Best Kohler and Sterling Toilets in 2021: See Our Top 4 Picks

Purchasing the right toilet to replace your old one requires careful research. You wouldn’t want to end up regretting having the toilet you already installed. Remember, toilets should last a very, very long time. A few generations even, in many cases.This article helps you look at four excellent Kohler Sterling toilets.

Sterling is a subsidiary brand of Kohler and it is a recognizable world-class trade name. That is when it comes to kitchen and bath fixtures and fittings. Furthermore, Sterling toilets by Kohler have been noted for their elegance. And also for their simplicity, durability, and excellent features. Read on to find out more.

Best Kohler Sterling Toilets: Comparison Table

Top 4 Sterling Toilets and Reviews

In this section, we talk about top toilet products. Kohler is a reputable and top brand. The first three toilets in this review are some of the top models in the Kohler toilet lineup. The Sterling toilet we review here is similarly a high quality and efficient unit. Check them out and see which unit interests you.

1. KOHLER 3810-96 Santa Rosa 1.28 GPF Toilet

The first on the list is Santa Rosa: one of the new, elegant one-piece toilet designs. It is available in seven beautiful colors. Despite it having an elongated bowl, it is compact enough to fit in a small bathroom area. So it’s like most compact round bowl toilets and it has somewhat of a classic look. But it packs the latest features in toilet technology.

What sets this unit apart from other toilets is its leak-free canister setup. This is a patented system for flushing and it replaces the leak prone flapper valve found in many other toilets. Thus, this significantly reduces the possibility of leakage. And it allows for a more powerful and efficient flush.

Overview

This model is an efficient toilet and it also presents features that make a toilet first class. The list below reveals inclusive features most people look for:

• Firstly, a One-piece toilet design- it doesn’t take much effort to wipe. This is because its structure and polishing allows for easy cleaning.
• Elongated compact toilet bowl- it has a stretched bowl. You’ll find it comfortable for sitting on. Despite having a longer bowl shaped, it is compact enough to fit in a smaller bathroom space.
• Soft-close seat- this unit includes the Brevia™ Quiet-Close™ seat. And this prevents the accidental slamming of the seat and lid on the toilet rim.
• Toilet seat at chair-height level- this is an ideal seating height for most adults. Taller individuals and elderly people prefer this. It is because it doesn’t put much strain on the knees. It is also what the ADA recommends for persons with mobility difficulties.
• Single mode optimized for gravity flush system-this is a precision design. As a result it allows for a very efficient flush that significantly saves on water.
• Has a 3:2 ratio flush valve- this naturally enhances gravitational pull on the flow of water. Thereby, it optimizes flush power and effectiveness.
• Powerful 360° flush- water flows around the toilet bowl. And this makes for a more powerful and effective flush.
• Leak-free canister setup- this replaces leak prone flapper valves in many other toilets and thus significantly reduces the possibility of leakage. So this allows for a more powerful flush.
• Glazed trapway- there is interior glazing throughout the discharge and the trapway. And this complements the flush system to prevent clogging.
• Lastly, a flush lever on the side of the tank- this allows you to conveniently use the tank for putting things on.

2. Kohler K-3998-0 Wellworth 1.28 Toilet

The K-3998-0 is part of the Wellworth lineup. And like other Wellworth models, it is a more budget-friendly option. Additionally, such still showcases that classic but elegant design and Kohler look. And despite its lower price, it has great technological features as well.

Moreover, this 2-piece toilet is available in four beautifully sleek colors. And its glossy finish makes it convenient to wipe and easy to clean.

Indeed, the difficulty of cleaning the seams can be problematic for some. However, 2-piece toilets offer a more affordable solution when dealing with major damages. As with most 2-piece toilets, you can simply replace either the tank or the bowl if one of these bears damage. And this particular unit easily combines with other Wellworth bowls or tanks.

With a water consumption of 1.28 GPF, this is a unit that will surely catch any toilet shoppers’ attention. But do read on and weigh your options.

Overview

The K-3998-0 is not just about classic elegance. Because its low water consumption wouldn’t be possible without its precision-engineered system.

This Wellworth model has a Class Five single gravity flush. And this is a system that is specifically for bulk flush effectivity. It uses a large valve to make the release and flow of water more rapid and powerful.

Moreover, a further look into this product reveals the following:

• Firstly, an elongated bowl- the longer bowl allows for a more comfortable seat.
• Standard toilet seat level – this is an ideal seating height for kids. And also for people with average height or shorter.
• Flush lever is on the side of the tank – this allows you to conveniently use the tank lid as a place to put things on.
• Canister valve equipped flush system – this enhances gravitational pull on the water. That is as it drops from the tank to the bowl.
• Siphons effectively – common among many Kohler toilets is the trapway and discharge design. Such generates a more powerful siphon and optimizes flushing efficiency. And it greatly reduces the risk of unit clogging.
• Lastly, the glazed trapway – the interior glazing helps prevent clogging. At the same time, it complements the effectiveness of flushing.

3. KOHLER K-3987-0 Toilet

The K-3987-0 is also one of the models in the Wellworth lineup and it is like other Wellworth models. This is another more affordable option that carries the prestigious Kohler standard. But one advantage is that it’s with a dual-flush system. You are at an option to use 1.6 gallons to fully flush solid waste. You may also use 1.1 gallons for a lighter flush of liquid waste.

In addition, the K-3987-0 Wellworth is a compact 2-piece toilet with a round bowl. This makes it ideal for bathrooms or powder rooms with limited space. Moreover, there is an elegant toilet design. This unit is available in four, beautifully finished, stylish colors. Furthermore, its smooth glossy polish makes wiping and cleaning convenient and easy.

The K-3987-0 also easily combines with other Wellworth bowls or tanks. So like most 2-piece toilets, you get a more budget-friendly option if the tank or the bowl gets damaged. Instead of having to purchase a whole new toilet, you have the option to replace only what gets any damage. And this significantly reduces the cost of repair for you.

Overview

The K-3987-0 Wellworth gives the latest Kohler technology in effective flushing. And both flush options of this Wellworth model are fully efficient. Because the flushing system uses a Class Five gravity flush. Hence, that is engineered for effective bulk flush. In addition, this is a technology that allows a rapid and powerful release of water with the use of a large valve.

• Below are several more details to know regarding this unit.
• Firstly, a round bowl – despite being shorter in length, it is still comfortable to sit on.
• Standard toilet seat level – this is an ideal seating height for kids. And that goes too for people with average height or shorter.
• Flush lever is on the side of the tank – this allows you to conveniently use the tank lid as a place to put things on.
• Canister valve flush system – this greatly enhances gravitational pull on the water. That is as it drops from the tank to the bowl.
• Siphons effectively – common among many toilets of this brand is the trapway and discharge design. This particularly generates a more powerful siphon that optimizes flushing efficiency. And it greatly reduces the risk of unit clogging.
• It features a glazed trapway too – the interior glazing helps prevent clogging. At the same time, it complements the effectiveness of flushing.

4. STERLING, a KOHLER 402028-0 Karsten Toilet

The 402028-0 is a high-end toilet in the Karsten lineup of Sterling bathroom fixtures and its prices are higher than most Sterling toilet models for good reason. Moreover, the make and engineering is comparable to top quality toilets. But those are much more expensive. More importantly, Sterling is a Kohler subsidiary company. So it also carries the latter’s distinguished reputation for product reliability. And that includes elegance and durability.

Furthermore, the Sterling 402028-0 Karsten is available in three classically beautiful colors. It is a two-piece toilet that uses a very tough grade A vitreous china. Additionally, the polish is a very smooth gloss. In addition, that is elegant to look at and quite convenient to maintain.

Moreover, this unit is good for toilet buyers who are aware of water conservation. It has a water efficient dual flush system. So it is sure to save a household 1,000 and more gallons of water each year.

Overview

The Sterling 402028-0 Karsten comes with a Dual Force flush system. And this precision engineered technology optimizes the flushing power. Additionally, this is possible by having the water flow throughout the bowl. At the same time is a siphonic action that enhances bulk disposal. Such a process also maintains a much cleaner toilet bowl.

The following are other details you should note about this toilet.

• Firstly, a classic look with a modern twist and a technological augmentation.
• Elongated bowl that offers a more comfortable seat.
• Standard toilet seat level that is ideal for kids and people with average height.
• Narrow width of the whole toilet allows you to place it in a cramped section of the bathroom.
• Lastly, a dual mode flush option that you activate by pressing any of the two buttons. Those ares located on the lid of the toilet tank. One button gives the user the option of a full flush that uses 1.6 GPF and the other one offers a lighter flush that uses only 0.8 GPF.

Buyers Guide | How to Choose the Most Preferred Sterling Toilet

Sterling offers a wide variety of toilet designs. Furthermore, any of the models in their toilet lineup is engineered to last. And it is equipped with some of the latest advancements in flushing power. And it also includes water efficiency. Moreover, with the Sterling brand, you are definitely sure to get an excellent toilet. So are you leaning towards getting a Sterling toilet? Skim below for points you need to check and weigh are listed in this section.

Assessment Questions

• Firstly, what toilet seat height do you prefer? This basically depends on who’s going to use the toilet on a regular basis. Sometimes, it’s going to be used by small kids and short people regularly. If so, a standard seat height of 14.5 inches would be ideal. However, you may have elderly people in your household. Or you may be helping with a companion with mobility issues. If so, you should consider an ADA compliant toilet. Such units average around 17 inches in seat height and do not put much strain on the knees.
• What toilet bowl shape do you prefer? Toilet bowls are usually either round or elongated oval. Some brands have also come up with square shape models. But the kind of comfort a seat gives mostly depends on preference. Aside from the shape, the bowl length and width also factor in on comfort. And the seat installed is a consideration as well. Just be sure to consider all of these carefully in choosing what’s most comfortable for you.
• Lastly, how water efficient would you want the toilet to be? Recent advancements in toilet engineering have produced more efficient toilets. And these use even less water. But having a toilet that uses 0.8-1.28 GPF may not always mean it is water efficient. If it requires another flush or two to fully dispose of waste, then it’s not really conserving water. Water efficiency requires additional systems that optimize flushing effectiveness. So make sure the flushing system is powerful and effective enough even with the lower GPF it uses.

How Flush Works

This Kohler and Sterling toilets reviews feature single flush and dual flush designs. Dual flush toilets have the reputation for being more economical. And that is true for most other toilet brands. But with these Kohler and Sterling toilets, both designs are equally efficient.

Additionally, flush enhancing technologies make the flushing these toilets more effective. Firstly, a larger valve is installed to optimize the pull of gravity on the flow of water. Secondly, for most Kohler models, water flows from all sides of the bowl for better flushing power. Thirdly, the trapway has glaze throughout. And it has a design that creates an easier siphoning of waste and water from the bowl.

More importantly, everything about the flushing system of these Sterling toilets prevent clogging.

Cleaning

You do not need to use strong toilet cleaning solutions or rough cleaning materials. Moreover, when you use cleaning solutions often, it can cause abrasions on the finish. Furthermore, damages like this can possibly become a health hazard. Because it will cause unnecessary buildups of waste and germs in the toilet.

These Kohler and Sterling toilets have a very sleek ceramic finish. And that is smoothly polished for easy cleaning. A mild toilet cleanser can effectively clean these Kohler and Sterling toilets. And that includes the bowl. And regular cleaning also prevents buildups that become difficult to remove later. Additionally, regularly use a germ killer as well to ensure that you are safe from any health risk.

Consumption

In this paragraph, we talk about consumption. Most toilets that companies manufacture today are more economical. This is because most use only an average of 1.6 gallons per flush (GPF) and this is already a far cry from the 3-7 GPF water consumption of older toilets, though. However, the brand continues to develop even more economical toilets.

The single flush Kohler toilets that we feature here use only 1.28 GPF. Whereas, the dual mode flush Kohler and Sterling toilets average at 1.28 GPF or less. Although the regular flush on these dual mode designs uses 1.6 GPF, the lighter flush option uses only .8 or 1.1 GPF. Thus, making it as economical as the single flush units, if not a little more cost efficient.

Installation

Now if you’re handy with tools and love to take on DIY projects, installing a toilet is not at all that difficult. Carefully follow the steps below.

**(The steps shown below are after you have taken out the old toilet. Do these also after cleaning the closet flange of the old wax ring. These steps also apply to new installations.)

1. Before installation, prepare the necessary tools:

• Rubber gloves and face mask (when working on the closet flange)
• Construction level
• Construction cutter or knife (to cut off protruding shims)
• Steel saw (to cut T-bolt to size)
• Silicone
• Caulking gun
• Hand wrench
• Channel lock pliers or vise grip

2. Install the T-bolts on the closet flange and make sure they align.

3. Remove any plug you placed on the closet flange. Then install the new wax ring onto the flange.

4. Next, carefully position the toilet onto the closet flange and make sure the bolts go straight into the holes that you see on the toilet base.

5. After that, use your weight to put even pressure on the toilet. This allows the wax ring to compress and create a firm seal around the discharge and closet pipe. Do not allow the toilet to move as it can damage the wax ring and break the seal. Because if this happens, you’ll need to redo it with a new wax ring.

6. Afterwards, check if the toilet is leveled straight. If it is not, use shims until it levels straight.

7. Insert the washers and nuts into the T-bolts. Avoid damaging the base of the toilet by not tightening the nuts too much.

8. And then cut the T-bolts to make sure the bolt caps can cover the nuts.

(**For one-piece toilets, proceed to step 11.)

Placing the tank

9. Next up, place the tank in place, but be careful not to damage any part when you tighten its bolts.

10. After that, check if the tank is level or straight and make adjustments using the tank bolts if necessary.

11. Then connect the tank to the water supply. Next, turn the water on then check for leaks.

12. Flush the toilet a few times. Then carefully check for any leaks.

13. After that, use silicone to seal the base of the toilet. Then allow it to dry for 24 hours before you use the toilet.

14. Next, install the seat.

15. Lastly, check the manual for any necessary adjustments in the tank mechanisms. Or maybe it’s the water level.

What to Keep in Mind Before Buying

Shopping for the toilet that’s perfect for you requires considering a lot of things. And you’d better be doing plenty of research. Moreover, you have so many new toilets to select from and excellent features to examine. That’s why having a checklist most certainly makes sense. In this section are points for any toilet shopper. These help you thoroughly consider, research, and evaluate conscientiously.

General Considerations

• Firstly, water efficiency – What is its average GPF? Can it dispose of waste with one flush?
• Flushing power – Is the water flow enough for the toilet’s GPF? Does the engineering design optimize its flushing force?
• Size and shape of tank and bowl – Will it fit in the space it is meant to go into? Considering the length and width of parts. Is there enough space to move around?
• Price – Are other brands and models cheaper? How much is your budget?
• Durability – Firstly, how durable is it and what do people say about that?
• Convenience of maintenance and ease of cleaning – Does it have a good finish that makes it easy to wipe? Does it flush clean easily? Does it have antibacterial glazing and will it destroy bacteria and prevent the growth of germs?
• Comfortable seat – Is the shape and size perfect for you? Is the seat height the right one for the household?
• Package inclusions – Does it include the wax ring and installation hardware? And does it have the seat & lid? Do you have to buy any of these separately?
• Rough-in – Does it have the standard rough-in distance?
• Check reviews – Firstly, what do verified users say about it? Are there concerns that need more consideration?
• Customer support – How is the company’s customer service? Do they respond right away? Are they helpful?
• Ease of installation – What do plumbers say about its installation? Are there difficulties that need to be weighed?
• Availability of parts – Is it easy to get needed parts for repair? In addition, are there parts that are not readily available?
• Certifications and compliance qualifications – Does it have a WaterSense certification? Is it UL certified? Is it ADA compliant (for higher seat heights)?
• Lastly, warranty – What type of warranty does it have and how long is it? What does it cover?

Personal Preferences

• Firstly, color – Does it go well with the rest of the bathroom?
• Brand – Does it have a good reputation? What are they known for?
• Design – Which of these is preferrable? One or two-piece? Round or elongated? Lever or push button? Single or dual flush?
• Finally, seat & lid – Is it a soft-close seat? Is the seat and lid adjustable? Is it durable?

Frequently Asked Questions

In this section are frequently asked questions about Kohler and Sterling products. Check them out below.

Are Sterling Toilets Made by Kohler?

The Sterling brand was known as the Sterling Faucet Company when it was established in 1907. And it had already built a good reputation in bathroom fixtures. That is by the time Kohler absorbed the business. After which, it became a subsidiary company in 1984. Additionally, under the Sterling name, Kohler produced their mid-priced bathroom fixtures product lines. These carried the same elegance and durability people think about Kohler and Sterling.

Are Sterling Toilets a Value for the Money?

All things considered, Sterling toilets are absolutely worth the money. It is a subsidiary of Kohler, it guarantees the same quality and appeal. It features precision engineering. And it is clearly more budget friendly than most top brands and models in its category.

Is Kohler a Good Toilet Brand?

Kohler is definitely an excellent toilet brand, but it is one of the pricier brands. But for a long time, it has been known for good, stable quality products. And it boasts of newer advancements in flushing technology. The brand prides itself in toilets that are crafted for precision and efficiency.
There are more affordable brands on the market. And those can surely compete with Kohler toilets. But go with Kohler if you have the budget for it. You’ll have the guarantee of a very reliable and reputable brand. And that has been around for almost a century and a half.

Are Kohler Better Toilets Than American Standard Toilets?

It basically depends on what you base your judgment on. Kohler established itself 2 years earlier than American Standard toilet brand. But both brands have been around for close to 150 years. Kohler is definitely the larger company. Although it was a little more than double in terms of value and assets when we compare it to American Standard.

But this only makes American Standard a richer company. It does not necessarily make them a better brand or product manufacturer. However, American Standard rates much better than Kohler. That is in terms of product price and warranties. And it includes customer support, repair costs, and flushing performance.

Kohler, on the other hand, has a very slight edge in durability and seat comfort. And they showcase a much wider variety of designs and colors. In all other categories, they are head-to-head in rating. So, whichever brand is better depends on preference.

Verdict

Toilets that are coming out in the market nowadays are not as simple anymore as they were back in the day. Furthermore, toilet technology has come a long way. And recent advancements in engineering are producing units that are becoming more efficient. Therefore, shopping for best toilet is no longer as simple as looking for the perfect color. It’s not only about choosing designs that go with your bathroom. There is more to consider now than ever before.

In conclusion, Kohler Sterling happens to be one of the brands that are at the forefront of the race. That is when it comes to producing the latest, best, and most sought after toilet in the market. Therefore, you can never go wrong with the Sterling brand. Just make sure to know what to look for and to know the right questions to ask.