Weight Capacity
Before raising an RV toilet, it’s crucial to check the toilet’s weight limit. Ensure that the weight capacity is suitable for frequent users and the toilet can handle their weight. A toilet’s weight limit is essential because accidents or injuries can occur if it cannot support the users’ weight.
5. Comfort
Another important consideration in raising an RV toilet is the users’ comfort. Make sure that the new height is comfortable for users when using the toilet. The angle of the user’s legs when seated should not be too steep. Consider installing a footrest to help with posture and provide additional comfort.
6. Accessibility
When raising an RV toilet for accessibility reasons, there are additional factors to consider. Installing grab bars and non-slip surfaces is critical to provide support and prevent slipping while using the toilet.
Ensure the toilet is easily accessible and safe for all users, regardless of their disabilities or mobility issues. Providing accessibility features ensures that users can use the toilet safely and independently.
Can I lower my RV toilet if it’s raised up?
The feasibility of lowering a raised RV toilet depends on its specific design and layout. Lowering the toilet without rerouting or adjusting the plumbing or wiring underneath may not be possible.
If the raised placement exists for accessibility purposes, lowering it might be plausible. To ensure safety and proper execution, seeking guidance from a qualified RV technician or plumber is highly recommended.
So, determining whether or not lowering your RV toilet is possible heavily relies on your situation’s unique factors, and consulting an expert in the RV community is a wise decision.
Does a raised RV toilet affect its performance?
A raised RV toilet is not expected to affect its performance if installed and connected appropriately. If the height of the toilet is significantly increased, the water flow, drain angle, or sealing mechanism might be impacted.
To prevent any potential issues, it’s recommended that a certified RV technician inspects the toilet if any problems, such as incomplete flushing or leaking, arise.
If not installed correctly, a raised RV toilet may present a few issues that could affect its functionality. Obstructed water flow could cause issues with how the toilet operates. With a higher toilet height than usual, the drain angle could also be affected, which could result in clogging, backed-up sewage, or other issues.
One of the other potential problems of installing a raised RV toilet is the increase in the seal necessary between the toilet and the plumbing system. If the seal is not properly installed or damaged, it could cause leaks or other substantial problems. This could result in unpleasant odors or even significant water damage to the RV.
Enjoy Easier Toilet Access in Your RV: Elevating for Comfort and ADA Compliance
There are various reasons why an RV toilet might be raised. One of the primary reasons is to increase comfort while using the toilet.
A raised toilet height is ideal for tall and elderly people as it reduces the strain on their knees and back. Additionally, specific plumbing requirements for RVs may necessitate a higher toilet seat.
Proper installation requirements must also be met when installing a raised RV toilet to ensure that it functions optimally. This includes providing enough clearance space around the toilet and following the correct installation process.
Accessibility and safety issues are also considered when raising an RV toilet. ADA compliance is essential in ensuring all individuals have access to restroom facilities, regardless of their physical abilities.
