- HEP Plumbing
- Water-saving Models

Water-saving Models
Water-saving Models | Toilet Upgrades and Replacements | Plumbing | Jonesborough
Imagine cutting your monthly water bill while elevating the comfort and style of your bathroom. HEP’s water-saving models make it easy for Jonesborough homeowners to do exactly that, delivering powerful flush performance that uses up to 70 % less water than older fixtures. Our licensed plumbers handle every step—from removing outdated units to installing sleek, high-efficiency options—so all you have to do is enjoy quieter operation, reliable performance, and noticeable savings.
Whether you’re remodeling or simply tired of constant clogs, our team specializes in toilet upgrades and replacements that are built to last. We source fixtures from leading brands, back the installation with clear, upfront pricing, and leave your space spotless when we’re done. Join your Jonesborough neighbors who have already made the switch and start saving water, money, and frustration today.
FAQs
What qualifies as a water-saving toilet and how much water can I expect to save?
A water-saving, or high-efficiency, toilet (HET) is one that uses 1.28 gallons per flush (GPF) or less, compared with the older federal standard of 1.6 GPF and pre-1994 toilets that used 3.5–7 GPF. Dual-flush models average about 1.1 GPF because they offer a lower-volume flush for liquids and a higher-volume flush for solids. Switching from a 3.5 GPF unit to a 1.28 GPF model saves roughly 16,000 gallons per year for a four-person household—cutting toilet water use by 60 % and shaving $100–$150 off annual water and sewer bills in Jonesborough.
Are high-efficiency toilets powerful enough to prevent clogs?
Yes. Modern HETs rely on redesigned bowls, wider trapways, and pressure-assisted or optimized gravity systems to move waste more effectively than many older 3.5 GPF toilets. Independent MaP (Maximum Performance) testing rates most WaterSense-labeled toilets at 600–1,000 grams of waste removal—well above the 350-gram threshold considered clog-resistant. During installation we also verify adequate venting and proper flange height to maintain peak flushing performance.
Can I retrofit my existing toilet instead of replacing it?
A few retrofit kits—such as dual-flush converters or fill-valve restrictors—can lower water use slightly, but they seldom bring a 1.6 GPF or older toilet down to true high-efficiency levels and may void the manufacturer’s warranty. If your current toilet pre-dates 1994, has hairline cracks, or shows mineral buildup, full replacement is the most reliable path to long-term savings, leak prevention, and rebate eligibility under WaterSense guidelines.
Do I need a permit in Jonesborough to replace a toilet?
For a simple like-for-like toilet swap in a single-family residence, Jonesborough does not typically require a building permit. However, if the project involves relocating the drain, altering supply lines inside walls, or upgrading multiple fixtures as part of a remodel, Washington County codes may trigger a plumbing permit and inspection. We handle all permitting questions up front and can file paperwork on your behalf when necessary.
How long does a toilet replacement take and will my water be shut off?
A standard removal and installation generally takes 1.5–2 hours per toilet. We shut off water only to the fixture, not to the entire house, and restore service as soon as the new unit is seated, leveled, and leak-tested. You can resume normal use immediately after the final caulk bead cures—typically within 4–6 hours.
Are there rebates or incentives for installing a water-saving toilet in Jonesborough?
Yes. The Tennessee Department of Environment & Conservation (TDEC) periodically funds utility rebates of $50–$100 for WaterSense-labeled toilets. Jonesborough Water Department customers may also qualify for a $40 bill credit per replaced fixture (limit two per household) while funds last. We supply the paperwork, model numbers, and proof of proper disposal of the old unit so you can claim any available incentives without extra hassle.