Buying Guide for the Best Water Saving Toilets
Choosing the right water-saving toilet can help you conserve water, reduce your utility bills, and contribute to environmental sustainability. When selecting a water-saving toilet, it's important to consider several key specifications that will ensure the toilet meets your needs in terms of efficiency, performance, and comfort. Here are the key specs to look for and how to navigate them.Gallons Per Flush (GPF)Gallons Per Flush (GPF) measures the amount of water used each time the toilet is flushed. This spec is crucial because it directly impacts water conservation. Toilets typically range from 1.6 GPF to as low as 0.8 GPF. High-efficiency toilets (HET) use 1.28 GPF or less, making them ideal for saving water. If you are looking to maximize water savings, opt for a toilet with a lower GPF. However, ensure that the flushing performance is still effective to avoid multiple flushes.
Dual FlushDual flush toilets offer two flushing options: a lower volume flush for liquid waste and a higher volume flush for solid waste. This feature is important because it allows you to use less water when a full flush is not necessary. Typically, the lower flush uses around 0.8-1.1 GPF, while the higher flush uses 1.28-1.6 GPF. If you want more control over your water usage, a dual flush toilet is a great choice.
Flush PerformanceFlush performance refers to the toilet's ability to clear waste efficiently with a single flush. This is important to prevent clogs and ensure cleanliness. Performance can be influenced by the design of the flush valve, trapway, and bowl. Look for toilets with a high MaP (Maximum Performance) rating, which indicates effective waste removal. If you have a household with high usage, prioritize a toilet with strong flush performance.
Bowl ShapeToilet bowls come in two main shapes: round and elongated. The shape affects comfort and space usage. Round bowls are more compact and suitable for smaller bathrooms, while elongated bowls offer more comfort and are better for larger bathrooms. Consider the size of your bathroom and your personal comfort preferences when choosing the bowl shape.
HeightToilet height can impact comfort, especially for elderly or disabled users. Standard height toilets are around 15 inches from floor to seat, while comfort height (or chair height) toilets are 17-19 inches. Comfort height toilets are easier to sit on and stand up from, making them a good choice for those with mobility issues. Choose the height that best suits the needs of all users in your household.
CertificationLook for toilets with certifications such as WaterSense, which indicates that the toilet meets EPA criteria for water efficiency and performance. This is important because it ensures the toilet uses at least 20% less water than standard models while maintaining high performance. If you want to ensure your toilet is both water-efficient and effective, look for the WaterSense label.
