Water-saving Toilet

Water-saving Toilet | Plumbing Fixture Replacements | Plumbing | Riceville

Swap out that outdated, water-guzzling commode for a sleek, high-efficiency model installed by Riceville’s own HEP pros. Our licensed plumbers specialize in rapid, mess-free plumbing fixture replacements that can cut your toilet’s water use by up to 60 %, lower monthly bills, and add a fresh look to your bathroom—all in a single visit.

From helping you choose EPA-certified WaterSense toilets to hauling away the old unit and double-checking every seal, we handle the entire process with hometown courtesy and a 100 % satisfaction guarantee. Ready to conserve water without sacrificing performance? Call HEP today and feel good about every flush.

FAQs

What makes a toilet a true “water-saving” or high-efficiency model?

A water-saving toilet is designed to use 1.28 gallons per flush (GPF) or less—at least 20 % below the current federal maximum of 1.6 GPF. The most reliable way to verify this is to look for the blue EPA WaterSense label on the carton or tank. WaterSense toilets are independently tested for both reduced water use and strong flush performance, so you can be sure you are getting efficiency without sacrificing power. Dual-flush models (typically 0.8 GPF for liquid waste and 1.28 GPF for solids) also qualify as water-saving units if the average flush volume works out to 1.28 GPF or less.

How much water and money can I expect to save by switching to a high-efficiency toilet?

That depends on the age of the toilet you are replacing. Pre-1994 toilets use 3.5–7 GPF. Replacing just one of those with a 1.28 GPF WaterSense model can save roughly 13,000 gallons of water per year for an average four-person household. At Riceville’s current average water/sewer rate of about $0.010–$0.012 per gallon (combined), that works out to $130–$155 in annual savings—often enough to pay for the new toilet within two to three years.

Does Riceville or the State of Tennessee offer rebates or other incentives for installing water-saving toilets?

Yes. Many Riceville customers served by the Hiwassee Utility Commission (HUC) or Athens Utilities Board (AUB) qualify for a $50–$75 bill credit when they replace an old 1.6 GPF or larger toilet with a WaterSense model purchased through a local retailer or plumbing professional. The Tennessee Department of Environment & Conservation (TDEC) also periodically funds additional rebates for low-income households. Incentive programs change from year to year, so we always help you file the current rebate paperwork at no extra charge.

Will a high-efficiency toilet perform as well as my old 3.5-gallon unit?

Absolutely. Modern bowl and trapway designs use advanced hydraulics to evacuate waste with far less water. All WaterSense-certified toilets must clear at least 350 grams of waste (roughly 12 ounces) in one flush during independent testing, and many achieve 800+ grams. You can also choose pressure-assisted or dual-flush models if you want extra power or flexibility. In day-to-day use, homeowners rarely notice any difference other than a quieter, faster refill.

What is involved in replacing an existing toilet with a WaterSense model in Riceville, and how long does the job take?

For a straightforward swap, we shut off the water, drain and remove the old toilet, inspect and clean the flange, install a new wax or rubber seal, set the new toilet, and reconnect the supply line. If the flange is damaged or the shut-off valve is corroded, we make those repairs on the spot. A standard installation takes 1.5–2 hours; more complex repairs add 30–60 minutes. No building permit is required in McMinn County for a like-for-like toilet replacement, but any subfloor or structural work would require a permit. We haul away and recycle the old fixture at no additional charge.

Can you upgrade other plumbing fixtures to save even more water, and what are the benefits?

Yes. Along with water-saving toilets, we routinely install WaterSense-certified bathroom faucets (max 1.2 gallons per minute), low-flow showerheads (2.0 GPM or less), and kitchen aerators. Swapping these fixtures can reduce indoor water use by up to 30 %, drop your water heating costs, and may earn additional utility rebates. Because we handle everything—from fixture selection to installation and rebate submission—you get a turnkey solution that increases efficiency, lowers bills, and boosts home value in one visit.