Water Usage and Efficiency
Recent technological advancements in toilets have resulted in a significant reduction in water usage. Modern toilets can operate with 1.28 gallons per flush (gpf) or less, while providing equal or superior performance compared to older models. This represents a 20% reduction in water consumption compared to the previous federal standard of 1.6 gpf. High-efficiency toilets (HET) and ultra-high-efficiency toilets (UHET) are available in the market, with HET toilets using 1.28 gpf and UHET toilets using only 0.8 gpf. Despite using less water, these toilets have improved flushing efficacy and can effectively remove up to 800 grams (1.75 pounds) of solids with each flush.
Key Facts
- Water Usage: Recent advancements in toilet technology have allowed toilets to use 1.28 gallons per flush (gpf) or less, while still providing equal or superior performance. This is 20 percent less water than the previous federal standard of 1.6 gpf.
- High-Efficiency Toilets: There are high-efficiency toilets (HET) and ultra-high-efficiency toilets (UHET) available in the market. HET toilets use 1.28 gpf, while UHET toilets use only 0.8 gpf. Despite using less water, these toilets have improved flushing efficacy and can effectively remove up to 800 grams (1.75 pounds) of solids with each flush.
- Maximum Performance (MaP) Testing: MaP testing is the industry standard for toilet testing in the United States. It uses realistic organic-based test media to accurately simulate authentic toilet demands. Toilet performance is measured in grams, and a higher MaP score indicates better flush performance. Some toilets can handle up to 1,000 grams (2.2 pounds) of waste using only 1.28 gpf.
- Dual Flush Toilets: Dual flush toilets offer two flushing options – a lower volume flush for liquid waste and a higher volume flush for solid waste. This allows for more efficient water usage, as less water is used for liquid waste removal.
Maximum Performance (MaP) Testing
MaP testing is the industry standard for toilet testing in the United States. It utilizes realistic organic-based test media to accurately simulate authentic toilet demands. Toilet performance is measured in grams, and a higher MaP score indicates better flush performance. Some toilets can handle up to 1,000 grams (2.2 pounds) of waste using only 1.28 gpf. By selecting toilets that are certified to perform significantly better than other toilets on the market, trade professionals can provide their customers with the most rigorously tested toilets available.
Dual Flush Toilets
Dual flush toilets offer two flushing options – a lower volume flush for liquid waste and a higher volume flush for solid waste. This allows for more efficient water usage, as less water is used for liquid waste removal. Dual flush toilets typically have a 0.8 gpf flush for liquids and a 1.6 gpf flush for solids.
Sources
- https://www.epa.gov/watersense/residential-toilets
- https://www.thisoldhouse.com/bathrooms/21018915/read-this-before-you-buy-a-toilet
- https://www.ferguson.com/content/trade-talk/tricks-of-the-trade/low-flow-toilets-clogging-guide-to-map-testing-flush-ratings
FAQs
What is flush performance for toilet rating?
Flush performance for toilet rating refers to the ability of a toilet to effectively remove waste from the bowl. It is measured using Maximum Performance (MaP) testing, which simulates authentic toilet demands using realistic organic-based test media. A higher MaP score indicates better flush performance.
What is the MaP testing standard?
MaP testing is the industry standard for toilet testing in the United States. It is conducted by independent agencies and certifies toilets based on their ability to handle a specific amount of waste (measured in grams) with a single flush.
What is a good MaP score?
A good MaP score is typically considered to be 350 to 600 grams for a 1.6-gallon flush. However, some toilets can handle up to 1,000 grams (2.2 pounds) of waste using only 1.28 gpf.
What are the benefits of choosing a toilet with a high MaP score?
Choosing a toilet with a high MaP score ensures that the toilet will perform well and effectively remove waste, even in challenging situations. This can help to prevent clogs and ensure a more hygienic and pleasant bathroom experience.
What is a dual flush toilet?
A dual flush toilet offers two flushing options – a lower volume flush for liquid waste and a higher volume flush for solid waste. This allows for more efficient water usage, as less water is used for liquid waste removal.
What are the benefits of a dual flush toilet?
Dual flush toilets can help to save water by using less water for liquid waste removal. They can also be more effective at removing solid waste, as the higher volume flush provides more force.
What should I look for when buying a toilet?
When buying a toilet, consider factors such as water efficiency (HET or UHET), MaP score, flushing performance, bowl shape (round or elongated), height (standard or ADA-compliant), and additional features (such as dual flush or self-cleaning).
How can I maintain my toilet to ensure optimal performance?
To maintain your toilet and ensure optimal performance, follow these tips: clean the toilet regularly, avoid flushing non-flushable items, use a toilet bowl cleaner to remove stains and buildup, and call a plumber if you experience any issues with flushing or leaks.