## Taos Toilets: Altitude Lies About Water Savings?
By Franklin Everett ShawThe dreaded toilet flush. It’s a sound we all know, but in Taos, New Mexico, it can be a source of frustration. High altitude living presents unique challenges, and even something as simple as flushing a toilet can become a complex issue. We’re not talking about just any toilet, but the low-flush models designed to save water. Do they actually work in Taos, and how can you optimize them for the mountain environment?
Let’s dive into the world of Taos toilets, exploring the quirks of low-flush technology at altitude and providing actionable solutions for homeowners.
Taos, nestled in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, sits at an elevation of nearly 7,000 feet. This altitude significantly impacts water pressure and gravity, two crucial factors for effective toilet flushing. Lower air pressure means less force pushing the water through the pipes, and the reduced gravitational pull can hinder waste removal.
Low-flush toilets, designed to use 1.6 gallons per flush (GPF) or less, are particularly susceptible to these altitude-related issues. Older toilets, using 3.5 to 5 GPF, often had enough water volume to overcome these challenges, but the newer models require precise calibration.
So, what can a Taos homeowner do? First, understand the specific challenges.
- Weak Flush: The most common complaint is a weak or incomplete flush, leaving residue in the bowl. This is often due to insufficient water pressure or an improperly adjusted flapper.
- Multiple Flushes: To compensate for the weak flush, residents often resort to flushing multiple times, negating the water-saving benefits of the low-flush toilet.
- Clogging: Reduced water volume can also lead to more frequent clogging, requiring messy and inconvenient plunging.
Now, let’s get practical. Here’s a step-by-step guide to troubleshooting and adjusting your low-flush toilet in Taos:
Check Water Level: Remove the toilet tank lid and observe the water level. It should be about an inch below the top of the overflow tube. If it’s lower, adjust the fill valve. Most fill valves have a float that can be adjusted up or down. Experiment with small adjustments until the water level is correct.
Inspect the Flapper: The flapper is the rubber or plastic piece that seals the flush valve. Over time, it can deteriorate, warp, or become coated with mineral deposits, preventing a proper seal. A leaky flapper reduces the water volume available for each flush. Replace the flapper if it shows any signs of wear or damage. You can find replacement flappers at most hardware stores in Taos, like Lowe’s or Ace Hardware.
Adjust the Flush Chain: The chain connecting the flush handle to the flapper should have a slight slack. If it’s too tight, it can prevent the flapper from sealing properly. If it’s too loose, it may not lift the flapper high enough for a full flush. Adjust the chain length by moving it to a different link.
Clean the Rim Jets: The rim jets are the small holes around the rim of the bowl that distribute water during the flush. Over time, these jets can become clogged with mineral deposits, reducing the flushing power. Use a wire or a small brush to clean out any debris from the rim jets.
Consider a Toilet Tank Booster: For persistent weak flush issues, consider installing a toilet tank booster. These devices use a small amount of electricity to increase the water pressure during the flush. While they add to your energy bill, they can significantly improve flushing performance.
Check Your Home’s Water Pressure: Low water pressure throughout your home can exacerbate toilet flushing problems. A plumber can test your water pressure and recommend solutions, such as installing a pressure booster pump. Local Taos plumbers like Thompson Plumbing or Martinez Plumbing can assist with this.
But are low-flush toilets really saving water in Taos? The answer is complex. While they use less water per flush in theory, the need for multiple flushes can negate those savings.
Consider this scenario: An older toilet uses 3.5 GPF per flush. A low-flush toilet uses 1.6 GPF, but requires two flushes to clear the bowl. That’s 3.2 GPF, nearly the same as the older model.
To maximize water savings, Taos residents need to ensure their low-flush toilets are functioning optimally. This means regular maintenance, proper adjustments, and potentially investing in additional solutions like toilet tank boosters.
Furthermore, Taos County has specific plumbing codes that residents should be aware of. While the county generally follows the New Mexico Plumbing Code, there may be local amendments related to water conservation. Contact the Taos County Planning Department to confirm the latest regulations.
One common mistake is assuming that all low-flush toilets are created equal. Some models are simply better designed for high-altitude environments than others. Look for toilets with a pressure-assisted flushing system, which uses compressed air to generate a more powerful flush. These models are generally more expensive but can be worth the investment in the long run.
Another pitfall is neglecting regular maintenance. Mineral deposits from Taos’s water supply can quickly build up in the toilet tank and bowl, hindering performance. Regularly cleaning the toilet with a descaling solution can help prevent these issues.
Ultimately, optimizing your low-flush toilet in Taos is a balancing act. It requires understanding the unique challenges of high-altitude living, implementing practical solutions, and staying informed about local plumbing codes. By taking these steps, Taos homeowners can enjoy the water-saving benefits of low-flush toilets without sacrificing flushing performance. It’s about finding the right balance between conservation and convenience, ensuring that every flush counts in the high desert of New Mexico.