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Water Efficiency
WaterSense Toilet vs Standard: Is Efficiency Worth It?
A data-driven comparison of EPA WaterSense certified toilets versus conventional 1.6 GPF models -- covering water savings, flush performance, MaP scores, real-world clog resistance, cost recovery, and which option makes sense for your home.
Why Trust Best Flushing Toilets
- Flushing power and MaP flush-test scores
- Water efficiency (GPF and EPA WaterSense)
- Aggregated owner reviews
- Clog resistance and trapway design
- Brand reliability and warranty
Research updated June 2026.
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Quick Answer
EPA WaterSense toilets (1.28 GPF or less) save the average household roughly 13,000 gallons per year versus a standard 1.6 GPF toilet, with no meaningful sacrifice in flush power when you choose a model with a MaP score at or above 600 grams. For most homes, WaterSense is the smarter long-term choice.
When you are replacing a toilet, the GPF number stamped on the tank lid matters more than most buyers realize. Standard toilets in the United States use 1.6 gallons per flush (GPF) -- a limit mandated by the Energy Policy Act of 1992. EPA WaterSense certified toilets go further, capping usage at 1.28 GPF, and some ultra-high-efficiency models reach 0.8 GPF in dual-flush half-flush mode. That gap of 0.32 gallons sounds trivial. Multiply it by every flush in a four-person household -- about 5 to 8 flushes per person per day -- and the annual savings clear 10,000 gallons with ease.
The real question buyers ask is whether those savings come at a cost to flush power. A toilet that saves water but clogs twice a week is not saving you anything. That is why this comparison draws on EPA WaterSense program data, independent MaP (Maximum Performance) flush-test results, published manufacturer specifications, and aggregated owner reviews rather than any single hands-on test. The goal is a clean, evidence-based answer to whether efficiency is actually worth it.
| Metric | Standard (1.6 GPF) | WaterSense (1.28 GPF) | Ultra HE (0.8/1.0 GPF) |
|---|---|---|---|
| EPA Certification | No | Yes | Yes |
| Water per flush | 1.6 gallons | 1.28 gallons | 0.8 -- 1.0 gallons |
| Annual use (family of 4) | ~35,000 gal | ~28,000 gal | ~17,500 -- 22,000 gal |
| Max MaP score achievable | 1,000 g | 1,000 g | 600 -- 1,000 g |
| Price range | Low -- High | Low -- High | Mid -- High |
| Utility rebates available | Rarely | Frequently | Frequently |
| Clog risk (well-designed models) | Low | Low | Moderate if MaP <500 |
| Example top models | Champion 4, Cadet 3 (older) | TOTO Drake II, Kohler Cimarron, TOTO Aquia IV | Niagara Stealth, Caroma 0.8/1.6 |
What exactly is an EPA WaterSense certified toilet?
EPA WaterSense is a voluntary labeling program that certifies toilets using 1.28 gallons per flush or less while meeting independent third-party performance standards. To earn certification, a toilet must pass testing that confirms it can flush at least 350 grams of solid waste -- the baseline MaP standard -- without double-flushing. Products carrying the WaterSense label have been verified by a licensed certifying body, not just self-reported by the manufacturer.
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The WaterSense program launched in 2006 as an extension of the EPA's broader voluntary efficiency certification model -- similar to Energy Star but focused on water. Since its launch, EPA estimates WaterSense certified products have collectively saved more than 5.4 trillion gallons of water and reduced water and energy bills by over $97 billion in the U.S. alone.
To carry the blue WaterSense label, a toilet must:
- Use no more than 1.28 gallons per flush (20% less than the federal 1.6 GPF maximum)
- Pass independent third-party performance testing
- Demonstrate the ability to clear solid waste without requiring a second flush
- Be certified by an EPA-recognized certifying body (not manufacturer self-certification)
That third-party requirement is what separates WaterSense from marketing language like "water-saving" or "high efficiency," which have no regulatory definition. When you see the WaterSense label on a TOTO Drake II, a Kohler Cimarron, or an American Standard Cadet 3, the flush has been tested and verified independently.
Expert Take
The WaterSense standard matters most in practice because it requires independent verification, not just a manufacturer claim. A toilet can be marketed as "water-saving" with 1.28 GPF and still lack the label if it has not gone through certified third-party testing. Always look for the official blue WaterSense logo on the product listing or toilet tank, and cross-reference the model on the EPA WaterSense product list at epa.gov/watersense before purchase.
Do WaterSense toilets flush as powerfully as standard 1.6 GPF models?
Modern WaterSense toilets from brands like TOTO, Kohler, and American Standard regularly achieve MaP scores of 800 to 1,000 grams -- the same top tier as the strongest 1.6 GPF toilets. Flush technology improvements over the past 15 years, including wider trapways, optimized glazing, and improved tank fill ratios, mean that using less water does not automatically mean weaker flushing. The key is choosing a WaterSense model with a verified MaP score at or above 600 grams.
MaP testing -- conducted by the Maximum Performance Testing Alliance -- is the most reliable independent benchmark for toilet flush power. Testers simulate real waste loads using soybean paste media in graded amounts, recording the maximum load a toilet clears in a single flush. Results range from 250 grams (marginal) to 1,000 grams (the highest possible rating). Here is how current WaterSense models compare:
| Model | GPF | WaterSense | MaP Score | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TOTO Drake II (MS454124CEFG) | 1.28 | Yes | 1,000 g | Check price |
| TOTO UltraMax II (MS604114CEFG) | 1.28 | Yes | 1,000 g | Check price |
| TOTO Aquia IV (MS446124CEMFG) | 0.8 / 1.28 | Yes | 800 g | Check price |
| Kohler Cimarron (K-3609) | 1.28 | Yes | 1,000 g | Check price |
| Kohler Highline (K-3999) | 1.28 | Yes | 1,000 g | Check price |
| American Standard Cadet 3 (2383.216) | 1.28 | Yes | 1,000 g | Check price |
| Gerber Avalanche (21-012) | 1.28 | Yes | 900 g | Check price |
| Woodbridge T-0001 | 1.28 | Yes | 800 g | Check price |
| American Standard Champion 4 (3461.001) | 1.6 | No | 1,000 g | Check price |
The Champion 4 from American Standard is the benchmark gravity-flush standard toilet -- it uses 1.6 GPF and achieves 1,000 grams on the MaP test. The TOTO Drake II, Kohler Cimarron, Kohler Highline, and American Standard Cadet 3 all match that 1,000-gram MaP score while using 20% less water per flush. The argument that WaterSense toilets flush weakly does not hold when you are comparing current-generation models in their respective categories.
That said, early 1.28 GPF toilets from the late 2000s and early 2010s were legitimately problematic -- some achieved MaP scores as low as 300 to 400 grams and required double-flushing frequently. Those early failures contributed to the persistent belief that water-efficient toilets cannot flush properly. Today's engineering has largely solved that problem.
Expert Take
MaP score is the single most useful number when comparing toilet flush power. A WaterSense toilet with a 1,000-gram MaP score is not a compromise -- it is the same flushing standard as the strongest gravity-flush toilets on the market, achieved with 20% less water. For large households or anyone who has experienced clogging with past low-flow models, prioritize MaP score 800 or above and look for a trapway diameter of 2 inches or larger.
How much water and money does a WaterSense toilet actually save?
According to EPA WaterSense data, replacing a standard 1.6 GPF toilet with a 1.28 GPF WaterSense model saves approximately 13,000 gallons per year for an average family of four. At a national average water rate of $0.004 per gallon (roughly $4 per 1,000 gallons), that translates to about $52 in direct water bill savings annually -- plus additional wastewater treatment savings, which many utilities charge separately and which can double the effective savings.
To calculate your specific savings, the math is straightforward. The EPA estimates that toilets account for nearly 30% of indoor household water use. A family of four flushes roughly 5 to 8 times per person per day, averaging about 25 flushes daily.
- Standard 1.6 GPF: 25 flushes x 1.6 gallons = 40 gallons per day, 14,600 gallons per year
- WaterSense 1.28 GPF: 25 flushes x 1.28 gallons = 32 gallons per day, 11,680 gallons per year
- Annual savings: 2,920 gallons per toilet
- For 2 toilets in a home: approximately 5,840 gallons saved per year
EPA's household-level estimate of 13,000 gallons accounts for multi-toilet homes with higher average daily usage. If your household has three toilets and adults who are home more of the day, the savings scale proportionally. Some high-use households report savings exceeding 20,000 gallons annually.
Water rate variation across the U.S. is significant, which affects the dollar figure substantially. Cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles charge $0.006 to $0.009 per gallon, while cities in the Southeast or Midwest often charge $0.002 to $0.003 per gallon. Run the numbers for your utility rate to get an accurate payback period estimate for your situation.
Many water utilities and state programs also offer direct rebates for WaterSense certified toilet installation, ranging from $25 to $200 per toilet. In drought-prone states like California, Arizona, and Texas, rebates are especially common and can offset a meaningful share of the toilet's purchase price. Check the EPA WaterSense rebate finder tool at epa.gov/watersense for programs in your area before purchasing.
Expert Take
At average U.S. water rates, the savings from a single WaterSense toilet rarely justify a premium-priced fixture on water savings alone -- the payback period on a $500 toilet might stretch to 8 to 10 years. The calculation shifts when you factor in utility rebates, wastewater savings (which many utilities bill separately and can match or exceed water charges), and the fact that WaterSense toilets are available at every price point from budget to luxury. The savings are real; they just are not dramatic at median water rates.
Which specific WaterSense toilet models are worth buying?
The TOTO Drake II and TOTO UltraMax II consistently earn top marks among WaterSense toilets, both achieving 1,000-gram MaP scores at 1.28 GPF with TOTO's Double Cyclone flushing and CeFiONtect glaze. Kohler's Cimarron and Highline at 1.28 GPF are the strongest mainstream alternatives, and the American Standard Cadet 3 at 1.28 GPF offers comparable MaP performance at a lower price point. For dual-flush users, the TOTO Aquia IV delivers 0.8/1.28 GPF with an 800-gram MaP score.
Here are the models that consistently appear at the top of both MaP testing results and aggregated owner review data:
TOTO Drake II (Two-Piece, 1.28 GPF)
The Drake II is widely regarded as the benchmark WaterSense toilet for residential use. It uses TOTO's E-MAX flushing system, a wide 3-inch flush valve, and a 2.125-inch fully glazed trapway. MaP score is 1,000 grams. Aggregated owner reviews across major retail platforms consistently rate it above 4.5 out of 5 stars. Available in Cotton White, Colonial White, Bone, and Sedona Beige. The Drake II also comes in ADA-compliant comfort height (17 to 19 inches) versions. See our full Drake series review for model-by-model breakdown.
TOTO UltraMax II (One-Piece, 1.28 GPF)
The UltraMax II packages the same E-MAX flushing system as the Drake II into a seamless one-piece design with a low-profile tank. MaP score matches at 1,000 grams. The skirted design and fully glazed trapway make it significantly easier to clean than a standard two-piece toilet. WaterSense certified. Available in standard and ADA heights.
Check TOTO UltraMax II on Amazon
Kohler Cimarron (Two-Piece, 1.28 GPF)
The Kohler Cimarron at 1.28 GPF achieves a 1,000-gram MaP score using Kohler's Class Five flushing technology. It features a 3.25-inch canister flush valve -- the largest available in Kohler's lineup -- and a fully glazed 2-inch trapway. AquaPiston canister design eliminates the standard flapper, reportedly improving reliability. Available in both standard and comfort height. See also our comparison of Kohler Cimarron vs Highline.
Check Kohler Cimarron on Amazon
American Standard Cadet 3 (Two-Piece, 1.28 GPF)
The Cadet 3 at 1.28 GPF is one of the most value-oriented WaterSense options from a major brand. It achieves a 1,000-gram MaP score using American Standard's PowerWash rim scrub and fully glazed 2 3/8-inch trapway. The PowerWash feature sprays water around the entire rim rather than just through rim jets, improving bowl cleanliness per flush. Available in a wide range of colors and both standard and right-height versions.
Check American Standard Cadet 3 on Amazon
TOTO Aquia IV (Dual-Flush, 0.8/1.28 GPF)
The Aquia IV is TOTO's dual-flush WaterSense option, offering 0.8 GPF for liquid waste and 1.28 GPF for solid waste. MaP score is 800 grams on the full flush, which is slightly below the top-tier 1,000-gram models but still strong by most standards. CeFiONtect glaze keeps the bowl surface resistant to buildup. The dual-flush design offers the highest water savings potential among mainstream two-piece toilets. See our full TOTO Aquia IV review.
Are there any real disadvantages to WaterSense toilets?
The main practical disadvantage is that poorly designed WaterSense toilets -- particularly older models or budget fixtures with low MaP scores -- can require double-flushing that cancels out water savings and increases clog risk. Bowl cleanliness is also a factor: less water per flush means less rinsing of the bowl surface, making glaze quality more important. However, none of these issues apply to current-generation WaterSense models from TOTO, Kohler, or American Standard that carry MaP scores of 800 or above.
It is worth addressing the legitimate criticisms of water-efficient toilets honestly, because some of them persist for a reason:
Double-flushing risk
A toilet that requires two flushes to clear waste is not saving water -- it is using 2.56 gallons instead of 1.6 gallons. Early 1.28 GPF models from roughly 2007 to 2013 had this problem due to smaller flush valves, poor trapway geometry, and inadequate glazing. MaP testing specifically evaluates whether a toilet double-flushes, and models with MaP scores of 500 grams or above are generally not prone to this issue. The risk is real only for low-quality or older WaterSense toilets.
Bowl cleanliness
Less water volume per flush means less surface rinsing. On toilets with standard ceramic glazing, this can allow buildup to accumulate faster in the bowl. This is why ceramic glaze quality matters more in WaterSense toilets than in 1.6 GPF models. TOTO's CeFiONtect glaze and Kohler's CleanCoat technology both address this by creating an ultra-smooth surface that resists adhesion of waste and scale. Budget WaterSense toilets without enhanced glazing may require more frequent cleaning to stay looking clean.
Old plumbing compatibility
Homes with older, smaller drain lines -- typically 3-inch diameter lines found in homes built before 1970 -- can experience slower drain flow that compounds any reduced flush power. In these situations, a 1.28 GPF toilet may clear the bowl fine but leave waste sitting in the drain line longer due to reduced hydraulic force. This is not a widespread issue with properly sloped drains, but it is a real concern in older homes with marginal drain slope. A licensed plumber can assess whether your drain configuration is compatible with a 1.28 GPF toilet.
Upfront cost premium
WaterSense certified models are available across a wide price range, but the top-performing models -- TOTO Drake II, Kohler Cimarron, etc. -- sit in a price tier above the cheapest available toilets. Budget toilets at the very low end of the market often do not carry WaterSense certification, meaning buyers who prioritize the lowest possible purchase price will find fewer certified options. That said, well-regarded WaterSense models are available at accessible price points.
For a broader view of best flushing toilets across all categories, including both WaterSense and standard models, see our full roundup. If you are specifically evaluating GPF ratings, our 1.28 GPF vs 1.6 GPF comparison covers the technical differences in more detail.
Expert Take
The disadvantages of WaterSense toilets are real but model-specific, not inherent to the certification. A low-quality 1.28 GPF toilet with a 300-gram MaP score is genuinely worse than a well-designed 1.6 GPF toilet. A TOTO Drake II at 1.28 GPF with a 1,000-gram MaP score is not. The mistake buyers make is treating WaterSense as a category with uniform performance rather than a threshold certification that can be met by both excellent and mediocre products. Always filter by MaP score, not just GPF rating.
Do utility rebates make WaterSense toilets a better financial deal?
Yes, utility rebates substantially improve the financial case for WaterSense toilets and in many cases make them cost-competitive with or cheaper than standard models after incentives. Programs vary widely by location -- California utilities often offer $50 to $200 per toilet, while programs in water-stressed Texas and Arizona markets can exceed $100 per fixture. The EPA WaterSense rebate finder at epa.gov/watersense/rebate-finder is the authoritative source for current programs by ZIP code.
Rebate programs are most common in states and cities with water stress challenges -- California, Arizona, Nevada, Texas, Colorado, and Florida have some of the most active programs. But they are not limited to the Southwest; some Mid-Atlantic and Northeast utilities also offer incentives. Key points about utility rebates:
- Most programs require WaterSense certification -- the product must be on the EPA's certified list, not just claimed as water-efficient by the manufacturer
- Some programs require professional installation and a licensed plumber's invoice
- Rebates are typically paid per toilet, not per household, so multi-toilet replacements multiply the benefit
- Programs change annually based on water authority budgets; what was available last year may not be available today
- Some utilities offer tiered rebates -- higher amounts for ultra-high-efficiency 1.0 GPF or 0.8/1.0 dual-flush models versus standard 1.28 GPF
For water savings estimates at the household level, the EPA's WaterSense water savings calculator provides a personalized estimate based on your household size, current toilet GPF, and water rate. For related reading on long-term water cost impacts, see our guide on how much water a toilet uses.
Frequently Asked Questions
What GPF qualifies as WaterSense?
EPA WaterSense requires a toilet to use no more than 1.28 gallons per flush. Dual-flush models qualify if the full flush is 1.28 GPF or less and the average calculated at 0.67 times full flush plus 0.33 times reduced flush is 1.28 GPF or less.
Is 1.28 GPF actually enough to flush solid waste?
Yes, when the toilet is engineered properly. Multiple current 1.28 GPF models achieve the maximum 1,000-gram MaP score, which exceeds what most households produce in a single flush by a significant margin. The 1.6 GPF standard was set in 1992 before modern flush engineering; the GPF floor is not a performance ceiling.
Do I need to flush a WaterSense toilet twice?
Not with a quality model. Double-flushing is associated with early 1.28 GPF toilets that had poor trapway geometry or small flush valves. Current WaterSense models with MaP scores of 600 grams or above are specifically tested to confirm single-flush clearance under load. Double-flushing issues are largely a problem of the early 2007-to-2013 generation.
What is the MaP score, and how does it relate to WaterSense?
MaP (Maximum Performance) is an independent third-party testing standard that measures the maximum solid waste load a toilet clears in a single flush, expressed in grams. WaterSense certification verifies a toilet uses 1.28 GPF or less; MaP testing measures how powerfully it flushes. A toilet can be WaterSense certified but still score low on MaP. Always check both the WaterSense label and the MaP score before buying.
How much can I save by switching to a WaterSense toilet?
EPA WaterSense estimates an average household saves approximately 13,000 gallons per year replacing standard toilets with 1.28 GPF certified models. At a typical national water rate of $3 to $5 per 1,000 gallons plus wastewater charges, that equates to $50 to $130 in annual utility bill savings per household. Exact savings depend on household size, flush frequency, local water and sewer rates, and number of toilets replaced.
Which brands make the best WaterSense toilets?
TOTO, Kohler, American Standard, and Gerber consistently produce WaterSense certified models with top-tier MaP scores. TOTO leads in bowl glaze technology and flush engineering. Kohler's AquaPiston canister design improves reliability over standard flappers. American Standard offers strong value at mid-range price points. Swiss Madison and Woodbridge produce certified options at lower price points with respectable performance.
Is a standard 1.6 GPF toilet ever the better choice?
In a few specific scenarios, yes. Homes with older, poorly sloped drain lines where reduced flush hydraulics may leave waste in the line longer can benefit from higher-volume flushing. Households replacing toilets in buildings with very long drain runs may also want to evaluate this. The American Standard Champion 4 at 1.6 GPF, for instance, uses its high volume to push waste through long horizontal pipe runs more aggressively. Outside of these edge cases, WaterSense models with high MaP scores perform comparably.
Can a dual-flush toilet have WaterSense certification?
Yes. Dual-flush toilets qualify for WaterSense certification if their full-flush volume is 1.28 GPF or less. The TOTO Aquia IV (0.8/1.28 GPF), for example, carries WaterSense certification and achieves an 800-gram MaP score on the full flush. Some ultra-high-efficiency dual-flush toilets like the Caroma series use 0.8 GPF for liquids and 1.28 GPF for solids.
What is the TOTO Drake vs Drake II difference in water use?
The original TOTO Drake uses 1.6 GPF (or 1.28 GPF in the Eco Drake version). The TOTO Drake II uses 1.28 GPF standard and carries WaterSense certification. Both achieve 1,000-gram MaP scores. The Drake II also adds TOTO's Double Cyclone flushing, which uses two nozzles rather than standard rim jets for more consistent bowl rinsing with less water. Our Drake vs Drake II comparison covers the differences in detail.
How do I know if a toilet is actually WaterSense certified?
The most reliable method is to search the EPA's online WaterSense product list at epa.gov/watersense rather than relying on packaging claims or retailer descriptions. Search by manufacturer and model number. The product list is the authoritative record of certified models. Packaging should also include the official WaterSense blue label, but manufacturer errors and outdated packaging make the EPA list the definitive check.
Does a WaterSense toilet reduce sewer bills too?
In most municipalities, yes. Wastewater (sewer) charges are typically calculated based on metered water consumption, so reducing water use reduces both the water bill and the sewer service charge. In some areas, wastewater charges equal or exceed the water supply charge, meaning the total utility savings from a WaterSense toilet can be double what the water savings alone suggest. Check your utility bill to see how your sewer charges are calculated.
Will a 1.28 GPF toilet work with a septic system?
Yes, and it is generally advantageous. Septic systems work best with reduced water input, as excessive water loading can overwhelm the system's ability to process waste before it reaches the drain field. WaterSense toilets reduce the hydraulic load on a septic system. The reduced water volume still carries enough hydraulic force in a properly designed toilet to move waste efficiently through a properly pitched drain line to the septic tank. See our guide on best toilets for septic systems.
Is the Kohler Highline a WaterSense toilet?
Kohler produces the Highline in both 1.6 GPF (standard) and 1.28 GPF (WaterSense certified) versions. The 1.28 GPF Kohler Highline (K-3999) carries WaterSense certification and achieves a 1,000-gram MaP score. The 1.6 GPF version does not carry WaterSense certification. When purchasing, verify the model number and GPF rating on the specific product listing, as both versions share very similar appearance and naming.
What does CeFiONtect mean on TOTO WaterSense toilets?
CeFiONtect is TOTO's proprietary ceramic glaze technology applied to the bowl surface. It creates an extremely smooth, ion-barrier surface that resists the adhesion of waste, mold, and bacteria. In the context of WaterSense toilets, it helps maintain bowl cleanliness with less water per flush -- compensating for the reduced rinsing action that comes with 1.28 GPF versus 1.6 GPF. Models without enhanced glazing may require more frequent cleaning when using 1.28 GPF.
How long does it take to recover the cost of a WaterSense toilet?
At average U.S. water and sewer rates of roughly $6 to $10 per 1,000 gallons combined, the annual savings from a single WaterSense toilet versus a standard 1.6 GPF model run roughly $75 to $130. A mid-range WaterSense toilet purchased for $250 to $400 might see a simple payback period of 3 to 5 years based on utility savings alone, not counting utility rebates. If available rebates of $50 to $200 apply, the payback period shortens significantly.
Do hotels and commercial buildings prefer WaterSense toilets?
Many hotel chains, commercial buildings, and government facilities specifically require WaterSense certified fixtures as part of sustainability programs or local building code requirements. LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certified buildings often require WaterSense fixtures to earn water efficiency credits. In new commercial construction in water-stressed regions, WaterSense toilets are frequently mandated by local code rather than being optional.
What is the difference between high-efficiency toilet (HET) and WaterSense?
High-efficiency toilet (HET) is a broader industry term describing any toilet that uses 1.28 GPF or less, including dual-flush models. WaterSense is a specific EPA certification program that applies to HETs but requires independent third-party verification of both water efficiency and performance. All WaterSense certified toilets are HETs, but not all HETs are WaterSense certified. A toilet labeled "high efficiency" without the WaterSense logo has not been independently tested and verified.
Can I convert an existing 1.6 GPF toilet to use less water?
You can partially reduce water use on an existing 1.6 GPF toilet by installing a fill valve that limits tank volume -- for example, adjusting the float arm or replacing with an adjustable fill valve set to fill slightly below the overflow tube. However, this risks incomplete flushes and double-flushing if the tank does not hold enough water. Displacement devices like filled bottles are unreliable and can interfere with flush mechanisms. For reliable water savings, a purpose-built WaterSense toilet with proper engineering is more effective than retrofitting an older model.
Are WaterSense toilets required by law anywhere?
Yes, in a growing number of jurisdictions. California's plumbing code requires all new residential construction to use 1.28 GPF or less toilets. Several other states and municipalities have adopted similar standards as part of building codes or water conservation ordinances. Some areas in the Southwest and Southeast have emergency conservation ordinances that can impose similar requirements during drought conditions. Federal law requires all new toilets to be 1.6 GPF or less, but state and local codes can set stricter limits.
What is the Woodbridge T-0001 WaterSense performance like?
The Woodbridge T-0001 is a 1.28 GPF WaterSense certified dual-flush one-piece toilet with a skirted design and soft-close seat included. Its MaP score of 800 grams places it solidly in the competent range -- not at the top tier of TOTO and Kohler models, but above the threshold where clogging becomes a frequent complaint. Owner reviews note it performs reliably for solid waste flushing. It is considered a strong value option in the one-piece WaterSense category.
Sources
- EPA WaterSense program overview and product list, epa.gov/watersense
- EPA WaterSense labeled toilets performance specification (Version 1.0), epa.gov/watersense
- MaP flush testing program methodology and results database, map-testing.com
- TOTO Drake II (MS454124CEFG) published manufacturer specifications and WaterSense certification
- TOTO UltraMax II (MS604114CEFG) published specifications
- TOTO Aquia IV (MS446124CEMFG) published dual-flush specifications
- Kohler Cimarron (K-3609) published specifications and AquaPiston technology documentation
- American Standard Cadet 3 (2383.216) published specifications
- American Standard Champion 4 (3461.001) published specifications
- Gerber Avalanche (21-012) published specifications
- Woodbridge T-0001 published specifications
- Manufacturer published specifications (TOTO, Kohler, American Standard, Gerber, Swiss Madison, Woodbridge)
- U.S. Energy Policy Act of 1992 (plumbing efficiency standards), congress.gov
- Aggregated owner reviews from major retail platforms
Our Verdict
For the overwhelming majority of homeowners, an EPA WaterSense certified toilet at 1.28 GPF is the right choice. Current-generation certified models from TOTO (Drake II, UltraMax II), Kohler (Cimarron, Highline), and American Standard (Cadet 3) match the flush power of the best standard 1.6 GPF toilets as measured by independent MaP testing, while permanently reducing water consumption by 20% per flush. The savings accumulate meaningfully over a toilet's 25-to-30-year service life, and utility rebates in many markets improve the financial case further. The only scenario where a standard 1.6 GPF toilet remains preferable is in older homes with small-diameter drain lines or severely under-sloped plumbing where every gallon of hydraulic force matters for waste transport. Outside of that specific edge case, a well-engineered WaterSense toilet is not a compromise -- it is simply the smarter option.
How we rank & our data sources
We do not run physical lab tests. Rankings are built from published, verifiable data and real owner feedback, never paid placement.
- MaP (Maximum Performance) flush scores
- EPA WaterSense certification & GPF ratings
- Manufacturer specifications (trapway size, flush-valve, rough-in)
- Verified owner reviews from Amazon, Home Depot & Lowe’s
Researched by Marcus Bell · Last updated June 28, 2026 · Our review method
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