Flush
Fact vs. Flush Fiction: The Truth About High-Efficiency Toilets
Not your fathers low-flow
Problems with first-generation low flow toilets were
infamous in the early 1990s. Some consumers complained that the
toilets clogged too often, needed several flushes to clear the bowl,
or caused problems with their home plumbing. Although later generations
of water-saving toilets have resolved such issues, misconceptions
have persisted and kept many consumers from saving both water and
money. With new designs and technological advancements, todays
high-efficiency toilets use less than 1.3 gallons per flush
and perform as well asor better thanconventional,
less efficient models.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agencys (EPAs) WaterSense
program is making it easy for consumers to identify high-efficiency
toilets in the marketplace. Toilets that are certified by independent,
third-party testing to meet EPAs rigorous criteria for both
efficiency and performance can earn the WaterSense label. Look for
WaterSense labeled toilets and dont let these myths keep you
from saving water and saving money!
Myth: Low-flow = poor performance
FACT: WaterSense labeled toilets get the job done.
Many tend to associate lower flow with lower flushing power. Not
true. New technology and design advancements, such as pressure-assisted
flushers and modifications to bowl contours allow high-efficiency
toilets to flush better than first-generation low-flow toilets.
All WaterSense labeled toilets have met EPAs efficiency and
performance requirements, meaning double-flushing and
clogging should not be an issue (but rememberany toilet will
clog if used as a trash can).
Myth: High-efficiency toilets cause problems with home plumbing
systems.
FACT: WaterSense labeled toilets meet or exceed plumbing standards.
Some consumers worry that lower flows may back up pipes and ruin
home plumbing. There is no need to worry. WaterSense labeled high-efficiency
toilets meet or exceed all national plumbing
standards required of all toilets.
Myth: High-efficiency toilets are too expensive.
FACT: With the potential for rebates and lower water bills, WaterSense
labeled toilets can save you more money than you think.
Considering the potential savings on water bills, it could be more
costly not to purchase a WaterSense labeled toilet. Also, many local
utilities offer rebates ranging from $25 to more than $200 to replace
older toilets with new, water-efficient models. In many cases, with
cost savings and rebates, a WaterSense labeled toilet can pay for
itself in only a few years.
Myth: High-efficiency toilets are not available in the style I
want.
FACT: WaterSense labeled toilets are available in a wide range of
models.
Numerous WaterSense labeled toilets are already available at retailers
in many regions in a range of styles for standard to high-end bathrooms.
EPAs WaterSense label helps consumers easily identify high-performing,
high-efficiency toilets, so look for the WaterSense label and start
saving water while you upgrade your bathroom!
Can You Tell Fact from Fiction?
FICTION
|
FACT
|
All low-flow toilets need multiple flushes and often clog |
WaterSense labeled toilets must meet strict criteria for water
efficiency and flushing performance |
Lower flows lead to problems with home plumbing systems. |
WaterSense labeled toilets meet or exceed national plumbing
performance standards. |
WaterSense labeled toilets cost more than other toilets. |
With cost savings on water bills and potential rebate options,
WaterSense labeled toilets can be cheaper than other, less efficient
models. |
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