- Dual-flush models sound great on paper, but I’ve had similar issues—two flushes for solids isn’t uncommon, especially in older buildings.
- Pressure-assist can be noisy, but they’re more reliable for one-and-done.
- If your plumbing’s old or has buildup, water-saving toilets just don’t cut it sometimes.
- I’ve swapped out a few “eco” toilets in my rentals after complaints. Sometimes the classic models just work better, even if they use more water.
- It’s a trade-off—lower bills vs. more maintenance calls. Not always as straightforward as the marketing claims...
Honestly, I tried a “high-efficiency” toilet to save on the water bill, but ended up plunging way more than I ever did before. Kind of defeats the purpose if you’re flushing twice or grabbing the plunger every week... Sometimes old-school just works better.
I hear you, but honestly, a lot of the clogging issues with high-efficiency toilets come down to the model and how it’s installed. Some of the cheaper or older ones don’t have enough force, but the newer pressure-assist models are a whole different story—those things can clear just about anything. Sometimes, it’s even the drain line angle or buildup in the pipes causing trouble, not just the toilet itself. Swapping out for a better quality unit or checking the plumbing can make a big difference... not all “water-savers” are created equal.
I get what you’re saying about the newer models—my neighbor has one of those pressure-assist toilets and swears by it. But honestly, I went with a basic water-saver because of the price, and yeah, it clogs more than my old one did. Like you said,
If you’re on a tight budget, it’s tempting to grab the cheapest option, but I’m starting to think it’s worth saving up for a better model. Otherwise, you just end up plunging all the time... which kinda defeats the purpose.“not all ‘water-savers’ are created equal.”
Funny thing, I’ve been called in to fix more clogs on “budget” water-savers than I can count. Some of those models just don’t have enough oomph to get the job done, especially if your plumbing isn’t new. I get the appeal of saving money upfront, but sometimes the cost shows up later—usually in the form of a plunger workout. If you’re already annoyed, it might be worth looking into a pressure-assist or at least a higher-rated gravity model down the line. Sometimes paying a bit more saves you a lot of hassle.