Mansfield Alto 1.6 GPF Round Toilet Review: Efficient, Reliable & Budget-Friendly

Looking for a toilet that balances performance, water efficiency, and affordability without compromising on reliability? You’re not alone. Millions of American homeowners seek fixtures that lower water bills and deliver consistent flush performance—especially in older homes with standard rough-ins. The Mansfield Plumbing Products Alto 1.6 GPF Round Two-Piece Toilet has quietly become a go-to choice for contractors and DIYers alike. In this deep-dive review, we’ll explore why this model stands out, how it compares to competitors, and whether it’s the right fit for your bathroom.

What Makes the Mansfield Alto 1.6 GPF Toilet Special?

The Mansfield Alto isn’t flashy—but that’s part of its strength. Designed for practicality and compliance with U.S. water efficiency standards, it offers 1.6 gallons per flush (GPF), meeting EPA WaterSense criteria for toilets installed after 1994 (though newer WaterSense models use 1.28 GPF, 1.6 GPF remains widely accepted and functional).

Unlike ultra-low-flow models that sometimes struggle with waste removal, the Alto uses Mansfield’s patented siphonic jet action. This engineering ensures a powerful, self-scouring flush that clears the bowl effectively—without double-flushing.

💡 Fun Fact: Toilets account for nearly 30% of an average U.S. household’s indoor water use (EPA, 2024). Switching to a 1.6 GPF model from an older 3.5–7 GPF unit can save up to 13,000 gallons of water per year.

Key Features at a Glance

Here’s what you get with the Mansfield Alto Round Two-Piece Toilet:

• Flush Volume: 1.6 gallons per flush (GPF)
• Bowl Shape: Round (ideal for smaller bathrooms)
• Rough-In: Standard 12-inch (fits most U.S. homes)
• Trapway: 2-inch fully glazed, reducing clogs
• Seat Included: Yes (slow-close, quick-release)
• Height: Standard (14.5” bowl height)
• Material: Vitreous china (durable, easy to clean)
• Warranty: Limited lifetime on porcelain; 5-year on mechanics

Compared to elongated models, the round bowl saves ~2 inches of space—a game-changer in powder rooms or tight half-baths.

Performance vs. Competitors: How Does It Stack Up?

Let’s compare the Alto against two popular rivals: the American Standard Cadet 3 and Kohler Wellworth.

MaP (Maximum Performance) Testing measures solid waste removal in grams. Scores ≥ 350 are considered excellent for residential use.
Source: Maximum Performance (MaP) Testing Program

Verdict: The Alto trades a slight performance edge for significant cost savings and included seat—making it ideal for budget-conscious buyers or rental properties.

Installation Guide: DIY-Friendly in 6 Steps

Installing the Mansfield Alto is straightforward, especially if you’re replacing an existing 12″ rough-in toilet. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Turn off water supply and flush to drain the tank. Disconnect the water line.
2. Remove old toilet: Unscrew closet bolts, lift bowl, and scrape off old wax ring.
3. Install new wax ring: Place centered on the flange (use extra-thick if floor is uneven).
4. Set bowl in place: Align bolts, press down firmly to seal wax ring.
5. Attach tank: Secure to bowl with included hardware; connect water supply.
6. Test flush: Check for leaks at base and tank connections. Tighten if needed.

🛠️ Pro Tip: Use a level to ensure the bowl sits evenly. An unlevel toilet can crack over time or leak at the seal.

Total install time: 30–60 minutes for most DIYers. No special tools required beyond a wrench and sponge.

Pros and Cons: Honest Assessment

✅ Advantages

• Affordable—often under $150
• Reliable flush with minimal clogs
• Includes slow-close seat (a $30+ value)
• Fits standard bathrooms (12” rough-in, round bowl)
• Easy to clean—smooth, seamless trapway

❌ Limitations

• Not WaterSense-certified (uses 1.6 GPF vs. 1.28 GPF)
• Standard height only—no comfort-height option
• Limited color choices (typically white only)

For eco-conscious buyers, Mansfield does offer a 1.28 GPF Alto model (check model #219-740)—but the 1.6 GPF version remains popular where water pressure is low or older plumbing exists.

Sustainability & Water Efficiency

While newer toilets use less water, the 1.6 GPF standard was a major leap forward when introduced in the 1990s. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency , replacing a pre-1980 toilet (5–7 GPF) with a 1.6 GPF model reduces indoor water use by 20–30%.

The Mansfield Alto contributes to this conservation effort while maintaining performance—proving you don’t need the lowest GPF to be eco-friendly. Plus, its vitreous china construction is fully recyclable at end-of-life.

FAQ Section

Q: Does the Mansfield Alto 1.6 GPF toilet come with a seat?
A: Yes! It includes a soft-close, quick-release plastic seat—a rare bonus in this price range.

Q: What rough-in size does it require?
A: Standard 12-inch rough-in (distance from wall to center of closet bolts). Confirm your existing measurement before buying.

Q: Can I use it in a basement or low-pressure system?
A: Yes. The siphonic jet design works reliably even with moderate water pressure (20–80 PSI). Avoid if your home has very low (<15 PSI) pressure.

Q: Is it ADA-compliant?
A: No. The bowl height is 14.5 inches, below the ADA minimum of 17–19 inches. For accessibility, consider Mansfield’s Quantum Comfort Height line.

Q: How do I unclog it if needed?
A: Use a flange plunger first. If that fails, a closet auger works well—its fully glazed 2” trapway resists blockages better than older models.

Q: Where is it manufactured?
A: Mansfield Plumbing Products are made in the USA, primarily in Ohio and Texas—supporting domestic jobs and quality control.

Final Thoughts: Is the Mansfield Alto Right for You?

If you value dependability, simplicity, and smart pricing, the Mansfield Plumbing Products Alto 1.6 GPF Round Two-Piece Toilet delivers exceptional value. It’s not the flashiest toilet on the shelf—but it’s the kind of fixture that just works, flush after flush, year after year.

Perfect for:

• First-time homeowners
• Landlords upgrading rentals
• Powder room renovations
• Budget bathroom remodels

With its included seat, easy install, and proven flush performance, it’s no wonder contractors keep this model in their trucks.

👍 Liked this review? Share it with a friend renovating their bathroom!
Tag #SmartBathroomUpgrades or #MansfieldAlto on social media to help others save water—and money.

Note: Always verify local plumbing codes before installation. Some regions now require 1.28 GPF or lower for new builds.