I Found The 5 Best Water-Conserving Toilets

Conserving water has become more important than ever. Our daily habits contribute significantly to water usage, and one often-overlooked culprit is the traditional toilet.  These water guzzlers can account for up to 30% of a household’s indoor water consumption.  Thankfully, water-conserving toilets offer a solution, saving precious water and reducing your water bill. In this guide, I share 5 of the best water-conserving toilets I discovered.

5 Best Water-Conserving Toilets

Without wasting much time, here are the best water-efficient toilets I found:

#1: Best Overall: DeerValley Small Compact One Piece Toilet For Bathroom, Dual Flush Toilet with Soft Closing Seat, 0.8/1.28 GPF

I’m always looking for ways to shrink my environmental footprint, and that includes my water usage.  Let’s face it, traditional toilets are notorious guzzlers.  So, when I decided to renovate my tiny bathroom, finding a water-saving champion was a top priority.  Enter the DeerValley Small Compact One Piece Toilet.  Intrigued by the “small” and “dual flush” in the name, I took the plunge. Here’s the lowdown on this water-wise wonder.

This little guy is a lifesaver in my compact bathroom.  At just 12 inches rough-in (the distance between the wall and the drainpipe), it fits perfectly where a standard toilet would leave me feeling claustrophobic.  But the star of the show is definitely the dual-flush mechanism.  A simple lever lets you choose between a powerful 1.28-gallon flush for solid waste and a water-sipping 0.8-gallon flush for liquids.  This flexibility allows me to save water without sacrificing performance – a win-win!  Another plus – the included soft-closing seat is a game-changer for those late-night bathroom trips. No more slamming lids waking up the whole house!

Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Consider the DeerValley

If you’re a homeowner with a small bathroom and a big desire to conserve water, this toilet is a great option.  The dual-flush system is perfect for eco-conscious folks, and the compact size makes it ideal for tight spaces.  However, if you have a large household with frequent heavy usage or prefer a wider color selection, you might want to explore other models.

The Verdict: A Water-Saving Champion

Overall, I’m thrilled with the DeerValley Compact Dual-Flush Toilet.  It’s helped me significantly reduce my water consumption without compromising on performance.  The space-saving design and quiet operation are bonuses.  While a few limitations exist, the pros outweigh the cons for me.  If you’re looking for a water-efficient toilet that won’t cramp your style (or bathroom), the DeerValley is definitely worth considering!

#2: Best Runner-Up: HOROW HWMT-8733 Small Compact One Piece Toilet For Bathroom, Powerful & Quiet Dual Flush Modern Toilet, 12” Rough-in

Living in a city apartment means every square foot counts.  This goes double for the bathroom, which felt more like a closet than a spa retreat.  So, when a plumbing issue forced a toilet upgrade, I knew I had to find a space-saving champion that wouldn’t break the bank on water bills. Enter the HOROW HWMT-8733 – a name that might be a mouthful, but its features promised big things for my tiny bathroom.

This little marvel checks all the boxes for a compact bathroom makeover.  First, it boasts a 12-inch rough-in, meaning it fits snugly against the wall, freeing up precious real estate.  But the real star of the show is the dual-flush mechanism.  A sleek lever offers a choice between a powerful 1.28-gallon flush for solids and a water-saving 0.8-gallon flush for liquids. This eco-friendly feature lets me feel good about reducing my water consumption without sacrificing performance.  The cherry on top?  The included soft-closing seat adds a touch of luxury and eliminates those jarring lid slams in the middle of the night.

Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Consider the HOROW HWMT-8733

If you’re an apartment dweller or homeowner with a compact bathroom and a desire to conserve water, this toilet is a great choice.  The space-saving design and dual-flush system are perfect for eco-conscious folks with limited square footage.  However, if you have a large household with constant heavy usage or crave a wider color palette for your bathroom, you might want to explore other options.

The Verdict: A Compact Champion with Eco-Conscious Credentials

Overall, I’m incredibly impressed with the HOROW HWMT-8733 toilet.  It’s helped me maximize space in my bathroom while minimizing my water footprint.  The quiet operation and modern design are just icing on the cake.  Sure, the color options are limited, but for me, the functionality and environmental impact outweigh that minor drawback.  If you’re looking for a compact, water-saving toilet that packs a modern punch, the HOROW HWMT-8733 is definitely worth considering!

#3: Best Comfort Design: American Standard 2887218.020 H2Option Two-Piece Toilet, Elongated Front, Standard Height, Dual Flush, White, 0.92/1.28 GPF

Let’s be honest, traditional toilets are water guzzlers.  With mounting concerns about droughts and environmental impact, I knew it was time to upgrade my bathroom throne.  The American Standard H2Option Two-Piece Toilet with its fancy name and “0.92” whisper caught my eye.  Could this be the water-saving champion I’d been searching for? Here’s the scoop on my experience with this eco-friendly option.

The H2Option boasts two key features that make it a champion for water conservation.  First, it’s a two-piece design, which might seem like a minor detail, but it allows for easier installation and potential cost savings compared to one-piece models.  But the real benefit is the dual-flush mechanism.  This ingenious system offers a powerful 1.28-gallon flush for solid waste and an ultra-low-flow 0.92-gallon flush for liquids.  That’s right, you can practically say goodbye to water waste!  Plus, the elongated bowl design adds a touch of comfort, especially for taller folks like myself.

Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Consider the H2Option

If you’re a homeowner looking to save water and prioritize comfort, the H2Option is a great option. The water-saving dual-flush system and elongated bowl design are perfect for eco-conscious folks who value comfort.  However, if you have a tight budget and prefer a one-piece toilet with a soft-close seat included, you might want to explore other models.

The Verdict: A Water-Saving Winner (With a Slight Seat Bump)

Overall, I’m very happy with the American Standard H2Option toilet.  It’s helped me significantly reduce my water consumption without sacrificing performance.  The elongated bowl design is a welcome upgrade, and the two-piece design offers some installation flexibility.  While the lack of a soft-close seat is a minor drawback, the wide range of compatible options allows me to customize it later.  If you’re looking for a water-saving toilet that prioritizes comfort and brand reputation, the H2Option is definitely worth considering!

#4: Best Modern Design: Swiss Madison Well Made Forever SM-1T277, Sublime II One-Piece Round Toilet, 10″ Rough-In 1.1/1.6 GPF

My bathroom was stuck in a bygone era, complete with a water-guzzling toilet that seemed to roar with every flush.  Sustainability is a big deal for me, so I knew it was time for an eco-friendly upgrade.  Enter the Swiss Madison Sublime II One-Piece Toilet with its sleek design and intriguing “dual flush” promise.  Could this be the water-saving throne I’d been waiting for? 

The Sublime II boasts two key features that make it a champion for water conservation.  First, it’s a one-piece design, offering a seamless look and potentially easier cleaning compared to two-piece models.  But the real focus here is the dual-flush mechanism – a game-changer for water usage.  A stylish button system lets you choose between a powerful 1.6-gallon flush for solid waste and a water-saving 1.1-gallon flush for liquids.  This flexibility allows me to personalize my flushes and significantly reduce water consumption.  The round bowl design might not be for everyone, but it offers a classic look that complements various bathroom styles.

Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Consider the Sublime II

If you’re a homeowner looking for a water-saving toilet with a modern design, the Sublime II is a great option. The water-efficient dual flush and stylish one-piece design are perfect for eco-conscious folks who appreciate aesthetics.  However, if you have a tight budget, a standard rough-in setup, or a strong preference for elongated bowls, you might want to explore other models.

The Verdict: A Stylish Water Saver with a Slight Investment Hiccup

Overall, I’m very impressed with the Swiss Madison Sublime II toilet.  It’s helped me significantly reduce water usage without compromising on performance.  The one-piece design adds a touch of modern elegance to my bathroom, and the dual-flush buttons are a nice aesthetic touch.  While the price tag is slightly higher than some models and the 10-inch rough-in requirement needs consideration, the water-saving benefits and stylish design outweigh those drawbacks for me.  If you’re looking for a water-conscious toilet with a modern flair, the Swiss Madison Sublime II is definitely worth considering!

#5: Best Quality: Kohler K-3999-0 Highline Comfort Height Two-piece Elongated 1.28 Gpf Toilet with Class Five Flushing Technology

My old toilet was a water hog and a comfort disaster.  Every flush sounded like a mini-explosion, and the bowl design felt like it was straight out of the last century.  Sustainability and comfort were high on my priority list when I decided to finally upgrade.  Enter the Kohler K-3999-0 Highline toilet with its fancy name and “1.28 gpf” promise.  Could this be the eco-friendly throne of my dreams?  Here’s the lowdown on my experience with this water-saving marvel.

The K-3999-0 boasts a combination of features that make it a champion for water conservation and comfort.  First, it’s a two-piece design, allowing for easier access to clean around the base compared to one-piece models.  But the star of the show is the Class Five Flushing Technology.  This fancy name translates to a powerful yet water-efficient flush using a 1.28-gallon capacity.  While it’s not the absolute lowest water usage on the market, it strikes a great balance between performance and conservation, which is important to me.  Plus, the elongated bowl design offers a significant upgrade in comfort, especially for taller folks like myself.

Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Consider the K-3999-0

If you’re a homeowner looking for a comfortable, water-saving toilet with a reputable brand name, the K-3999-0 is a great option. The 1.28 gpf flush with Class Five technology offers a good balance between performance and conservation, and the elongated bowl design is a comfort upgrade.  However, if you have a tight budget, prefer a one-piece toilet with a wider color selection, or prioritize the absolute lowest water usage possible, you might want to explore other models.

The Verdict: A Comfortable and Eco-Conscious Throne (With a Few Minor Considerations)

Overall, I’m very happy with the Kohler K-3999-0 toilet.  It’s helped me reduce water consumption without sacrificing flushing power.  The elongated bowl design is a major comfort improvement, and the two-piece design offers some flexibility.  While the installation might require a professional and the color options are limited, the comfort, water-saving features, and brand reputation outweigh those drawbacks for me.  If you’re looking for a comfortable, water-efficient toilet from a trusted brand, the Kohler K-3999-0 is definitely worth considering!

The Importance of Water Conservation

Freshwater is a finite resource, and with a growing population and climate change, its availability is becoming a pressing concern. Every drop saved contributes to a more sustainable future.  Water conservation helps:

• Protect freshwater resources: Reduces strain on rivers, lakes, and aquifers.
• Minimize energy consumption: Less water treatment and pumping translates to lower energy needs.
• Reduce sewage treatment costs: Lower water usage equates to less wastewater to treat.
• Save money on water bills: Every gallon saved is money kept in your pocket.

How Toilets Contribute to Water Usage

Traditional toilets can use a staggering 3.5 gallons per flush (gpf) or more.  With an average household performing multiple flushes daily, the water usage adds up quickly.  Water-conserving toilets address this issue by using significantly less water per flush, often as little as 1 gallon or less.

Benefits of Water-Conserving Toilets

The advantages of water-conserving toilets are numerous:

• Reduced Water Consumption: The primary benefit, saving thousands of gallons of water per year.
• Lower Water Bills: Direct savings on your monthly water charges.
• Environmental Benefits: Reduces environmental impact by protecting freshwater resources.
• Potential Rebates: Many areas offer rebates for installing water-conserving toilets.

Types of Water-Conserving Toilets

Understanding the different types of water-conserving toilets is crucial for making an informed decision:

1.      Dual-Flush Toilets: 

These popular models offer two flush options, typically a full flush for solid waste (using 1.6 gallons or less) and a partial flush for liquid waste (using less than 1 gallon).  This allows users to choose the appropriate flush for the situation, maximizing water savings.

• Functionality: Dual-flush toilets come with either a dual button on top of the tank or a single lever that allows for a full or partial flush depending on how long it’s held down.
• Water Usage: The key benefit is the ability to choose between a full and partial flush, offering flexibility and maximizing water savings.

2.      Low-Flow Toilets (HET): 

Defined by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as using 1.28 gallons per flush (gpf) or less, these toilets were the first generation of water-conserving models.  While effective in reducing water usage compared to traditional toilets, some early models faced performance issues.

• Definition: HET stands for High-Efficiency Toilet and uses a maximum of 1.28 gpf.
• Potential Drawbacks: Some older HET models might not have sufficient flushing power, particularly for solid waste.

3.      Wash-Down vs. Siphon Toilets: 

These terms refer to the internal design of the toilet bowl and how it removes waste.  Understanding the difference can help you choose the most water-efficient model for your needs.

• Wash-Down Toilets: These toilets rely on a wider trapway and a forceful flush of water to remove waste. Wash-down toilets generally use less water than siphon toilets and are considered more water-conserving.
• Siphon Toilets: These toilets use a smaller trapway and rely on a siphoning action to remove waste. Siphon toilets typically require more water per flush than wash-down models.

Choosing for Water Conservation: For maximum water savings, wash-down toilets are generally the better choice due to their lower water usage.

4.      Pressure-Assisted Toilets (PAT): 

These toilets use compressed air to create a powerful flush.  While effective in performance, PATs can be noisy and use more water than some other water-conserving models (around 1.5 gpf).

Pros and Cons for Water Conservation: PATs offer good performance but may not be the most water-conserving option.

Emerging Technologies: 

The market is constantly evolving, with new technologies like vacuum-assisted toilets emerging.  These toilets use a vacuum to create a powerful flush with minimal water usage (around 1 gpf or less).  While promising, these models are still relatively new

Choosing the Right Water-Conserving Toilet: Factors to Consider

Selecting the perfect water-conserving toilet requires considering several factors:

• Performance (MaP Score):  The MaP (Maximum Performance) score, developed by the MaP Testing Laboratory, indicates a toilet’s ability to remove waste effectively.  While lower water usage is desirable, performance shouldn’t be compromised.  Look for a toilet with a MaP score of at least 400 for optimal performance.

• Water Usage (Gallons Per Flush):  This is a crucial factor for water conservation. Aim for toilets with a WaterSense certification (discussed later) which typically use 1.28 gpf or less.  Dual-flush toilets offer even greater water savings with their partial flush option.

• Comfort Height:  Traditional toilets can be uncomfortable, particularly for those with mobility issues.  Comfort height toilets  raise the bowl by 2 inches, making sitting and standing easier.

• Flushing Mechanism (Handle vs. Button):  This is a matter of personal preference.  Lever handles are traditional, while buttons offer a more modern look.  Some dual-flush toilets have separate buttons for full and partial flushes.

• Bowl Shape and Size (Round vs. Elongated):  Round bowls are more compact, while elongated bowls offer additional legroom and are generally considered more comfortable.

1. Noise Level:  Some toilets can be quite noisy when flushing.  Consider noise level if your toilet is located near a bedroom or bathroom used frequently at night.

1. Brand Reputation and Warranty:  Choose a reputable brand known for quality and customer service.  A longer warranty provides peace of mind in case of any issues.

Certifications: The Importance of WaterSense

The Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) WaterSense program identifies water-efficient products, including toilets.  WaterSense-certified toilets meet strict water usage criteria (typically 1.28 gpf or less) without compromising performance.  Choosing a WaterSense toilet guarantees significant water savings and often qualifies you for rebates from your local utility company.

Installation and Maintenance

• Professional Installation vs. DIY:  While some people are comfortable installing toilets themselves, it’s generally recommended to hire a licensed plumber for proper installation to ensure no leaks or performance issues.

• Maintaining a Water-Conserving Toilet:  These toilets typically require minimal maintenance.  Regular cleaning with appropriate products and checking for leaks are essential.  Avoid using harsh chemicals that can damage the toilet components.

Cost Considerations

• Upfront Cost of Water-Conserving Toilets:  Water-conserving toilets can have a slightly higher upfront cost compared to traditional models.  However, the long-term savings on water bills often outweigh the initial investment.

• Long-Term Savings on Water Bills:  Water-conserving toilets can save you hundreds of dollars on your water bill over their lifetime.  The exact amount depends on your water rates and usage patterns.

Conclusion: Saving Water, Saving Money, Saving the Planet

Water-conserving toilets are a win-win situation.  They help you save water, which translates to lower water bills and a reduced environmental impact.  By choosing the right water-conserving toilet for your needs, you’re contributing to a more sustainable future.

Remember:

• Prioritize performance (MaP score) alongside water usage.
• Consider a WaterSense-certified toilet for guaranteed efficiency.
• Factor in comfort features like height and bowl shape.
• Choose a reputable brand with a good warranty.

With this detailed buyer’s guide, you’re well-equipped to make an informed decision and select the perfect water-conserving toilet for your home!