Ask the plumber: New dual-flush toilets can be twice as easy to use

Q. My present toilet is located under a shelf and I want to replace it since it is old and uses a lot of water per flush. I want to get a dual-flush style, but the toilets I have seen have buttons on top of the tank and this will not work with my built-in shelf. Do they make regular-looking side-lever dual-flush toilets?

A. First, let’s get everyone up to speed on dual-flush toilets.

These are water-saving toilets that let you pick between a full 1.6-gallon flush and a smaller flush of about 1 gallon.

Basically, you use only the water needed and this can save resources and operating costs. The original dual-flush toilets that I’m familiar with have two side-by-side flush buttons on top of the tank, and that setup has not worked for all users.

But side-lever dual-flush toilets are now available. This two-step trip lever looks just like a traditional lever and is easy to use. You can press the main part of the lever for a full flush or just press the end tip to activate the water-saving flush.

And since it operates in the same manner as a traditional toilet, houseguests probably will not have to call out from the bathroom asking how to flush the thing.

This new side-mount dual-flush handle can give you a lot of leverage when you’re looking to save water.

Ÿ Master plumber Ed Del Grande is the author of “Ed Del Grande’s House Call” and hosts TV and Internet shows. Visit eddelgrande.com or write eddelgrande@cs.com. Always consult local contractors and codes.

Scripps Howard News Service