Are you looking for a better toilet? I did a bit of research and found two sturdy models from American Standard.
My niece calls me often during the weekends. But this time, she sounded frazzled, and it was all thanks to the month-long renovation at her home. I volunteered to help her figure out the new kitchen and bathroom essentials, but first, I had to research thoroughly before recommending anything.
When I started selecting the toilets for the bathroom, I came across the famous American Standard brand and two of their products. At first glance, the Champion 4 and Champion 4 max seemed similar since they belong to the same brand and series. But, upon reading its details, I found a few nuanced differences, which helped me decide if one was indeed better than the other.
So, this week, I decided to highlight these differences for you as well to help you make an informed decision before purchasing. Hi! I’m Stacy Smith, and today I’ll compare the American Standard Champion 4 Vs. Champion 4 Max.
Without further ado, let’s begin with the features of each unit.
American Standard Champion 4
The Champion 4 is a one-piece model which is made of porcelain. This option has a standard height that is similar to an ordinary chair and is a pretty good option for regular households. Upon purchase, you will receive a toolbox that is required for installation. But, on the downside, the seat is not included and needs to be purchased separately.
American Standard Champion 4
Pros
Cons
- INDUSTRY-LEADING POWER: Equipped with a large 4-in. flush valve (102 mm) and 2-3/8-in. (60 mm) fully-glazed trapway this one-piece toilet is virtually clog-free
- EASY-CLEAN ONE-PIECE TOILET: Sleek, seamless construction eliminates the crevices where dirt can hide, and EverClean inhibits stain and odor-causing buildup
- CHAIR-HEIGHT COMFORT: 16 1/2-in. bowl height makes accessibility, sitting and standing easier and more comfortable
- INDUSTRY-LEADING POWER: Equipped with a large 4-in. flush valve (102 mm) and 2-3/8-in. (60 mm) fully-glazed trapway this one-piece toilet is virtually clog-free
- EVERCLEAN SURFACE: Inhibits stain and odor-causing buildup
- SLOW-CLOSE TOILET SEAT: Durable toilet seat with slow-close hinge eliminates slamming
American Standard Champion 4 Max
The Champion 4 Max is a two-piece model made of vitreous china. It has a new and improved gravity-fed flushing technology along with a single flush feature. This model is lighter than previous ones and has an adequate water consumption system that needs less water to remove waste. However, the handle is slightly stiff and requires some force to push.
American Standard Champion 4 Max
Pros
Cons
- INDUSTRY-LEADING POWER: Equipped with a large 4-in. flush valve (102 mm) and 2-3/8-in. (60 mm) fully-glazed trapway this one-piece toilet is virtually clog-free
- EVERCLEAN SURFACE: Inhibits stain and odor-causing buildup
- SLOW-CLOSE TOILET SEAT: Durable toilet seat with slow-close hinge eliminates slamming
- Genuine OEM American Standard Part – Model 7382106-100.0070A. Factory-original 4" flush valve kit designed for American Standard Champion-series toilets.
- Universal 4" Champion Flush Valve – Compatible with all 2-piece American Standard Champion toilets that use the 4-inch flush system. Helps restore strong, consistent flushing performance.
- Current OEM Production Model – This is the latest version of American Standard Champion 4" flush valve commonly used to service and replace older Champion flush valves including Model# 7381967-400.0070AP and 7381983-400.0070AP.
Champion 4 And Champion 4 Max Feature Comparison
1. Performance
The Champion 4 Max tends to fare better than the Champion 4 model when it comes to functionality and performance. It is safe to say that both of them have a powerful flush system that would fit well in any home.
However, the Champion 4 Max outperforms its counterpart by a margin. It can flush 1000 grams with only 1.28 gallons of water, making it more efficient than any other model in similar cost ranges.
On the other hand, the Champion 4 doesn't perform as well, especially if you consider long-term use. Besides, many online reviews noted that it is slightly noisy while flushing, which is another disadvantage.
2. Flush System
Both these models have a fast and powerful valve which is one of the best in the industry. The main factor for this is the pressure assistance feature and the 4-inch piston accelerator flush valve. There isn’t any difference in flush time either, and both are pretty quick in flushing.
Apart from that, they have a PowerWash feature that automatically cleans the toilet bowl after every flush.
However, there is a difference in the water consumption of the two toilets. While the Champion 4 requires 1.6 gallons of water per flush, the Champion 4 Max uses only 1.28 gallons. Over time, the latter can help you save some money on water bills.
3. Trip Lever
When it comes to trip levers, both models provide similar functions with a tiny difference. Some users stated that the trip lever of the Champion 4 needed to be held down for 3 or 4 seconds for a proper flush. In comparison, there is no such issue with Champion 4 Max.
The second difference between the two is related to the options of finish for trip levers. While the Champion 4 comes in white, default chrome, polished brass, or satin finish options, Champion 4 Max is available in only default chrome finish.
So, the two models have different advantages, which might matter in the long run. Even though the difference is minimal, these are variations that you must know about.
4. Installation
In case you are planning to use your plumbing skills and install the toilet without professional help, none of the American Standard models will disappoint. If you have some experience, installing either model is a piece of cake.
All you need is a bolt kit and a commercial-grade wax ring. Apart from that, this packaging comes with an instruction manual that gives step-by-step guidance on the correct method to install the model.
Comparatively, installing Champion 4 might be challenging and will require more than two hands. This is because the toilet comes in one fixed piece, which might be challenging to lift and place for one individual.
5. Warranty
American Standard provides a 10-year warranty for both models. At this time, you can replace parts if any damage appears.
Which One Is Better?
After getting to know the differences, the Champion 4 Max turns out to be the better model. Since it had a powerful flush system, didn’t create much noise, and used less water, I think it would be perfect for any household.
Final Thoughts
So, here are my thoughts on these two toilet models by American Standard. Needless to say, if you are not picky about these details that I’ve mentioned, you’d be happy with either option.
But, I wanted to select the very best for my niece and recommend a product that would last long and won’t need frequent repairs. So, I suggested she get the Champion 4 Max since it’s the better model, in my opinion.Â
I hope this comparison helped you make a selection too. Do let me know which model you prefer in the comments below.
On that note, I’ll take your leave. Bye!