What Kind of Low-Flow Toilets Do You Recommend?

Low-flush toilets are designed to save you water. If you’re interested in saving money or peace of mind, or if you’re just concerned about conservation, low-flow toilets may be for you. Low-flow toilets, also known as high-efficiency toilets (HET)and ultra-high-efficiency toilets (UHET) are becoming more and more efficient all the time, continuing to be developed to save water without sacrificing flushing power.

HET toilets use 1.6 gallons of water per flush. UHTs use only 1.28 gallons per flush. They most commonly use gravity and efficient design to clear the bowl. Other models use air pressure for flush assistance. The latest low-flush toilets are an attractive option when choosing a new toilet. With the different types of low-flow toilets come different optional features for you to choose from, based upon your price range and preferences.

Pressurized assisted-flush toilets use the air pressure from a special air tank contained in the toilet tank to assist flushing with less water. However, while they are efficient, these models are noisier due to the use of air pressure, and they sometimes require a power source, and more frequent maintenance.

Some new low-flush toilets use small amounts of horsepower, generated from a pump within the unit, to assist with flushing. These models are sleek and modern, but also require a power source, like any toilet with a pump.

There is also the dual-flush toilet, a viable option that allows you to control the amount of water used to flush. The dual flush toilet has two options for how much water is used. One button allows you to flush liquid waste with a low power flush. A second button flushes solid waste with a full power flush, making it a smart and efficient way to conserve water.

The drawback to each of these models is cost for bathroom installation and maintenance. Conventional HET 1.6 gpf toilets are usually the cheapest option. Ultra high-efficiency 1.28 gpf low-flow toilets, while very efficient, are a little more expensive. When considering a low-flow or dual flush option, it’s smart to measure the initial cost of the model you want against the potential long-term utility savings. Talk to a professional plumber, or find competitive pricing and models online.