As a home improvement expert with over 10 years of experience renovating bathrooms, I often get asked by homeowners how to operate toilets with buttons on top instead of a traditional handle. With dual flush toilets becoming the norm for water conservation, knowing how to use the buttons properly is essential.
In this comprehensive guide, I‘ll share everything you need to know as a homeowner about flushing, troubleshooting, and maintaining toilets with top-mounted buttons. With the right information, you can master those high-tech buttons in no time!
Demystifying All the Different Button Types
Before I get into the step-by-step flushing instructions, let me quickly go over the various button types you might encounter:
Dual Flush Buttons
The most popular are dual flush buttons – two oval or circular buttons on top of the tank that offer a choice of full or reduced flushes. The smaller button uses less water (0.8 gal) for liquid waste, while the larger delivers a full 1.6 gal flush for solids.
Single Flush Buttons
Some models have a single large circular button on top. This starts the flush when pushed. You may need to push it a second time to finish the cycle after it begins.
Flush Handle
Rather than buttons, some toilets have a flush handle mounted on top. This operates much like a traditional toilet handle – push it up for a full flush and down for a reduced flush.
Easy enough, right? Now let‘s get into the step-by-step flushing process for the various button types.
A Detailed Guide to Operating Dual Flush Button Toilets
Based on my experience, dual flush buttons are the most common type homeowners will encounter. Here is a foolproof guide to using them correctly:
Step 1: Locate the Two Buttons
Start by finding the two oval or round flush buttons on top of the toilet tank. In most models, the smaller button is on the left and the bigger one is on the right.
Step 2: Identify Full vs. Reduced Flush
The smaller button (often with a half-flush water drop symbol) is for flushing liquid waste only. The larger button (with a full water drop) is for solid waste flushes.
Step 3: Press the Smaller Button for Liquids
To flush liquids like urine, press the smaller button firmly and hold for 2-3 seconds until you hear the flush start.
Step 4: Release the Button and Let It Flush
Once you hear the flush begin, you can release the smaller button and let the toilet complete the reduced flush cycle. This will save water compared to a full flush.
Step 5: Press the Larger Button for Solids
For solid waste, press and hold the larger button for 2-3 seconds to initiate a full flush.
Step 6: Release and Complete the Flush
After 2-3 seconds, release the larger button and allow the full 1.6 gal flush to finish. This provides the extra water volume needed to clear solid waste.
And that‘s all there is to it! With a little practice, you‘ll quickly get the hang of which button to use for number 1 versus number 2. Now let‘s go over how to flush with a single button design.
Operating Toilets with One Top Flush Button
If you have a toilet with just one large circular flush button on top of the tank, follow these instructions:
Step 1: Locate the Flush Button
Scan the top of the toilet tank to find the single flush button – it will likely be large and circular in shape.
Step 2: Press the Button Down Firmly
Once located, press the button straight down firmly and hold it for a few seconds. Use the palm of your hand and apply even pressure.
Step 3: Release the Button
After holding 3-5 seconds, release the flush button and listen for the flush to begin.
Step 4: Push Again If Needed
On some models, the tank won‘t empty until you press the flush button a second time. If it hasn‘t flushed after a few seconds, press the button again.
Step 5: Let the Flush Complete
Once the flush begins, let the cycle fully complete before using the toilet again. The tank needs time to refill completely after emptying.
Got the hang of it now? Pressing the single button activates the flush valve to start the siphon action. Next, let‘s go over the process for a handle-operated toilet.
How to Use a Dual Flush Toilet Handle
In some dual flush toilets, the button is replaced by a handle mounted on top of the tank. Here‘s how to operate it:
Step 1: Locate the Flush Handle
Scan the top of the toilet tank to locate the flush handle. It likely resembles a traditional toilet handle.
Step 2: Push Handle UP for a Full Flush
To activate a full flush for solid waste, push the handle fully UP to the 12 o‘clock position.
Step 3: Push Handle DOWN for Reduced Flush
For liquid waste, push the handle DOWN to the 6 o‘clock position to activate the reduced water flush.
Step 4: Let the Selected Flush Finish
Once activated, let the handle go and allow the full or reduced flush to completely finish before flushing again.
See – flushing a dual flush toilet with a handle operates very similarly to what you‘re used to with a standard toilet!
Now that you know how to flush, let‘s go over some troubleshooting tips in case you have any problems.
Troubleshooting Common Dual Flush Toilet Issues
While dual flush toilets are generally reliable, there can be occasional issues. Here are some quick fixes:
Problem – Weak Flush
First check the water level and refill if needed. Also clean any debris around the flush valve and replace the flapper seal if worn.
Problem – Toilet Won‘t Flush
Check for kinks in the lift chain/wire connecting to the flapper. Remove any obstructions under the flapper.
Problem – Phantom Flush
Mineral deposits can cause phantom flushing. Clean the tank and adjust the flapper chain length to stop false flushes.
Problem – Toilet Keeps Running
Look for defects in the flapper seal allowing water to leak through. Replace the entire flush valve assembly if needed.
Problem – Clogged Toilet
Use a closet auger or plunger to clear obstructions in the trapway. Prevent clogs by reducing excess paper usage during flushing.
For any problems persisting, replacement parts like flapper valves, gaskets, and flush valve assemblies may be required.
Now that you know how to troubleshoot minor issues, let‘s go over the pros and cons of dual flush toilets.
The Benefits and Drawbacks of Dual Flush Toilet Models
Based on my years of experience installing and repairing them, dual flush toilets have some notable advantages but also a few disadvantages to consider:
The Benefits of Dual Flush Toilets
The Downsides of Dual Flush Toilets
For most homeowners, the water and cost savings of a dual flush model outweigh the negatives. But it is helpful to consider both when deciding between toilet types.
Now let‘s dive into the internal workings of how the flush mechanisms operate.
A Look Inside Dual Flush Toilet Tank Mechanisms
Understanding how the flushing components inside the tank work together can help with troubleshooting or repairs down the line. Here‘s an inside look:
- Pressing a flush button or handle pulls up the lift chain or rod attached to the flapper valve seal.
- Pulling up the chain/rod causes the flapper to lift up and release water from the tank.
- Water flows down the flush valve and into the bowl siphon jet.
- The siphon jet action creates a vacuum-like force that sucks all contents out of the bowl.
- As the tank empties, the flush valve closes and the flapper seal drops back down to stop the water flow until the next flush.
- The fill valve refills the tank until the preset water level is reached and the cycle repeats.
Those are the basics of how everything works during the flush sequence. Now let‘s talk maintenance.
Regular Maintenance Keeps Dual Flush Toilets Running Smoothly
To maximize the lifespan and performance of your dual flush toilet, follow these maintenance tips:
- Clean the bowl weekly using a toilet brush and toilet cleaner to prevent mineral scale buildup and odors.
- Use a tank cleaning tablet or bleach to fully sanitize the tank interior every 6 months.
- Check water line connections for any leaks and tighten or replace washers if needed.
- Remove debris and sediment around the flush valve and flapper every month to prevent clogging.
- Replace the flapper seal approximately every 3-5 years to maintain a proper tank seal.
- Lubricate lift chains, rods, and handles with white lithium grease to prevent sticking.
- Check the tank water level and adjust the float if needed for optimal siphon flush performance.
Call a professional plumber for any maintenance beyond your DIY capabilities or troubleshooting assistance. With regular upkeep, a dual flush toilet should deliver 10-15 years of reliable service.
Next, let‘s look at how new toilet designs improve performance.
The Improved Flushing Power of New Toilet Models
Over the past decade, toilet engineering has made major strides in terms of flushing effectiveness. Here are some of the key improvements in new toilets:
- Low-Flow Design: New models can flush efficiently using just 1.28 gallons, vs 3.5 gallons or more in older toilets.
- Bigger Trapways: Larger 2-3/8" diameter trapways in new toilets prevent clogs far better.
- Enhanced Flush Valves: Redesigned flush valves provide increased water flow for more siphon power.
- Gravity Assist: Some models use pressurized tank water and air to boost flush power beyond gravity alone.
According to studies, replacing a toilet older than 1992 with a new efficient model can save a household 4,000-13,000 gallons per year in water usage! The flushing performance is also vastly superior.
Are Futuristic High-Tech Toilets Worth the Investment?
At the luxury end of the spectrum, companies like Toto and Kohler offer futuristic "smart toilets" with features like:
- Heated seats
- Warm water washing
- Motion-activated opening and flushing
- Remote app control
- UV sanitizing
- Electrolyzed cleaning solutions
- Built-in air dryers
These high-tech toilets can cost anywhere from $2,500 to over $10,000. The price tag may seem hard to swallow, but advocates praise the exceptional comfort and hygiene. Mainstream models offer similar flushing systems but sans the premium features.
For most homeowners, a standard dual flush toilet in the $300-$800 range provides an ideal blend of value, water savings, and performance. But if you want the ultimate in luxury, smart toilets bring serious innovation and technology to your bathroom experience!
Conclusion: Master Your Toilet Buttons with Confidence
I hope this detailed guide provides you as a homeowner everything you need to know about operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting dual flush toilets with those high-tech buttons on top.
While it may take some adjustment if you‘re used to a traditional handle flush, the water savings and effective performance make button-operated dual flush toilets well worth learning. With the right information and occasional maintenance, your toilet can function flawlessly for years on end.
If you have any other questions on toilet buttons, flushing issues, or bathroom remodeling, don‘t hesitate to reach out! I‘m always happy to help homeowners get the most out of their fixtures and accessories. Here‘s to mastering those toilet buttons and appreciating the modern bathroom conveniences we all use daily!
