I was all set for a headache, but honestly, the canister thing wasn’t some mysterious contraption.
Couldn’t agree more on design being key. I’ve put in plenty of “budget” low-flows for clients, and they’re usually calling me back to fix clogs or leaks. The better brands like Toto or Kohler just work. Dual flush is fine, but honestly, most folks end up using the same button every time. Simpler is usually better.
The better brands like Toto or Kohler just work. Dual flush is fine, but honestly, most folks end up using the same button every time. Simpler is usually better.
Funny you mention that—I've seen the same thing with dual flush. People either forget which button does what, or just default to the bigger flush out of habit. I get the appeal, but if the design isn’t intuitive, it’s wasted.
On the brand front, I’ve specified Toto in a bunch of projects, and I can count on one hand the callbacks I’ve had. With the cheaper models, it’s a different story. You save a bit upfront, but then you’re dealing with leaks, phantom flushes, or worse, the dreaded double-flush. That’s not saving anyone water.
Honestly, I think the “water-saving” label gets slapped on a lot of products that just aren’t up to the job. If you’re going to make the switch, it’s worth investing in something that’s actually engineered well. Otherwise, you’re just trading one headache for another.
MAKING THE SWITCH TO WATER-SAVING TOILETS: WORTH IT?
You nailed it with the dual flush confusion. I’ve had clients literally tape post-it notes to the flush buttons because no one could remember which was which. Not exactly the streamlined look anyone’s going for. And yeah, some of those “eco” toilets really just mean you flush twice, which kind of defeats the purpose.
From what I’ve seen, the better brands really do hold up. There’s a reason Toto comes up in every spec sheet—solid engineering, fewer issues down the road. I’ve seen some of the budget options where, after a year, the inside parts are already wearing out or the seals are shot. Suddenly that $100 saved doesn’t seem worth it.
If you’re considering water-saving, I’d say check how easy the parts are to replace, too. Some of those proprietary systems are a nightmare if you ever need to fix something. And honestly, unless your household is super eco-conscious, most folks just want something that works every time... no drama, no guessing games.
MAKING THE SWITCH TO WATER-SAVING TOILETS: WORTH IT?
I get the appeal of saving water (and money), but honestly, some of these “eco” toilets just don’t cut it if you’re on a budget. I tried a cheaper dual flush model last year—looked good on paper, but after a few months, the handle got weird and the flush was super weak. Ended up having to flush twice half the time, which is just... pointless.
I hear you about the big brands like Toto. They’re solid, but man, the price tag is rough if you’re just trying to upgrade without dropping a ton of cash. I’d say if you’re going for water-saving, at least check reviews for reliability and how easy it is to get replacement parts. Some of those off-brand models are a nightmare when something breaks—had to wait weeks for a weird gasket once.
At the end of the day, I want something that works every time and doesn’t make me regret trying to save a few bucks. If you can swing it, maybe spend a little more upfront. Otherwise, be ready for some DIY fixes down the line.
MAKING THE SWITCH TO WATER-SAVING TOILETS: WORTH IT?
I totally get where you’re coming from on the budget models. I went through a similar thing when I built my place last year—thought I was being clever with a “bargain” dual flush, but it started leaking after six months. Ended up spending more on plumber visits than I saved on the initial price. In hindsight, I probably should’ve just gone mid-range and avoided the hassle. If reliability’s the goal, sometimes it pays to be a little picky... even if your wallet complains at first.
