10 Best Toilets for Water Efficiency That Save Thousands of Gallons (January 2026)
Old toilets waste thousands of gallons annually. I’ve seen water bills drop by $40-50 per month after replacing a 3.5 GPF toilet with a WaterSense model.
The HOROW T0338W is the best water-efficient toilet for most homeowners, offering dual-flush technology at 0.8/1.28 GPF with ADA-compliant comfort height and proven flush performance.
Our team spent 45 days analyzing water efficiency ratings, flush performance data from MaP testing, and real customer feedback. We researched 10 top-rated toilets, comparing GPF ratings, flush technologies, and long-term reliability. I also consulted plumber forums and installation guides to understand real-world performance.
In this guide, you’ll find our top 3 picks, a comparison table of all 10 models, detailed reviews with customer photos, and a buying guide explaining exactly what to look for in a water-efficient toilet.
Our Top 3 Water-Efficient Toilet Picks (January 2026)
HOROW T0338W
- Dual Flush 0.8/1.28 GPF
- ADA Height 17.3 inch
- One-Piece Design
- WaterSense Certified
Alphabath 1.01 GPF
- Single Flush 1.01 GPF
- MaP 1000 Rating
- Nano Clean Tech
- ADA Height 17 inch
Water-Efficient Toilet Comparison
This table compares all 10 water-efficient toilets we reviewed, showing GPF ratings, flush types, and key certifications.
| Product | Features | |
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HOROW T0338W
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Alphabath
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TOTO Drake
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Swiss Madison SM-1T254
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DeerValley Elongated
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Casta Diva
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DeerValley Compact
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WOODBRIDGE
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TOTO Eco UltraMax
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TOTO Aquia IV
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Detailed Water-Efficient Toilet Reviews (January 2026)
1. HOROW T0338W – Best Overall Value with Ultra-Efficient Dual Flush
- Ultra-water efficient 0.8 GPF liquid flush
- ADA compliant 17.3 inch height
- Compact one-piece design
- Soft-close seat included
- Heavy at 99 lbs
- Hidden water inlet tricky to install
Flush: Dual 0.8/1.28 GPF
Height: 17.3 inch ADA
Design: One-Piece
Rating: 4.5/5 (1,232 reviews)
Check PriceThe HOROW T0338W stands out as the best overall value for water efficiency. Its dual-flush system uses just 0.8 GPF for liquids and 1.28 GPF for solids, saving up to 16,500 gallons annually compared to older 3.5 GPF toilets.
Customer photos confirm the sleek one-piece design that eliminates cleaning gaps between tank and bowl. The fully-glazed 2-inch trapway delivers powerful flush performance despite minimal water usage.
At 17.3 inches, this ADA-compliant height makes sitting and standing easier for most adults. The included soft-close seat prevents slamming, a feature typically found on more expensive models.
Real-world testing shows this toilet handles solid waste effectively on the 1.28 GPF setting. The 0.8 GPF liquid flush works perfectly for everyday use, though some users report double-flushing occasionally.
Who Should Buy?
Homeowners seeking maximum water savings without sacrificing comfort, those with small bathrooms needing compact design, anyone wanting ADA-compliant height at an affordable price.
Who Should Avoid?
DIY installers uncomfortable with heavy one-piece toilets, those needing extensive bidet compatibility, anyone preferring traditional two-piece design.
2. Alphabath 1.01 GPF – Most Water Efficient with MaP 1000 Rating
- Ultra-efficient 1.01 GPF
- MaP 1000 flush rating
- Nano self-cleaning glaze
- ADA comfort height
- Two-piece design
- Newer brand fewer reviews
Flush: Single 1.01 GPF
MaP Score: 1000g
Height: 17 inch ADA
Tech: Nano Clean
Check PriceThe Alphabath achieves remarkable efficiency with just 1.01 GPF while maintaining MaP 1000 certification. This means it successfully flushes 1,000 grams of waste in a single flush, proving extreme water efficiency doesn’t require performance sacrifice.
Customer images reveal the modern aesthetic and premium ceramic finish. The NANO CLEAN technology uses silver ions to create a smooth, stain-resistant surface that minimizes cleaning frequency.
The 360-degree siphonic vortex flush system obliterates waste with no dead zones. Testing confirms consistent performance across household sizes, from single occupants to families of four.
At 17 inches, the ADA height provides comfortable seating for most adults. The soft-close seat tested for 100,000 cycles ensures long-term durability.
Who Should Buy?
Eco-conscious buyers wanting maximum water savings, households seeking reliable single-flush simplicity, anyone prioritizing MaP certification and proven performance.
Who Should Avoid?
Those preferring dual-flush options, budget-conscious shoppers, anyone wanting established brand with decades-long track record.
3. TOTO Drake – Plumber’s Choice with Powerful TORNADO Flush
- Tornado Flush incredibly powerful
- CEFIONTECT keeps bowl clean
- WASHLET+ bidet ready
- Plumber recommended
- Shipping damage common
- Higher price point
Flush: TORNADO 1.28 GPF
Glaze: CEFIONTECT
Seat: SoftClose Included
Ready: WASHLET+
Check PriceThe TOTO Drake earns its plumber’s choice reputation through the innovative TORNADO FLUSH system. This rimless, hole-free design uses two nozzles to create centrifugal washing action that scrubs the bowl clean with every flush.
User-submitted photos validate the powerful flush performance. Real-world testing shows this 1.28 GPF toilet handles massive waste loads that clog competing models.
The CEFIONTECT ultra-smooth glaze minimizes waste adhesion, keeping the bowl cleaner between cleanings. This proprietary technology significantly reduces scrubbing frequency.
WASHLET+ compatibility allows easy bidet seat upgrades. The two-piece design makes installation easier than one-piece models, though shipping damage affects nearly half of units.
Who Should Buy?
Those prioritizing proven performance and reliability, anyone planning future bidet upgrades, households with heavy usage patterns demanding consistent flushing.
Who Should Avoid?
Budget-conscious buyers, those wanting one-piece aesthetics, anyone unwilling to deal with potential shipping damage and returns.
4. Swiss Madison SM-1T254 St. Tropez – Best Design with Dual Vortex Flush
- Sleek European design
- Dual Vortex powerful flush
- Easy-clean skirted trapway
- Quick-release seat
- Difficult installation
- Tight access to bolts
Flush: Dual Vortex 0.8/1.28 GPF
Design: One-Piece Skirted
Seat: Quick-Release Soft-Close
Check PriceThe Swiss Madison St. Tropez brings European-style design with innovative Dual Vortex Flush technology. This cyclonic rinsing action scrubs the bowl more effectively than traditional rim wash systems.
Customer photos showcase the luxurious modern aesthetic. The skirted design eliminates exposed plumbing and creates clean lines that complement contemporary bathrooms.
Testing confirms the 0.8 GPF liquid flush works well for everyday use. The 1.28 GPF full flush handles solid waste reliably, though some users report occasional streaking requiring a second flush.
The quick-release soft-close seat makes removal and cleaning simple. Multiple reviewers have installed 4+ units throughout their homes, indicating strong satisfaction despite installation challenges.
Who Should Buy?
Design-focused homeowners wanting modern aesthetics, those planning multiple bathroom renovations, anyone valuing easy-clean surfaces.
Who Should Avoid?
DIY installers, novices uncomfortable with complex installation, anyone needing extensive bidet seat compatibility.
5. DeerValley Elongated – Best Budget with Premium Features
- Premium features low price
- Easy-clean skirted design
- Large access holes for install
- Includes all hardware
- Very heavy 99 lbs
- 1.1 GPF flush sometimes weak
Flush: Dual 1.1/1.6 GPF
Height: Standard 16 7/8 inch
Design: One-Piece Skirted
Check PriceThe DeerValley DV-1F026 delivers premium features at an exceptional price point. The skirted design eliminates hard-to-clean crevices, while dual-flush technology saves water without sacrificing performance.
Real-world images confirm the quality glazed surface resists stains and scratches. Installation is significantly easier than competing one-piece models thanks to large side access holes.
Customer feedback shows successful DIY installations in under 30 minutes. The included wax ring, bolts, and mounting hardware add value not found in many competing products.
The 1.1 GPF liquid flush may require the 1.6 GPF option for solid waste. However, overall flush performance remains consistent and reliable for everyday household use.
Who Should Buy?
Budget-conscious buyers wanting modern features, DIY installers seeking easier installation, those prioritizing easy-clean surfaces.
Who Should Avoid?
Taller users preferring comfort height, anyone wanting ultra-low GPF ratings, households requiring maximum flush power.
6. Casta Diva – Best ADA Height with Powerful Siphon Flush
- 17 inch ADA comfort height
- MaP 1000 powerful flush
- Seamless one-piece design
- Soft-close seat included
- Heavy 125 lbs
- Small access holes tricky
Flush: Dual 1.1/1.6 GPF
Height: 17 inch ADA
MaP Score: 1000
Design: One-Piece
Check PriceThe Casta Diva excels with its 17-inch ADA comfort height, making sitting and standing easier for those with mobility issues. The powerful siphon flush achieves MaP 1000 rating, ensuring reliable waste evacuation.
Customer photos validate the modern skirted design. The seamless one-piece construction eliminates gaps where dust and bacteria collect, making cleaning significantly easier.
Dual-flush options offer 1.1 GPF for liquids and 1.6 GPF for solids. Testing confirms the MaP 1000 rating delivers exceptional flush performance without clogs.
The soft-close seat prevents slamming and ensures quiet operation. Complete installation hardware is included, though the 125-pound weight requires two people for proper installation.
Who Should Buy?
Those needing ADA-compliant height, elderly or mobility-impaired users, anyone prioritizing powerful flush performance and modern aesthetics.
Who Should Avoid?
DIY installers working alone, those with limited bathroom space, anyone wanting lower-profile standard height.
7. DeerValley Compact – Best for Small Bathrooms with Space-Saving Design
- Ultra-compact design
- Saves 60% water vs old toilets
- Quiet soft-close 28dB
- Complete installation kit
- Lower seat height 16 9/16 inch
- Round bowl less comfortable
Size: 24.5D x 13.38W x 28.38H
Flush: Dual 1.1/1.6 GPF
Bowl: Round
Noise: 28dB quiet
Check PriceThe DeerValley Compact toilet is designed specifically for small bathrooms. At just 24.5 inches deep and 13.38 inches wide, it fits perfectly in powder rooms, RVs, and tiny homes.
Customer images show successful installations in tight spaces. The skirted design eliminates cleaning crevices despite the compact footprint.
The dual-flush system saves up to 60% water compared to 3.5 GPF models. Testing confirms adequate flush performance for everyday household use, though larger families might need the 1.6 GPF setting frequently.
At 86 pounds, this is lighter than most one-piece toilets. The soft-close seat operates at just 28dB, ensuring peaceful bathroom operation.
Who Should Buy?
Owners of small bathrooms, powder room renovators, RV and tiny home dwellers, those needing secondary toilet for guests.
Who Should Avoid?
Taller or larger individuals, households using as primary toilet, anyone needing ADA-compliant height.
8. WOODBRIDGE – Best Luxury with MaP 1000 Score and Chair Height
- MaP 1000 flush rating
- Chair height ADA compliant
- Luxurious modern design
- All-in-one package
- Heavy 119 lbs
- Seat bolt access difficult
Flush: Dual 1.28 GPF
MaP Score: 1000
Height: Chair 17-19 inch
Design: One-Piece Skirted
Check PriceThe WOODBRIDGE one-piece toilet combines luxury aesthetics with exceptional performance. The MaP 1000 flush score ensures powerful waste evacuation, while chair height meets ADA standards.
Customer photos reveal the premium quality construction. The fully concealed trapway creates a smooth surface that wipes clean easily.
Four years of user reviews confirm long-term satisfaction. Many owners have purchased multiple units for different bathrooms, indicating consistent performance and reliability.
The all-in-one package includes pre-installed seat, water fitting, wax ring, and floor bolts. Installation requires two people due to the 119-pound weight.
Who Should Buy?
Those seeking luxury aesthetics, taller users wanting chair height, homeowners planning multiple bathroom upgrades.
Who Should Avoid?
Budget-conscious shoppers, DIY installers wanting easy setup, anyone needing lighter weight unit.
9. TOTO Eco UltraMax – Best One-Piece with Proven Reliability
- Proven E-Max flushing
- One-piece easy clean
- SoftClose seat included
- WaterSense certified
- Some clogging reports
- Round bowl feels small
Flush: E-Max 1.28 GPF
Design: One-Piece
Bowl: Round
Certification: WaterSense
Check PriceThe TOTO Eco UltraMax has proven its reliability over years of real-world use. The E-Max 1.28 GPF flushing system delivers powerful performance while saving 20% more water than standard 1.6 GPF toilets.
Customer images confirm the clean one-piece design. The round bowl conserves space in smaller bathrooms while maintaining adequate comfort for most users.
Many owners with older plumbing report eliminated clogging issues after upgrading. The tank refills in just 30 seconds compared to 2+ minutes for older toilets.
The included SoftClose seat prevents slamming. WaterSense certification ensures this toilet meets strict EPA criteria for water efficiency and performance.
Who Should Buy?
Those wanting proven TOTO reliability, owners of older homes, anyone prioritizing easy-clean one-piece design.
Who Should Avoid?
Users preferring elongated bowls, households with heavy usage patterns, anyone wanting dual-flush options.
10. TOTO Aquia IV – Ultra Efficient Dual Flush with Tornado Technology
- Ultra-efficient 0.8/1.28 GPF
- Tornado Flush technology
- CEFIONTECT glaze
- Universal Height comfort
- Very few reviews
- Higher price point
- Quality control issues
Flush: Dual 0.8/1.28 GPF
Tech: Tornado Flush
Glaze: CEFIONTECT
Height: Universal
Check PriceThe TOTO Aquia IV represents the cutting edge of water efficiency with dual-flush options of 0.8 and 1.28 GPF. The innovative Tornado Flush system uses centrifugal force to clean the bowl effectively.
CEFIONTECT ceramic glaze prevents debris and mold buildup, keeping the bowl cleaner longer. Universal Height design provides comfortable seating for most adults.
The two-piece construction makes installation easier than one-piece models. However, with only 14 reviews, long-term reliability data remains limited compared to established TOTO models.
Who Should Buy?
Early adopters wanting latest technology, TOTO loyalists seeking ultra-efficiency, anyone prioritizing CEFIONTECT glaze technology.
Who Should Avoid?
Those wanting proven long-term reliability, budget-conscious shoppers, anyone needing extensive review data.
Understanding Water Savings and Efficiency
Water-efficient toilets are fixtures designed to use significantly less water per flush than traditional toilets, typically 1.28 gallons per flush (GPF) or less compared to the old standard of 3.5-7 GPF, while maintaining effective waste removal performance.
Replacing a 3.5 GPF toilet with a 1.28 GPF model saves approximately 16,500 gallons annually for a family of four. At typical water rates, this translates to $100-200 per year in savings.
Water Savings Calculator: A family of four flushing 5 times daily saves 16,500 gallons per year by upgrading from 3.5 GPF to 1.28 GPF. That’s enough water to fill 25 swimming pools over 10 years.
Regional rebate programs can reduce upfront costs by $50-150 per toilet. Many water utilities offer incentives for WaterSense-certified models, making the upgrade even more affordable.
How to Choose the Best Water-Efficient Toilet?
Choosing the right water-efficient toilet requires understanding several key factors. I’ve helped homeowners select toilets for various needs, and these considerations consistently matter most.
GPF Rating: Finding Your Efficiency Sweet Spot
Gallons per flush (GPF) directly impacts water usage and savings. Ultra-efficient models at 0.8-1.01 GPF maximize savings but may compromise performance. The 1.28 GPF sweet spot balances efficiency and reliable flushing.
WaterSense Certification: EPA program guaranteeing toilets use 1.28 GPF or less while passing rigorous flush performance tests, ensuring both efficiency and reliability.
Flush Technology: Gravity vs Pressure-Assisted vs Dual-Flush
Gravity-feed toilets rely on water weight to create flushing force. They’re quiet, reliable, and work with standard plumbing. Most water-efficient toilets use optimized gravity systems.
Dual-flush toilets offer two buttons: 0.8-1.1 GPF for liquids and 1.28-1.6 GPF for solids. This design saves water when used correctly but requires user adaptation.
| Flush Type | Typical GPF | Best For | Noise Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gravity Single | 1.28 | Reliability, simplicity | Quiet |
| Gravity Dual | 0.8/1.28 | Maximum water savings | Quiet |
| Pressure-Assisted | 1.28-1.6 | Commercial, clog-prone homes | Loud |
Bowl Shape: Elongated vs Round
Elongated bowls extend 2-3 inches further from the wall, providing more seating surface. They’re more comfortable for most adults but require more bathroom space.
Round bowls save about 2 inches of depth. They work well in small bathrooms but may feel cramped for taller users.
Rough-In Measurement: Critical for Proper Fit
The rough-in is the distance from the wall to the toilet bolt holes. Standard rough-in is 12 inches, but 10 and 14-inch options exist.
I’ve seen homeowners buy beautiful toilets only to discover they won’t fit. Always measure before purchasing. An incorrect rough-in means the toilet won’t connect to your existing plumbing.
Comfort Height vs Standard Height
Comfort height toilets measure 17-19 inches from floor to seat rim, similar to chair height. This ADA-compliant design makes sitting and standing easier for taller adults and those with mobility issues.
Standard height toilets measure 14-15 inches. Children and shorter adults often prefer standard height, as their feet touch the floor comfortably.
MaP Score: Measuring Real Performance
MaP (Maximum Performance) testing measures how many grams of waste a toilet can flush in one go. A score of 500-700 grams is adequate for residential use, while 1000+ indicates exceptional performance.
Pro Tip: Look for MaP 1000 certification if your household experiences frequent clogging. This rating ensures the toilet can handle heavy waste loads without issues.
Installation Considerations
One-piece toilets weigh 80-125 pounds and require two people for installation. Their seamless design cleans easier but accessing internal components can be challenging.
Two-piece toilets separate tank and bowl, making installation manageable for one person. However, the gap between tank and bowl collects dust and requires extra cleaning.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most water efficient toilet?
The most water-efficient toilets use 0.8 GPF for liquid waste and 1.28 GPF for solid waste. Top models include the Alphabath at 1.01 GPF single flush, HOROW T0338W with dual 0.8/1.28 GPF, and TOTO Aquia IV offering 0.8/1.28 GPF dual flush options.
How much water does a WaterSense toilet save?
A WaterSense toilet saves approximately 13,000-20,000 gallons annually compared to older 3.5 GPF models. For a family of four, this translates to $100-200 per year in water bill savings. The 1.28 GPF standard uses 20% less water than the federal maximum of 1.6 GPF.
What does WaterSense certified mean?
WaterSense is an EPA certification program guaranteeing toilets use 1.28 GPF or less while passing rigorous performance tests. Certified models must flush at least 350 grams of waste successfully. This label ensures both water efficiency and reliable performance, qualifying owners for many utility rebate programs.
Is 1.28 GPF enough for a toilet?
Yes, 1.28 GPF is sufficient for residential use when paired with modern flush technology. Wide flush valves (3-4 inches), fully glazed trapways, and optimized bowl designs enable effective waste removal. Many plumbers recommend 1.28 GPF toilets over older 3.5 GPF models for reliability.
Are dual flush toilets worth it?
Dual flush toilets are worth it for households committed to using the liquid flush button appropriately. The 0.8-1.1 GPF liquid option saves significant water, but benefits disappear if users consistently default to the full flush. Best for environmentally conscious users who value maximum water savings.
Do low flow toilets clog more?
Modern low-flow toilets with MaP scores of 500+ actually clog less than old 3.5 GPF toilets. Improved flush technology including larger flush valves, glazed trapways, and siphon jet action enhances waste removal. Issues typically arise with very low-flow models under 1.0 GPF or poorly designed older units.
What is the difference between 1.28 and 1.6 GPF?
1.28 GPF toilets use 20% less water per flush than 1.6 GPF models. For a family of four flushing 5 times daily, this saves 3,650 gallons annually. Both WaterSense certified and meet federal standards, but 1.28 GPF qualifies for additional rebates and offers greater long-term savings.
Can a water efficient toilet save money?
Yes, water-efficient toilets save $100-200 annually for a family of four. The upgrade pays for itself within 2-5 years depending on local water rates. Combined with utility rebates of $50-150, many homeowners see positive ROI within 1-2 years while conserving 16,000+ gallons annually.
Final Recommendations
After researching 10 water-efficient toilets and analyzing thousands of customer reviews, I recommend the HOROW T0338W for most homeowners. Its dual-flush system, ADA height, and proven reliability make it an exceptional value.
For maximum water savings, the Alphabath 1.01 GPF achieves ultra-efficiency without sacrificing flush power. Those wanting plumber-approved reliability should choose the TOTO Drake with its TORNADO FLUSH system.
Whatever you choose, upgrading from an old 3.5 GPF toilet to a WaterSense-certified model is one of the best home investments you can make. The water savings, reduced bills, and environmental benefits pay dividends for years.