Low-flush, or high-efficiency toilets have come a long way. Almost every manufacturer now makes them. Some of the same mistakes are being made though, and if you know what to look for, you can avoid some ‘issues’.

• Avoid a base with an abrupt curve in the drainage line. The drainage line is the protruding pipe-like bulge visible on the base. Almost every toilet exposes them – as though it’s a pretty feature. What you really want is a toilet with a reasonable curve so that waste can be effectively eliminated. Too many curves are NEVER good, and worse when you figure less water will be used for the flush. You’ll blame your plumber because it will seem like it backs up a lot. It’s NOT the plumber, it’s a poorly designed toilet. Ask us about well-performing, low-maintenance toilets – we know which ones are the best!

• Avoid a trapway less than 3 inches. You want the diameter to be, shall we say … healthy,  for the same reasons described above.

• Avoid a low base. They’re uncomfortable, and unless you have small children, adults can tend to fall on them when attempting to sit. This will cause problems with rocking and possibly even tank breakage over time.

Other than that, we recommend that the chain from your handle to the flapper be metal instead of easily breakable plastic.

Low-flush toilets use much less water per flush, and some even differentiate between solid and liquid waste when determining how much water to use. Contact our office at 972-424-6479 for more information about the advantages of installing low-flush toilets in your home. Many cities have tax incentives or vouchers to encourage new toilets that conserve water.