Let’s Dive into Thetford Aqua-Magic Style Plus Toilet With Water Saver – High
The Thetford Aqua-Magic Style Plus Toilet With Water Saver – High isn’t exactly the kind of gear that elicits gasps of excitement around the campfire, but trust me, after a decade of bouncing around in RVs and setting up remote basecamps, a reliable toilet is worth its weight in gold (or, you know, waste). Manufactured by Thetford, this toilet promises a home-like experience on the road, combining a stylish china bowl with water-saving features. The inclusion of a hand sprayer for efficient cleaning makes it a step above the basic RV toilet.
My quest for a better RV toilet started after one too many unpleasant experiences with the standard, flimsy plastic models. I needed something more durable, more comfortable, and frankly, less…icky. After researching several options, the Thetford Aqua-Magic Style Plus Toilet With Water Saver – High seemed to strike the right balance of features and price.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the quality of the china bowl. It felt substantial and much more hygienic than the plastic toilets I was used to. The overall design was modern and clean, a definite upgrade for my RV bathroom. While I haven’t personally tested similar models side-by-side yet, I considered the Dometic 310 and the SeaLand 711-M28. I chose the Thetford for its combination of height, water-saving features, and positive online reviews.
My first impression was relief. Finally, a toilet that didn’t feel like a constant compromise. I was genuinely excited to install it and see how it performed on our next trip.
Real-World Testing: Putting Thetford Aqua-Magic Style Plus Toilet With Water Saver – High to the Test
First Use Experience
I installed the Thetford Aqua-Magic Style Plus Toilet With Water Saver – High in our family’s 28-foot travel trailer before a week-long camping trip to the Ozark National Forest. This trip involved dry camping with limited water resources, so the “Water Saver” aspect was crucial. The initial setup was straightforward, taking about an hour with basic plumbing tools.
The toilet performed admirably during our trip. The single-pedal flush was powerful and efficient, clearing the bowl completely every time. Even in the humid Ozark climate, the bowl stayed clean and odor-free. There was a slight learning curve to using the pedal correctly to maximize water savings, but it was quickly mastered.
The only minor issue was getting used to the high-profile design. At 20 inches tall, it’s significantly higher than standard RV toilets, which could be a consideration for users with mobility issues or small children.
Extended Use & Reliability
After six months of regular use, including several weekend trips and another week-long excursion, the Thetford Aqua-Magic Style Plus Toilet With Water Saver – High has proven to be a reliable and durable upgrade. There are no signs of wear and tear on the bowl or flushing mechanism. The only maintenance required has been occasional cleaning with RV-specific toilet cleaner.
Cleaning is surprisingly easy, thanks to the smooth china bowl and the convenient hand sprayer. The sprayer allows for targeted cleaning and helps conserve water, making it ideal for boondocking. Compared to our previous plastic toilet, the Thetford is a clear winner in terms of hygiene and ease of maintenance.
Breaking Down the Features of Thetford Aqua-Magic Style Plus Toilet With Water Saver – High
Specifications
Stylish China Bowl: The durable china bowl provides a sanitary and aesthetically pleasing experience. It resists stains and odors better than plastic alternatives, offering a home-like feel.
Single-Pedal Flush: The pedal flush offers convenience and water control. Pressing it partially fills the bowl, while pressing it fully initiates a powerful flush.
Water-Saving Hand Sprayer: The integrated hand sprayer provides a targeted cleaning option. This helps conserve water, especially when dry camping or boondocking.
High Profile Design: The 20-inch height offers increased comfort. This is particularly beneficial for taller individuals or those with mobility issues.
Full-Sized Seat: The comfortable, full-sized seat is customizable. You can replace it to match your RV’s interior design.
New Mechanism Design: The mechanism is designed to wipe clean with every flush. This improves hygiene and reduces the risk of clogs and odors.
These specifications are significant because they directly address the common complaints about RV toilets. The china bowl improves sanitation and comfort, the water-saving features are essential for responsible camping, and the high profile design caters to a wider range of users.
Performance & Functionality
The Thetford Aqua-Magic Style Plus Toilet With Water Saver – High performs its job exceptionally well. The flush is powerful and efficient, leaving the bowl clean and ready for the next use. The hand sprayer is a valuable addition for cleaning and conserving water.
The primary strength of this toilet is its reliability and ease of use. It’s a simple and effective design that minimizes the risk of breakdowns or complications. The only potential weakness is the high-profile design, which may not be suitable for all users. Overall, the Thetford exceeds expectations for an RV toilet.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent, with durable materials and a solid construction. The china bowl feels substantial and well-made, while the plastic components are sturdy and resistant to cracking. The high-profile design is generally comfortable, although it may require an adjustment period for some users.
The toilet is relatively user-friendly, with a simple pedal flush and an easy-to-use hand sprayer. There is no significant learning curve involved in operating or maintaining it.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care and maintenance, the Thetford Aqua-Magic Style Plus Toilet With Water Saver – High should last for many years. The china bowl is resistant to scratches and stains, while the plastic components are durable enough to withstand the rigors of RV travel.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with RV-specific toilet cleaner. The hand sprayer can also be used to rinse the bowl and prevent buildup.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Thetford Aqua-Magic Style Plus Toilet With Water Saver – High comes with the necessary hardware for installation, including a water supply line and mounting bolts. The toilet seat is also customizable, allowing users to replace it with a seat of their choice.
While there are no specific Thetford-branded accessories for this toilet, it is compatible with most standard RV toilet accessories, such as toilet paper holders, spray nozzles, and seat risers.
Pros and Cons of Thetford Aqua-Magic Style Plus Toilet With Water Saver – High
Pros
- Stylish and comfortable china bowl. Offers a more hygienic and aesthetically pleasing experience compared to plastic RV toilets.
- Efficient water-saving features. Includes a hand sprayer and adjustable flush, ideal for boondocking and responsible water usage.
- High-profile design. Provides increased comfort for taller individuals and those with mobility issues.
- Powerful and reliable flush. Ensures effective waste removal with minimal water consumption.
- Easy to clean and maintain. Smooth surfaces and a convenient hand sprayer simplify cleaning and prevent odors.
Cons
- High profile may not be suitable for all users. Shorter individuals or small children may find it less comfortable.
- Price is higher than basic RV toilets. While the features justify the cost, it’s a significant investment compared to standard models.
Who Should Buy Thetford Aqua-Magic Style Plus Toilet With Water Saver – High?
The Thetford Aqua-Magic Style Plus Toilet With Water Saver – High is perfect for:
- RV owners looking for a more comfortable and hygienic toilet experience.
- Boondockers and dry campers who need to conserve water.
- Taller individuals or those with mobility issues who benefit from a high-profile design.
Who should skip this product?
- Those on a very tight budget. Basic plastic RV toilets are significantly cheaper.
- RV owners with very limited bathroom space. The high-profile design may not fit in smaller bathrooms.
Must-have accessories or modifications?
- RV-specific toilet cleaner.
- A comfortable and stylish toilet seat that matches your RV’s interior.
Conclusion on Thetford Aqua-Magic Style Plus Toilet With Water Saver – High
The Thetford Aqua-Magic Style Plus Toilet With Water Saver – High is a significant upgrade for any RV owner looking to improve their bathroom experience. It combines a stylish design with practical features, offering a level of comfort and hygiene that is rare in RV toilets.
The price is definitely justified by the quality, durability, and water-saving benefits. I would absolutely recommend this toilet to anyone who is serious about making their RV feel more like home.
Don’t settle for a basic, uncomfortable RV toilet. Invest in the Thetford Aqua-Magic Style Plus Toilet With Water Saver – High and enjoy a more pleasant and convenient camping experience. Upgrade your throne today!