Should You Replace Your Low Flow Toilet?

With more and more homeowners concerned about efficiency, from reduction of electricity usage to water conservation, manufacturers have followed suit—creating low flow toilets and showerheads, energy-efficient heating and air conditioning systems, and washers and dryers that will weigh clothes and precisely calculate the amount of water and heat to use. However, for some families, low flow toilet may seem to actually use more water than a regular flow toilet by requiring multiple flushes nearly every time. Is replacing an energy-efficient toilet with a less efficient option ever a good idea? Read on for some of the factors you'll want to consider when deciding whether to replace your current low flow toilet.

Is a regular flow toilet truly an option?

Some states, particularly those in drought-heavy areas, have enacted regulations at the state or local level to prevent the installation of regular flow toilets in new construction--and sometimes, even the replacement of a low flow toilet with a regular one. If you live in an area covered by one of these regulations, switching out your current toilet with a less efficient one may not be an option.

Are household members flushing toilet paper or other items?

Flushing copious amounts of toilet paper (or any sanitary items like maxi pads and tampons) can be a surefire way to clog even a regular flow toilet. By encouraging your family members to practice responsible flushing habits, you may be able to minimize or even eliminate the number of times you'll need to flush your toilet more than once per use. 

Could design flaws be the problem?

Some low flow toilets are designed in a way that can make them more susceptible to clogging, especially if the outflow pipe curves in a sharp S shape. If this is the case, switching out your current low flow toilet with another one designed to be clog-free may solve your problems without increasing your household's water usage. 

Does your toilet need repair?

If your toilet has been showing signs of a problem for quite some time, you may be dealing with an internal clog or other issue that requires professional repair. By contacting a plumber to diagnose and solve your toilet problem, you can provide yourself with a perfectly functioning toilet that seems brand new--often at far less than the cost of a replacement toilet. 

In general, replacing a low flow toilet with a regular flow one isn't the best idea. By implementing the above suggestions, you may be able to solve your toilet issues without tearing your bathroom apart. For more information, contact a business such as Belfair Plumbing & Drain Service.

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