Hi, Dave,
As we age, using a standard height 18″-18.5″ RV toilet is getting harder. We’ve already replaced our home toilets with 20″ and 22″ height models. Does anyone make a QUALITY porcelain RV toilet that has a 20″ or 22″ seat height? All my research is coming up empty. I have found cheap plastic ones, but no quality porcelain toilets that tall. Any ideas? —Jon, 2010 Dutchmen Coleman
Hi, Jon,
This has been an ongoing issue for several years because there are many variables when choosing the best toilet for an RV. The first variable is that there really is no “typical” RVer. RV owners come in all different heights, builds, and weights.
The second factor is usage. In many RVs, the toilet is used primarily for occasional or emergency needs, which often leads manufacturers to compromise on design and height.
The third factor is price point. Cost plays a significant role in how much compromise is built into what might be considered a “standard” RV toilet.
Having been in the RV industry since 1983, I’ve only encountered this issue a handful of times. A few years ago, we did a video for the RV Lifestyle & Repair Club on a 2000 Winnebago Brave. The original toilet was plastic and very short, so we replaced it with a taller Dometic model. Even then, it measured only 18 inches high—but it was still an improvement over the original.
Most traditional RV toilets are about 14 inches tall, but there are now several taller options available. After researching current models, I’ve noticed more discussion on this topic. In fact, just this morning I received an email from Panther RV highlighting three Dometic “tall” models.
Here are some examples
- The Dometic 510HPS Tall Gravity model measures 19 1/4 inches high, which is close to your specifications.
- The Dometic Sealand 310 lists a 20-inch height.
- The Dometic 410 Complete measures 19 5/8 inches tall.
So, there are some solid options available.
Other options
If you need even more height, consider a Thetford riser. It is a 2.5-inch platform that installs underneath the toilet and fits all Thetford models as well as Sealand 510 and 910 models. You can find it on Amazon here.
Another option would be to use a seat extender on the top. I got one of these for my parents’ residential toilet a few years ago and found one that was the same shape as the existing bowl. You can get a 5” riser on Amazon here.
Or build your own platform
If you have some DIY skills, you can also build your own platform. After removing the existing toilet and flange, you’ll see the floor opening with the flange mounted nearby. From there, you can construct a box or frame using 2x4s and top it with treated 3/4-inch plywood. This allows you to raise the toilet to a height that’s comfortable for you.
You can finish the platform with carpet or vinyl flooring to match your existing bathroom floor. This could also be a good opportunity to update the flooring and improve the overall look of the space.
You might also enjoy these posts
- Ask Dave: Update on wobbly RV toilet. Now it’s good to GO!
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- How to use your RV toilet even in winter
- How to adjust your RV toilet seat height
- How to replace your RV toilet
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I replaced the original Sealand low plastic commode in my Winnebago Vectra with a tall Dometic Revolution 310 porcelain bowl unit. Much easier to use and also flushes from all around the top! Love it! Easy upgrade – took about an hour or so from removal to install.
Our 2017 came with the Dometic 310. We love it. The only issue is a very touchy OEM flush valve. Even if blown out, a little frost can damage it. There are 3rd party valves with lifetime warranties. After losing 2 OEM valves, put in one of these and have never had another problem.
Hi Dave. Regarding building a platform to raise a toilet, what about the newly created gap between the bottom of the toilet and the floor?
It looks like the Thetford Toilet Riser seals that gap, but how does the do-it-yourselfer deal with that?
You would get a longer flange that has an extended tube. The flange gets mounted to the top of the riser, not on the floor, and the longer tube goes down into the black water tank fitting.