Water-saving Powerhouse
Water-saving Powerhouse | Toilet Upgrades and Replacements | Plumbing | Sewanee
HEP’s licensed plumbers bring a powerhouse blend of innovation, craftsmanship, and local know-how to Sewanee homes that want to slash their water bills without sacrificing comfort. From sleek high-efficiency commodes that whisk away waste with a fraction of the gallons, to beautifully matched trim and hardware that freshen up your entire bath, our toilet upgrades and replacements are designed to make every flush smarter. We handle the whole process—removal, installation, haul-away, and testing—so you can just enjoy quieter operation, cleaner lines, and the satisfaction of conserving hundreds of gallons a year.
Because we live and work on the Cumberland Plateau, we know how precious every drop is. That’s why we source EPA WaterSense-certified fixtures, provide transparent pricing, and back our workmanship with industry-leading guarantees. Whether you’re renovating, resolving chronic clogs, or simply ready for a greener fixture, HEP is the local, one-call solution Sewanee trusts for lasting performance and crystal-clear savings.
FAQs
Why should I upgrade to a high-efficiency toilet (HET) in Sewanee?
High-efficiency toilets use 1.28 gallons per flush (gpf) or less, compared with older models that can use 3–7 gpf. In a typical Sewanee household, an HET can cut indoor water use by up to 30 %, saving hundreds of gallons—and dollars—each year. Less water demand also reduces stress on local wells, water treatment facilities, and the Cumberland Plateau watershed.
What types of water-saving toilets does Powerhouse Plumbing install?
We install WaterSense-certified single-flush and dual-flush gravity toilets, pressure-assisted units for commercial settings, and skirted compact models for tight bathrooms. All options meet or exceed the 1.28 gpf requirement, many flushing as low as 0.8 gpf in “liquid” mode while still clearing the bowl effectively.
How long does a typical toilet replacement take, and will I be without a bathroom?
Most residential replacements take 2–3 hours start to finish. We shut off water only to the fixture being replaced, so other bathrooms stay operational. If you have a single bath, we schedule the job when it’s convenient and keep downtime to about an hour while we swap the bowl, tank, and wax seal.
Are there rebates or incentives for installing a WaterSense toilet in Sewanee?
Yes. Tennessee American Water customers can currently receive a $50 rebate per qualifying WaterSense toilet, and the South Cumberland Utility District offers tiered bill credits for fixtures under 1.28 gpf. We’ll supply the model number, fill out the paperwork, and provide proof of installation so you get the maximum rebate without hassle.
What maintenance does a high-efficiency toilet require compared with older models?
HETs actually need less maintenance because their glazed trapways resist buildup and modern fill valves reduce “phantom” leaks. We recommend an annual dye-tablet test to check for flapper wear and a simple vinegar soak of the fill valve if your home has hard water. Otherwise, cleaning and parts replacement schedules are the same as with traditional toilets.
Can Powerhouse Plumbing dispose of my old toilet sustainably?
Absolutely. We separate porcelain from metal and plastic parts. The porcelain is crushed and sent to a regional aggregate recycler for use in road base, and the metal hardware goes to a scrap facility. This diverts about 80 % of material from landfills and supports Sewanee’s Zero Waste Initiative.