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Do I Need a 1.28 GPF or 1.6 GPF Toilet?

Modern toilets have cut back on household water use dramatically. In the 1990s, it was not unusual to see a unit that would go through 7 gallons of water during a single flushing cycle. Now we are using either 1.28 or 1.6 gallons per flush when we use the bathroom.

Which is better if you want to upgrade your bathroom to a high-efficiency experience? Should you purchase a model that uses only 1.28 gallons per flush? Or is it OK to use a 1.6 GPF toilet as an option to save water?

 

How to Choose

The primary issue to consider here is the amount of efficiency that you require or want. Most homes will benefit from an upgrade to the 1.6 GPF toilet because older models will use at least 3.5 GPF. That can be a massive saving if you have a larger family or multiple toilets.

Some homes live in regions where water conservation requirements govern your decision. It may be better to choose the 1.28 GPF toilet in this situation because it will likely meet or exceed the current and future regulations that apply to your home. These toilets are called HET models – high-efficiency toilets. Their performance is just as good as the 1.6 GPF models, but they tend to cost a little more.

If your home is in a hot climate where water is sometimes scarce, then an ultra-high-efficiency toilet might be the best option. These models flush with just 1 gallon, helping you to save the most water possible.

 

Features to Consider

The one option that you’ll want to look for with a new toilet is a dual-flush design. These models give you the ability to flush half of the tank when there is only liquid waste to manage. This feature gives you the best of both worlds without compromising on the power of your flushing.

Additional features include self-cleaning, pressure assistance, and maceration tanks that can help you to manage your bathroom in whatever way works the best for your needs.

You might also look at the height of your toilet when remodeling or upgrading because the traditional rim sits about 15 inches off the floor. A seat ring adds another inch to that height. If you or someone in your family struggles to sit or get up, a taller toilet can help to ease this issue. There are models that go up to 21 inches on the market today, and it is possible to find custom models that are even taller.

When you choose one of these toilets, you might qualify for a rebate on your purchase. Some geographic areas use this monetary incentive as a way to encourage homeowners to reduce their water use. That means you can upgrade the value of your bathroom, receive the same performance, and even get paid during the process!

Do you need a 1.28 GPF or 1.6 GPF to improve water conservation at home? Yes – but either model will work. Choose the toilet that meets your budget requirements and overall needs the best to create the best possible bathroom. For our recommendations, check our detailed reviews here.

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