How to Install a Dual Flush Toilet

Dual flush toilets conserve water by having separate flushes for liquid and solid waste. If you’re considering updating your home with dual flush toilets, you can install them yourself if you have some DIY skills or hire a professional plumber to do the job. The installation process is almost identical to that of a regular toilet; however, if you’ve never installed one before, you should consider the whole process before making a decision.

Why Choose a Dual Flush Toilet?

Dual flush toilets use a smaller amount of water to flush liquid waste. Because of this, they use less water than standard toilets and offer water conservation, cost savings, and environmental benefits. 

The Tools and Materials You'll Need

Tools:

• Adjustable wrench
• Level
• Putty knife
• Screwdriver
• Drill and bits

Materials:

• Dual flush toilet
• Wax toilet ring
• Closet bolts
• Flexible water supply line
• Plumbers tape

What to Do Before Getting Started 

Selecting your new dual flush toilet may not seem like part of the installation process, but in many ways, it’s the most crucial step. Before shopping for a toilet, take measurements of the area where the toilet will be installed. Measure the distance between the wall behind your existing toilet and its closet bolts to make sure the new toilet fits in the space (this is called the rough-in space). Check the size and shape of the base of your old toilet, and ensure that the new toilet you select will completely cover that area. Otherwise, you will have unappealing marks around the base.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Install a Dual Flush Toilet System

Remove the Old Toilet

1. Locate the shut-off valve behind the toilet and shut off the water supply. 
2. Flush the toilet to drain any remaining water in the tank and bowl. 
3. Disconnect the water supply line from the old tank.
4. Loosen the bolts holding the tank to the bowl and remove it. 
5. Loosen the closet bolts holding the bowl to the floor and remove the toilet bowl. 

Prep the Area for Dual Flush Toilet  Installation

1. Check the floor flange to ensure it is clean and undamaged. 
2. Remove the old wax ring that sits between the flange and the toilet base. Use a putty knife to remove any stubborn pieces of wax. 
3. Install the new wax ring.

Dual Flush Toilet Installation

1. Position the bowl over the flange, using a level to make sure the toilet is centered and level. 
2. Bolt the toilet to the floor using closet bolts (the toilet should come with these). 
3. Attach the tank to the bowl with the bolts provided with the toilet. 
4. Connect the water supply line to the new toilet tank. 
5. Connect the dual flush mechanism according to the manufacturer's instructions. 
6. Install the toilet dual flush valve in the tank. 

Finishing Steps

1. Turn on the water supply.
2. Adjust the fill valve to the desired water level in the tank.
3. Install the toilet seat.

Post-Installation Checks

After installation, check the flush function on both the full and half-full settings, ensuring that there are no leaks and that the handle and flush mechanism return to their original positions after flushing. Verify that the water level in the tank is at the desired level. Double-check that the water supply line connections are secure and that the refill tube and other dual flush toilet parts are correctly installed and positioned. Finally, clean the toilet to remove any debris or dirt that may have accumulated during the installation process. 

If you’ve installed a regular toilet before, installing a new dual flush toilet shouldn’t be any more difficult. If you’ve never installed a toilet before or don't feel confident working with plumbing fixtures, consider calling the expert plumbers at Roto-Rooter. We’ll remove your old toilet, install your new toilet, and address any other household plumbing issues on your list.

Common Problems with Dual Flush Toilets

Dual flush toilets can significantly improve your water conservation, but their design does make them susceptible to specific problems:

• Clogs: Dual flush toilets are more likely to clog, as each flush uses less water. 
• Sticking buttons: The half- or full-flush buttons can sometimes stick.
• Weak flushes: If the tank’s water level is incorrect, flushes may be weak. Installing the wrong flapper can also cause this issue.
• Running toilets: If the toilet runs constantly, the problem is usually due to a problem with the flapper or fill valve. Here’s how to fix a running toilet.

Despite these potential problems, the advantages of dual flush toilets make them a powerful tool for water conservation, one that benefits most homes. You can reduce your risk of toilet issues by having the professionals at Roto-Rooter install and maintain your plumbing fixtures. 

FAQs

How much does it cost to install a dual flush toilet?

Dual flush toilet prices range from $99 to more than $1,000 for high-end models. The cost of DIY installation is minimal. Contact your local plumber for an accurate quote on professional installation. 

Are dual flush toilets harder to install?

Dual flush toilet installation is no more difficult than installing a standard toilet. If you can install a standard toilet, you shouldn’t have any difficulty installing a dual flush toilet. 

What is the common problem with dual flush toilets?

Frequent clogging due to incorrect water volume in the tank is a common issue with dual flush toilets. Some users find that the lower flush option does not clean the bowl sufficiently, requiring more frequent cleaning as a result. 

Can you convert a regular toilet to dual flush?

Yes. Dual flush conversion kits are available that allow you to replace your existing handle and flapper with a dual flush mechanism.