What Are Low-Flow Toilets and Why You Need One

If you want to make your home more eco-friendly, upgrading your toilet to a low-flow model is the perfect solution. What are low-flow toilets? This guide will uncover everything you need to know about this high-efficiency toilet and why it's worth installing in your home. 

If you're in the market for a new toilet or need help with other plumbing fixtures, turn to Austin's commercial and residential plumbing experts at Salty Dog Plumbing Services. 

Low-Flow Toilets Use Less Water

The EPA reports that a major cause of water usage in homes is older, less efficient toilets. These models, most of which date back to the 1980s, use up to six gallons per flush. A government mandate from 1992 set the new standard of using less than 1.6 gallons per flush.

As brands continue to evolve and use little water per flush, homeowners stand to see significant water savings each year. In fact, the EPA concludes that switching to a low-flow toilet can save you an estimated $110 annually. Installing a low-flow toilet in your home is an easy way to keep more money in your wallet while helping the planet conserve water. 

What Are Low-Flow Toilets: Different Types Available

Older homes with original toilets can greatly benefit from upgrading to low-flow toilets. But which one is best? Learn more about the different types of low-flow toilets that are available today. 

High-Efficiency Toilets

Toilet manufacturers today must produce models that use less than 1.6 gallons per flush. High-efficiency toilets use only 1.28 gallons, saving 20% more water each year. These are a great option if you want to limit your water usage, and you may be eligible for government incentives by purchasing one.

Dual-Flush Toilets

If you ever see a toilet with two flush valves on the top of the tank, it's a dual-flush toilet. One valve flushes solid waste using 1.6 gallons of water, while the other uses half that amount to flush liquid matter. 

Single-Flush Toilets

You'll receive a standard, easy-to-operate toilet that uses 1.6 gallons per flush when you opt for this model. If you want money savings without extra frills and upfront costs, ask a plumber about a single-flush low-flow toilet. 

Pressure-Assisted Toilets

The water inside the tank pressurizes and shoots out forcefully when you flush a pressure-assisted toilet. This gives it plenty of power while only using a modest 1.2 gallons of water. 

Consider All Factors

All low-flow toilets will save you money and water, but you should consider the specifics. Pressure-assisted toilets are louder than other models, while a dual-flush toilet is more expensive to install. These factors can impact your buying decision.

Now that you have an answer to the question "What are low-flow toilets?" why not invest in one for your home? Contact Salty Dog Plumbing Services if you experience toilet backup troubles or want to upgrade your dated toilet to a newer, more eco-friendly model. Call 512-264-4922 to speak with a specialist or fill out our online contact form.