Water Efficient Toilets

DUAL FLUSH TOILETS

[YEA]  04/24/2009: Kevin Garrett (uglygarrett@gmail.com) from Atlanta, GA writes: "Dual Flush Toilets:

I like this idea! A two handled toilet lever 1 for liquid waste and a 2 for solid waste is a great idea. I have 4 people in my house and the sound of the toilet flush seems to be more common than just about any other noise, except "Mom" or "Dad" Can I.

When we are talking about flushing; an old 3.8 GPF (Gallons per Flush) toilet waste a lot of water to get the job done, when we are talking about liquid waste. That being said, there are time when the low flow toilets seem to require multiple tries to get rid of more substantial material.  It is estimated that around 30% of household water usage is dedicated the porcelain throne.  Second only to showers & baths in total consumption. 

Now for the techy stuff:

Old toilets have a 3.6 (or so) GFP.  After the change to low flow toilets we get about 1.5 GPF.  By using a dual flush fixture the GPF can get as low as 1.25. 

That translates to a savings varying from 20% to 25 % (of the 30% dedicated to toilets). Again different study has yielded different results.

These kits are fairly simple to install your self and range from $30 to $50 or you can have a green plumber come out & pop one in.  I am going to get my hand on one & install it.  After a little product research, I'll give everyone an update.