January 29, 2007—The Environmental Protection Agency is releasing a final specification for the latest generation of water-saving, high-efficiency toilets.
Those that use less than 1.3 gallons per flush and meet performance standards for quality will qualify for EPA’s WaterSense label. The new toilets are the product of extensive research in fluid dynamics conducted over the last six years. While the exterior differs little from traditional toilets, interior redesign and new mechanical approaches significantly improve flow and reduce water usage, says EPA.
WaterSense-labeled toilets are certified by independent laboratory testing to meet rigorous criteria for both performance and efficiency. Only high-efficiency toilets that complete the third-party certification process can earn the WaterSense label.
WaterSense is a voluntary public-private partnership that recognizes high-performance products and processes. The WaterSense program also seeks to promote consumer use of water-efficient products, certification for water industry professionals, and innovation in water-efficient product manufacturing.
In the future, a broad spectrum of water-efficient products will carry the WaterSense label, from bathroom faucets to lawn irrigation products. For tips about saving water around the home, visit the WaterSense Web site and take the interactive quiz, “Test Your WaterSense.”
For more information, see the Web site.
