- HEP
- Innovative Water-saving Technology
Innovative Water-saving Technology
Innovative Water-saving Technology | Toilet Upgrades and Replacements | Plumbing | Sewanee
Transform your Sewanee bathroom into a model of efficiency with HEP’s cutting-edge, water-saving plumbing solutions. Our licensed pros replace outdated tanks and leaky valves with sleek, high-efficiency fixtures that slash water use by up to 60 %, cutting your utility bills while conserving one of Sewanee Mountain’s most precious resources. Whisper-quiet fills, powerful yet low-flow flushes, and smart sensors mean you’ll never have to choose between performance and sustainability again.
From boutique cottages to historic faculty homes, we make every step hassle-free—removing your old unit, installing the latest WaterSense™ models, and hauling away debris in a single visit. Discover why families, landlords, and eco-minded students alike trust HEP for reliable toilet upgrades and replacements, all backed by our ironclad workmanship warranty and friendly 24/7 support. Book your free, no-pressure estimate today and start saving water—and money—by tomorrow.
FAQs
How much water can a high-efficiency toilet save compared to my current fixture?
Older gravity-flush toilets installed before the early 1990s typically use 3.5–7 gallons per flush (gpf). Modern high-efficiency toilets (HETs) use 1.28 gpf or less, and WaterSense-labeled dual-flush models average about 1.1 gpf. If your family of four flushes 15–20 times a day, upgrading can save 6,000–10,000 gallons of water per year—roughly a 60 % reduction—translating into lower water and sewer bills for Sewanee households.
What kinds of water-saving toilet technologies do you install in Sewanee?
We carry several options so homeowners, landlords, and campus facilities can choose the best fit: • Pressure-assisted toilets that use compressed air to boost a 1.0–1.1 gpf flush. • Gravity-fed WaterSense toilets rated at 1.28 gpf. • Dual-flush models (≈0.8 gpf for liquids, 1.28 gpf for solids) for maximum control. • Retrofit valve and tank kits that convert a sound 1.6 gpf unit to dual-flush performance. All products meet or exceed Tennessee plumbing code, ANSI/ASME A112.19 standards, and EPA WaterSense criteria.
Will switching to a low-flow or dual-flush toilet reduce flushing performance?
No. Today’s HETs are designed with re-engineered trapways, larger flush valves, and optimized bowl glazing to clear waste with less water. The models we recommend undergo independent MaP (Maximum Performance) testing and must score at least 600 g—more than enough for residential use. If you have chronic sewer line issues (older clay pipes, tree-root intrusions), we may suggest a pressure-assist model or a drain inspection before installation to guarantee trouble-free performance.
How long does a toilet upgrade installation take and will it disrupt my household?
A standard remove-and-replace takes about 90 minutes per fixture, including disposal of the old toilet, flange inspection, new wax (or waxless) seal, and leak testing. Complex jobs—such as repairing a damaged flange or relocating the supply line—can add 30–60 minutes. We schedule appointments in two-hour arrival windows, protect flooring with drop cloths, and leave the work area sanitized. Water is typically shut off only for 10–15 minutes, so household downtime is minimal.
Are there rebates or incentives available in Sewanee or Franklin County for water-saving toilet upgrades?
Yes. Sewanee Utility District currently offers a $40 bill credit per WaterSense-labeled toilet (limit two per service address) when you submit the purchase receipt and a photo of the installed unit. Tennessee Valley Authority’s EnergyRight program also provides a $50 smart-home voucher when a high-efficiency fixture is paired with a leak-detection device. We’ll supply all model numbers and forms, and we can file the paperwork on your behalf to streamline reimbursement.
What maintenance does a high-efficiency toilet require after installation?
Routine upkeep is simple: • Annually inspect the fill valve, flapper, and supply line for wear—replace parts as needed (usually <$20). • Avoid in-tank bleach tablets; their high chlorine concentration can degrade rubber seals quickly. Use liquid bowl cleaners instead. • Every 6–12 months, clear mineral deposits from the rim holes and siphon jet with a non-metallic brush, especially if your home has hard water. • If you notice phantom flushing or a slow tank refill, call us early; minor valve adjustments keep the unit at peak efficiency and prevent leaks that would negate water savings.