In water-conscious Pasadena, where droughts are a recurring concern and conservation efforts are part of daily life, homeowners are always on the lookout for simple ways to reduce water usage. One popular DIY hack that’s been circulating for decades is placing a brick in your toilet tank to save water. But does it actually work, or could it cause more harm than good?
At Pershing Plumbing, your reliable Pasadena plumbing experts, we’ve fielded countless questions about this trick from residents in neighborhoods like Old Pasadena and the San Rafael Hills. In this in-depth blog, we’ll unpack the science behind the brick-in-tank method, weigh its pros and cons, explore better alternatives, and share professional advice to help you make informed decisions for your home. As Pasadena’s trusted plumbing service, Pershing Plumbing is here to guide you toward efficient, safe water-saving solutions.
The Brick-in-Tank Hack: What It Is and How It Supposedly Works
The concept is straightforward: By placing a standard red clay brick (or sometimes a plastic bottle filled with sand) inside your toilet’s tank, you displace some of the water volume. Traditional toilets, especially older models common in Pasadena’s historic homes, use anywhere from 3.5 to 7 gallons per flush. The brick reduces the amount of water the tank holds, theoretically leading to less water used per flush without affecting the toilet’s performance.
This hack gained popularity during the 1970s energy crisis and has resurfaced amid California’s ongoing water shortages. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), toilets account for nearly 30% of indoor water use in the average American household. In Pasadena, where the Metropolitan Water District encourages conservation, small changes like this could add up. At Pershing Plumbing, we’ve seen clients try this method in an effort to lower their bills and support local water-saving initiatives.But how much does it save? A typical brick displaces about 0.5 gallons of water.
If your family flushes 10 times a day, that’s potentially 5 gallons saved daily—or over 1,800 gallons annually. Sounds promising, right? However, as experienced Pasadena plumbers at Pershing Plumbing, we caution that the reality isn’t always so simple. Factors like brick size, toilet type, and placement matter, and improper implementation can lead to unexpected issues.
Does It Actually Save Water? The Pros
Yes, putting a brick in your toilet tank can save water under the right circumstances. Here’s a breakdown of the benefits, informed by our hands-on experience at Pershing Plumbing.
1. Effective Water Displacement
The primary advantage is volume displacement. By occupying space in the tank, the brick forces the toilet to refill with less water while still providing enough for a complete flush. This is particularly useful for older toilets that aren’t low-flow models. In Pasadena, many pre-1994 homes have high-volume toilets, and our Pershing Plumbing team often recommends this as a temporary fix for clients awaiting upgrades.
Data from the Alliance for Water Efficiency suggests that such displacement devices can reduce flush volume by 10-20%, aligning with Pasadena’s water conservation goals. For eco-conscious residents, this hack supports broader efforts like the city’s rebate programs for water-efficient fixtures.
2. Cost-Effective and Easy to Implement
At virtually no cost—a spare brick from your garden or garage does the trick—this method is accessible for budget-minded homeowners. No tools or professional help are needed for basic installation, making it a quick win for DIY enthusiasts. We’ve had Pasadena clients report noticeable drops in their water bills after trying it, especially in larger households with frequent flushes.
3. Environmental Impact
In a region like Southern California, where water scarcity is a hot topic, every gallon counts. Reducing toilet water use contributes to lower overall consumption, easing strain on local reservoirs like those feeding the Colorado River Aqueduct. Pershing Plumbing applauds these efforts, as they align with our commitment to sustainable plumbing practices in Pasadena.
That said, while the pros are appealing, they’re not without caveats. As we’ll explore next, this hack isn’t foolproof and can sometimes backfire.
Potential Drawbacks and Risks: Why It Might Not Be the Best Idea
Despite its popularity, the brick-in-tank method has significant downsides that could lead to plumbing problems. At Pershing Plumbing, we’ve repaired toilets damaged by this very hack, so we advise caution.
1. Risk of Tank Damage
Bricks can chip, crumble, or erode over time, especially when submerged in water. Clay particles might clog the toilet’s internal mechanisms, like the flapper valve or fill tube, causing incomplete flushes, leaks, or constant running. In Pasadena’s hard water environment, minerals can accelerate brick degradation, turning a simple save into a costly repair. We’ve seen cases where fragments scratched the porcelain tank, leading to cracks and water damage—repairs that can cost $200-$500.
2. Incompatibility with Modern Toilets
Newer low-flow toilets (1.6 gallons per flush or less) are designed for efficiency and may not function properly with added displacement. Forcing less water could result in weak flushes, double-flushing (which wastes more water), or blockages. Pershing Plumbing often encounters this in remodeled Pasadena homes, where owners unwittingly sabotage their efficient systems.
3. Health and Hygiene Concerns
A deteriorating brick can harbor bacteria or mold, contaminating your water supply. Plus, if not sealed properly (e.g., wrapped in plastic), it might introduce rust or debris into the tank. According to plumbing standards from the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials, foreign objects in tanks aren’t recommended due to these risks.
4. Minimal Savings Compared to Alternatives
While it saves some water, the amount is often overhyped. The EPA notes that upgrading to a WaterSense-labeled toilet can save up to 13,000 gallons per household annually—far more than a brick. In Pasadena, where rebates can offset upgrade costs, this hack might not be worth the potential headaches.From our perspective at Pershing Plumbing, the risks often outweigh the rewards, especially without professional assessment.
Better Alternatives for Saving Water in Your Toilet
If the brick method doesn’t appeal, fear not—there are superior, safer options. As Pasadena’s plumbing specialists, Pershing Plumbing recommends these proven strategies:
1. Install a Low-Flow Toilet
Switching to a high-efficiency model (1.28 gallons per flush) is the gold standard. We install these regularly, and clients see immediate savings. Pasadena offers incentives through the SoCal WaterSmart program, making it affordable.
2. Use Toilet Tank Bags or Displacement Devices
Opt for purpose-built products like plastic tank bags or “toilet dams” designed for this exact purpose. They’re non-abrasive and easy to remove. Pershing Plumbing stocks and installs these for optimal results.
3. Adjust the Float Mechanism
A simple tweak to lower the water level in the tank can mimic the brick’s effect without added objects. Our technicians at Pershing Plumbing can do this in minutes during a service call.
4. Whole-Home Water Efficiency Audit
We offer comprehensive audits to identify leaks, inefficient fixtures, and more. In Pasadena’s variable climate, this holistic approach ensures maximum savings.One memorable case: A client in the Linda Vista area called Pershing Plumbing after a brick caused a persistent leak. We replaced it with a low-flow toilet and adjusted their system, saving them over 20% on water bills.
Expert Tips from Pershing Plumbing: Making Water Conservation Work for You
Ready to save water safely? Here’s advice straight from our Pasadena team:
- Test Your Toilet First: Check for leaks with food coloring in the tank—if it seeps into the bowl, fix it before any hacks.
- Choose the Right Brick: If you insist, use a sealed, non-porous one and monitor monthly.
- Combine Methods: Pair with low-flow showerheads and aerators for compounded savings.
- Schedule Professional Help: Don’t DIY if unsure. Pershing Plumbing provides free consultations for Pasadena residents.
Local tip: With Pasadena’s summer heat increasing evaporation rates, now’s the time to act—contact us before peak drought season.
Why Trust Pershing Plumbing for Your Water-Saving Needs?
At Pershing Plumbing, our Pasadena Plumbers are more than just plumbers; we’re your partners in sustainable living. Serving Pasadena for over 20 years, our licensed experts specialize in eco-friendly solutions, from installations to repairs. We’re committed to quality, using top brands and offering 24/7 emergency services. Whether it’s debunking myths like the brick hack or upgrading your system, we prioritize your home’s efficiency and longevity.
Final Thoughts: Smart Savings Without the Risks
So, can putting a brick in your toilet tank save water? Technically yes, but the potential for damage makes it a risky choice. Better options exist that provide greater savings with fewer headaches.