Kohler Wellworth Toilet Review – Is It The Best Toilet In The $200 Range?
Kohler first launched the Wellworth toilets in 1936. Since then, the toilets have continually set the standard regarding innovation.
The Wellworth K-3987-0, in particular, was first introduced in 2013. The toilet improves on earlier models, like the Kohler Cimarron, by having a graceful design and being both high-efficient and affordable.
To help determine whether this is the toilet you have been looking for, here is a comprehensive review.
Construction and Workmanship
To start, the K-3987-0 is a two-piece toilet. That means it comes as two separate pieces—the toilet tank and the toilet bowl.
The most significant benefit of a two-piece toilet is that it is light and therefore easy to move around. Also, you can take the toilet apart at will.
The toilet has a round-front bowl which means it takes up minimal space. Consequently, if you happen to have a small bathroom, then the K-3987-0 will fit perfectly.
However, that does not mean that you cannot purchase the toilet if you have a large bathroom. It fits in large bathrooms as well.
More About the Look of the Kohler K-3987-0
The toilet is made from vitreous china. As a result, it has a modern look, and it is durable. Note that the K-3987-0 is available in four different colors.
Consequently, you can choose the color that you like best and more importantly a color that complements your bathroom’s décor.
Regarding dimensions, the toilet measures roughly 14.5 inches from the top of the bowl to the floor. That means the toilet has a standard seat and not the comfort height found in some models. With a standard seat, you sit further off the ground.
Finally, please note that the toilet does not come with a toilet seat. Thus, you have to purchase the seat separately. However, that is not an issue because a standard round seat from a local plumbing store will fit.
Also, purchasing the toilet seat as a separate piece means you get to decide on the right style or color depending on your preferences.
Features and Specifications
The Flushing Mechanism
The Kohler K-3987-0 features a trip lever which offers dual-flush options.
The options constitute a flush of either 1.1 gallons or 1.6 gallons.
You can use the partial flush of 1.1 gallons for liquid waste and the full flush of 1.6 gallons for solid waste. That saves on water and helps ensure the toilet is WaterSense certified.
Moreover, because the trip lever allows you to access both flush options; the toilet has only one handle. That is highly convenient as it eliminates the need for buttons or multiple handles.
In addition, the Kohler K-3987-0 also features a class five flushing technology. The technology facilitates bulk-flushing performance thanks to its design.
The Flush & Canister Valves
For one, it has a large canister flush valve. The flush valve allows the rapid release of water to facilitate a powerful clean. Additionally, it combines this powerful release of water with a direct-fed jet. As a result, your bowl is always sparkling since no waste is left behind.
Second, the canister valve ensures water flows into the bowl from all sides. This increases the effectiveness and power of the flush.
Third, the canister design comprises 90% less exposed seal material. The fact that the seal is not exposed means it does not wear off easily. Therefore, you do not need to worry about leaks.
Finally, the universal red seal is of high quality which means it is durable. Also, that it is universal means replacing it when the time comes is effortless.
Choose The Color You Like
As noted above, the toilet comes in four choices or colors. Those colors include; Almond, Black, Biscuit, and White.
Performance of The Kohler K-3987-0 Wellworth Toilet
With regards to performance, the first thing to keep in mind is that thanks to the class five flushing technology, the toilet is not prone to clogging.
Second, even though the toilet is a two-piece, it comes with a wax ring that plays a great role in helping to prevent leaks after mounting the toilet.
Therefore, frequent leaks that require a plumber and cost you a significant amount of money are no longer an issue.
Finally, thanks to the one handle that activates both flushes the toilet is ideal for those who struggle with reading due to reading disabilities. A good example is a dyslexic person who would struggle with figuring out which button is which.
Why Opt for The Kohler K-3987-0 Wellworth Toilet?
This Toilet Is Easy to Install
The K-3987-0 features a DryLock Fast Install System. Essentially, you only require a socket wrench. The wrench will help you to secure the tank to the bowl.
Note that the installation does not even require bolts meaning you can never get confused about which bolt goes where.
Even if you have never installed a toilet before, installing the K-3987-0 will not stump you. Just follow the instructions on the manual that comes with the toilet.
The fact that the toilet is so easy to install means you save both time and money because you do not employ the services of a handyman or plumber.
Kohler Is a Well-Known Brand
The Kohler name as long been associated with quality.
Also, the brand manufactures bathroom accessories that are not only functional but are also good to look at.
Consequently, your bathroom will not lose its aesthetic look if you opt for the K-3987-0.
In addition, Kohler mastered the art of manufacturing toilets that use as little water as possible without compromising on cleanliness or hygiene. This is vital because research shows that using a water-efficient toilet can save you up to $100 per year in water bills.
Affordability
In general, two-piece toilets tend to be less costly. The K-3987-0 proves this fact by being extremely affordable. Note that the toilet is not only affordable, but it provides good value for your money thanks to the durable construction and high-quality.
Also, the spare parts are readily available which means when you are in need; you won’t have to spend a lot of money.
Pros
- A great water saver
- Flushes out all the waste with a single flush
- Works well with varying interiors
Cons
- Lacks a toilet seat hence an extra cost incurred when purchasing the seat separately
You Should Consider This Before Purchasing the Kohler K-3987-0 Wellworth Toilet
Warranty
The K-3987-0 comes with a warranty of one year. It is essential to remember this because if you prefer a longer warranty, this might not be the toilet for you.
Also, you should go through the warranty in detail to find out the instances under which you can claim the warranty. That way, if you need to replace the toilet with the one-year warranty period; you will qualify.
The Toilet’s Design
Toilets come in a myriad of designs—round, elongated, square and so on.
In some cases, for instance, when you are looking for a toilet to install in the basement or garage, the design might not matter much.
However, if you have just remodeled your bathroom, then you need a toilet whose design will fit the look. Another elegant looking toilet by Kohler is the Santa Rosa model.
Therefore, you need to keep in mind where you will place the toilet, how the toilet will look and if in the future you will renovate the bathroom again.
Keeping these things in mind will allow you to choose the best possible design and ensures you do not spend more because you have to replace a toilet that does not fit the décor anymore. As noted above, the K-3987-0 has a round front-bowl design.
ADA Compliance
If you are looking for a toilet to install in a restroom or for public use, then the toilet must of necessity be ADA compliant.
Therefore, during the purchase, you must keep this in mind. The K-3987-0 is not ADA compliant which means it might not be ideal for a public space.
However, if the toilet is for home use, then whether the toilet is ADA compliant or not will depend completely on your preference.
Standard Toilets Vs. Macerating Toilets
A standard toilet features an S-shaped waste pipe that sends waste down into a waste water-system such as a sewer or cesspit.
For this to happen, the toilets utilize gravity and a suction system.
On the other hand, a macerating toilet first grinds the waste into mush and then sends it down the disposal system.
It is vital to know this because it helps determine where you can place your toilet. With a standard toilet, because of the reliance on gravity, you can only place it above the waste pipe.
However, with a macerating toilet, because it does not depend on gravity, you can either place it level with the waste pipe or below the waste pipe. Depending on where you place the toilet, the aesthetic of your bathroom will change. Note that the K-3987-0 is a standard toilet.
Our Final Take
The Kohler K-3987-0 toilet looks good, it has numerous features, and allows you to pick your preferred color. Most importantly, it has has a powerful flushing system.
If these are the qualities you look for in a toilet, then you cannot go wrong with the Kohler K-3987-0 Wellworth toilet.
Summary
Reviewer
Isaac
Review Date
Reviewed Item
Kohler Wellworth
Author Rating
My 2 year old toilet wasn’t flushing well, and normally not at all. I frustrated all the regular recommendations. Nothing worked so I called the plumber. He checked it out and said I most probably needed a new toilet. And I hope, this toilet would be help me. Thank you for your share