Water-smart Fixtures
Water-smart Fixtures | Toilet Upgrades and Replacements | Plumbing | Chattanooga
Tired of watching your water bill circle the drain? HEP’s licensed plumbers bring Chattanooga homeowners a smarter way to flush away waste—without flushing away money. From sleek dual-flush models to ultra-efficient pressure-assist units, we combine the latest water-saving technology with precision installation, giving you a quieter, cleaner, eco-friendly bathroom in just one visit.
Our team handles everything—professional assessment, fast removal of your old fixture, expert fitting of your new throne, and thorough haul-off and cleanup. With transparent, upfront pricing, solid warranties, and 24/7 support, your experience with toilet upgrades and replacements is as worry-free as the new fixture itself. Call HEP today and let every flush work harder for you and the Tennessee River we all share.
FAQs
What qualifies as a “water-smart” or high-efficiency toilet in Chattanooga?
A water-smart or high-efficiency toilet (HET) is any model that uses 1.28 gallons per flush (gpf) or less, while still meeting or exceeding the performance standards of a traditional 1.6 gpf toilet. Look for units carrying the EPA WaterSense label, which certifies that the fixture has been independently tested for both water savings and flush power. Many dual-flush toilets also meet this specification by offering a reduced 0.8–1.0 gpf setting for liquid waste and a 1.28 gpf setting for solids.
How much water and money can I expect to save by upgrading to a WaterSense toilet?
Swapping a pre-1994 3.5–7 gpf toilet for a 1.28 gpf WaterSense model can reduce toilet-related water consumption by up to 60 %. For an average Chattanooga household of four, that equates to roughly 13,000–16,000 gallons saved per year. At Chattanooga’s current average water rate of ~0.6¢ per gallon (including sewer fees), this translates to $75–$95 in annual utility savings—enough to pay back many standard HET installations within three to four years.
Are there local rebates or incentives in the Chattanooga area for installing high-efficiency toilets?
Yes. Tennessee American Water periodically offers bill credits of $50–$75 for each WaterSense-certified toilet installed in a single-family residence (limit two per household). In addition, certain Hamilton County energy-efficiency programs and TVA’s eScore marketplace include water-saving devices in their point systems, which can qualify homeowners for low-interest financing on larger efficiency upgrades. We stay current on all active incentives and can help you secure the necessary rebate forms during your appointment.
What is involved in a professional toilet replacement service?
Our licensed plumbers follow a five-step process: 1) Pre-inspection to check existing shut-off valves, flange condition, and drain line size; 2) Safe removal of the old toilet and wax ring, with eco-friendly disposal or recycling where possible; 3) Flange repair or leveling if needed to ensure a proper seal; 4) Installation of the new water-smart toilet with a new wax or rubber seal, stainless-steel supply line, and torque-checked bolts; 5) Post-installation leak test, dye test, and a customer walk-through on proper operation. The average appointment lasts 1.5–2.5 hours and leaves the bathroom floor and surrounding area spotless.
Will a high-efficiency toilet clog more easily than my current model?
No—modern HETs are engineered with larger, glazed trapways and optimized bowl hydraulics to offset the reduced water volume. Independent Maximum Performance (MaP) tests rate many WaterSense toilets at 800–1,000 grams of solid waste removal per flush—far above the 350-gram minimum considered acceptable. Choosing a reputable brand and professional installation ensures reliable performance comparable to or better than older high-flow toilets.
Can I retrofit my existing toilet with a dual-flush or water-saving kit instead of replacing the whole unit?
Retrofit kits are available and can reduce flush volume by 10-25 %, but they rarely match the efficiency, reliability, and warranty coverage of a full WaterSense replacement. Older bowls are not optimized for lower water levels, which can lead to incomplete clearing or multiple flushes—negating savings. If your toilet is over 15 years old, has a cracked tank, or needs frequent repairs, a full replacement is usually the most cost-effective long-term solution. We’re happy to evaluate your fixture and give an honest recommendation during an in-home estimate.