European water closets vs. Pan Toilets: Which is the Best Choice for Your Bathroom?
When selecting the ideal toilet for your house, there is usually a lot of discussion over which is better and more appropriate an European water closets or a PAN toilet. Both types have their own pros and downsides, so choosing one can be very important.
You may make an informed choice if you thoroughly grasp both toilet systems and know their advantages and disadvantages, even though the choice will rely on your individual preferences, cultural background, and practical demands.
Adano Ceramics and its team of experts can help you choose the best one for your bathroom. With a large selection of sanitaryware products, including European water closets and PAN toilets from leading manufacturers, we can assist you in finding the ideal item for your house that fits your requirements and tastes.
What are EWC (European Water Closet) Toilets?
Western toilets, also known as EWC (European Water Closet) and sometimes referred to as sitting toilets, are the most prevalent kind of toilet in North America and Europe. They use a flush system to get rid of waste. Their comfortable seating position and sleek, contemporary style guarantee simplicity of use and make them a more inclusive choice.
Western toilets have become increasingly popular due to their ease of use. Nowadays, practically every home has this sort of toilet as standard.
Why EWC (European Water Closet) Toilets are Good?
- Has a comfortable position for sitting
- Best for those who cannot move and squat
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Has a stylish and modern look
- Can be customized
- Accessibility features such as rails and raised seats
- Mostly available everywhere and has standard designs
Disadvantages of EWC (European Water Closet) Toilets
- The installation and upkeep expenses are high.
- It uses more water and takes up more room to install,
- It might not be appropriate for all body shapes and tastes.
What are PAN Toilets?
PAN toilets, also called squat toilets or Indian toilets, require users to squat to place themselves above the toilet pan. They require little upkeep, are inexpensive to install, and have a straightforward but efficient design.
Indian toilets were widely used throughout the Indus Valley Civilization. They have great cultural value in nations where customs and beliefs about cleanliness are well ingrained. Many regions of South Asia, India, and other nations with comparable cultural origins use them extensively.
Why are PAN toilets Good?
- Saves costs of installation and maintenance
- The squat position is hygienic and protects potential surfaces from bacteria, especially in shared or public facilities.
- Lesser water usage
- Simple design and easy to clean and maintain
- Suitable for small bathrooms
- Eco-friendly
Disadvantages of PAN toilets?
- Not suitable for mobility issues and individuals
- Significantly less adaptability to fit into modern bathroom designs
- Needs more manual cleaning
- Not good for people with disabilities
- Difficult for elderly to squat, causing discomfort and muscle strains
Head-to-Head Comparison Between EWC (European Water Closet) and PAN Toilets
|
Feature |
PAN Toilet |
EWC Toilet |
|
Design |
Floor mounted. It comes in squat positions and is made of concrete or ceramic |
They are floor-mounted or wall mounted, have a seated position, and are made with various materials. |
|
Usage |
It needs a squatting position |
Needs a seating position |
|
Water Usage |
Needs minimal water usage and comes with manual flushing or low-flush systems |
Needs moderate to high water usage, with various flushing mechanisms |
|
Comfort |
Not much comfortable for elders or those who need seated toilets |
Are comfortable for most people who have mobility issues |
|
Maintenance |
Have simple designs and need manual cleaning |
Are easy to clean and maintain. Needs seat removal while cleaning |
|
Space Need |
Have compact designs and are best for tiny bathrooms |
They need more space for installation and have elongated bowl models |
|
Accessibility |
Not for individuals with mobility issues, disabled, or elderly people |
They are suitable for everyone as they have features like raised height and grab bars |
|
Cost |
They are more affordable in terms of installing and maintaining |
They can be expensive as compared to PAN toilets and will have the initial cost and maintenance |
|
Cultural Significance |
They are part of traditional South Asian Culture, most influenced by practices and hygiene benefits |
They are associated with modernity and sanitation standards in Western societies |
Some Basic Myths Addressed
Myth: PAN Toilets are Unhygienic
Truth:
Indian toilets eliminate direct touch between the body and the toilet seat by requiring squatting, which improves hygiene. They can be hygienic if water is used for regular cleaning and upkeep.
Myth: EWC (European Water Closet) Toilets are More Hygienic
Truth:
Direct touch between the body and the toilet seat is necessary for Western toilets. They need to be cleaned and maintained to stop bacteria and germs from growing. Cleanliness is enhanced by appropriate use and hygiene procedures, such as shutting the toilet lid before flushing.’
What Factors You Must Consider When Choosing Between EWC (European Water Closet) and PAN Toilets
Size of Bathroom and Layout
Before selecting the type of toilet, you must estimate the area in your bathroom. It is preferable to ascertain the size and layout of the bathroom before making a purchase because Indian and Western toilets vary in size.
Needs and Preferences
Think about who will use the restroom and be aware of their preferences. For instance, Western toilets might be more pleasant than Indian toilets for elderly people or people with mobility impairments.
Budget Constraints
Installing and maintaining Indian toilets is typically less expensive. Nonetheless, Western toilets provide practical, cutting-edge features for the price you spend.
Accessibility Requirement
If there are people with disabilities and mobility issues, choose Western restrooms. For them, squatting in Indian toilets would not seem possible.