Hey there! As a home renovation specialist, I often get asked by clients about those confusing dual flush buttons on top of toilet tanks. I totally get the uncertainty about which button does what and how to use them correctly! Dual flush toilets are becoming more and more popular thanks to their water-saving capabilities, so let me walk you through everything you need to know about the different types of toilet flush buttons.
Toilet Flush Button Options
There are three main types of flush systems for residential toilets:
Single Flush
The old-school flush has one button or lever that triggers a full flush, using 1.6 gallons of water or more each time. No options for reducing water usage here! These tend to be louder and less eco-friendly.
Dual Flush
Dual flush toilets have two flush buttons on top of the tank. The smaller button is for liquid waste and light flushing, using just 0.8-1.1 gallons per flush. The larger button delivers a full 1.6+ gallon flush for solid waste. Dual flush buttons let you optimize your H2O usage.
Dual Flush Handle
Some dual flush toilets have a single handle rather than two separate buttons. Pushing the handle up or down initiates either a full or half flush. Markings often indicate which direction equals which flush.
Identifying Those Mystery Buttons
If your toilet flush buttons aren‘t clearly labeled, check out these tips for figuring out which is which:
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The larger button on a dual flush toilet is usually for solid waste flushing. The smaller one is for liquid waste.
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Buttons closer to the front of the tank often activate lighter flushes, while ones further back trigger full flushes.
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Pushing a button halfway down or up starts a lighter flush. Pushing all the way down/up activates a full flush.
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Listen closely to the water flow. A gentle rush indicates a half flush, while a robust waterfall sound means a full flush.
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Test with some TP to gauge water volumes. Less water usage = the liquid/light waste flush button.
Using Dual Flush Buttons Correctly
Once you‘ve ID‘d your flush buttons, here are some pro tips for optimal use:
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For liquid waste, urine, and light soiling, press the smaller button to conserve water.
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For solid waste and heavier soiling, use the larger button/full flush to prevent clogs.
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Note any "liquid waste" or "solid waste" markings to guide appropriate flushing.
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Pay attention to the water volume and flow to optimize usage for future flushes.
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Avoid punching the buttons rapidly in succession – it can impede proper flushing.
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Make sure the flush 100% finishes before walking away!
Troubleshooting Toilet Button Problems
If your toilet won‘t flush properly, try these troubleshooting steps before calling a plumber:
Toilet Won‘t Flush at All
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Plunge away clogs – excess debris can prevent flushing.
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Confirm water supply line valve is on and operational.
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Flush buttons may need replacement if excessively worn or corroded.
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Refill toilet tank if water level is too low. Check fill valve.
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Jiggle flapper chain to ensure valve fully closes.
Buttons Sticking
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Apply some WD-40 or lubricant to button mechanisms to improve operation.
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Clean mineral deposits and grime off buttons to unstick them.
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Ensure no obstructions below buttons blocking ability to press.
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Inspect internal parts for damage needing repair.
Toilet Running Constantly
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Replace flush valve seat if leaking.
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Correct chain length to have 1/4" slack when flapper closed.
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Check flush valve flap seal isn‘t warped or cracked.
Maintaining Those Toilet Buttons
Keep your toilet flush buttons operating smoothly with these maintenance tips:
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Wipe down buttons periodically with a non-abrasive cleaner.
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Remove hard water/mineral deposits using white vinegar.
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Keep the tank interior buildup-free.
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Replace worn gaskets, seals, valves, and corroded components.
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Call a plumber for assistance if buttons need internal repairs.
The Environmental Impact
Installing a toilet with dual flush buttons allows you to conserve water and shrink your environmental footprint. Check out these crazy water savings stats:
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A family of 4 can save up to 8,000 gallons yearly with a dual flush toilet!
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Dual flushing uses 32% less water than conventional single flush toilets.
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Half flushes for liquids can save up to 67% of water compared to a full flush.
| Flush Type | Average Water Usage |
|---|---|
| Single Flush Toilet | 1.6 gallons per flush |
| Dual Flush Toilet | 1.28 gallons per flush |
*Water usage statistics source: EPA WaterSense
Recent innovations like low-flow valves, high efficiency flush systems, and advanced dual flush engineering have amplified the water conservation capabilities of modern toilets. For example, Toto‘s 3D Tornado Flush system uses a 360° cleansing tornado rinse to effectively flush with just 1.0 or 1.28 gallons per flush!
The Takeaway
As a home improvement specialist, I always recommend dual flush toilets to clients concerned about water usage. The ability to optimize flushing for liquids or solids provides major H2O savings. Factoring in the environmental impact and potential cost reduction over time, dual flush toilets are a smart investment for any eco-conscious homeowner.
Upgrading your existing toilet or choosing a new dual flush model is a fairly straightforward project. Most reputable plumbers can install a new toilet or replace an old flushing mechanism with a dual flush setup in under an hour. Based on quotes I‘ve received, expect to pay $80-150 in labor costs, plus the price of the toilet or parts. The project pays for itself over time through water savings – a win for your wallet and the planet!
So in summary, I hope this overview dispels any confusion over those dual flush buttons. Let me know if you have any other home improvement or renovation questions!
