You are currently viewing Everything you need to know about getting a low flow toilet

Everything you need to know about getting a low flow toilet

Wanting to knock off a few bucks off of that water bill of yours? Consider getting a low flow toilet!

A low flow toilet, often referred to as a high-efficiency toilet (HET), is a modern plumbing fixture designed to conserve water during the flushing process. Unlike traditional toilets that use a substantial amount of water with each flush, low flow toilets are engineered to minimize water consumption without compromising on performance.

Keep reading to find out the pros and cons, how to install one, and any problems that might arise.

What is considered a low flow toilet?

Any toilet that uses 1.6 gallons of water per flush or less is considered a low flow toilet. Low flow dual flush toilets use 1.6 and 1.1 gallons per flush. Ultimately if you want to opt for a low flow toilet you should also consider getting a dual flush. This way you save even more money and water.

Read here more about gallons per flush and why it’s important you know what GPF your toilet has.

low flow toilet

What does a low flow toilet do?

A low flow toilet is all about efficiency when it comes to flushing.

A low flow toilet is designed to save water through smart engineering. Inside the tank, you’ll find a system that allows it to use only about 1.6 gallons (or even less) of water per flush, much less than the 3-5 gallons used by older models. This way is better for your money and the environment.

Low flow toilet cost

On average a low flow toilet costs between $99 – $280. Fortunately most, if not all, new toilet models are low flow. They have a certain certification called WaterSense which tells you the toilet uses as little water as possible.

Just keep in mind that very often low flow toilets are not advertised as low flow. Every toilet listing does say its GPF, so you can instantly tell if it’s low flow.

Can you make a regular toilet low flow?

There’s something called a dual flush conversion system.

Converting a regular toilet into a low flow toilet is possible. By installing a low flow flush valve, you can reduce the volume of water used per flush. Additionally, replacing the fill valve with an adjustable one enables you to control the amount of water that refills the tank after flushing.

Be sure to select the right components and follow installation instructions carefully. Before purchasing, make sure you’ve read everything thoroughly.

Low flow toilet conversion kit

Here’s a low flow toilet conversion kit:

Here’s a video on how to use a similar dual flush conversion kit:

Do low flow toilets clog more easily

Low flow toilets, despite their water-saving benefits, have been a subject of concern for some regarding clogging issues. The’res a perception that using less water might not provide enough force to push waste down the drain effectively. However:

Low flow toilets do not clog more easily than regular toilets. Modern low flow toilets are designed with clogging prevention in mind. Toilet manufacturers have improved the design of the trapway and the shape of the bowl to create smoother, more efficient flushing systems.

Also some of these toilets often have pressure-assisted technology which uses pressure to force water and waste down the drain, reducing the likelihood of clogs.

What is the difference between standard flow and low flow toilets?

The main difference between standard flow and low flow toilets lies in their water usage. Standard flow toilets typically use a significantly larger volume of water with each flush, often ranging from 3 to 5 gallons (or even more). In contrast, low flow toilets are engineered to be water-efficient, using only about 1.28 gallons of water per flush, or sometimes even less.

Low flow toilet vs. regular toilet

Here’s a handy comparison guide between a regular toilet and a low flow toilet:

Regular toiletLow flow toilet
1. Typically uses a higher volume of water per flush, often 3 to 5 gallons.1. Uses a reduced amount of water per flush, typically around 1.28 gallons or less.
2. May provide a more powerful flush due to the larger water volume.2. Has innovative design and technology to maintain flushing effectiveness with less water.
3. Tends to be less water-efficient and can result in higher water bills.3. Offers significant water savings, leading to reduced water bills and environmental benefits.
4. Older models may not meet modern water conservation standards.4. Complies with modern water conservation regulations.
5. Potential for more significant water waste, especially in regions with water scarcity.5. Less water waste, making it suitable for eco-conscious individuals and regions with water shortages.
6. Can be more prone to clogs, depending on design and usage.6.May experience occasional clogs but often equipped with features to mitigate this.
7. Often requires more maintenance due to higher water usage.7. Generally requires less maintenance due to lower water usage and improved design.

Low flow toilet problems

Some people seem tho think low flow toilets have a lot of problems. But that’s simply not true.

Potential low flow toilet problems that may arise are incomplete flushes. Due to their reduced water usage, low flow toilets may sometimes struggle to completely flush away waste, resulting in residue left in the bowl. To combat this, you can simply flush again.

But even better yet: install a dual flush system so you can use more gallons per flush to flush away more waste.

Low flow toilet pros and cons

Although these types of toilets don’t have a lot of cons, let’s sum them up anyway.

Pros of a low flow toilet:

  • Contrubute to water conservation efforts
  • Lessen the strain on sewage systems
  • Lower water consumption
  • They are eco friendly

Cons of a low flow toilet:

  • Some waste needs 2 flushes which renders the low flow concept useless
    • Although dual flush toilets (not single flush) solve this problem

Best low flow toilets

Here are some of the best reviewed low flow toilets on Amazon:


Disclaimer: TheToiletSpecialist.com is not responsible for any damage caused to your toilet and surroundings by (wrongly) interpreting information found on this site. Please seek custom advice from a professional to evaluate your current situation.

This article may contain affiliate links at no extra cost to you. AF links help support this blog so that it can exist and expand for years to come!