Master Dual Flush Toilets with This Complete Parts Guide

Dual flush toilets have been growing in popularity over the past decade thanks to their innovative water-saving capabilities. By providing both a low volume flush option for liquid waste and a higher volume flush for solid waste, these toilets can use significantly less water than conventional single flush models.

But to truly maximize the benefits of a dual flush toilet, it's important to understand what's happening "under the hood" and how the different components work together to create an efficient, high performance flushing system.

The Game Changing Innovation Behind Dual Flush

The technology of a dual flush toilet is relatively simple in theory but clever in application. Inside the toilet tank is a dual flush valve that allows users to activate either a low flush or a full flush volume depending on need.

With the push of a button, a small flush will use around .8 gallons (3 liters) of water to cleanly dispose of liquid waste. A full flush triggered by the push of a different button will empty all 1.6 gallons (6 liters) of stored tank water to powerfully swirl away solid waste.

Being able to customize flush volume gives dual flush toilets the ability to save thousands of gallons of water every year compared to inefficient and water intensive single flush models.

The Growth of Dual Flushing

Over 30% of households in America now utilize dual flush toilets, and that number is expected to rise as cities continue to provide rebates and incentives to homeowners and businesses for converting to high efficiency models.

In addition to dramatic water savings, the customized flushing performance also leads to cost savings and environmental benefits.

Critical Parts Powering Your Dual Flush Toilet

While dual flush toilets may seem simple, there are a number of critical components working together to make these systems function properly. Understanding the role these parts play will help you to install, utilize, and maintain your toilet for maximum efficiency.

The Dual Flush Valve

The dual flush valve is the engine that drives the toilet's water saving capabilities. Located inside the tank, this valve controls the release of water into the bowl after you've pressed either the low flow or full flow flush button.

There are two main types of dual flush valve systems:

• Flapper Style Valve - Uses a rubber flapper to create a seal and separate stored water from the bowl.
• High Pressure Valve - Utilizes water pressure instead of a flapper.

Ensure your valve moves freely and forms a tight seal to prevent leaks and ensure proper flush volume control.

Flush Activation Buttons and Levers

While some models utilize a handle, most dual flush toilets today come with two easy to identify push buttons on top of the toilet tank.

These buttons are specially designed to activate the flow of the desired water volume through the valve system when pressed. Typical options are:

• Half flush button - Triggers ~.8 gallon low flow flush
• Full flush button - Triggers ~1.6+ gallon full flow flush

Handle operated models work similarly but allow you to push the handle left or right to select flush volumes instead.

Toilet Tank

While dual flush toilet tanks serve the same basic purpose of holding flush water as standard single flush tanks, their size and included components can vary.

On average, most tanks hold between 1 to 1.6 gallons of water for a full flush, but smaller or larger reservoirs can be specified. Inside you'll find:

• Fill valve - Activates water flow into the tank
• Flapper or tank lever - Connects to dual flush valve
• Overflow tube - Prevents overfilling

Ensure your tank is properly sealed and components are in good working order to maximize efficiency.

Toilet Bowl

The toilet bowl receives waste and ushers it down the drain line when you flush. Compared to conventional bowl shapes, dual flush toilet bowls utilize superior engineering for optimal performance:

• Expanded traprways prevent clogging when flushing small or large volumes
• Specialized rim channels keep the bowl cleaner
• Taller bowls increase water pressure for a faster, more powerful flush

The bowl should fully drain with each flush and be kept clean between uses.

One-Piece vs Two-Piece Dual Flush Models

When selecting your ideal dual flush toilet, you'll choose between one-piece or two-piece configurations. Understanding the pros and cons of each can help narrow your options.

One-Piece Dual Flush Benefits

As the name implies, one-piece dual flush toilets feature a seamlessly integrated tank and bowl for a sleek, contemporary look. Key perks include:

• Space saving rounded contours
• Fewer crevices and hidden holes
• Easy cleaning with no cracks between tank and bowl

The tradeoff for convenience can be higher cost and a heavier weight during installations.

Two-Piece Dual Flush Benefits

Two-piece constructions have separate tank and bowl pieces. Key advantages are:

• Typically lower cost of models
• Lighter bowls simplify transport and installations
• More classic look options available

The main downside is the difficulty reaching grime and calcium deposits between the tank and bowl.

Special Technologies Enhancing Dual Flush Toilets

With so much variety available today, dual flush toilets now boast many special features and technology enhancements above basic models for an elevated experience, including:

• Fully Skirted Traps - Enclose hidden areas under the bowl to limit dirt buildup.
• Quick-Release Seats - Allow for tool-free removal of seats for cleaning.
• Self-Closing Lids - Gently fall shut without slamming to reduce noise.
• Powerful Flushing Systems - Specialized water channels provide unprecedented rinsing strength.

By opting for dual flush toilets with cutting-edge attributes like these, you can maximize value and enjoy superior hygiene and performance for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

Understanding how dual flush toilets function internally demystifies these high efficiency systems. But you still may have some lingering questions. Here we answer some of the most common queries about dual flush toilet parts and performance.

What type of handle turning motion triggers a low flush?

On dual flush toilets with a handle rather than push buttons, turning the handle to the left will generally trigger the low volume flush while turning to the right activates a full flush.

Where is the dual flush valve located?

In most models, the dual flush valve is mounted inside the toilet tank itself, either at the bottom of the tank or along the sidewall. The valve rests over the flush hole and controls water flow through this opening.

How can I adjust the flush volumes?

While possible, adjusting dual flush volumes is tricky and generally not recommended. Your best bet is choosing a model rated for your desired low flow and full flow gallonage rather than attempting to modify internal parts.

Flapper flush valves operate using the buoyant force of a rubber stopper to regulate water flow. Flusher mechanisms rely instead on calibrated pressure differentials between the tank and bowl to control flush water volume.

With essential dual flush toilet components and technology now fully demystified, you can shop smart, use your toilet to its full potential, and tackle minor repairs with confidence. So flush forth and conserve with advanced dual flushing!