MAKING THE SWITCH TO WATER-SAVING TOILETS: WORTH IT?
I’m with you on the benefits of newer models—they’re just engineered better for efficiency. I’ve tried conversion kits in the past, and while they help a bit, it’s never quite as seamless as a purpose-built low-flow toilet. Sometimes you end up fiddling with adjustments just to get a decent flush. If you’re already opening up the floor or replacing plumbing, it really makes sense to go all in and swap the whole unit. The upfront cost is higher, but you avoid that constant “is this going to leak?” worry down the road.
MAKING THE SWITCH TO WATER-SAVING TOILETS: WORTH IT?
I totally get where you’re coming from on the cost vs. peace of mind thing. I keep going back and forth on this myself because I’m always watching my budget. The price tag on a brand new low-flow toilet can be a bit of a gut punch, especially if you’re not already planning a major bathroom overhaul. But then again, those conversion kits never seem to work as smoothly as advertised, at least in my experience. I had one for a while and it was... fine, but I always ended up double flushing, which kind of defeats the purpose.
Did you notice your water bill drop much after switching? That’s the part I’m curious about—if the savings actually make up for the upfront investment over time. I’m also wondering if you had any trouble with clogs or if the newer models really are as good as people say. I’d love to save water, but not if it means dealing with more plumbing headaches down the line.
But then again, those conversion kits never seem to work as smoothly as advertised, at least in my experience.
Honestly, I’d skip the conversion kits too—they’re more hassle than they’re worth. But I wouldn’t write off all new low-flow toilets. The higher-end models are surprisingly efficient and rarely clog, at least in my experience. The upfront cost stings, but if you’re already updating fixtures, it’s a smart move. Water bill savings are real, but it’s more about long-term value and less about instant payback. If you’re not planning a reno, though, I get why you’d hesitate.
But I wouldn’t write off all new low-flow toilets. The higher-end models are surprisingly efficient and rarely clog, at least in my experience.
I get what you mean about the conversion kits being a pain. Honestly, I’ve seen some clients regret trying to retrofit—never quite works right. But I’m curious: have you noticed any difference in noise levels between older toilets and the newer low-flow ones? Some people complain about the “jet engine” flush, but I haven’t found it that bad.
I’ve actually noticed the noise thing too, especially with some of the really budget-friendly models—they can sound a bit intense, like you said. But when I helped redo a powder room last year, we went with a mid-range low-flow and it was surprisingly quiet. I think it comes down to the design and brand more than just “old vs new.” Some of the newer ones even have insulated tanks to muffle sound, which is a nice touch if you’ve got a bathroom near living spaces. Definitely worth checking specs before buying, though… not all low-flows are created equal.
