At first glance, all toilets may seem the same, but they vary(Like Comfort height vs Standard height, 1 Piece vs 2 Piece, Round vs Elongated, Dual Flush VS Single Flush) significantly in design, efficiency, and water consumption. One of the most important distinctions is their gallons per flush (GPF) rating. Some flushing toilets use 1.6 gallons of water per flush, while others consume only 1.28 gallons of water per flush. This comparison of 1.28 VS 1.6 GPF toilets will help you understand the differences, benefits, drawbacks, and laws regulating water usage. Keep reading to choose the best toilet for your home!
The Evolution of Water-Efficient Toilets:
Originally, flushing toilets used between 3.5 to 5 gallons per flush (GPF). However, in 1994, 1.6 GPF toilets became the new standard under the National Energy Policy Act to reduce excessive water usage.
With growing environmental concerns, high-efficiency toilets (HETs) using 1.28 GPF or even 0.8 GPF were introduced. These newer models help conserve water while maintaining flushing effectiveness.
Feature Comparison: 1.28 VS 1.6 GPF Toilets
| Feature | 1.28 GPF | 1.6 GPF |
|---|---|---|
| Water Consumption | 1.28 Gallons Per Flush | 1.6 Gallons Per Flush |
| Powerful Flush: | No | Yes |
| Water Saving | Yes | No |
| Flushing Power | May require a second flush occasionally | Clears waste in one flush |
| Noise Level | Quieter | Quiet |
| Eco-Friendly | Yes | No |
| Bowl Size | Smaller | Larger |
| Space-Saving | Yes | No |
| Legality | Allowed in all U.S. states | Restricted in some states |
| Popularity | Increasing | Decreasing |
| Bowl Cleanliness After Flush | Clean | Slightly Cleaner |
| My Recommendation | Check Today’s Price | Check Today’s Price |
Some assume that toilets using less water are less effective, but this is not always the case. Ultra-high-efficiency toilets (UHETs) with 1.28 GPF or lower can flush up to 800 grams of solid waste in a single flush, proving their efficiency.
U.S. Laws on 1.28 GPF and 1.6 GPF Toilets
In some states, homeowners may qualify for rebates when switching from high-water consumption toilets to 1.28 GPF models. In fact, upgrading to high-efficiency toilets (HETs) that use 1.28 GPF or less can save up to 27,000 gallons of water annually.
Several states have implemented water conservation laws to regulate toilet water usage:
- California, Colorado, and Texas mandate that homeowners install toilets that use 1.28 GPF or less.
- Georgia requires the installation of WaterSense-certified toilets for new constructions and renovations.
- Nevada, Washington, New York, and Connecticut enforce the federal standard, which limits toilet water consumption to 1.6 GPF or less.
Since 1995, the National Energy Policy Act has required plumbing manufacturers to produce and homeowners remodeling their homes to purchase toilets that use 1.6 GPF or less, promoting water efficiency nationwide.
If you’re unsure whether to choose a 1.28 GPF or 1.6 GPF toilet, this guide will help you compare their features, pros, and cons, making it easier to select the best option for your home.
1.28 GPF Toilet: Pros & Cons
To promote water conservation and environmental sustainability, manufacturers have developed high-efficiency toilets (HETs) that significantly reduce water usage. 1.28 GPF (gallons per flush) toilets are gaining popularity because they use less water than the standard 1.6 GPF models while remaining highly effective at clearing waste.
Our Recommendation
Pros:
✅ Saves at least 4,000 gallons of water annually
✅ Possible rebates in some states
✅ Eco-friendly and reduces water bills
Cons:
❌ Higher chance of staining and clogging
❌ May require multiple flushes for large waste loads
1.6 GPF Toilet: Pros & Cons
1.6 GPF toilets are the federal standard, but they are not recommended in certain states, such as California and Texas, due to water conservation laws. These toilets are highly effective, as they can clear waste in a single flush. Although 1.6 GPF models use more water, they reduce staining and minimize the need for multiple flushes, unlike some 1.28 GPF toilets, which may require a second flush to fully clear waste.
Pros:
✅ Powerful flush clears waste in one go
✅ Less clogging and staining compared to 1.28 GPF models
✅ More effective for larger households
Cons:
❌ Uses more water, leading to higher water bills
❌ Restricted in some states due to water conservation laws
Which is Better: 1.28 GPF or 1.6 GPF?
Choosing between a 1.28 GPF and a 1.6 GPF toilet depends on your needs and location:
💧 Choose a 1.28 GPF toilet if:
- You want to save water and lower utility bills
- You live in a state that requires water-efficient toilets
- You are eligible for rebates
🚽 Choose a 1.6 GPF toilet if:
- You prefer a stronger flush to avoid multiple flushes
- You live in a state where 1.6 GPF toilets are allowed
- You have high toilet usage in your household
Regardless of which option you choose, ensure that the toilet meets your household’s needs while adhering to state regulations.
FAQs: 1.6 GPF and 1.28 GPF Toilets
1. How many times does an average American flush the toilet daily?
The average American flushes the toilet 5 times per day. Since the introduction of water-efficient toilets, there has been a 74% reduction in household water use since the 1980s. Switching to an ultra-high-efficiency toilet (0.8 GPF) can save over 5,840 gallons of water yearly.
2. Can I buy any toilet brand?
No, it is essential to research toilet brands before purchasing. Some brands prioritize comfort, while others focus on performance and water efficiency. Brands such as Toto, American Standard, and Kohler are well-known for their reliable, high-performance toilets.
3. Do 1.28 GPF toilets clog more often?
In some cases, yes. Lower water volume may lead to occasional clogs, but modern flush technologies compensate for this by improving waste removal efficiency.
4. Do all U.S. states allow 1.6 GPF toilets?
No. California, Colorado, and Texas require homeowners to install 1.28 GPF toilets or lower. Other states follow the federal standard (1.6 GPF or less).
5. Can I get a rebate for switching to a 1.28 GPF toilet?
Yes! Some states and cities offer rebates for installing WaterSense-certified 1.28 GPF toilets to encourage water conservation.
Final Thoughts
Both 1.28 GPF and 1.6 GPF toilets have their own advantages and disadvantages. If water conservation and savings are your top priorities, a 1.28 GPF toilet is the best choice. However, if you want a powerful flush with minimal clogging, a 1.6 GPF toilet may be more suitable.
Ultimately, consider your state laws, household needs, and budget when choosing the right toilet for your home.
Still have questions after reading this 1.28 VS 1.6 GPF toilet article? Comment below.
Hi, this is Robert Crossan, the owner of this website, has 17 years of experience in the installation, maintenance, and repair of toilets and plumbing systems. After completing the Level 2 Basic Plumbing course in 2005, I started working in both domestic and commercial buildings as a professional plumber. So I can figure out the core difference between different toilet models and brands. It also helped me monitor their work performance and setbacks.