Thinking About Installing a Japanese Smart Toilet or Bidet? Here’s What UK Homeowners Need to Know
If you’ve recently considered upgrading your bathroom with a Japanese-style smart toilet or bidet, you’re not alone. These high-tech fixtures offering features like heated seats, adjustable water sprays, and even air drying have become increasingly popular across the UK. But before you go ahead with your installation, it’s essential to make sure it meets UK water safety regulations.
Why Water Regulations Matter
Smart toilets and bidet seats connect directly to your home’s water supply. Without the proper safety measures in place, there’s a risk that contaminated water could flow backward into the clean mains water supply, potentially endangering public health. To prevent this, UK Water Regulations require special precautions, especially for devices that involve personal hygiene.
What Is Category 5 Protection?
UK regulations classify potential water contamination risks into categories, from 1 (no risk) to 5 (serious health hazard). Toilets and bidets fall into Fluid Category 5, the highest risk level, because they involve direct contact with human waste.
To protect against backflow (i.e., contaminated water traveling back into the mains supply), any connection to a combo toilet/bidet unit must include a Fluid Category 5 backflow prevention device. The most common and effective solution is an air gap, a physical space between the water outlet and any part that could be contaminated.
Check valves alone are not enough. While they prevent water from flowing in the wrong direction, they don’t provide the required level of protection for this type of sanitary appliance.
What to Look Out for When Buying a Smart Toilet or Bidet Seat
Not all smart toilets or bidet seats on the market are compliant with UK regulations. Some models do come with built-in Fluid Category 5 protection, but many do not. It’s critical to:
• Check product documentation before purchase or installation.
• Look for WRAS (Water Regulations Approval Scheme) or other UK-based approval markings.
• Speak to a qualified plumber or installer who understands UK Water Regulations and can ensure the product is safe and legal to use.
Before You Install:
1. Confirm the Product Has Built-in Protection
Make sure the unit includes a certified Fluid Category 5 backflow prevention device. If it doesn’t, the unit must be connected via an external air gap system to remain compliant.
2. Avoid DIY Installs Without Research
Even if you’re handy, incorrectly installing one of these systems could risk contaminating your home’s water and the public supply. Always get professional advice if you’re unsure.
3. Check with Your Water Supplier or Local Authority
Some regions may have specific requirements or prefer certain types of backflow protection.
In Summary
Japanese-style smart toilets and bidets are a fantastic upgrade, but they must be installed with safety in mind. By ensuring proper Fluid Category 5 protection, you’ll not only comply with UK regulations but also protect your household and your community from potential water contamination.
Have questions before you buy or install? Talk to a qualified plumber or check with your local water authority. It’s always better to be safe and compliant than risk a costly mistake. To Find a Qualified APHC Member head to: wwww.aphc.co.uk/find-an-aphc-member
