The TUSHY Ace Electric Bidet Seat is a modern, water-saving bathroom upgrade that enhances comfort and hygiene. Designed for U.S. consumers, it integrates seamlessly into most standard toilets and offers features such as heated seats, self-cleaning nozzles, and adjustable water pressure. This guide provides a detailed, step-by-step breakdown of the installation process, based on the official TUSHY installation manual. It also covers safety precautions, electrical requirements, maintenance, and troubleshooting tips.
Introduction
The TUSHY Ace is an electric bidet seat that aims to replace traditional toilet paper with water-based cleansing. It is marketed as a user-friendly, high-efficiency device that aligns with modern smart home standards. Installation requires basic plumbing and electrical knowledge, and users are advised to follow the manufacturer's instructions closely to ensure proper setup and safety.
This guide is based on the official TUSHY Ace installation manual and includes key instructions for assembly, electrical connections, and ongoing maintenance. The content is tailored for U.S. consumers and emphasizes the importance of using grounded outlets, avoiding extension cords where possible, and ensuring proper ventilation during installation.
Installation Overview
Before beginning the installation, users must ensure that the environment is suitable for the device. The TUSHY Ace should be installed in a well-ventilated area, away from heat sources and direct water exposure. It must also be placed on a stable, dry surface. The device requires a 120V, 60Hz power supply connected to a 15-amp GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlet positioned at least 1 foot above the floor.
The installation process involves several steps: preparing the toilet, connecting the water supply, securing the base plate, attaching the seat, and finally connecting the electrical components. Each step must be performed with care to avoid leaks, electrical hazards, or damage to the device.
Step-by-Step Installation Instructions
Preparing the Toilet
- Turn off the water supply: Locate the water shut-off valve beneath the toilet and turn it off. This prevents water from flowing during installation and reduces the risk of leaks.
- Remove the existing toilet seat: Carefully lift and remove the existing seat from the toilet bowl. If the seat is difficult to remove, a gentle prying motion with a flathead screwdriver may help.
- Clean the toilet bowl: Wipe the area where the TUSHY Ace will be installed to ensure a clean surface for the base plate. Any dirt or debris can interfere with proper seating and may cause instability.
Connecting the Water Supply
- Disconnect the existing flexible hose: If your toilet is connected to a flexible hose from the water tank, disconnect it by turning the connection clockwise from above. Be prepared for some residual water to spill.
- Attach the Tank Adapter: Thread the flexible hose to the bottom of the Tank Adapter and then screw the Tank Adapter onto the tank. Ensure that the connection is snug but not overtightened, as excessive force may damage the threads or cause leaks.
- Connect the TUSHY Ace Hose: Attach the provided Flexible TUSHY Ace Hose to the side connection of the Tank Adapter. Again, avoid overtightening to prevent leaks or damage to the hose.
If a flexible hose is not available and a rigid metal pipe is in use, it must be replaced with the Flexible TUSHY Ace Hose included in the spare parts kit.
Securing the Base Plate
- Align the Base Plate: Position the TUSHY Ace Base Plate over the toilet bowl, ensuring that it is centered and aligned with the mounting holes.
- Attach the Base Plate: Use the provided screws and nuts to secure the base plate to the toilet bowl. It is recommended to hold the nut on the underside with a towel or pliers while tightening the screw to prevent the nut from turning and loosening the connection.
- Test for Stability: After installation, gently test the base plate for stability. If it feels loose or wobbles, check the screw connections and tighten as necessary without overdoing it.
Attaching the TUSHY Ace Seat
- Slide the TUSHY Ace onto the Base Plate: The TUSHY Ace can be slid onto the base plate using the detach button. Ensure that it is seated securely and evenly.
- Secure the Seat: Once the device is in place, use the locking mechanism to secure it to the base plate. This prevents accidental movement during use.
Connecting the Electrical Components
- Plug in the TUSHY Ace: After confirming that the water connections are leak-free and the installation area is dry, plug the TUSHY Ace into a grounded 3-prong 120V outlet. Ensure that the outlet is a GFCI type and located at least 1 foot above the floor.
- Avoid Extension Cords: While the TUSHY Ace can be used with a grounded extension cord in emergencies, it is recommended to avoid them where possible. If an extension is necessary, use a 3-prong grounded cord rated for 15 amps.
- Grounding Instructions: The TUSHY Ace is equipped with a 3-prong grounding plug. If the outlet is not properly grounded, a grounding converter may be necessary. However, this should be replaced by a qualified electrician as soon as possible.
Safety and Maintenance
Safety Precautions
- Electrical Safety: The TUSHY Ace contains electrical components and must not be opened or disassembled by the user. Attempting to perform internal maintenance may result in electric shock or injury.
- Water and Electrical Hazards: Do not submerge the device in water or allow it to fall into a tub or sink. If this occurs, immediately unplug the device and allow it to dry thoroughly before use.
- Children and Safety: Keep children away during the installation process. Additionally, ensure that any plastic bags used during installation are stored out of reach to prevent suffocation hazards.
Regular Maintenance and Cleaning
- Cleaning the Device: The TUSHY Ace should be cleaned as frequently as the rest of the toilet. Use a mild, neutral-PH cleaner such as Simple Green or Dr. Bronner’s. Avoid using harsh or abrasive cleaning products that could damage the device.
- Draining the Device: If the TUSHY Ace is being stored or moved, the internal tank must be drained. Locate the drain plug on the bottom of the device and turn it counter-clockwise a quarter turn. Allow the water to drain into a toilet, sink, or tub before retightening the plug.
- Inspecting for Leaks: Regularly check the water connections for leaks. If any leaks are detected, tighten the connections carefully and recheck for leaks after a few hours.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
TUSHY Ace Not Responding:
- Ensure the device is plugged into a functioning GFCI outlet.
- Check the outlet and reset the GFCI if necessary.
- Replace the batteries in the remote control and perform a soft reset.
- Verify that the remote is within range and the sensor is fully covered by the user.
Water Temperature Issues:
- Adjust the temperature settings using the control panel.
- If the water is consistently too hot or cold, the heating element may need to be inspected by a professional.
Remote Control Malfunction:
- Replace the batteries in the remote.
- Perform a soft reset by removing the batteries for 30 seconds and reinserting them.
- If the issue persists, contact TUSHY support for further assistance.
Leak Detection:
- Inspect all water connections for tightness and signs of wear.
- If a leak is detected, tighten the connections carefully and recheck after a few hours.
- If the leak persists, discontinue use and contact TUSHY for repair or replacement.
Warranty and Support
The TUSHY Ace comes with a one-year limited warranty that covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use. The warranty is non-transferable and applies only to the original purchaser. To make a claim under the warranty, users must contact TUSHY via email at [email protected] and provide proof of purchase.
For installation support, users can reach out to TUSHY’s dedicated support team at [email protected]. The team can assist with installation issues, spare parts, and troubleshooting. Users are encouraged to consult the official installation guide and reach out for assistance if any step is unclear.
Conclusion
The TUSHY Ace Electric Bidet Seat is a sophisticated, user-friendly device that offers numerous benefits, including improved hygiene, reduced toilet paper usage, and enhanced comfort. Proper installation is essential for optimal performance and safety. By following the step-by-step instructions provided in the official manual, users can ensure a successful and trouble-free installation.
Key considerations include adhering to electrical and plumbing safety guidelines, using the correct tools and materials, and maintaining the device according to the manufacturer's recommendations. With the right preparation and attention to detail, the TUSHY Ace can be a valuable addition to any modern bathroom.
Users should also be aware of the warranty terms and support options available in case of any issues. The TUSHY support team is available to assist with installation questions, troubleshooting, and repair services.