The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has updated its WaterSense certification standards for toilets.

The maximum flow for dual flush toilets is now capped at 1.28 gallons per flush (gpf), and there will no longer be averaging with higher flows. However, 1.28 gpf is still considered low-flow. Some options use much less water; many project teams use vacuum-assisted flush for a decade plus. These toilets use as little as 0.8 gpf and even 0.5 gpf on the new dual flush with no issues. 

The new EPA standard goes into effect in one year, so the US government will still regard 1.28 gpf as low-flow until perhaps 2030. This is concerning as we watch water bills go up in cost and cities and towns run out of water. 

What do you think? What flow rate should be considered water-efficient?

Are you hoping to save water in your home or in your next project? Check out the Home Water Score tab in the GreenStar Homes certification workbook and other resources on our new website.