Dual-flush toilets

SHK sent a note asking why we don't have dual-flush toilets in the U.S. -- the kind they have all over Europe. These toilets  allow you to  push one button to flush liquid waste with 3 liters (0.8 U.S. gallons), and another button to flush solid waste with 6 liters (1.6 gallons).

Turns out these toilets are available from at least one source -- Caroma USA, representing  a parent company in Australia. They sell  a variety of sizes and styles. Pictured here is their Caravelle 270.  Here's a link to Caroma's U.S. distributors.

We happen to be in the market for a new throne, so thanks to SHK for the question. We'll go with Caroma. It'll be a good addition to the sink-side  quart container described here.

~ Doug Logan, New Energy Watch

Comments

[Rick S.]

There's also a toilet tank top with a molded-in sink that routes water through a spigot, so that you can wash your hands in the fill water before it goes into the toilet. I believe it's the water that goes into the stand-up tube to fill the bowl, but I have not used one yet. Requires no tools to install, and looks good. The only problem I can see is that, at least where we live, that water would be really cold most of the year. It's available from Real Goods (realgoods.com) for $89.

The other thing is just not to flush every time you pee. We usually "let it mellow if it's yellow" to save at least a couple of flushes.