Looking for a little bathroom remodeling project

Q. I’m a single woman and recently closed on my own home. The bathroom is nice, but I want my contractor to do a little remodeling. Please note that I can only afford some easy upgrades and space is limited. My question: What do you recommend for a bathroom upgrade that will give some “bang for the buck” without turning into a major project?

A. As soon as I read “space is limited,” the first thought that came to mind was a “bidet toilet seat.” Bidet toilet seats combine the features of a separate bidet washing fixture with your existing or new elongated toilet.

If you have a “round front” toilet, you need to upgrade. Bidet seats can create a plumbing fixture that does double duty in a single space. That solves your space concerns, so let’s move on to installation issues.

For the plumbing, your plumber can tap right into your water-supply valve for your present toilet. Most bidet seats also require electrical power. For that, a licensed electrician needs to follow local codes to install an approved GFI electrical outlet as per the instructions of your bidet seat.

Then you simply plug in the seat to power it up and you should be good to go.

Finally, let’s talk about features. Some bidet toilet seats have remotes that can control the aerated washing wands, water temperatures, night light and comfort heating for the seat itself.

Ÿ Master plumber Ed Del Grande is the author of “Ed Del Grande’s House Call” and hosts TV and Internet shows. Visit eddelgrande.com or write eddelgrande@cs.com.

Scripps Howard News Service