TITLE: Making The Switch To Water-Saving Toilets: Worth It?
I get where you’re coming from with the nerves. First time I swapped out an old 3.5 gallon beast for a 1.28, I was half convinced I’d be plunging every other day. But honestly, the tech’s come a long way. The dual-flush ones especially—those are pretty slick. Haven’t had to double-flush yet, and that’s with two teenagers in the house who don’t exactly go easy on the plumbing.
If you’re already mid-reno, it’s just one of those upgrades that makes sense. The install’s not much different than a standard toilet, maybe a little lighter to move around. Wax ring, bolts, water line—same steps as always. Only thing I’d say is check your rough-in measurement before you buy. Some of the newer models have a slightly different footprint and you don’t want to be patching up tile you just laid.
Water bill savings are real, but it’s not like you’ll retire early on it. Still, every bit helps, especially if you’ve got multiple bathrooms. And yeah, frees up some cash for those “statement” tiles that everyone seems to want now... I swear, every time I walk into a tile shop there’s some new trend.
One thing I did notice—if your house has older plumbing or low water pressure, might be worth checking reviews for flush power before you buy. Some brands handle solids better than others (not naming names but there are a few duds out there). Otherwise, it’s been smooth sailing here.
All in all, I’d say go for it if you’re already doing the work. Worst case, you swap it out again in ten years when the next big thing comes along... but at least your water bill will thank you in the meantime.
Water bill savings are real, but it’s not like you’ll retire early on it.
That made me laugh—definitely not banking on my toilet to fund my future. I just finished building and went with the 1.28 gal models everywhere, mostly because I couldn’t bring myself to install something that guzzles water in a brand new place. I was a little skeptical about flush power too, but so far, no issues (and trust me, my partner is not shy about “testing” the limits).
One thing I noticed: the bowl shape matters more than I expected. Some of the compact elongated ones feel a bit cramped compared to the old-school round bowls. Not a dealbreaker, but if you’re picky about comfort, worth sitting on a few at the store (awkward, but hey).
I do wish the savings were more dramatic, but honestly, it’s just nice knowing I’m not wasting gallons every time. Plus, less guilt when the dog decides to drink out of it... again.
the bowl shape matters more than I expected. Some of the compact elongated ones feel a bit cramped compared to the old-school round bowls.
That’s something I hadn’t really thought about, but now that you mention it, comfort is probably underrated when you’re picking toilets. I’ve been looking at the 1.28 gal models too, mostly for the long-term savings, but honestly, like you said, the numbers aren’t huge. Still, if you’re building new, it feels wasteful not to go with the efficient option. Did you notice any price difference between the water-saving models and regular ones? I’m curious if the up-front cost ever outweighs the water bill savings over time.
MAKING THE SWITCH TO WATER-SAVING TOILETS: WORTH IT?
I’ve actually swapped out a few toilets in my own place and for clients, and honestly, the price difference between the 1.28 gal models and the standard ones isn’t as big as I expected. Maybe $30-50 more, depending on the brand and features. Over time, the water savings do add up, especially if you’ve got a bigger household. But I totally agree—comfort is huge. I once picked a super sleek, compact model for a small powder room and regretted it every time I used it... form over function isn’t always the way to go.
MAKING THE SWITCH TO WATER-SAVING TOILETS: WORTH IT?
I hear you on the comfort thing—sometimes those “designer” toilets look great but feel like sitting on a ledge. I’m curious, did you notice any difference in flush power with the lower-gallon models? I’ve read mixed reviews, and honestly, I worry about needing double flushes (which kind of defeats the purpose). Anyone actually tracked their water bill after switching?
