Journeyman Plumber ExamFixtures, Faucets, and Other AppliancesHard
A plumber is installing a water-saving toilet (water closet) that is rated for 1.28 gallons per flush (gpf). What is the maximum allowable water consumption for water closets in new installations, according to current federal standards (Energy Policy Act of 1992, as amended)?
- A1.6 gallons per flush (gpf)
- B1.0 gallons per flush (gpf)
- C1.28 gallons per flush (gpf)
- D3.5 gallons per flush (gpf)
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. 1.6 gallons per flush (gpf)
The federal standard set by the Energy Policy Act of 1992 (EPAct 1992) for water closets in new installations is a maximum of 1.6 gallons per flush (gpf). While 1.28 gpf is a common high-efficiency toilet (HET) rating, the federal *maximum* allowable is 1.6 gpf.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. 1.0 gpf is an ultra-high-efficiency rating, well below the federal maximum.
- C. 1.28 gpf is the rating for High-Efficiency Toilets (HETs) and is often required by state or local codes, but it is not the federal *maximum*.
- D. 3.5 gpf was common for older, non-efficient toilets and is far above current federal standards.
Federal Water Closet GPF
The maximum water consumption allowed for new water closet installations under U.S. federal law (Energy Policy Act of 1992).
- Maximum 1.6 gallons per flush (gpf).
- Many states and local jurisdictions have stricter requirements (e.g., 1.28 gpf).
- Aims to promote water conservation.
Memory trick: Federal flush: 1.6 is the most, for water saved at lowest cost.