I’ve heard some of the newer high-efficiency toilets can be a bit louder. Wondering if that’s just certain brands or a general thing.
Funny you mention that—I've swapped out a few for clients, and honestly, the noise thing seems all over the map. Some of the newer models do have a sharper “whoosh” compared to older ones, but I wouldn’t say it’s universal. In my experience, it’s more about the design than the water usage. Pressure-assist types can be pretty loud, but gravity-fed ones aren’t much different from the old standards. I’d be careful about assuming “newer equals noisier.” Sometimes it’s just marketing hype or a bad install job making things worse.
I’d be careful about assuming “newer equals noisier.” Sometimes it’s just marketing hype or a bad install job making things worse.
That’s spot on. I’ve been through a few remodels where folks were worried about the noise, but honestly, it’s not a dealbreaker if you pick the right model and make sure it’s installed properly. The pressure-assist ones can sound like a jet engine, but most gravity-fed high-efficiency toilets aren’t much different from what you’re probably used to.
If you’re thinking about switching, don’t let the noise rumors put you off. The water savings are real, and most people get used to any minor sound difference pretty quick. I’d say focus more on build quality and flush performance than worrying too much about decibels. And if you can, check out some floor models in person—sometimes hearing is believing.
Bottom line: making the switch is usually worth it, especially if you’re looking at long-term savings and sustainability. Just do your homework on brands and types before pulling the trigger.
And if you can, check out some floor models in person—sometimes hearing is believing. Bottom line: making the switch is usually worth it, especially if you’re looking at long-term savings and s...
I get the point about water savings, but I’m still not totally convinced it’s “usually worth it” for everyone. The upfront cost for a decent high-efficiency model can be pretty steep, especially if you’re on a tight budget. Plus, if you end up with one that needs double flushing, doesn’t that kind of defeat the purpose? I’d want to see some real-world savings before making the switch.
Title: Making The Switch To Water-Saving Toilets: Worth It?
I get where you’re coming from. When we remodeled our bathroom a few years back, I was skeptical too—especially after hearing horror stories about weak flushes. We ended up splurging a bit on a mid-range model, and honestly, it’s been solid. No double flushing, no clogs, and our water bill did drop a bit. But if you’re pinching pennies, I can see why the upfront cost feels like a hurdle. Not every “upgrade” is a slam dunk for every household, that’s for sure.
No double flushing, no clogs, and our water bill did drop a bit.
That’s been my experience too, but I’ll admit I was a little nervous the first time I installed one. There’s always that fear you’ll end up with a “two-flush minimum” situation. But honestly, the newer models are way better than the old low-flows from the 90s. If you’re already ripping out tile and updating stuff, it’s kind of a no-brainer. Plus, less water down the drain means more room in the budget for those weird fancy tiles everyone seems to want lately...
