For most bidet-curious buyers, one of the first decisions to make when choosing a bidet is between electric and non-electric bidets. While some of the most luxurious features available do require power, plenty of our customers are more than happy using a bidet without electricity. Learn about bidet power requirements and which features need a little juice to work.

Electric vs. Non-Electric Bidets

Short of taking our handy bidet quiz, deciding between electric and non-electric bidet options is the best first step.

• Electric bidets plug into a nearby GFCI outlet to power a range of features such as warm water, an air dryer, a deodorizer, or other perks.
• Non-electric bidets don’t require any power source to work. They still offer nice-to-haves, like adjustable water pressure and a slim, low-profile design.

In general, bidet toilet seats tend to require electricity, while bidet attachments tend not to, but that’s not always the case.

Why Does a Bidet Need Electricity?

Any bidet feature that requires heat (think heated seats or warm water) or movement (like an auto-close lid or self-cleaning nozzles) needs a little juice. Electricity powers many of the innovative features that have made products like the BB-2000 and Discovery DLS household names, including:

• Turbo wash
• Deodorizer
• Wireless remote

Electric bidets do require power to function, even if you’re just using water-only functions. The BB-500/550 is the exception to the rule. It features a “Backside Backup” function that enables it to operate as a non-electric bidet in the event of a power outage.  

How Does an Electric Bidet Work?

The electrical power for bidets comes from the nearest outlet in the bathroom. Bidet outlet requirements are no different from those of any other electrical device, and bidets draw very little electricity when not actively in use. Even bidets with warm water use a maximum of 1,400 watts (for tankless models), or around 600 watts for bidets with a reservoir. This results in minimal additional electricity consumption – most owners don’t notice any difference in their bills.

Bidets and GFCI Outlets

One important note about bidet power outlets: Always use a ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlet. These provide an added degree of safety from electrical shock in moist environments like the bathroom, and they’re required by most home building codes. Only use the power cord included with your new bidet, as any modifications could risk shock or damage to your bidet and outlet.

For more details about bidet power consumption, check your owner’s manual; there’s a link to every Bio Bidet model’s manual on its product page. We also have plenty of information on getting the most out of your bidet in our Resource Center.

Does a Bidet Need a Dedicated Circuit?

While not strictly necessary, having a dedicated circuit reduces the risk of overloading your outlet and circuit when multiple devices draw power. If you only have one nearby outlet, avoid using your bidet’s heat-related features while other devices are operating; as long as you're not using your bidet and a hair dryer simultaneously, you’re probably okay! 

How Do Bidets with No Electricity Work?

Bidets without electricity, or non-electric bidets, rely on water pressure from the supply line to power features such as adjustable water pressure and retracting nozzles. Instead of a button, non-electric bidets have either a rotating knob or lever to control the water spray.

If you don’t have a nearby outlet for a bidet, don’t sweat it. Find a quality bidet that doesn’t need electricity, and enjoy plenty of nifty features without worrying about plugs or outlets.

Features of Non-Electric Bidets

There are some surprising features of non-electric bidets, too. The Slim Zero is a bidet seat that offers a battery-powered night light, dual spray nozzles, and easy do-it-yourself installation, without requiring an outlet in your bathroom. 

Do Any Bidet Attachments Require Electricity?

The bidet attachments from Bio Bidet do not require power, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t packed with perks. Some of our favorite non-electric bidet features include:

•  Adjustable water pressure
• Dual nozzles that automatically retract
• Self-cleaning nozzles
• Front and rear wash settings
• Exceptionally easy installation

Non-electric bidets are an affordable way to bring cleanliness and luxury to your home. These can be especially useful options in small bathrooms or older homes with only one GFCI outlet, or no outlet at all.

Can You Have a Warm Water Bidet Without Electricity?

It depends on your definition of “warm.” Since water sits in the supply line, even non-electric bidets spray room-temperature water for at least the first few seconds. This eventually turns cooler, but it’s far from frigid. However, if you want truly heated water from your bidet, you will need power.

The Best Non-Electric Bidet for the Money

With several models to choose from, our customers always ask: “What is the best non-electric bidet for the money?” We definitely recommend using our Comparison Chart to find the right product at the right price, but here are two options to help get you started:

The best non-electric bidet toilet seat…

The Slim Zero is a combination toilet seat and lid that doesn’t require a dedicated outlet. Its handy nightlight feature does require batteries, but it’ll still work if your batteries die.

The best non-electric bidet toilet attachment…

We consider the SlimEdge to be the best bidet without electricity, period. At $59 MSRP, it’s sleek, durable, and fits virtually any toilet on the market.

Finding the Right Electric or Non-Electric Bidet

Looking to save money on toilet paper and lower your family’s carbon footprint? Add a bidet toilet, bidet seat, or bidet attachment to get more out of every bathroom break and make a real difference. If you’re not sure which is right for you, check out our bidet quiz to narrow down the options to the exact features you can’t live without.