Are We Flushing Away Our Good Intentions?
We all want to save water. But what happens when trying to save every last drop starts doing more harm than good?
As building codes tighten and drought-prone regions like California push water efficiency to new extremes, some of the newest fixtures on the market have pushed flow rates so low that they risk undermining the very goal they’re designed to serve.
This is the dilemma now facing engineers, developers, and specifiers across the country: How low is too low?
Why We Regulate Water Use: The EPA’s Mission
Since its launch in 2006, the EPA’s WaterSense program has helped consumers and professionals alike reduce water use with verified, tested plumbing products.
-
As of 2024, WaterSense-labeled products have saved over 7.3 trillion gallons of water across the U.S.
-
That also equates to $171 billion in water and energy bill savings.
-
The average family using WaterSense fixtures can reduce water use by 20% or more.
WaterSense has undeniably been a win for water conservation and utility cost savings. The program certifies products like toilets, showerheads, and bathroom faucets that meet high efficiency and performance standards.
Why Flow Rates Keep Falling: California’s Influence
Regions like California, which face long-term drought risk and limited water supply, have driven the push for more aggressive flow rate reductions:
-
In 2023, WaterSense announced plans to align its standards with California Title 20:
-
Bathroom faucets: Reduced from 1.5 GPM to 1.2 GPM
-
Showerheads: Dropped from 2.0 GPM to 1.8 GPM
-
Toilets are already at 1.28 gallons per flush (GPF)—the most common standard in multifamily builds today.
This downward trend reflects good intentions. But when some manufacturers go beyond even these targets in the pursuit of "ultra-efficiency," cracks begin to show.
The Efficiency Paradox: When Less Becomes Too Little
1. Real-World GPF Often Exceeds Ratings
A recent study published in Water (MDPI, 2021) found that toilets marketed at 1.28 GPF actually used closer to 1.42 GPF on average in real-world conditions—a 12% increase over their rated value. The reason? Users often flush twice.
2. Cleaning Power Drops Off Below a Threshold
Ultra-low-flow toilets (e.g., 1.0 GPF or lower) often leave behind residue or waste, causing users to flush again—negating any water savings. The Plumbing Efficiency Research Coalition (PERC) study in 2016, showed degraded performance in drainline transport at 0.8 GPF.
3. Wastewater System Risks in Commercial Settings
In commercial buildings with long horizontal drains, reduced water flow can mean inadequate push of solids through pipes. Some buildings have resorted to daily timed cistern flushes to clear out debris—an ironic workaround that increases water use.
4. Showers and Faucets Present the Same Problems
-
Low-flow showerheads (<1.5 GPM) often result in longer shower times or user tampering (removing restrictors).
-
Another common issue is the extended wait for hot water—lower flow means it takes longer for hot water to reach the showerhead, leading users to leave the water running longer before stepping in.
-
A study by Evolve Technologies titled Warm-Up Waste: Characteristics & Solutions found that over 75% of users turn on the shower and walk away while waiting for hot water to arrive.
-
This behavior—exacerbated by ultra-low flow showerheads—can waste up to 25% of a household's shower water before anyone steps inside.
-
Faucets below 1.0 GPM often struggle with simple rinsing tasks, increasing total usage time.
And all of these lead to one more issue: hot water lag. Lower flow means waiting longer for hot water to reach the fixture, which increases behavioral waste.
Are There Solutions? Yes—But at a Price
Some high-end solutions do exist:
-
Pressurized flush toilets or vacuum-assist models can achieve better waste removal with less water.
-
Point-of-use hot water heaters and recirculating systems can reduce warm-up waste.
But these solutions are often too expensive for standard multifamily projects, where cost-per-unit is closely managed.
Allora’s Perspective: Finding the Equilibrium
At Allora, we believe water efficiency must be practical to be effective. Based on our research and experience working with hundreds of multifamily developments, we recommend the following flow rates as the performance sweet spot:
-
Showerheads: 1.8 GPM
-
Kitchen Faucets: 1.8 GPM
-
Bathroom Faucets: 1.2 GPM
-
Toilets: 1.28 GPF
These levels strike the best balance between water savings, functionality, and user satisfaction—without requiring expensive add-ons or system modifications.
What Allora Offers: Practical Fixtures That Deliver
At Allora, we take pride in offering fixtures that meet these balanced flow rate targets—because water efficiency should never come at the expense of usability or cost.
Some of our standout products that align with these recommendations include:
A-810-BL Kitchen Faucet – A modern pull-down kitchen faucet that delivers excellent pressure and spray control at an efficient 1.8 GPM.
A-7001-BN Bathroom Faucet – A sleek 1.2 GPM lavatory faucet that blends performance with water savings.
ST-7001-SH-C Shower Set – A complete shower solution rated at 1.8 GPM, combining design appeal with reliable flow.
These products—and many more in our catalog—are designed to help builders meet water-saving targets without breaking the bank. Whether you're managing a multifamily project or a commercial build, Allora can help you deliver smart, code-compliant fixtures that are both effective and budget-friendly.
Built for performance. Backed by practicality. Trusted by professionals.
Ready to learn more?
Fill out our contact form to get product details, personalized support, and volume pricing options tailored to your project. We're here to help you build smarter—without compromising on quality or efficiency.
