Environmentally conscious, efficiency-enhancing upgrades are increasingly popular in the greater DMV area. When it comes to home upgrades that save money and benefit the environment, installing high-efficiency toilets might not top your list—but they may contribute to more savings than you expect.
If you’re a homeowner in the DMV (D.C., Maryland, and Virginia) area, you may already be aware of regulations encouraging water conservation, but the advantages go far beyond compliance. Let’s explore why switching to efficient toilets is a smart choice for your home and wallet.
The Green Standard: A Shift to 1.28 Gallons per Flush
Gone are the days of toilets using up to 4.5 gallons of water per flush (GPF). Both the District of Columbia and Maryland have required new toilets to use just 1.28 GPF or less since 2022.
Older toilets not only waste water but also make your home less eco-friendly. Replacing them with high-efficiency models brings your plumbing in line with modern sustainability practices and helps reduce strain on local water resources.
Click through the slides to learn more!
Dispelling Myths About Low-Flow Fixtures
A common concern among homeowners considering low-flow fixtures, especially toilets, is whether they perform as effectively as their traditional counterparts. The idea that efficient toilets require multiple flushes to clear waste is largely a myth—modern engineering has transformed these fixtures to deliver powerful performance while conserving water.
Engineered for Efficiency and Effective Waste Elimination
Today’s high-efficiency toilets (HETs), including those certified by the EPA’s WaterSense program, are designed to work smarter. Larger flush valves, redesigned trapways, and pressure-assisted flushing systems ensure waste is cleared effectively in a single flush.
Brands like Toto, Kohler, and American Standard have invested heavily in research and development to make low-flow toilets not just functional but highly reliable.
- Powerful Flushing Systems: Pressure-assisted and gravity-fed designs are optimized to use less water while maintaining strong bowl-clearing performance.
- Improved Bowl Design: Many modern toilets feature slicker glazing and better bowl geometry to prevent residue from sticking.
Other Low-Flow Fixtures, Like Shower Heads and Faucets, Provide Similar Benefits Without a Reduction in Performance
The same technological advancements apply to other low-flow fixtures, such as shower heads and faucets. Many older models gave low-flow fixtures a bad reputation due to noticeably lower water pressure. Homeowners today are often hesitant to upgrade after a bad shower they may have had with a low-flow fixture many years ago.
Modern designs now incorporate aerators and flow restrictors that maintain water pressure while significantly cutting down on water usage.
- Shower Heads: Today’s low-flow shower heads blend air with water to create a full, pressurized spray that feels just as satisfying as traditional models. Adjustable flow rates also allow for customization to suit individual preferences.
- Faucets: Low-flow faucets use aerators to mix air into the water stream, reducing flow without sacrificing rinsing power.
The Truth About Low-Flow Fixtures
For most homeowners, the switch to low-flow fixtures is seamless. Concerns about clogged toilets or weak water pressure are typically rooted in misconceptions based on experiences with older plumbing systems or poorly designed fixtures. Modern low-flow products have overcome those issues.
By choosing quality fixtures from reputable brands and working with experienced plumbers for toilet installation, like those at Vito Services, you can enjoy the benefits of water conservation without compromising on performance.
Save Water, Save Money
If you’re tired of high water bills, upgrading your toilets is an easy way to see savings add up. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), replacing a single older toilet with a 1.28 GPF model can save up to 13,000 gallons of water annually for the average household. That’s an estimated $170 per year in savings and $3,400 over the average lifetime of a toilet. In the long term, the savings can easily pay for the cost of upgrading.
What About Your Pipes?
Switching to a low-flow toilet isn’t just about reducing water usage—it can also have a positive impact on your home’s plumbing. While modern toilets work seamlessly with most pipe systems, homes with older or improperly maintained pipes might experience slower water flow.
For most homeowners, the reduced water flow has a positive impact, decreasing wear and tear on pipes and extending their lifespan. If you’re connected to a septic system, efficient fixtures have the added benefit of reducing the amount of liquid entering the tank.
Seamless Installation: Leave It to the Experts
Installing a new toilet may seem straightforward, but there’s more to it than simply swapping out the old model. A professional plumber ensures the process goes smoothly, from checking the toilet flange to ensuring the water supply line is compatible with your new fixture. In some cases, adjustments to the floor or pipe connections may be necessary, especially if you’re upgrading from an older design.
At Vito Services, we specialize in high-quality toilet and fixture installations that save you time and prevent headaches. Our team is experienced in replacing outdated toilets with modern, efficient models tailored to your needs.
Upgrade to Efficient Toilets in Rockville, MD
Ready to upgrade to a more efficient home? Vito Services is here to help DMV homeowners make the switch to high-performance toilets that save water and money. Call 301-315-6100 to schedule installation and start enjoying the benefits of a more sustainable bathroom.
