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Bidets have been around for many centuries starting in France and became popular throughout Europe, and then in the 1800s, Asia started using bidets. It wasn’t until the 1980s when Japan introduced its first electronic bidet.
Just recently Americans have started using bidet toilets in their homes; the most popular brand being Toto. Toto has 2 different bidet versions, Washlet and Washlet+. These styles do need to be plugged into an outlet close by in order to operate. There are non-electric brands out there with limited restrictions. You would not be able to change the water temperature, which I can assure you, no one likes to rinse off with cold water. With the Toto Washlet & Washlet+ you gain access to more features. The wand will automatically open and close for when you need it, there is a rear cleanse and front cleanse feature, and the wand is self-cleaning too! Other features include heated seat, warm air dryer, premist option, and a deodorizer. You can choose to have a remote or a panel on the side of the toilet that you can press. I prefer a remote so you don’t have to look to the side each time you need to change the settings, but if you’re the type to always lose remotes, then the side panel may be best for you. So what is the difference between Washlet & Washlet+? Washlet is just the bidet seat that can fit most American standard toilets. It comes in either round or elongated seat versions. You will still need an electrical outlet near the toilet so it can be plugged in. Washlet+ is the complete toilet and bidet seat. It comes in a variety of models ranging from 2-piece toilets to 1-piece, as well as an exposed base vs a skirted base. Options also include round or elongated seat, regular height or elevated, and remote or side panel to control the bidet features. Many people are starting to convert to the bidet to feel better and cleaner when using the restroom. If you are not quite sure which model or version is right for you, please call Qualtire Plumbing & Construction and we can consult with you and answer all your questions. We can come to your home and install an outlet near the toilet if you do not already have one as well.
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Hard water is usually what comes through your tap normally. Water will flow through different types of rock and soils, absorbing minerals such as calcium and magnesium. The higher the mineral content, the harder the water will be. Usually, it is safe to drink hard water, and can even be beneficial to your health.
BUT… It can harm your hair, dry your skin out, and even thin your nails. It can strip natural oils that coat your skin and hair. Your hair may become more dry and limp. Nails can have stunted growth or discoloration too. It will leave spots and residue when the water dries up. You may see after you take a shower there is a white coating that will dry on the glass or around the spout. This is limescale buildup, and if you do not clean it regularly, it will get worse and will be harder to remove. It can even damage pipes and appliances long term. Over time it can clog the pipes with mineral buildup. Eventually, you may need to repair/replace the pipes in your home. It can also shorten the lifespan of your dish washer, laundry washer, refrigerator, or any appliance that uses water. Soft water, on the other hand, removes the high mineral content. To achieve this, you need to have a water softening system in your home. The system will trap and remove the minerals from your tap water using tiny resin beads. This will help with… Preventing limescale buildup. Because it removes the minerals, you will no longer notice the white limescale buildup anymore on surfaces. It also will prolong the life of your pipes and appliances from mineral buildup. It also will help with your soap. The soap will become more effective and will make more suds. It won’t dry out your hair or skin as much either. When you are washing your body, you may feel that the water is silky or slippery. That is a definite sign that you have soft water. Having hard water or soft water in your home will depend on your preference. If you are wanting to convert to soft water I would recommend getting a smart water softener, which allows you to sync and use your smart device to control it. We’ve even installed water softening systems in houses to only certain pipes so not all the water is soft. Our technician, Craig, will come to you and recommend the right softener for your home and get it installed fairly quickly. |
AuthorAndrew is the son of the owners. He has worked for them throughout his life starting at the age of 14 as a laborer. He now manages the website and blog. Archives
February 2026
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Qualtire Plumbing & Construction
3518 W. Bethany Home Road Phoenix, AZ 85019 |
Licensed, Bonded, & Insured Contractors
ROC033789 ∙ ROC067990 ∙ ROC083903 ROC083887 ∙ ROC212090 |