If you’re installing new toilets in your home, you may be contemplating whether to choose a standard, low-flow, or high-efficiency toilet. Remember, toilets account for nearly 30% of water consumption in a home. The benefits of making the right choice are not only related to water conservation; you can also benefit the environment in the long run.
In today’s blog post, we’ll look into the differences between standard, low-flow, and high-efficiency toilets to help you make an informed decision. If it’s time for toilet replacement in your home, it’s important that you understand how these three options work. Our plumbers in Columbia, SC have been replacing toilets for decades and understand how various types of toilets work.
What Is a Standard Toilet?
A standard toilet is the traditional model that most homes used before water conservation regulations came into play. These toilets typically use about 3.5 to 7 gallons of water per flush (GPF), depending on the model’s age and design. While they offer strong flushing power and reliability, they are far less efficient compared to modern alternatives. In homes with older plumbing systems, standard toilets can still perform well, but they are no longer the preferred choice for homeowners who want to reduce water waste and utility costs.
The biggest drawback of standard toilets is their water usage. In fact, toilets are one of the largest sources of indoor water consumption, accounting for nearly 30% of household water use. Upgrading to a more efficient model can cut down on your water bills while helping the environment. Call a nearby plumbing repair service to help you choose the right model and install it correctly.
What Is a Low-Flow Toilet?
Low-flow toilets were introduced in the 1990s in response to growing environmental concerns and water conservation regulations. These toilets are designed to use 1.6 gallons of water per flush or less, making them a more eco-friendly option than traditional models. The goal is to achieve the same flushing performance while using much less water.
Early versions of low-flow toilets sometimes struggled with performance, particularly in clearing waste with a single flush, but modern designs have solved those issues. Today’s low-flow models feature improved bowl and trapway designs, stronger flushing mechanisms, and pressure-assisted systems that ensure waste is removed efficiently. This means you can enjoy reliable performance without sacrificing water savings.
What Is a High-Efficiency Toilet (HET)?
A high-efficiency toilet takes water conservation a step further. These toilets use 1.28 gallons per flush or less, exceeding federal efficiency standards. High-efficiency models are often certified by the EPA’s WaterSense program, which ensures that they meet strict performance and efficiency criteria.
High-efficiency toilets come in various designs, including dual-flush systems, which give you the option of a light flush for liquid waste and a stronger flush for solid waste. This flexibility helps homeowners save even more water over time. Some models also include advanced features such as pressure-assisted flushing, rimless bowl designs for easier cleaning, and even smart technology for touchless operation.
Hiring a trusted plumbing repair service to help you switch to a high-efficiency toilet can help you save thousands of gallons of water per year. Over time, this not only lowers water bills but also contributes to a more sustainable household.
Contact Mr. Rooter Plumbing for Toilet Replacement
Is your toilet past its prime and breaking down frequently? Is it a water guzzler? Has it become an eyesore due to stains and hairline cracks? If so, it’s time to invest in a new toilet. Mr. Rooter Plumbing is a top-rated plumbing contractor with over 50 years of experience in installing all types of toilets. Our toilet installers are highly trained and equipped with state-of-the-art tools to handle all of your bathroom plumbing needs. If you’re looking for a qualified plumber to replace your toilet, look no further than the team at Mr. Rooter Plumbing. Give us a call or send us a message online and let us know what your needs are.
