What is a dual flush toilet?

A dual flush toilet is a water-efficient toilet design that gives you two flushing options: a lower-volume flush for liquid waste and a higher-volume flush for solid waste.

How It Works

The mechanism is straightforward. Instead of a single flush button or handle, dual flush toilets have two buttons (usually on top of the tank) or a split handle. The half flush typically uses around 3 litres of water, while the full flush uses around 6 litres. Traditional single-flush toilets often use 6 litres per flush regardless of need, so the savings add up quickly in a busy household.

Water Savings in Practice

Since the majority of daily flushes are for liquid waste, most households end up using the half flush 70-80% of the time. This can translate to 30-40% less water used for toilet flushing overall. In Ottawa, where water rates have been climbing steadily, this makes a noticeable difference on your utility bill over the course of a year. Dual flush toilets are also a smart choice for homeowners looking to meet modern water efficiency standards.

Ottawa-Specific Context

The City of Ottawa has historically offered rebate programs for water-efficient toilet upgrades, so it's worth checking the City of Ottawa's water conservation rebate page before purchasing to see if any current incentives apply. Most dual flush toilets sold in Canada meet or exceed the WaterSense certification standard, which is a reliable benchmark to look for when shopping.

Installation Considerations

Replacing an existing toilet with a dual flush model is a relatively straightforward job. A licensed plumber can typically complete the swap in under two hours, and in Ottawa you generally don't need a permit for a simple like-for-like toilet replacement — though your plumber can confirm this for your specific situation. Expect to pay roughly $300 - $500 for supply and installation in the Ottawa market, depending on the fixture you choose.

If you're renovating a bathroom or replacing an aging toilet, a dual flush model is one of the easiest upgrades you can make for both efficiency and long-term savings. Ottawa Pro Plumbing can help with selection and installation — feel free to reach out for a free estimate.