The Best Low-Flow Toilets
by Justin Thomas, Virginia on 08.29.05
Early on, low-flow toilets got a bad rap — and justifiably so — their flushing ability left a lot to be desired. But today there are many low-flow toilets on the market that work well. Terry Love is a plumber who reviews low-flow toilets. He takes his job seriously, installing some of the toilets his own home were he can test them in "real world" situations. He lists toilets that work just fine in spite of the current standards which allow for a maximum water usage of 1.6 gallons per flush (GPF). He says his favorite toilet is the UltraMax by Toto. Toto calls this a "G-Max" toilet (model number is MS854114S). Overall, Toto seems to be the low-flush brand of choice. You can see all the reviews on this page: Terry Love's Consumer Toilet Reports via MetaEfficient
Toto toilets are great.
The first time I used one I was not sure that it had worked properly because it did not make much noise and it did not sound like much water had been used. A peek beneath the toilet seat revealed all had disappeared.
This experience was at work where the old toilet was replaced after one fellow tended to leave large deposits that did not make their way to the final destination. Since the Toto was added, there have been all deposits and no returns.
Japanese engineering at its best!
Toto ultramax is the best. We bought our first one about three years ago on the recommendation of a co-worker. It works as well now as it did on day one. You never have to flush twice...ever.
Finally gave up on the old basement toilet, replaced with a Toto but kind of worried that even the ultramax might not be able to flush in a sunken basement barely above the septic line. Works like a charm.
Not only does it use less water, but it dispenses with the whole "spinning water" thing. The flap inside the toilet tank is much bigger than normal toilets, so when you pull the handle that water gets to work fast.
Highly recommended.
I also have a Toto (don't know which model). It works great! I recently remodeled my bathroom, and got a Toto Washlet as well. I first tried this in Japan...and let me say once you start washing your rear end w/ water, you never want to go back to paper! You just feel much cleaner and the seat heater is just another luxury. (great way to save on TP btw).
http://www.totousa.com/toto/productpage.asp?PID=488