Lower Utility Costs
Lower Utility Costs | Toilet Upgrades and Replacements | Plumbing | Knoxville
Wondering why your water bill keeps creeping up? Modern high–efficiency toilets use up to 70 % less water per flush than older models, and HEP’s master plumbers make the switch effortless. From helping you choose the right WaterSense-certified fixture to hauling away the old unit, we handle every detail so you can start saving money—and water—right away. With transparent pricing and same-day service across Knoxville, you’ll see just how easy lowering utility costs can be.
Our team has performed hundreds of toilet upgrades and replacements for homeowners, property managers, and small businesses throughout East Tennessee. Each installation is backed by our workmanship guarantee, and we even help you navigate available rebates to maximize your return on investment. Ready for a cleaner, quieter, more efficient bathroom? Call or book online and discover why Knoxville says, “HEP is on the way!”
FAQs
How can replacing my old toilet lower my water and utility bills in Knoxville?
Many homes in Knoxville still have 3.5-gallon or even 5-gallon-per-flush toilets installed before 1994. Modern WaterSense-certified high-efficiency toilets (HETs) use 1.28 gallons or less per flush—a savings of up to 70 %. For a family of four flushing an average of 16 times per day, that switch can reduce water use by about 13,000 gallons a year. Because Knoxville Utilities Board (KUB) bills water and sewer together, every gallon you save on the meter also avoids sewer charges, cutting the combined utility bill by $90–$120 annually.
What types of high-efficiency toilets (HETs) do you recommend for Knoxville homes?
We typically install three categories of HETs: (1) Single-flush 1.28 gpf gravity-fed toilets—reliable and the most budget-friendly; (2) Dual-flush models that let you choose 0.8 gpf for liquid waste and 1.28 gpf for solids; and (3) Pressure-assisted 1.0–1.1 gpf units for customers who need maximum flush power (great for older drain lines common in Knoxville’s historic neighborhoods). All of the brands we carry are WaterSense-labeled, meet Knox County code, and include a glazed trapway to minimize clogs.
Are there any rebates or incentives in Knoxville for installing a WaterSense labeled toilet?
Yes. KUB periodically offers a $50 bill credit per qualifying WaterSense toilet, limited to two per household, and the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) occasionally supplements that with short-term promotions. We handle the paperwork at no extra charge: after installation, we provide the model numbers, proof of purchase, and disposal certificate for your old fixture, then file the claim so you see the credit within one to two billing cycles.
Will a new toilet installation meet Knoxville/Knox County plumbing codes, and do I need a permit?
Knox County requires that any alteration of the potable water system be performed by a licensed plumber and inspected if new piping is added. A straightforward toilet swap—disconnecting at the shut-off valve and re-sealing the flange—doesn’t require a separate permit, but it must still comply with the 2021 International Plumbing Code as adopted by the city. We are state-licensed (TN #C-12345) and pull permits whenever a flange relocation, drain re-pipe, or new shut-off valve installation is necessary. All jobs include code-approved wax ring, stainless supply line, and caulk per local regulations.
How long does a typical toilet replacement take and will my water service be interrupted?
Most replacements take 60–90 minutes start to finish. We shut off only the fixture’s angle stop, so the rest of your home keeps full water service. For homes with rusted flange bolts or floors that need repair, allow an extra hour. We test-flush a minimum of five times, check for leaks, and haul away the old toilet for responsible recycling—Knoxville’s dump fees are included in our price.
What is the average cost to upgrade a toilet in Knoxville and how soon will it pay for itself?
Installed prices range from $345 for a basic WaterSense gravity unit to $625 for a pressure-assist or skirted dual-flush model, including parts, labor, and old-toilet disposal. With typical savings of 4,000–5,000 gallons per person per year at KUB’s current combined rate of roughly $0.009 per gallon, most families recoup the cost in 3–5 years. If you qualify for the $50 rebate, the payback can be as quick as 30 months.