- HEP Plumbing
- Most Efficient Models

Most Efficient Models
Most Efficient Models | Toilet Upgrades and Replacements | Plumbing | Sewanee
Imagine stepping into a bathroom where every flush is whisper-quiet, powerful, and uses a fraction of the water you’re accustomed to. That’s the everyday experience HEP’s Most Efficient Models Plumbing brings to Sewanee residents through toilet upgrades and replacements. We combine EPA WaterSense-certified fixtures with precision installation, so you enjoy maximum performance without wasting a drop. Whether you’re renovating a historic cottage overlooking the Cumberland Plateau or modernizing a student rental near campus, our licensed plumbers arrive on time, protect your floors, and leave zero mess—just an elegant, high-efficiency toilet that fits your space and your style.
Beyond the immediate convenience, choosing HEP means lower utility bills, fewer clogs, and a smaller environmental footprint for our beautiful mountain community. We handle everything—from hauling away your old unit to fine-tuning the new one—so you can relax and bask in water savings of up to 20,000 gallons per year. Ready to make the smart switch? Call today and discover why Sewanee trusts HEP to transform bathrooms with unrivaled craftsmanship and genuine hometown care.
FAQs
What advantages come with upgrading to a high-efficiency toilet in Sewanee?
Modern high-efficiency toilets (HETs) use as little as 1.28 gallons per flush (GPF) compared with older 3.5–7 GPF models. In a typical Sewanee household that averages five flushes per person per day, that can cut annual water use by 9,000–13,000 gallons per person. Less water flushed also means lower utility bills, reduced strain on septic systems common on the Plateau, and a smaller environmental footprint.
How much water and money can I realistically save?
If your current toilet predates 1994, it probably uses 3.5–5 GPF. Replacing it with a WaterSense-certified 1.28 GPF model saves roughly 2 gallons per flush. Over a year, a family of four will save about 11,680 gallons—worth $50–$70 on Sewanee Utility District rates. Savings are even higher for homes on metered well pumps or where sewer fees are tied to water use.
Will a new high-efficiency toilet fit my existing rough-in and plumbing?
Yes. We stock efficient models in 10-, 12-, and 14-inch rough-ins, as well as round-front and elongated bowls to match your bathroom’s footprint. During our free on-site assessment we measure rough-in distance, water-supply height, and clearance for lids and doors. We then recommend models that drop straight into place without costly floor or wall modifications.
How long does the replacement process take and will my water be shut off?
A typical swap-out takes 1.5–2 hours per toilet. We shut off water only at the fixture, not the whole house, so other taps keep running. After removal of the old unit, we inspect the flange, replace the wax or rubber ring, set the new bowl, level it, and perform multiple leak checks before restoring full service.
Do you remove and recycle the old toilet?
Absolutely. Your old fixture is hauled away at no extra charge. Porcelain is broken down and sent to a regional aggregate recycler where it becomes road-bed or concrete filler, keeping heavy waste out of Franklin County landfills.
Are rebates or incentives available for efficient toilets in Sewanee?
Yes. The Sewanee Utility District offers a $50 bill credit for each WaterSense-labeled toilet installed by a licensed plumber, up to two per household. In addition, TVA’s EnergyRight Marketplace lists occasional seasonal rebates. We provide all paperwork—model certification, proof of installation, and disposal receipt—so you can submit your claim quickly.