Toilet microlift: what is it, what are the pros and cons?

A toilet seat with a microlift appeared on sale not so long ago, but it already has many positive reviews. The device is relevant for many reasons - it is not only practical and prolongs the life of the sanitary equipment, but also makes the stay in the bathroom more comfortable. Let's take a closer look at what you need to know about this device, on which models it is better to pay attention.

The microlift in the toilet is a mechanism that is also called a soft-flush device - and this is its accurate description. A plumbing innovation makes lifting the lid quiet and soft. In fact, the device is built into the lid and is sold complete with it. The product is made of polymer material - duroplast, the chemical basis of which is formaldehyde and phenol. But also in its composition there are additional substances - hardeners, which make the structure quite hard, wear-resistant, give it an attractive appearance of plastic.

The interior of the movement consists of parts such as:

• the mount by means of which the lid is fixed to the toilet bowl is called a rod;
• element providing delayed lowering - spring;
• the part thanks to which the microlift can change position is the hinged structure;
• For the mechanics to work flawlessly, the internal device contains a viscous substance - a lubricant with a not very pleasant smell.

A plumber with a special device has the following advantages:

• the undoubted advantage of using a microlift is an increase in the operational characteristics of the toilet, the elimination of defects such as small cracks in the enamel, which appear after several years of use;
• with a gentle drainage of water, the service life of the cover, as well as the seat, increases;
• when installing the microlift, there are no characteristic knocks that the toilet seat and lid make - only the water drain is heard;
• rare models of toilets have an automatic switch-on device - when a person approaches, the device lifts the lid; agree, this is also pleasant and creates a certain comfort;
• in the presence of a microlift, the lid is always closed - and this is a guarantee that there will be no annoying smell in the bathroom;
• additional bonus - easy installation; the product is easy to install and remove when necessary, for example, when you need to clean up.

The design has much fewer drawbacks than advantages, namely:

• compact models cannot be removed and installed on your own - this can complicate the care of the toilet bowl and the device itself;
• the material from which the microlift is made is fragile, characteristic of ceramic products, especially under mechanical stress, therefore, if handled carelessly, the element may break;
• the device is practically beyond repair, with the exception of certain modifications.

The latter judgment is considered controversial - in fact, the "non-separable" system lends itself well to repair, if it is carried out by a qualified specialist, after some correction and revision it can function again.

Monoblocs are a recent invention in the plumbing market. Such a toilet is a monolithic structure that unites the bowl and the tank. The specificity of the product lies in the absence of nodes that, in other models, constantly pose a threat of leaks and blockages, since these two main elements are not connected. The working functions of all parts are regulated in production during their installation, so they do not need additional adjustment.

The monoblock system works on the same principle as the compact toilets. The lifting and closing of the seat and lid is carried out automatically. Outwardly, a one-piece toilet has a lot in common with compact products - it also has a floor-standing installation, and the tank is not disguised, but is in plain sight.

Today, a microlift in a one-piece case is inferior in popularity and demand to more familiar plumbing systems, but, most likely, it is worth paying attention to its advantageous characteristics, determined by the connection of the tank and the bowl, namely:

• in monoblock designs, all operational capabilities and nuances are carefully thought out, which increase convenience in use;
• in the manufacture of monolithic models, high-quality materials are used that are resistant to pollution and sediment formation; any deposits are excluded due to the specific shape and glazed surfaces of the sanitary ware;
• due to the peculiarities of the device, it is not necessary to purchase spare parts for connection, as well as gaskets and other parts;
• often the monoblock microlift system is equipped with a special system for economical water consumption;
• in addition to the absence of malfunctions, usual for compact models, the integrity of the product makes it stronger and more durable - such a toilet will last at least 15–20 years, and without breakdowns; the material of manufacture also plays an important role in this - the external parts are made of duroplast, the body is made of high-strength sanitary ware;
• it is impossible not to mention the originality of the appearance of the plumbing, one-piece structures are distinguished by a variety of palettes, if you wish, you can choose any sizes and shapes of the product, which means that they will fit the dimensions and color scheme of the bathroom;
• installation of equipment is carried out extremely quickly and easily; for installation, you need to provide drainage, fix the toilet to the floor and connect the water;
• monoblocks are more compact than ordinary models and can be used in small-sized rooms;
• they are notable for their low height, their shape without unnecessary corners and recesses suggests easy care of the toilet bowl.

At the same time, the use of such products with a microlift convenient for all family members. This feature becomes especially relevant when it comes to children and the elderly. In some monolithic modifications, the soft descent device has an additional water purification option.

As a rule, this is a built-in self-cleaning function that can be of help for people with disabilities and people of retirement age. The heating system is also present in one-piece technology, it is important for children of any age, women and girls, it is necessary for those who have diseases of the genitourinary system, kidneys and other similar pathologies, in which any contact with the cold is contraindicated.

When deciding to buy a monoblock with a microlift, you need to be aware of the design flaws. The main disadvantage is the high cost, compared to toilets, in which the device is built into the lid. However, against the background of the fact that the innovative toilet has a service life of almost 2 decades, this drawback turns out to be very insignificant, especially since the finances invested in the purchase are fully justified. And also the internal structure can be considered a minus, since in case of malfunctions that even such plumbing is susceptible to, a complete replacement of elements is required due to the impossibility of changing any one part.

Next, see the video review of the monoblock toilet with a microlift.