In the early 1990’s the United States governments and some jurisdictions in Canada initiated changes in building codes and environmental protection law to eliminate the use of toilets using more than 6 liters of water to flush. These actions were taken to protect one of our most precious natural resources, water.

Although there were some initial problems that tarnished the reputation of low flow toilets, today’s models have no difficulty in meeting consumer expectations in terms of flushing performance and savings in terms of water and dollars.

How do six liter toilets work?

While they look similar to older models the new six liter models have been carefully designed to create a strong flush with less water. Manufacturers have significantly improved the performance of six liter toilets by redesigning both the bowl and the flushing mechanism in the tank to work together.

There are two types of low flow toilets:

• Toilets with flappers
• Toilets without flappers

Those with flappers flush either by gravity or are vacuum assisted. Both have bowl and tank designs to enhance the siphoning action which serves to pull the water out.

Those without flappers are

• Dual Flush
• Pressure-assist
• Tip bucket

Dual flush provides the option of using 3 liters to flush the bowl if only liquid waste is to be cleared or 6 liters if there are solids to clear.

Pressure-assist toilets utilize a vessel inside the tank to trap air and use pressure from the water supply line to compress the air. The compressed air forcefully pushes the water into the bowl.

Tip bucket technology is a new concept using a bucket within the tank to hold the water. When the lever is activated the bucket tips the water into the tank and flushes the toilet. The advantage is that there is no flapper to leak or need replacement.

The City of Toronto has an excellent web site (www.toronto.ca/watereff/multi_flush/install.htm) with many useful tips on features to look for when you purchase a low flow toilet. It also lists low flow toilet models that are approved for a rebate program offered to Toronto area residents.