High-efficiency Options
High-efficiency Options | Toilet Upgrades and Replacements | Plumbing | Charleston
Replacing an outdated commode is one of the fastest ways to lower water bills, boost bathroom comfort, and shrink your home’s environmental footprint. HEP’s licensed Charleston plumbers specialize in toilet upgrades and replacements, guiding you through a curated lineup of WaterSense-certified models that flush powerfully while using up to 70 % less water. From sleek skirted bowls to touch-free flushing systems, we install options that look great, perform flawlessly, and pay for themselves in savings year after year.
Expect white-glove service from start to finish: clear, upfront pricing, convenient scheduling, meticulous installation, and thorough haul-away of your old fixture. Whether you’re renovating a historic downtown bungalow or need a quick replacement before guests arrive, call HEP and experience the high-efficiency difference your bathroom—and your wallet—deserve.
FAQs
What makes a toilet “high-efficiency,” and how much water can I expect to save in Charleston?
A high-efficiency toilet (HET) is any model that uses 1.28 gallons per flush (gpf) or less and carries the EPA WaterSense® label. Older toilets installed before 1994 typically use 3.5–5.0 gpf, so replacing one can cut toilet water use by 50–70 %. For an average Charleston household of four, that equates to roughly 13,000–15,000 gallons of water saved each year, lowering both water and sewer portions of your utility bill.
Are there rebates or incentives available in the Charleston area for installing a WaterSense® toilet?
Yes. Charleston Water System (CWS) currently offers a $125 bill credit per qualifying WaterSense® toilet when you replace a unit that uses 1.6 gpf or more. Customers must submit a copy of the purchase receipt and allow CWS to verify installation. Rebates are issued as credits on the water account and are limited to two toilets per household per year. Programs can change, so we’ll confirm current terms and help you complete the paperwork during our service visit.
Will a high-efficiency toilet flush as well as my old one?
Today’s HETs have redesigned bowls, trapways, and flush valves that create stronger siphon action with less water. Independent MaP (Maximum Performance) tests rate most WaterSense® models at 600–1,000 grams of solid waste per flush—far exceeding the 350-gram pass mark. For additional power, pressure-assist HETs use compressed air inside the tank. In everyday use, homeowners notice the same or better flushing performance without the clogs sometimes found in early ‘low-flow’ designs from the 1990s.
What does it cost to upgrade and how long does installation take?
Prices vary by style, technology, and finish, but most quality WaterSense® toilets range from $325–$550 for the fixture itself. Our turnkey installation package—including removal and eco-friendly disposal of the old unit, new supply line, wax or wax-free seal, and labor—typically totals $550–$850 before any rebates. Standard replacements take about 90 minutes. If we find flange damage, corroded shut-off valves, or need to add a wider supply line for pressure-assist models, we’ll provide an on-site quote before proceeding.
Do I need to change my existing plumbing or flange to accommodate a high-efficiency toilet?
In most Charleston homes the existing 12-inch rough-in, 3- or 4-inch drain stack, and closet flange work perfectly with modern HETs. We do a full inspection for wax-seal leaks, flange cracks, rocking, or corrosion around the shut-off valve. If repairs are needed, we carry replacement flanges, spacers, and 1⁄4-turn ball valves on our truck so the upgrade can still be completed the same day.
Which high-efficiency design is best: single-flush, dual-flush, or pressure-assist?
• Single-flush gravity HET (1.28 gpf) – Most familiar, quiet, and cost-effective; ideal for households wanting straightforward water savings. • Dual-flush (0.8 gpf for liquids/1.28 gpf for solids) – Greatest water savings potential; requires users to choose the right button each time. • Pressure-assist (1.0–1.28 gpf) – Strongest flush power, good for commercial settings or homes prone to clogs; slightly louder and needs at least 25 psi of supply pressure (common on Charleston municipal lines). During the site visit we’ll measure your water pressure, discuss usage habits, and show sample models so you can pick the style that balances efficiency, performance, and budget.