Are Dual Flush Toilets Really Wasting Water? The Truth Behind the Debate
In recent months, UK newspapers have speculated about the potential withdrawal of dual flush toilets due to concerns over water leakage. However, dual flush toilets remain a vital solution for water conservation when properly maintained and used correctly. David Meacock, Technical Director at Cistermiser, addresses the concerns and highlights the importance of efficient dual flush systems.
The Rise of Dual Flush Toilets in the UK
Over the past two decades, dual flush toilets have become the dominant choice for homes, businesses, and public facilities. Introduced primarily to reduce water consumption, these toilets typically use just four litres for a small flush and six litres for a full flush, significantly lower than the pre-1999 standard of 7.5 litres per flush.
Do Dual Flush Toilets Waste Water?
While dual flush toilets are designed for efficiency, some models can waste water due to leakage and user error. However, the assumption that all dual flush toilets leak is a myth. The key issue lies in the flush valve mechanisms used in many models.
According to Waterwise, between 5% and 8% of UK toilets leak, wasting up to 400 million litres of clean water daily. The culprit? The drop valve, commonly found in dual flush toilets, which can degrade over time, leading to leaks. Research shows that 80% of leaking toilets use flush valve mechanisms instead of traditional siphons.
Identifying and Preventing Leaks
Detecting a leaking toilet can be challenging, as leaks often go unnoticed until they reach around 300 litres per day, when they become audible or cause a spike in water bills. Regular leak checks are essential, particularly in commercial buildings where one-third of washrooms may have at least one leaking toilet.
Easy Leak Detection Tip
Place dry toilet paper at the back of the pan. If it becomes wet without flushing, a leak is present.
Why Fixing Leaks Matters
Each leaking toilet wastes an average of 215–400 litres of water daily, costing between £218 and £405 per year. In facilities with multiple toilets, this could mean thousands in unnecessary water expenses.
The Best Fix: Upgrading to Leak-Free Technology
Replacing degraded seals may seem like a cost-effective solution, but they often require professional installation and will likely degrade again. A more effective approach is upgrading to a leak-proof flush valve.
Introducing EasyflushEVO
Cistermiser’s EasyflushEVO is an advanced siphonic flushing valve designed to eliminate leaks. Unlike drop valves, it does not rely on a seal below the waterline, preventing leaks caused by debris, scale, or seal degradation. With a self-cleaning mechanism, EasyflushEVO ensures long-term reliability, saving up to 146,000 litres of water annually and delivering a return on investment in just seven months.
The Role of Consumer Awareness in Water Conservation
User behaviour plays a crucial role in water efficiency. Studies show that 80% of people unknowingly waste water by selecting the wrong flush button. Incorrect selection may lead to unnecessary re-flushing, using up to 10 litres per flush, far beyond the intended water-saving benefits.
Solutions for Smarter Water Use
The Future of Dual Flush Toilets in the UK
Despite government initiatives to reduce daily water consumption and introduce mandatory water efficiency labelling, dual flush toilets are unlikely to be withdrawn from the market. The real challenge lies in preventing leaks and improving consumer awareness.
By addressing these issues, we can shift the conversation from removal to optimisation, ensuring dual flush toilets continue to play a crucial role in water conservation while saving money and protecting UK water resources.
