Choosing a Low-Flow Toilet

Toilets account for a large proportion of the water usedin the average home. When replacing  existing toilets it makes sense to check the gallons-per-flush to save water. You’ll save money on your utility bill, and you help preserve our most precious natural resource.

High Efficiency Toilets

Low-flow toilets, or high-efficiency toilets (HET), have become more efficient and reliable, save more water while providing plenty of flushing power. To be classified as a HET by the EPA, a toilet must use no more than 1.6 gallons of water per flush. They typically have an efficient design that uses gravity to empty the bowl.

Ultra-High Efficiency Toilets

Ultra-high-efficiency toilets (UHET) use only 1.28 gallons per flush. Some models use air pressure for flush assistance in the form of a special air tank integrated into the toilet. This can increase the noise when flushing due to the use of air pressure. They may also require a power connection, and could need more frequent maintenance.

Other low-flush toilets use a small pump within the unit to assist with flushing. While these toilets are sleek and modern, they also require a power source.

Dual-Flush Toilets

Dual-flush toilets, as the name suggest, can flush with different amounts of water. One button releases a small amount of water while a second empties a larger amount of water for solid waste, making them a smart and efficient alternative.

The more complexity and technology a toilet has, the greater the cost of installation and maintenance. So it’s important to weight the long-term utility savings against the up-front cost of installation.

If you’re replacing a new toilet and have questions about the different options available, give ABC Southwest Plumbing & Air Conditioning a call, we can help all your plumbing questions.