Green Remodel Forum

Trends and Technologies

On average, 26% of household water is flushed down the toilet, literally. This is a lot of water along with the energy required in treating before and after use. Here are some ways to reduce toilet water usage

• Low flow toilets. Flush volume has been declining since the 1970’s due the improve construction of the flushing mechanism. Toilets that use 1.28 or less gallons per flush (gpf) are now available. Compared with the past products that use 3.6 gpf, this is a saving of 65% or more.
• Dual flush toilets. This is an excellent idea that takes the low flow technology even further. The products offer both 1.6 gpf (for solids) and .9 gpf (for liquids) options in the same unit. In actual use, there are mixed reviews. Some users find these great. Others are disappointed that the low volume flush is not always effective enough, causing them to make a second flush. Check the product out carefully to ensure that it functions well.
• Choose products with the table.array td {text-align:center} table.array td.bold {text-align:left; font-weight:bold}

  	Homes with Inefficient Toilets	Homes with Low Flow Toilets	Difference
  Flush Volume Per Flush (gallons)	3.61 *	1.28
  Flushes Per Capita Per Day	5.17 *	5.46 *	0.29
  Flush Volume Per Capita Per Day (gallons)	18.8 *	7.0	-11.8
  Flush Volume Per Capita Per Year (gallons)	6862 *	2555	-4307

  * Source: DeOreo, et. al. 2001
  
  

  To translate the table data into monetary savings, let’s use an example. Water is typically sold in units of 100 cubic feet (=748 gallons). Assume water costs $3 a unit (which is typical in California), a family of four can save

  $3 (/unit) x 4 (persons) x 4307 (gal/person) / 748 (gal/unit) = $69

  per year by changing to low flow toilets.

  Costs, Rebates and Incentives

  Low flow toilets are installed the same way as older toilets so there is no additional installation cost. Depending on the models low flow toilets can start at as little as $100, and are no more costly than older models.

  Some water providers, cities, and utility companies offer financial incentives for replacing old inefficient toilets. Typically they offer a rebate of between $25 and $100 per toilet. In some cases they may offer free toilet replacement.

  For information about toilet rebates and incentive programs in your area, contact your local water provider.

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