Across Massachusetts, more and more rivers are being classified as hydrologically stressed. These rivers experience a reduction in natural streamflow levels due to a combination of water supply activities, wastewater disposal practices and loss of stormwater recharge. All drinking water and irrigation activities in MA — be they from town wells, private wells or even the Quabbin Reservoir system — ultimately impact water levels in a river.

We can help to reduce the problem of stressed rivers by conserving water at home and at work with High-Efficiency Toilets (HETs). HETs are a new generation of toilets that use 1.28 gallons of water or less to achieve a reliable flush. HETs go beyond today’s 20-year-old plumbing code that allows toilets to use up to 1.6 gallons per flush. Many HET models use as little as 1.1 or 1.0 gallons per flush, a water savings of up to 38%. For this reason, HETs are considered a river conservation opportunity.

Incorporating HETs into businesses and homes across the Watershed will allow for continued growth and economic development, both critical to the Commonwealth’s economic future. Traditionally, growth meant increased water demand. In fact, the Metropolitan Area Planning Commission estimates that more than a dozen communities in eastern Massachusetts will literally run out of water within 23 years based on expected growth patterns. However, the Commission also estimates that a modest program of water conservation could allow almost all of these communities to grow without creating a water crisis. HET technology is one important tool to not only meet but exceed the Commission’s water conservation scenario and ensure that the Commonwealth can enjoy continued growth without further damaging its rivers.

There are two basic types of HETs: pressure-assist and dual-flush. Pressure-assist models harness the pressure in your water pipes to provide a smaller but more forceful flush. Dual-flush models work with gravity, just like most typical residential toilets. However, dual-flush models offer the user a choice of two flush levels, a full 1.6-gallon flush (like standard toilets) and a "short-flush" of 1.2 to 0.8 gallons. The user then chooses the appropriate flush for his or her needs. Over the course of a day, a 1.6/0.8 dual flush HET will use an average of less than 1.1 gallons per flush.

There are a variety of HETs from which to choose. In fact, 47 models built by nine manufacturers have been approved for use in the state. Dual-flush HETs provide flushing power equal to or better than a standard toilet and are generally less expensive than pressure-assist HETs. Pressure-assist HETs generally provide a more powerful flush than a standard toilet, but are also generally more expensive and louder.

Some HETs also use more water than others. For the biggest benefit, look for HETs that use an average of 1.1 gallons per flush. Whatever model you’re considering, research before you buy. Check www.terrylove.com/crtoilet.htm for grassroots reviews of toilets by other consumers. View their "waste removal efficiency rating" at www.bewaterwise.com/HET.pdf or www.cuwcc.org/uploads/product/MaPNinthEditionCondensed07-03-19.pdf.

Concerning how much water you’re likely to save with an HET, an HET that uses an average of 1.1 gallons per flush will save about 1,000 gallons per year per user compared to a standard 1.6-gallon toilet, and almost 4,500 gallons per year per user compared to a 3.5-gallon toilet. A family of four with two bathrooms would save 2,000 gallons per year for each 1.6-gallon standard toilet they replace. Using 2006 water and sewer rates for the town of Milton, that family of four would save $157 per year for each 3.5-gallon toilet replaced or $32.68 per year for each 1.6-gallon toilet replaced.

If you are remodeling a bathroom (or building new) and will be buying a toilet anyway, your payback from upgrading to an HET will be just a year or two depending on the model. If you have an existing 3.5-gallon toilet, replacing it with an HET will generate profit in one to two years. If you have a 1.6-gallon toilet and aren’t planning to remodel, the payback period may be six or seven years with two users.

Also consider that water rates in many communities are rising faster than inflation, and, water conservation can offset increased water demand from new development, helping to slow the rate of increase in water rates.

Come test a 1.1-gallon per flush Kohler HET at NepRWA’s office (2173 Washington Street, Canton), and also pick-up a list of HET models approved for use in MA, a list of plumbing distributors knowledgeable about HETs, and a list of sites at which HETs have been installed. Please call (781-575-0354) before you come by to make sure we’re here!