There is now a method to test different brand and model toilets, so the consumer is able to compare toilets, model to model.
About the HET [High efficiency toilet] specification:
The specification is based on the widely accepted "Uniform North American Requirements" and EPA industry and product research, in collaboration with external stakeholders. The EPA specification sets the water use level for high-efficiency toilets (HETs) at 1.28 gallons per flush or less, includes design requirements, and has a higher requirement for flush performance to ensure optimal user satisfaction.
How many current toilet models meet the HET criteria?
The EPA states:The most recent list of toilets in the market shows approximately 249 models. There are currently more than 100 models, or about 40 percent, that might meet the HET specification.
What is the test called?
Maximum Performance (MaP) testing identifies how well popular toilets perform removing bulk waste.
The test: An explanation of MaP Testing-
A proven process for development & implementation of meaningful
product performance standards:
PDFs/Thursday/Napa%20C/800-%20John%20Koeller-%20MaP%20Testing-%205%20Year%20Anniversary.pdf
This is from a presentation presented at watersmart08 INNOVATIONS
Las Vegas, October 2008
View The Test and check out the big differences between toilet models:
Maximum Performance (MaP) Testing of Popular Toilet Models.
A Cooperative Canadian and American Project.
11th Edition. Revised Jan.14, 2008
www.cwwa.ca/pdf_files/Map%2011th%20Edition%20Full%20Report1.pdf
The EPA now has a label called " Water Sense"
The water sense label means that a toilet manufacturer's particular model is tested and approved by an independent agency. The products earning this label meet minimum efficiency standards that are generally 20% more efficient than others.
Find a WaterSense Labeled High-Efficiency Toilet:
The following toilets have been certified to meet WaterSense criteria, which means you can expect exceptional performance while reducing your water use.
Website: www.epa.gov/watersense/pp/find_het.htm
Now that you're informed, you can make a qualified purchase decision based on facts and figures.
Have your plumber install your new toilet, or give it a go yourself. Congratulations on your new water savings purchase, as you will save thousands of gallons a year!
