We spoke with the folks at Gerber Plumbing Fixtures during the opening hours of ISH North America. They were eager to tell me that today, Oct. 1, was the official day more than 70 of their lavatory faucets were WaterSense certified.

In order to earn the label, Gerber’s faucets ― both residential and commercial models ― were tested in accordance with the procedures in ASME A112.18.1/CSA B125.1, and meet the exacting U.S. EPA maximum flow rates of 1.5 gpm. The faucets join the 16 Gerber toilets already certified through the program since fall of 2007.

Gerber also showcased their HETs at the show, flushing more than 300 neoprene balls through the trapways of its Viper, UltraFlush and Avalanche models. (Video screens showed more “unique” items go down the trap, such as fruit salad, bottles and other items.)

The dual-flush lever on Gerber's UltraFlush model.

The UltraFlush in particular caught our attention. It’s an HET that offers a dual-flush model. The lever handle is traditional in shape, and blends well with the toilet design. And it allows you to subconsciously save water, since the 1.1 gpf option is activated by naturally pushing down when flushing. (Pull the lever up for 1.6 gpf.)

Gerber’s Ron Mudge was happy to tell me that the dual-flush models haven’t just been a regional line item for drought-prone areas (such as the Southwest), but they have instead been gaining national exposure through consumer magazines, and the company is getting orders from all over the country.