- HEP Plumbing
- High-efficiency Models

High-efficiency Models
High-efficiency Models | Toilet Upgrades and Replacements | Plumbing | Briceville
Swap out that old water-waster and step into the future with HEP’s line of high-efficiency toilets, expertly installed right here in Briceville. Our licensed plumbers pair cutting-edge models with meticulous craftsmanship, delivering smoother flushes, quieter refills, and savings you can see on every utility bill. From compact designs for cozy powder rooms to comfort-height bowls that make standing easier, we help you choose a fixture that fits your space, style, and sustainability goals.
Whether you’re tackling a single bathroom refresh or a whole-home renovation, our team handles every detail of toilet upgrades and replacements—removing the outdated unit, inspecting supply lines, and fine-tuning the new install for leak-free performance. With upfront pricing, same-day service options, and a satisfaction guarantee, HEP makes it effortless to give your bathroom—and your budget—a clean slate.
FAQs
What is considered a high-efficiency toilet (HET) and how much water can it save in Briceville homes?
A high-efficiency toilet is any model that uses 1.28 gallons per flush (gpf) or less while meeting the U.S. EPA WaterSense performance criteria. Older toilets installed before the mid-1990s often use 3.5–5 gpf, so replacing one of those fixtures with an HET can cut toilet water use by 60 % or more—about 13,000–16,500 gallons per household each year. That translates into noticeable reductions on municipal water bills or less strain on a private well and septic system.
Will a high-efficiency toilet work with my existing plumbing and septic or sewer connection?
Yes. Modern HETs are designed to install on the same 12-inch rough-in and 3- or 4-inch drain lines found in most Briceville homes. If you are on a septic system, the lower flow is actually beneficial because it decreases effluent volume. On municipal sewer, the lower flow remains well within design specifications because other household fixtures (showers, washing machines, etc.) provide supplemental flow to keep solids moving. During our site visit we confirm flange height, supply-line location, and venting so there are no surprises on installation day.
Do high-efficiency toilets flush as well as older 3.5-gallon models?
Absolutely. Manufacturers achieve performance through redesigned bowls, larger trapways (up to 2-1/8"), and either powerful gravity-fed siphon action or pressure-assist tanks. WaterSense certification requires that an HET clear at least 350 grams of waste in independent MaP (Maximum Performance) testing. Many of the units we install—such as the TOTO Drake II and Kohler Highline—score 800–1,000 grams, far exceeding that minimum. You get reliable one-flush performance without the water waste.
Are there rebates or incentives for upgrading to a high-efficiency toilet in Briceville or Anderson County?
Yes. TVA’s EnergyRight program and some local water utilities—including the Anderson County Water Authority—periodically offer $25–$100 bill credits or rebates on WaterSense-labeled HETs. We help customers fill out the paperwork and supply itemized invoices and model numbers required for rebate approval. Even when a rebate isn’t active, replacing an older toilet often pays for itself in 1–3 years through lower water bills.
How long does a toilet replacement take and will my bathroom be out of service for an extended period?
A standard swap—removing the old toilet, inspecting/repairing the flange, installing the new HET, and testing—takes about two to three hours. Your bathroom is unusable only during that window. We schedule appointments at your convenience, protect floors with drop cloths, haul away the old fixture for eco-friendly disposal, and leave the space clean. Complex situations (flange damage, subfloor rot) can add time, but we discuss any findings with you before proceeding.
Which high-efficiency models do you recommend, and what warranties do you provide?
Our most popular models are the TOTO Drake II 1.28 gpf, Kohler Highline 1.28 gpf, and American Standard Cadet 3 FloWise 1.28 gpf. All are WaterSense certified, have MaP scores of 800 grams or higher, and come in both standard and comfort-height options. Manufacturer warranties range from 5 to 10 years on porcelain and 1 year on parts. Briceville Plumbing backs every installation with a 1-year labor warranty covering leaks, seat adjustments, or tank-to-bowl issues, so you have complete peace of mind.