I see your point on dual-flush kits—installation can definitely make or break them. I've dealt with a few that were installed poorly, and honestly, troubleshooting those felt like chasing ghosts...just when you think you've fixed it, another issue pops up.
WaterSense toilets are decent, but I'd say they're not always the miracle some folks make them out to be. I've had a couple units where tenants still complained about weak flushes, even after upgrading. Usually, it comes down to the specific model and brand you pick. If anyone's considering a switch, here's my quick two cents:
1. Don't just trust the label—check online reviews, especially from maintenance pros or plumbers who've installed them regularly.
2. Pay close attention to the flush valve size and glazing quality inside the trapway. A smooth, larger diameter trapway makes a huge difference in flushing efficiency.
3. If you're retrofitting an older building, double-check your water pressure first. Lower-flow toilets can struggle in buildings with borderline water pressure.
Bottom line, they're usually worth it, but do your homework first to avoid headaches down the road.
Totally agree about checking water pressure first—learned that the hard way when I swapped out an old toilet. Pressure was borderline, and the new WaterSense model struggled big-time. Ended up installing a pressure booster, which fixed it but added extra cost and hassle.
Quick question though: Has anyone found certain brands or models that consistently handle borderline pressure better? Curious if there's a go-to option for older homes like mine...
I've been wondering about this too, especially since my place is older and the plumbing's a bit... quirky. I've read some good things about Toto models handling lower pressures better, but haven't personally tried them yet. Makes me wonder—are there specific design features (like flush valve size or trapway design) that make certain toilets better suited to borderline pressure situations? Seems like there should be something specific to look for beyond just brand names.
You're definitely onto something with the flush valve and trapway design. From what I've seen, toilets with larger flush valves (around 3 inches or more) tend to handle lower water pressure better because they release water faster, creating a stronger flush. Also, look for models with glazed trapways—these are smoother inside, reducing friction and helping waste move through easier even with less water. Toto does have some good options, but honestly, checking these specific features matters more than brand alone... especially in older homes where plumbing can be unpredictable.
Larger flush valves do help, sure, but honestly I've seen plenty of glazed trapways still struggle in older plumbing setups. Sometimes the issue isn't the toilet itself—it's the pipes downstream. Might wanna check that before investing too much in fancy features.
