On the Horizon for K&B: INAX

Integrated, in toilet-speak, means bidet capabilities included, a concept devised in 1961 by INAX, now a subsidiary of Japan’s largest building material manufacturer, Lixil. Invented for the very practical reason of limited space in most Japanese bathrooms, the integrated has evolved enormously in half a century.

Today, INAX’s stylish toilet-bidet combos offer heated seats, automatic lids (they rise when you approach; seats too, if you wish to program them so), lights (inside and outside, illuminated upon approach; otherwise off to conserve energy), and music, all controlled by remote.

“The Satis conserves water like no other toilet out on the market,” says Chris Paulsen, Project Engineering Manager, INAX USA. “It uses a tankless, pressurized flushing system that is both effective and quiet.”

Known as the Direct Vortex Flush system, the proprietary technology enables a powerful, spiraling water flow that cleans the bowl completely with each flush. And, the average flush volume of the Satis is only 1.05 gallons, more than half a gallon less than the U.S. maximum limit.

In addition to water conservation, combining two fixtures in one unit saves space, and cost (additional plumbing and installation). Not to mention paper. The Satis is also the only toilet on the market to employ Plasmacluster technology (developed by SHARP for air purifiers; also used by Viking, for one, in their refrigerators) to disinfect with antibacterial ions. Other toilets simply have deodorizers.

This April the slightly less luxe version of the Satis hit the U.S. market. There’s no music, but the important elements – like the Hyper Clean surface, which resists scratches and stains – are all in place.

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