American Standard Cadet 3 1.28 GPF Toilet

The Cadet 3 delivers what contractors need: 1.28 GPF WaterSense certified efficiency with MaP score of 1000 grams waste removal. Multiple configurations — Round Front and Elongated bowls, Standard Height (15”) and Right-Height / Chair-Height (16.5” - 17.5”) — mean one product line handles different job specs. This positions it as a workhorse toilet that won’t generate callbacks.

Water Efficiency Meets Real-World Performance

26% less water than standard 1.6 GPF models sounds nice on paper. What matters on the jobsite: that 1000-gram MaP score proves this toilet actually clears waste. The FlapperClean 2-piece valve with 1-inch outlet delivers water faster than standard 3/4-inch outlets. PowerWash rim scrubs bowl with each flush — not marketing fluff, but a rim design that creates better bowl coverage.

WaterSense certified for 20%+ water savings over 1.6 GPF models matters for two Montana realities. Rural wells appreciate lower water demand. Municipal customers see lower utility bills. The lower volume per flush requires careful water level adjustment to maintain optimal performance — set the fill valve right during installation or deal with weak flushes later.

Specification	Value
Flush Rate	1.28 GPF (4.8 LPF)
MaP Score	1000 grams waste removal
Water Savings	26% less than 1.6 GPF
Flush Valve	FlapperClean 2-piece with 1-inch outlet
Certifications	EPA WaterSense, ASME A112.19.2/CSA B45.1, CalGreen compliant

Installation Flexibility Saves Ordering Headaches

The Cadet 3 lineup covers the bases. Standard 12-inch (10-inch variants also available) rough-in handles most residential jobs. Round Front and Elongated options mean you’re not stuck ordering different brands for different bathrooms. Standard Height (15”) and Right-Height / Chair-Height (16.5” - 17.5”) configurations let contractors match ADA requirements or customer preferences without switching product lines.

Standard floor-mount installation with 2 or 3-hole bolt pattern fits existing flanges. Quick-connect water supply line included — one less item to stock on the truck. Recommended tightening torque for floor bolts: 30 lb-ft prevents cracked bases from over-tightening.

Multiple trapway designs — Standard (exposed), Skirted, and Concealed Trapway — give options for different aesthetics and cleaning preferences. The skirted versions matter for customers who actually clean their own bathrooms.

Built to Reduce Callbacks

Vitreous China with GlazePlus / EverClean enamel isn’t just marketing. The EverClean / GlazePlus surface inhibits the growth of stain and odor-causing bacteria — fewer cleaning complaints from customers. 1-year limited warranty on porcelain, 5-year limited warranty on flushing system and internal components backs up the reliability claims.

Slow-close seat (included in ‘Complete’ or ‘Decor’ kits) eliminates the 3 a.m. seat slam that generates spousal complaints. Basic models require separate seat purchase — know which kit you’re quoting.

Average rating: 4.2 - 4.7 out of 5 stars (based on 1000+ aggregate reviews). Customer feedback highlights Reliable flushing power, quiet operation, easy to keep clean, and simple installation. The main complaint: Some users reported seat-only models require separate purchases; basic models may lack ADA height.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s included with the Cadet 3 toilet? Toilet Bowl (Vitreous China), Pre-installed FlapperClean flush valve, Standard Wax Ring, Quick-connect water supply line, Installation hardware (bolts, washers, nuts), Owner’s manual / Installation guide. Slow-close seat (included in ‘Complete’ or ‘Decor’ kits) — verify which model you’re ordering.

How does the Cadet 3 compare to other American Standard toilets? Cadet Pro offers a more robust GlazePlus finish, optional dual-flush (0.8/1.6 GPF), and a longer 10-year warranty on the flush valve. The Plus version standardizes the taller ‘Right-Height’ bowl and ADA compliance, often including premium seats. The standard Cadet 3 hits the sweet spot for most residential jobs.

Does the 1.28 GPF flush handle heavy loads? MaP score of 1000 grams waste removal puts it in the high-performance category. The lower volume per flush requires careful water level adjustment to maintain optimal performance — proper setup during installation prevents weak flush complaints.

What rough-in sizes are available? Standard 12-inch (10-inch variants also available). Requires 12-inch rough-in (center of floor outlet to finished wall) for standard models. The 10-inch option handles older homes or tight spaces.

Is professional installation required? Standard floor-mount installation with 2 or 3-hole bolt pattern works for any competent installer. Step-by-step video guides available on official website. Recommended tightening torque for floor bolts: 30 lb-ft — that spec alone suggests DIY-friendly design.