Are you struggling with an outdated bathroom layout or a tricky plumbing configuration that standard toilets just won’t fit? You are not alone; many homeowners in older US properties face the unique challenge of finding a reliable fixture that connects to a rear waste pipe rather than the traditional floor drain. The Gerber Plumbing Ultra Flush Floor Mount Back Outlet Bowl offers a robust, stylish, and water-efficient solution to this specific architectural hurdle.
In this comprehensive guide, we will break down everything you need to know about this specialized fixture. From its water-saving technology to step-by-step installation insights, we aim to help you make an informed decision that balances aesthetics, performance, and compliance with modern plumbing codes.
What Is a Back Outlet Toilet and Why Choose Gerber?
Before diving into the specifics of the Gerber model, it is essential to understand why you might need this type of toilet. A back outlet toilet, also known as a rear-discharge toilet, evacuates waste through a hole in the back of the bowl rather than the bottom. This design is crucial for homes built on concrete slabs where running pipes underground is difficult, or for renovations where moving the main soil stack is prohibitively expensive.
The Gerber Advantage
Gerber has been a staple in the American plumbing industry since 1932. Known for their durability and straightforward engineering, Gerber toilets are often preferred by plumbers for their reliability. The Ultra Flush line specifically targets the modern demand for conservation without sacrificing flushing power.
According to industry standards, a high-quality toilet should balance water usage with waste removal efficiency. Gerber achieves this through their proprietary flush valve design, which ensures a rapid release of water into the bowl, creating a strong siphon action. This is particularly important for back-outlet models, which sometimes suffer from weaker flushes due to the horizontal trajectory of the waste.
Key Features of the Gerber Ultra Flush Floor Mount Bowl
When evaluating the Gerber Plumbing Ultra Flush Floor Mount Back Outlet Bowl, several technical specifications stand out. These features contribute to its high rating among both DIY enthusiasts and professional contractors.
1. Water Efficiency (HET Compliance)
The “Ultra Flush” designation indicates that this model is a High-Efficiency Toilet (HET). It typically uses 1.28 gallons per flush (GPF).
- Standard Old Toilets: Used 3.5 to 7 GPF.
- Current Federal Standard: 1.6 GPF.
- Gerber Ultra Flush: 1.28 GPF.
By switching to this model, an average family of four can save thousands of gallons of water annually. This not only lowers your utility bills but also aligns with EPA WaterSense criteria, which may qualify you for local rebates.
2. The Flush Mechanism
At the heart of this bowl is Gerber’s large 2-inch flush valve. Unlike smaller valves that restrict flow, this larger diameter allows water to enter the bowl quickly. This rapid influx is critical for initiating the siphon jet, which pulls waste through the trapway and out the back outlet.
3. Durability and Material
Constructed from vitreous china, the bowl is fired at high temperatures to create a non-porous, glossy surface. This finish resists staining and makes cleaning significantly easier. For a floor-mount unit, the structural integrity of the base is vital to prevent cracking under weight, and Gerber’s reinforced base design meets ANSI Z124.1 standards for stability.
Installation Guide: Step-by-Step
Installing a back outlet toilet differs slightly from a standard floor-drain model. While we always recommend hiring a licensed plumber for major modifications, understanding the process can help you prepare your bathroom and verify the quality of work.
Note: Always check your local building codes before beginning.
Tools and Materials Needed
- New wax ring or rubber gasket (specifically designed for rear discharge if applicable, though many use standard rings with a horn).
- Adjustable wrench.
- Level.
- Silicone caulk (color-matched to the toilet).
- Closet bolts and caps.
Step 1: Preparation
Remove the old toilet completely. Clean the flange area thoroughly. For a back outlet, ensure the wall pipe (spigot) is clean and free of old wax or debris. Measure the rough-in distance. While standard toilets measure from the wall to the center of the floor drain, back outlets require measuring from the finished floor to the center of the waste outlet on the wall.
Step 2: Setting the Gasket
Place the appropriate gasket or wax ring on the waste outlet. If using a wax ring with a horn, ensure the horn points into the pipe. Some modern installations prefer rubber gaskets for their resealable nature and ease of adjustment.
Step 3: Positioning the Bowl
Carefully lift the Gerber Plumbing Ultra Flush Floor Mount Back Outlet Bowl and align the outlet with the wall pipe. Press the bowl firmly against the wall. Ensure it sits level on the floor. If the floor is uneven, use plastic shims under the base to stabilize it. Do not overtighten the mounting bolts yet, as this can crack the porcelain.
Step 4: Securing the Unit
Once aligned, tighten the closet bolts evenly. Alternate between the left and right sides to apply even pressure. Check with a level to ensure the bowl is perfectly horizontal.
Step 5: Connecting the Tank and Water Supply
Attach the tank to the bowl using the provided bolts and washers. Connect the water supply line to the fill valve. Turn on the water slowly and check for leaks at the supply line and the tank-to-bowl connection.
Step 6: Final Sealing
Apply a bead of silicone caulk around the base of the toilet where it meets the floor. This prevents water from seeping underneath during cleaning and adds structural stability. Leave the back open (un-caulked) if local codes require it, allowing any potential leaks from the wax ring to be visible.
For more detailed information on plumbing standards and safety, you can refer to general plumbing guidelines on Wikipedia.
Performance Analysis: Pros and Cons
To give you a balanced view, here is a comparison of the advantages and potential drawbacks of this specific model.
| Feature | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Flush Power | Strong siphon action due to 2-inch valve. | May require precise alignment during install. |
| Water Usage | Saves ~20% water compared to 1.6 GPF models. | None significant. |
| Design | Classic, timeless look fits most decors. | Limited color options (usually white/almond). |
| Compatibility | Ideal for slab foundations and retrofits. | Not suitable for standard floor-drain setups. |
| Maintenance | Easy-to-clean vitreous china surface. | Replacement parts must be Gerber-specific. |
Common Questions About Gerber Back Outlet Toilets
1. Will the Gerber Ultra Flush clog easily?
No. The Gerber Plumbing Ultra Flush Floor Mount Back Outlet Bowl is designed with a fully glazed trapway. This smooth surface reduces friction, allowing waste to pass through easily. The 1.28 GPF volume is engineered to provide enough mass and velocity to clear the bowl effectively.
2. Can I install this toilet if my current toilet drains into the floor?
Generally, no. Back outlet toilets are designed for wall-mounted waste pipes. If your home has a floor drain (standard closet flange), you should purchase a standard floor-outlet Gerber model. Converting a floor drain to a wall outlet requires significant plumbing reconstruction.
3. Is this toilet compatible with any tank?
While Gerber tanks are designed to fit Gerber bowls, it is crucial to match the model numbers. The “Ultra Flush” bowl is optimized for the corresponding Ultra Flush tank to ensure the correct water volume and flush dynamics. Using a mismatched tank may result in poor performance or leaking.
4. How do I clean the back outlet area?
Since the outlet is at the back, it is hidden once installed. However, during installation, ensure the area behind the toilet is accessible for future inspections. Regular cleaning of the bowl interior with non-abrasive cleaners will maintain the vitreous china finish and prevent buildup that could affect flushing efficiency.
5. Does this model meet ADA requirements?
Standard height Gerber bowls are typically around 14-15 inches. For ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance, you usually need a “Comfort Height” or chair-height toilet (17-19 inches). Check the specific model number of the Gerber Ultra Flush you are purchasing; some variations offer ADA-compliant heights, but the standard floor mount bowl may not.
6. What is the warranty on Gerber toilets?
Gerber typically offers a limited lifetime warranty on the vitreous china against manufacturing defects. Mechanical parts like the flush valve and fill valve usually have a shorter warranty period (often 1-5 years). Always retain your proof of purchase.
Conclusion
Choosing the right toilet is about more than just aesthetics; it is about finding a fixture that works harmoniously with your home’s infrastructure. The Gerber Plumbing Ultra Flush Floor Mount Back Outlet Bowl stands out as a premier choice for homeowners dealing with rear-discharge plumbing constraints. It combines water-saving technology, robust construction, and reliable flushing power in one package.
By opting for this model, you are investing in long-term durability and environmental responsibility. Whether you are renovating an older home or building on a concrete slab, this toilet provides the performance you need without compromising on efficiency.
Did you find this guide helpful? Share this article with your friends on social media who might be tackling similar bathroom renovation projects. If you have questions or experiences with Gerber toilets, leave a comment below—we love hearing from our community!
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