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Do you wish that you could lower your water bill only by using the best dual flush toilet? If so, you’re not alone. On average, Americans use approximately 100 gallons of water each day. Thanks to the rising costs of water, the average water bill in 2019 is an eye-watering $104 a month! If you think that long showers and frequent laundry loads are to blame, guess again. According to the EPA, nearly 30 percent of a home’s water usage comes from flushing the toilet.
The best dual flush toilets can reduce your water consumption by up to 60 percent. We’ll go over how these fixtures achieve that feat in a bit.
For now, imagine what you can do with 30 percent savings. Right now, you’re probably spending far too much on your water due to an inefficient toilet. By swapping out your old fixture for a dual-flush model, you’re well on your way to lowering your monthly water bill.
Interested in swapping out your bathroom toilet? You’ve come to the right place! In this guide, we aim to help you find the best dual flush toilet for your needs. There are several models on the market for you to choose from. Below, we’ve listed our favorites. Later on in this guide, we’ll go over some things you need to consider during your search.
We’ll break down some of the best dual flush toilets in a moment. But first, let’s talk a bit about how dual flush toilets work. Standard fixtures utilize a simple flapper seal and a large water tank. When you flush, the seal will lift up, sending the tank water into the bowl to wash away solid and liquid waste.
How much water you’re using per flush depends on when your standard toilet was made. Toilets made before 1992 tend to use up to 3.5 gallons a flush. If your toilet was made before the 1980s, it could be using as much as 7 gallons! Modern dual flush toilets are much more efficient because they work a bit differently. Let me explain…
Instead of that traditional flapper seal, dual-flush toilets have a powerful siphon. The siphon is sort of like a plunger system. It created pressure to drive the tank water up and over a series of pipes to make its way to the bowl. Then, gravity takes over to expertly clean the bowl out and send waste down the drain. The process uses only a fraction of the amount of water traditional toilets do. But that’s not all!
The thing that sets dual-flush toilets apart from others is that you can choose the amount of water you use. A full flush, which is reserved for solid waste, typically uses about 1.6 gallons per flush. “Half flushes” are for liquid waste and only use 0.8 gallons a flush.
As you can see, dual-flush toilets are incredibly efficient. They’re more powerful than standard toilets and can help you cut back on your water consumption. As if that wasn’t enough, the unique design of the siphon system makes it less likely to get damaged or clogged as well.
Best Dual Flush Toilets Reviews (Recommended Picks)
BONUS HALF BATH: The Sanicompact is a self-contained dual-flush toilet system used to install a half bathroom up to 9 feet below the sewer line, or even up to 120 feet...
From Saniflow is the Sanicompact dual flush toilet. This is a very unique piece of bathroom equipment. It’s purpose-built for basements that can’t rely on gravity alone for flushing.
Technology:
The cool thing about this toilet is that it has a built-in pump. It’s an electric toilet that’s capable of driving waste up 9 feet to your drainage line. The pump is powerful enough to deliver waste up to 100 feet horizontally as well, making the toilet a great option for those bathrooms that are awkwardly placed.
Performance:
Thanks to the pump, there are no complaints when it comes to performance. The toilet only uses 1.28 gallons for a full flush and 1 gallon for a light flush. Because the toilet doesn’t use gravity to move waste, there’s no need for a separate water tank. As a result, the toilet is incredibly compact as well.
Specs:
28-gallon full flush, 1-gallon light flush
Two low-profile flush buttons
One-piece unit
Built-in macerator pump
Available with 12 or 10-inch drain location
Pros
Can be installed up to 9 feet below sewer line
Can be connected to a sink for even more water savings
Very compact
Cons
Requires a power connection
Advanced installation process
Doesn’t come with seat
Final Verdict:
If you have a basement in your bathroom, this is the toilet for you. The technology it uses to get rid of waste is very powerful. Yet, it still manages to be efficient in terms of water usage.
If you’re looking to invest in a toilet with a modern twist, check out this dual flush unit from Toto. With its clean lines and low-profile design, this toilet has a unique look that stands out.
Technology:
The flushing system of this toilet is relatively simple. It uses a traditional dual flush siphon, which is connected to chrome-covered buttons on top of the tank lid. When you use the full flush button, 1.6 gallons of water flow through the bowl. For the lighter option, it uses less than a gallon.
Performance:
It’s obvious that Toto’s primary concern was saving water. This toilet does not have an advanced cleaning system. It uses the bare minimum to get waste down. Unfortunately, this does leave a lot to be desired when it comes to performance. While it’s efficient for liquid waste, you’re not going to get the same high-powered cleaning performance for solid waste as some of our other recommendations.
Specs:
6-gallon full flush, 0.9-gallon light flush
Two-piece design
Elongated
Chrome push buttons
Available with 12 or 10-inch drain location
Pros
Sleek aesthetic
Fewer nooks and crannies to clean
Cons
Not powerful enough to get rid of waste that’s stuck on bowl
Awkward button placement
Doesn’t come with seat
Final Verdict:
All in all, Toto has produced a good dual flush toilet. We recommend it for spicing up your guest bathroom or powder room.
From one of the most prominent bathroom fixture brands in the world is the Wellworth Dual Flush Toilet. Kohler has a pretty solid reputation in the business. With this toilet, the company has managed to create a no-frills toilet that delivers on water efficiency.
Technology:
Unlike some other options on the market, the technology powering this toilet is very simple. There isn’t a complicated cyclonic flush system or intricate pressurizing feature. Instead, it uses a canister flush valve. The valve is built with durability in mind. It has a long-lasting seal and doesn’t make much contact with the tank water.
Performance:
Despite its simplicity, the toilet doesn’t disappoint. Kohler designed the bowl for more water contact around the bowl. While it doesn’t always cover every inch of the bowl with the light flush, the full flush does an adequate job of getting rid of waste.
Specs:
Two-piece design
Round seat and bowl
Lever flush
6-gallon full flush, 1.1-gallon light flush
Pros
Traditional design
Relatively simple installation process
Long-lasting tank seal
Cons
Doesn’t come with a seat
Flushes don’t always cover entire bowl
Final Verdict:
The Kohler dual flush toilet will fit right into any bathroom. It has a traditional design that looks like a standard unit. However, it’s hiding highly-efficient flushing features.
With this dual flush toilet from Toto, you’re doing much more than just saving water. You’re also pampering yourself! It’s a unique fixture that has a built-in bidet for ultimate cleaning.
Technology:
The toilet uses noticeably less water than other WaterSense toilets. For the full flush, it only uses 1.28 gallons of water. It has a Dual-Max Cyclone system. Like the previous model on our list, this toilet delivers water strategically to create a powerful cyclone that washes the sides of the bowl with each flush. Pair that with the SanaGloss glaze and you have a toilet that stays clean longer.
Performance:
The biggest perk of this toilet is the built-in bidet. There are several great cleaning and drying functions. Not only is it more effective at cleaning your body, but the bidet can help cut back on your toilet paper usage. There’s even a deodorizer, light, and heated seat included for convenience.
Specs:
28-gallon heavy flush, 0.9-gallon light flush
One-piece unit
ADA-compliant
Built-in bidet
Pros
Heated seat
Automatic lid
Easy-to-use remote control
Multiple clean and dry settings
Cons
Seat can be uncomfortable for some
Requires a power supply
Final Verdict:
While this toilet does come at a premium, it’s a worthy investment. It can change the way you stay clean and help you be more conscious about your water usage.
American Standard is a well-known brand that’s known for producing some solid home fixtures. The H2Option dual flush toilet isn’t just efficient at saving water. It can even help you keep things clean for much longer.
Technology:
This toilet has the brand’s H2Option flushing feature. Basically, it’s a fancy name for a dual-flush system. With the heavy flush button, you’re sending 1.6 gallons of water through the bowl. That’s more than enough to take care of up to 1,000 grams of solid waste. With the light flush option, the toilet only uses 1 gallon of water.
Performance:
From a performance standpoint, the American Standard toilet does very well across the board. The siphon is very powerful. It’s also connected to the PowerWash Rim. The rim of the toilet has its own chamber, which is pressurized with each flush. The water is sent out of strategic holes into the rim to wash away waste from the bowl effectively.
Specs:
Elongated toiled
Chrome-plated buttons
12-inch drain measurement
6-gallon heavy flush, 1-gallon light flush
Pros
WaterSense certified
EverClean coating
Produces powerful flush
Cons
Doesn’t come with a seat
Final Verdict:
This toilet is the new American standard, pun intended! It’s a powerful dual flush toilet that can do a lot to reduce your impact on this planet while lowering your monthly water bill.
A Complete Buying Guide for Dual Flush Toilets
Not sure of what to look for when you’re shopping for a dual-flush toilet? Don’t worry! We have you covered. Shopping for a new toilet isn’t always easy. However, you need to take some time choosing the right fixture. This is a big investment that you’re going to be using every day. So why not choose the very best that money can buy?
Important Things to Look Into When Buying Dual Flush Toilets
Size and Dimensions
Before you even start your search, it’s a good idea to take some measurements. Not many people realize it, but toilets come in a wide variety of designs. To ensure that your new dual-flush toilet fits into your bathroom, you need to consider its size.
ADA-compliant toilets are the most common you’ll find. The Americans with Disabilities Act states that toilets should be between 17 and 19 inches high. Though, you can find units that are slightly lower for more comfort.
Another dimension you’ll want to pay attention to is the distance between the drain and the wall. Typically, modern homes are built to have 12 to 12 and a half inches of space between the back wall and the center of the toilet drain. With that said, there are some exceptions. For example, some homes have a wall-mounted drain, which will require an entirely different installation method.
Seat and Bowl Shape
Next up, what shape do you want the toilet seat to take? The shape of your seat will affect the overall length of the toilet. Rounded seats have a classic circular bowl and seat. In most cases, the seat itself is around 16 inches long. With elongated seats, you’re getting about 18 inches of length. Why is that room necessary?
Well, elongated toilets can accommodate a wider range of people. It’s why you see them used in commercial buildings instead of rounded options. If you need a toilet that needs to provide some more supported, elongated is the way to go.
Water Consumption
Water savings is the name of the game when it comes to dual-flush toilets. The amount of water one of these modern toilets will use depends entirely on the design of the tank and flushing mechanism. As we mentioned earlier, the best dual flush toilets will use 1.6 gallons of water at most. That’s for a full flush.
You can also use half of that amount with just a touch of a button. Make sure that you’re choosing a highly efficient model. Look out for that WaterSense seal of approval for peace of mind.
Buttons or Lever?
The next thing to consider is whether you want a button flushing system or a traditional lever. Most dual-flush units take advantage of a simple button system. It’s attached to the siphon system to initiate a half flush or full flush. The benefits of a button system are that it’s easier to maintain and has a lower chance of experiencing problems. Plus, it offers a sleek and modern aesthetic.
The downsides? The placement of the buttons can make it trickier for children to reach. Not only that, but you’ll have to teach your family how to use the system correctly.
Levers are a bit rarer. However, they do exist. With a dual-flush lever system, controlling the amount of water you use during a flush involves turning the lever in a specific direction. Levers are a lot more familiar to those who aren’t used to using a dual-flush system. But, they’re not as intuitive as a couple of simple buttons.
Warranty
Finally, let’s talk about the warranty. We strongly recommend that you invest in a product that has a generous warranty included with it.
What if you experience some issues with your toilet after installation? Chances are, you’re not going to be able to fix it on your own. Dual-flush toilets are a lot more complex than traditional models. The siphon system is more expensive as well. So, you’re looking at significant repair costs.
For the most part, warranties cover all of those added costs. Many companies offer a parts and labor warranty that covers a specific period of time after installation. Usually, it’s about a year. Though, some brands provide extended warranties as well. Make sure to read all of the fine print! Sometimes, self-installation voids the warranty. You want to make sure that you don’t do anything that’s going to let the company reject your claim.
Wrap Up
Stop letting an inefficient and wasteful toilet raise your water bill! With the best dual flush toilet that money can buy, you can experience significant savings every year. While it’s a sizable investment, the amount of money and water you can save in the long run makes those upfront costs well worth it. Check out one of our recommended picks and see how big of a difference a water-saving dual flush toilet can make.
Paul is a compulsive tinkerer and inventor who loves writing about latest machines technology. He is especially inclined towards home improvement, exercise and outdoor equipment that every sports enthusiast and house dweller would love to get their hands on.
