Green House Makeover: Toilet Talk

Did you know that your old toilet (circa 1994 or earlier) uses up to 70% more water annually than a new dual flusher? In areas where water costs are high, replacing your old bowl can save you some significant coin! Since our fresh water supplies in parts of this country are dwindling and are expected to drop precipitously low in the future, dual flushing technologies are essential.

At our recent Green House Showcase in New York, reducing water consumption was one of our main objectives. One way to meet this goal was to install dual flushers. These toilets have been used for years in Europe and Asia, and they are slowly making their way to the US. Here's how they work: there are 2 flushing options, either 0.8 gallons or 1.6 gallons, depending on your uh, needs. And they come in all types of styles, from traditional to super contemporary, and best of all, most of them are affordable. The ones we installed cost about $250 each, made by Sterling for Kohler. See how the tank in the photos is so small? This makes them look so tres chic - ooh la la! (Both photographs show the same toilets in 2 different baths, fyi.)

Ok now let's talk functionality. Do they work and get the, er, job done, shall we say? The answer from my experience is a wholehearted yes! I have had many a construction worker over the house and let's just say that I didn't find any nasty surprises.

In conclusion, mon ami, adopting water saving features like dual flushers in your home are a fabulous way to reduce your consumption and save money in the process. Manifique!