- HEP Plumbing
- High-efficiency Models

High-efficiency Models
High-efficiency Models | Toilet Upgrades and Replacements | Plumbing | Harriman
Imagine flushing away high water bills and outdated fixtures in one easy call to HEP of Harriman. Our certified plumbers specialize in high-efficiency toilets that use as little as 1.0 gallon per flush while delivering powerful, clog-resistant performance. From sleek comfort-height designs to compact models perfect for half baths, we stock the latest technology, install it with precision, and haul away your old unit—often in the same day. Because every upgrade is backed by transparent pricing and our “Happy You’ll Be” guarantee, you can relax while we elevate both your bathroom’s style and your home’s value.
Whether you’re planning proactive toilet upgrades and replacements before guests arrive or you’re facing an emergency leak, we respond quickly throughout Roane County. Expect courteous pros who protect your floors, handle all permitting if required, and test the system thoroughly before leaving. With generous warranties and easy financing, HEP makes it simple to flush smarter, save water, and feel good about every trip to the throne.
FAQs
What qualifies as a high-efficiency toilet (HET) and how do these models save water?
A high-efficiency toilet is defined by the U.S. EPA WaterSense program as any model that uses 1.28 gallons per flush (gpf) or less, compared with the federal standard of 1.6 gpf and many older toilets that consume 3–7 gpf. HETs achieve this reduction through redesigned bowls and tanks, pressure-assisted flushing, dual-flush mechanisms, and optimized trapways that remove waste with less water. Over a year, an HET can save a family of four roughly 13,000 gallons of water—cutting both water and sewer bills while conserving Harriman’s local water resources.
Will a high-efficiency toilet work properly with my existing plumbing in Harriman homes built before 1990?
Yes. Modern HETs are engineered to meet or exceed the drain-line carry requirements for older 3-inch and 4-inch waste lines commonly found in pre-1990 Harriman homes. As long as venting is adequate and the flange is in good condition, an HET installs the same way a standard toilet does. During our site visit, we inspect the flange height, shut-off valve, and drain slope to ensure compatibility, and we can make minor adjustments—such as replacing wax rings or installing offset flanges—if your existing setup needs tweaking.
How much can I expect to save on utility bills by upgrading to a high-efficiency toilet?
Switching from a 3.5 gpf toilet to a 1.28 gpf model can reduce toilet water use by roughly 63%. For the average Harriman household, that equates to 13,000–16,000 gallons saved per year. At the city’s current combined water and sewer rate (about $0.010–$0.012 per gallon), savings typically range from $130–$190 annually for a single toilet. Installing two or three HETs multiplies those savings and often pays back the initial investment within three to five years.
Are there rebates or tax incentives available for high-efficiency toilet replacements in Harriman or the state of Tennessee?
Yes. Harriman Utility Board periodically partners with TVA and the State of Tennessee to offer WaterSense rebate programs. Incentives usually range from $50–$100 per WaterSense-certified toilet, applied as a bill credit after proof of purchase and installation. Additionally, many local homeowners associations and commercial property managers qualify for bulk replacement grants. We track all active programs, assist with the paperwork, and provide the purchase receipts and WaterSense certification numbers you need to secure the rebate.
What is included in your professional toilet replacement service for Harriman residents?
Our turnkey service covers: (1) a pre-installation inspection to confirm rough-in distance, flange condition, and shut-off valve integrity; (2) removal and eco-friendly disposal or recycling of the old toilet; (3) installation of the new high-efficiency model with a premium wax-free seal, stainless-steel supply line, and new tank bolts; (4) leak, flush, and drain-line carry tests; (5) caulking around the base for stability and hygiene; (6) haul-away of all packaging; and (7) guidance on rebate submission and maintenance tips. Most installations take 1–2 hours per unit, and we back our workmanship with a one-year labor warranty.
How do I know if it’s smarter to replace rather than repair my current toilet?
Consider replacement when: (a) the porcelain bowl or tank has cracks; (b) you experience recurrent clogs despite proper use; (c) the toilet is pre-1994 and uses more than 3 gpf; (d) mineral deposits or corrosion are visible around the rim jets or flush valve; or (e) repair costs—such as replacing the flush valve, fill valve, and flapper—exceed half the price of a new HET. Because a new high-efficiency model immediately lowers water bills and often qualifies for rebates, replacement frequently delivers a better long-term return than repeated repairs.