High-efficiency Fixtures
High-efficiency Fixtures | Toilet Upgrades and Replacements | Plumbing | South Pittsburg
In South Pittsburg, an outdated toilet can pour gallons of water—and money—down the drain with every flush, but HEP’s high-efficiency fixtures turn waste into savings. Our plumbers replace bulky, water-wasting bowls with sleek, WaterSense-certified models that use as little as 1.28 gpf, saving you up to 16,000 gallons a year while giving your bathroom a fresh, modern look. From low-profile designs to powerful pressure-assisted systems, we’ll help you choose the perfect fit for your family and budget.
Our crew handles every step of toilet upgrades and replacements with trademark “HEP is on the way!” speed: same-day estimates, respectful demo, precision installation, and spotless cleanup. We even haul away your old unit for eco-friendly disposal, so you can start enjoying a quieter flush and lower water bills right away. Ready to weld conservation and comfort into one smart move? Call or click today and let South Pittsburg’s most trusted plumbing team raise the bar in your bathroom.
FAQs
What qualifies as a high-efficiency toilet (HET)?
A high-efficiency toilet is any model that uses 1.28 gallons per flush (gpf) or less—at least 20 % below the federal standard of 1.6 gpf. Most HETs carry the EPA WaterSense label, which verifies that the fixture has passed independent performance testing for bowl clearing and bowl cleaning even with the reduced water volume. Options include single-flush 1.28 gpf toilets, dual-flush units that average 1.1–1.28 gpf, and pressure-assisted models that use compressed air to move waste effectively. When we recommend toilets for South Pittsburg homes, we stick to WaterSense-certified products to ensure both water savings and reliable performance.
How much water and money can I save by upgrading to a high-efficiency toilet in South Pittsburg?
If your current toilet was installed before 1994 it may use 3.5–7 gpf. Replacing it with a 1.28 gpf HET can save roughly 2–5 gallons per flush. For a family of four averaging 11 flushes per person per day, that equates to about 11,000–13,000 gallons saved annually—more than enough to fill a standard in-ground pool. At the South Pittsburg water rate (about $7–$8 per 1,000 gallons, including sewer fees), you could save $75–$100 each year on your water bill, plus reduce wear on septic tanks or municipal treatment facilities.
Are there rebates or incentives available locally for installing high-efficiency toilets?
Yes. The Sequatchie Valley Electric Cooperative and some regional utilities periodically partner with TVA’s EnergyRight program to offer $25–$100 bill credits or rebates for WaterSense toilets. The Tennessee Department of Environment & Conservation (TDEC) also runs seasonal conservation rebates. Because funding changes, we confirm current incentives when you schedule service and can provide the paperwork, proof-of-purchase receipts, and WaterSense certificates needed to claim your rebate.
How long does a typical toilet replacement take and will my water be shut off?
A standard, no-complication swap in South Pittsburg normally takes 90 minutes to two hours. We isolate the bathroom’s supply valve, so only that fixture loses water—usually for 20–30 minutes. If shut-off valves are corroded, we may recommend replacing them, which adds about 15 minutes. Our crew protects floors, removes the old toilet, inspects the flange, installs a new wax (or wax-free) seal, sets and levels the new bowl, connects the tank or flush tower, and test-flushes. Total downtime for the bathroom is very short, and you can use the new toilet immediately afterward.
Will you dispose of my old toilet responsibly?
Absolutely. After removal we transport the fixture to the Chattanooga Regional Recycling Center, where porcelain is ground for use in road-bed aggregate or new tile. Metal hardware is separated for scrap recycling, and any remaining components that can’t be recycled are disposed of according to EPA regulations. You get a disposal receipt upon request, ensuring your old toilet stays out of local landfills whenever possible.
What factors should I consider when choosing a high-efficiency toilet model?
Beyond the gpf rating, keep these points in mind: • Rough-in measurement: Most homes in South Pittsburg use a 12-inch rough-in, but older houses can be 10 or 14 inches. • Bowl shape and height: Elongated bowls and chair-height (17–19-inch) rims improve comfort and meet ADA guidelines. • Flush technology: Gravity-fed models are quiet; pressure-assisted units clear bulk waste better but are louder. • Glazing and trapway design: A fully glazed 2-3/8-inch trapway reduces clogs. • Build quality and warranty: Look for vitreous china, solid brass bolts, and at least a five-year warranty on parts. • Aesthetics: Style, color, and tank profile should match your bathroom’s décor. We carry proven WaterSense models such as the TOTO Drake, Kohler Cimarron, and American Standard Cadet 3, and we’re happy to walk you through the pros and cons of each based on your family’s needs and budget.