American Standard Cadet 3 1.28 GPF Elongated ADA Toilet

The American Standard Cadet 3 delivers 1000-gram MaP score performance while using just 1.28 gallons per flush — the maximum waste removal rating possible combined with WaterSense-certified efficiency. The EZ-Install kit makes this toilet genuinely DIY-friendly, with hand-tightened bolts between tank and bowl that eliminate the need for special tools. At 17.5 inches total height with the included seat, it meets ADA requirements for residential bathrooms and helps older homeowners or those with mobility challenges.

For Montana contractors dealing with rural wells or municipal water conservation requirements, this toilet cuts water usage by 20% compared to standard 1.6 GPF models while maintaining flush performance that earns a 4.4-star rating from 116 reviews. The toilet works equally well in high-use residential settings or light commercial applications thanks to its low-clog reputation.

Performance and Water Efficiency

The Cadet 3 achieves a 1000-gram MaP (Maximum Performance) score — the highest rating available for waste removal. That number matters when customers complain about weak flushes or repeated clogging. The combination of PowerWash rim technology that pressure-feeds water around the bowl and siphon action jetting creates thorough bowl cleaning with each flush.

The 3-inch flush valve and 2-1/8 inch fully glazed trapway handle waste efficiently. Compared to American Standard’s Champion 4 with its 4-inch flush valve, the Cadet 3’s smaller valve runs quieter while still providing more than sufficient performance for standard residential needs.

Water efficiency specs check every box:

• 1.28 gallons per flush (4.8 liters)
• WaterSense certified by EPA
• CEC (California Energy Commission) compliant for the strictest water regulations
• 20% less water usage than standard 1.6 GPF toilets

For Montana’s mix of municipal water systems and private wells, that efficiency translates to real savings. Rural properties on wells benefit from reduced pump cycles and lower electrical costs. Municipal customers see direct utility bill reductions.

Installation and ADA Compliance

The EZ-Install kit sets this toilet apart from competitors. Hand-tightened bolts connect the tank to bowl without special tools, and the kit includes color-matched bolt caps for a finished look. Standard installation requires just an adjustable wrench, screwdriver, putty knife, level, and tape measure.

ADA compliance specifications:

• 16.5-inch rim height
• 17.5 inches total height with seat
• Elongated bowl shape for comfort
• ADA certified for accessibility requirements

The toilet fits standard 12-inch rough-ins, with 10-inch models available for older bathrooms. Overall dimensions measure 17.25 inches wide by 30.25 inches deep by 30.25 inches high.

Construction and Features

American Standard builds the Cadet 3 from vitreous china, the industry standard for durability and cleanability. The EverClean surface — an antimicrobial glaze — inhibits growth of bacteria, mold, and mildew that cause odors and stains. That coating matters in Montana’s varied humidity conditions, from bone-dry winters to humid summers.

The Cadet 3 flushing system combines multiple technologies for reliable performance. Single-flush gravity-fed operation keeps things simple — no complex dual-flush mechanisms to fail. The PowerWash rim scrubs the bowl with pressurized water jets, while enhanced siphon action jetting improves flush effectiveness.

The toilet includes chinaware with a limited lifetime warranty, mechanical parts covered for 5 years, and the toilet seat warranted for 1 year. The complete kit includes an EZ-Install package for straightforward installation.

The Bottom Line

At its core, the Cadet 3 earns its reputation as an easy-to-install, budget-friendly toilet that delivers comparable flushing power to more expensive models. The combination of maximum MaP score performance, genuine water savings, and tool-free installation makes sense for both contractors and DIY homeowners.

While some users find the included seat feels “plasticky” and specific replacement seats for decorator models can be hard to source locally, these minor complaints don’t overshadow the toilet’s core strengths. Contractors appreciate its strong flushing performance with minimal clogging.

For Montana’s aging population, the ADA-compliant height reduces strain. For water-conscious builders, the WaterSense certification delivers measurable savings. For contractors tired of callbacks about weak flushes, the 1000-gram MaP score speaks for itself.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Cadet 3 different from other American Standard toilets?

The EZ-Install kit with hand-tightened tank-to-bowl bolts sets it apart as genuinely DIY-friendly, while maintaining the same 1000-gram MaP score as pricier models. Compared to the Champion 4’s larger 4-inch valve, the Cadet 3 runs quieter with its 3-inch valve while still preventing clogs.

Does the 1.28 GPF flush handle solid waste effectively?

Yes — the 1000-gram MaP score represents the maximum performance rating for waste removal. Professional reviews consistently praise its strong flushing performance with minimal clogging despite the efficient water usage.

What rough-in sizes work with this toilet?

The Cadet 3 fits standard 12-inch rough-ins, with 10-inch models available for older bathroom configurations. Measure from the wall to the center of the floor bolts to determine your rough-in before ordering.

Is this toilet truly ADA compliant?

Yes — with a 16.5-inch rim height and 17.5-inch total height with seat, it meets ADA certification requirements. The chair-height design specifically addresses mobility challenges in residential bathrooms.

What comes in the box with this toilet?

The package includes toilet bowl and tank, toilet seat and cover (often slow-close), wax ring gasket, flange bolts and nuts, color-matched bolt caps, and a chrome-plated trip lever. Everything arrives with the EZ-Install kit for complete installation.