Introduction: Why EN 997 Matters in Today’s Sanitary Projects
In today’s construction landscape—be it hotels, residential towers, or public buildings—flush toilet performance is no longer just a detail. For international procurement professionals working with European suppliers or targeting compliance across multiple regions, understanding EN 997 is essential.
This European standard is more than a product label. It’s a performance-driven certification that measures how well a flush toilet actually performs in the real world—covering everything from flushing power to hygiene, water-saving capability, and durability.
Yet, many project managers or procurement teams still ask:
- What does EN 997 really certify?
- How does it compare to standards like EN 33 or ISO 30500?
- Which toilet types and technologies are eligible for it?
- And which brands already build products to meet or exceed EN 997?
This article unpacks EN 997 in practical terms, offering real-world use cases, comparative tables, and procurement tips for professionals looking to make informed buying decisions.
What Is EN 997?
EN 997 is a European performance standard developed by CEN (European Committee for Standardization) that applies to gravity-fed and pressure-assisted ceramic toilets with a close-coupled or independent cistern.
Unlike design-only standards (such as EN 33), EN 997 focuses on how a toilet actually works. It evaluates:
- Flushing efficiency (removing test materials in a single flush)
- Water seal depth to prevent odor backflow
- Cleanliness of the bowl post-flush
- Noise levels during operation
- Water usage, including dual-flush systems (e.g., 4/2.6L and 6/3L)
This standard helps ensure high performance across different building environments—from airports and resorts to hospitals and residential units.
📘 Learn more: CEN – Sanitaryware Standards Overview
Comparative Table: EN 997 vs Other Toilet Standards
| Feature / Focus | EN 997 (Europe) | EN 33 (Europe) | ASME A112.19.2 (USA) | ISO 30500 (Global) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Purpose | Flushing performance | Dimensional standard | Water efficiency & safety | Off-grid dry toilets |
| Key Tests | Flush power, residue clearance, noise, water usage | Height, shape, installation | Strength, flushing, water use | Waste treatment efficiency |
| Water Saving | ✅ Yes (dual-flush emphasis) | ❌ No | ✅ Yes (≤1.6 GPF) | ✅ Zero water use |
| Suitable For | Europe, Middle East, commercial buildings | Layout planning | North America | Rural or water-scarce areas |
🔗 External resource: ISO 30500 – Sustainable Sanitation Standard
5 Leading European Brands Producing EN 997 Toilets
Here are five European bathroom brands that meet the EN 997 standard, ensuring reliable toilet performance for both private and public projects.
1. VitrA (Turkey)
A market leader known for eco-friendly designs and efficient flushing systems. Their EN 997-certified models often feature smooth surfaces, soft-closing lids, and 4.5L dual flush capability.
- Ideal for: Hotels, luxury apartments, wellness centers
2. Jika by Laufen (Czech Republic)
Part of the Laufen Group, Jika delivers affordable EN 997 toilets with a clean design and robust flushing systems suitable for budget-conscious developments.
- Ideal for: Student housing, urban residential projects
3. Roca (Spain)
Well-regarded for sustainability, Roca’s EN 997 products feature silent flushing and antimicrobial glazing for better hygiene.
- Ideal for: Government buildings, sustainable housing
4. Duravit (Germany)
Known for sleek, design-forward bathrooms, Duravit offers EN 997 wall-hung toilets that blend aesthetic appeal with smart water usage.
- Ideal for: Luxury hotels, modern office buildings
5. Sphinx by Geberit (Netherlands)
Focusing on compact designs and space-saving, Sphinx toilets certified under EN 997 are highly suited for urban residential complexes.
- Ideal for: Condominiums, compact apartments, high-efficiency housing
Why EN 997 Certification Matters to Global Buyers
If you’re sourcing toilets for hotels, housing projects, or healthcare facilities, EN 997 is more than a checkbox—it’s a performance guarantee. Here’s why:
✅ Reduces maintenance costs: Toilets with certified flushing power avoid clogs and reduce water waste over time.
✅ Simplifies project compliance: Many EU projects, and even some in the Middle East and Africa, require EN standard-compliant fixtures.
✅ Supports green building targets: EN 997 encourages dual-flush technology and low water consumption, aiding LEED or BREEAM certification.
✅ Enables flexible global sourcing: Whether you’re building in Europe or exporting there, EN 997 products are recognized across borders.
🛠 Related search: dual flush toilets 4.5/3L for hotels
FAQ – People Also Ask
Q1: Is EN 997 a requirement for toilets sold in Europe?
Not legally mandatory in all EU countries, but it is the most widely accepted performance benchmark for flush toilets. Public and private projects often specify it in tenders.
Q2: How do I know if a toilet is EN 997 certified?
Look for official documentation or lab testing certificates. Many genuine products display the EN 997 stamp, but always request test reports from suppliers.
Q3: Can EN 997 toilets be used in non-European countries?
Absolutely. The performance benchmarks in EN 997 are highly respected in Middle East, Africa, Southeast Asia, and beyond. It’s a reliable export standard.
Q4: Is there any overlap between EN 997 and ISO 30500?
No. ISO 30500 covers waterless sanitation systems, while EN 997 applies to water-flushing ceramic toilets.
Q5: Does EN 997 ensure toilets are water-saving?
Yes. The standard includes test cases for dual-flush and low-volume flushing performance, supporting sustainable bathroom design.
Conclusion: Choose EN 997-Ready Products for Quality and Compliance
Whether you’re managing a hospitality renovation in Dubai or sourcing ceramic toilets for an apartment project in Europe, understanding EN 997 helps you choose better products—more efficient, durable, and sustainable.
If you’re looking for a reliable OEM/ODM factory that understands EN 997 and other global toilet performance standards, consider working with a manufacturer that has real engineering capabilities and international project experience.
🔹 Danube is a ceramic sanitary ware factory based in China that provides OEM & ODM services for toilets, smart toilets, wash basins, vanities, and more. We support brands and project buyers globally with high-performance, EN 997-compliant bathroom solutions.