Many people still believe that these two buttons are only for flushing the toilet.

 

You’ve probably seen those toilets with two buttons at the top… But do you really know what they’re for? No, they’re not just decorative or a gimmick: these buttons help you save precious water every day. And considering this resource is becoming increasingly valuable, it’s truly worth using them properly. We’ll explain everything!

Toilets unlike any other

Dual-flush toilets, increasingly common in our homes, feature two separate buttons. Their purpose? Regulating water consumption based on needs.

A small button releases an average of 3 to 4.5 liters of water, which is ideal for flushing liquid waste. A large button, on the other hand, uses around 6 to 9 liters of water, which is ideal for flushing solid waste. It’s a simple difference, but it helps avoid wasting several liters of water every time you use the toilet.

This ingenious concept isn’t new! It was first implemented in Australia in the 1980s during a severe drought. The idea quickly caught on: today, dual-flush toilets are standard in modern, environmentally friendly homes.

Impressive water savings

Wondering how much water you can actually save? Up to 20,000 liters per year per household! Yes, you read that right.That’s a lot, especially when you consider that a standard toilet flush (with one button) uses almost 9 liters of water every time it’s used, even when it’s not necessary.

Less water consumption also means a lower bill at the end of the month. It’s an eco-friendly gesture that’s also good for your wallet!

Why do so many people abuse them?

Despite their growing popularity, many people still don’t know how to properly use dual-flush toilets. Due to the lack of clear instructions, many people automatically press the larger button… and thus miss out on all the benefits of this device!

Quick tip: Manufacturers often add pictograms to make the device easier for users to use. A small button might display a drop or a semicircle (liquid waste), while a large button might display a full circle or a large drop (solid waste).

How to Properly Use a Dual Flush Toilet: Instructions