Dual Flush Toilet Review

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Dual flush toilets provide you the choice between two flush options, saving overall water usage. The partial flush uses about half the amount of water as a full flush, resulting in water savings compared to other types of toilets.

Keep reading to get a better understanding of how the best dual flush toilets work, and reviews of our favorites!

 

 

Comparisons of the Top-Rated Dual Flush Toilets in 2023

 

Review of the 6 Best Toilets with Dual Flush (UPDATED)

Our experts reviewed and listed facts of the top dual flushing toilets on the market.

 

1. Kohler Wellworth – Editor’s Choice

 

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The Kohler series is known for its exceptional flushing performance, and the Wellworth toilet is no different. 

It features a left-side nested trip lever that allows you to conveniently flush the toilet, even while sitting on it, and thankfully, we’ve not received any complaints on splashbacks like most toilets, which is probably why Amazon highly rates this one.

The Wellworth toilet is a classic, using the Class Five dual flush system, well known for its bulk flushing performance. Its 1.6/1.1 gallons per flush system is WaterSense-approved, and you might be getting rebates on your water bills with this toilet. 

Its flush system comprises a direct-fed siphon-jet flush, a 2 1/8 inch, fully glazed trapway, and a large round canister valve. The canister valve and siphon jet deliver a quick, powerful water gush from all sides of the bowl, and the glazed trapway works with the siphoning system to forcefully but quietly expel the waste. 

The canister valve also reduces leakages by protecting the seal, a definite upgrade from the 3-inch flapper, and the tank fills up pretty quickly.

However, we can’t quite wrap our heads around how a Class Five flush system gets clog complaints. Could it be a trapway issue? We can’t tell, but some customers have complained the toilet gets clogged, and sometimes they have to flush twice to clear the waste. 

Another thing is the leak-proof valve isn’t as efficient as we thought. A few users claim it does not last, and water leaks from the tank into the bowl, a flaw in its water efficiency. It relies mainly on a high gloss finish for anti-stick performance. Now, we know this is quite a lot. But a more comprehensive review would help give a better, final judgment on this piece.

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Other Wellworth Models

 

Our Final Take

This one has a powerful flush, according to several reviewers. For some, this was their first dual flush toilet and they wish they had bought it sooner. Customers like the modern look of this toilet, as it adds to the overall aesthetic of their bathroom.  “Works Great and Looks Great!”

 

2. TOTO Drake – Most Water Efficient

 

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The TOTO Drake is one of the industry’s best and most popular flushing toilets. It is available in various forms: the two-piece, single flush, and the two-piece, dual-flush.

It also comes in a round bowl and elongated bowl design.

All Drake models are coated with the CEFIONTECT glaze, making it almost impossible for waste and other residues to stick to the bowl, further enhancing its hygiene quality. But, the TOTO Drake dual flush goes a step further, a possible reason for its higher price. 

The dual-flush TOTO Drake models address the high water usage of the Drake toilets. Its 0.8/1.0 gallons per flush offering makes it WaterSense compliant and suitable for residents in all states.  

This toilet features the Tornado flush system, which expels water from the tank through 2 powerful nozzles instead of the standard rim holes. Add that to its extra-large 2 1/8 – inch, semi-concealed, fully-glazed trapway, and it becomes clear why it is the Most efficient.

The faster the water enters the bowl, the stronger the siphoning effect in its trapway. The stronger the siphon power and the larger the trapway, the better the cleaning power and the lesser the clog and discoloration risk. 

Other exciting features of this toilet include: the relatively quiet and discreet flush and the fast-filling tank – it takes just about 35 seconds. Its large water surface reduces the incidents of streaking and skid marks and curtails the odor of turds. 

Unfortunately, some customers have complained that the ridge in the bowl gives the impression of an ugly, bad stain. 

So, if this Drake doesn’t seem right for you, check our other TOTO Drake toilets we reviewed.

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Other Drake Models

 

Our final Take

Customers are pleased with this splurge! For most, this is a comfortable toilet with a modern design.  Users like the bidet functionality and the ability to program simple functions such as opening the lid.  “This Toto is amazing and the quality is top of the line. You can’t go wrong with a setup like this.”

 

3. TOTO Drake Washlet+ S500 – Strongest Flush

 

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The Drake Washlet+ is among the best bidet innovations of the TOTO company. Although it has a lot in common with the Aquia IV, it has various unique, high-tech features.

Unlike most dual-flush toilets, the TOTO Drake + Washlet S500e uses the DynaMax tech. This technology utilizes 1.28GPF for a full flush and 0.8GPF for a partial flush. It has WaterSense certification and could be quite economical. 

Now, despite having a side-positioned chrome trip lever, the S500e has an automatic flush system that you can activate once you’re done with the remote control. 

One exciting thing we love about this toilet is how it addresses hygiene in a high-tech and even more efficient way. 

While it features the common CEFIONTECT glazing, it uses electrolyzed water in its flush system, which cleans the bowl even better than regular water. But, it doesn’t wait till the action is done. Before use, this toilet has a premist function that sprays the bowl with electrolyzed water to deter waste, residues, and other materials from sticking to the bowl. 

To say these are what make this toilet unique would be to undermine the TOTO Drake + Washlet S500e totally. There are many other features we can guarantee you would not see in just any toilet – a clear explanation of why S500e is one of the more expensive bidet pieces.

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Other Drake Washlet S500 Models

Our team collected all Drake Washlet S500 model variations within this collection to help you compare the differences.

Model Name	Model Number	Style	GPF	Bowl Shape	Major Differences	Resources
Drake Washlet S500E	MW7763046CEGA#01	Two-piece	1.28	Elongated	TORNADO FLUSH® system. High-tech electronic bidet seat and toilet combination (1.28 GPF)	Spec Sheet
Drake Washlet S500E	MW7763046CSGA#01	Two-piece	1.6	Elongated	TORNADO FLUSH® system. High-tech electronic bidet seat and toilet combination (1.6 GPF)	Spec Sheet
Drake Washlet S500E	MW7763046CSFGA#01	Two-piece	1.6	Elongated	Universal height. 12" or 10" Rough-in. (1.6 GPF)	Spec Sheet
Drake Washlet S500E	MW7763046CEFGA#01	Two-piece	1.28	Elongated	Universal height. 12" or 10" Rough-in. (1.28 GPF)	Spec Sheet

 

Our Final Take

Overall, this toilet is a perfect combination of functionality and enhanced design. It comes with many high-end features such as Dynamax  Tornado Flush technology and the CEFIONTECT glaze.

When it comes to functionality, this toilet lets you choose between 0.8 and 1.28 flush, both of which utilize a 360-degree flushing system to successfully clear the whole bowl of waste. With this system, you will save approximately 3500 gallons of water per year without compromising on performance.

 

4. American Standard H2Option – Budget Friendly

 

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The new American Standard H2Option is – in our opinion – one of the best dual flush toilets. As an upgrade from the former H2Option, this toilet is more water-efficient, EPA-certified, and more consumer-centric than the last.  

There is less need to fumble around searching for a lever or a button with this toilet because it has a large chrome-plated push-button actuator at the top of the tank. This actuator controls the two flush valves, which regulate the release of either the full 1.28 gallons per flush or a partial 0.92 gallons per flush. 

We love how this toilet doesn’t settle for less. It merges a siphon-jet (gravity) bowl with a PowerWash rim that delivers water in a quick surge to all areas, even those hard-to-reach regions. It scours the bowl, so no area is left un-rinsed. 

The new American Standard H2Option is another fast-filling tank toilet, so you don’t have to wait for too long before giving the flush another go when you need to. Its EverClean surface is most lovely because it contributes to the bowl’s spotlessly clean tendency and eliminates nasty bacteria that cause odors even deodorizers would have a hard time neutralizing. 

Combating the common problem of clogs, the new H2Option has a 2-inch wide, fully glazed trapway to expel waste faster and without residues. 

The tank refills quickly, and its EverClean surface ensures the bowl remains spotlessly clean and free from smells that even deodorizers might find difficult to neutralize. Its 2-inch wide trapway is also fully glazed to prevent clogs and waste residues. 

Unfortunately, despite its gravity flush system, some customers have complained this toilet does not clear out waste in a single flush. 

Check here for a more comprehensive review of the new American Standard H2Option.

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Other H2Option Models

 

Our Final Take

Customers are happy with this dual flush toilet, stating that it has a powerful flush that does not clog easily.  Buyers like this affordable, option that has a modern design.  The comfort height is popular among users, adding additional comfort to your bathroom experience.

 

5. Swiss Madison St. Tropez – Most Reviewed

 

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The Swiss Madison St. Tropez is considered one of the best one-piece toilets of the present time because it offers the benefits of space management, aesthetic excellence, and water maximization. 

The St. Tropez is factory tested, EPA certified, and WaterSense approved. It offers premium water-management quality by featuring a proportionate dual flush option of 1.6 and 1.1 gallons per flush. Thus, you do not have to worry about not being able to use the toilet in your region. 

Now, this is not so relevant, but we almost got confused writing this review with its interchangeable form, “Swiss Madison Well Made Forever SM-1T254”. 

So, we thought this might help. The above name refers to the St. Tropez as well. 

Back to business – The St. Tropez features buttons on the top of the tank which you can use to activate its dual tornado flush system and have the waste successfully run through the smooth, skirted, large trapway. 

The dual Tornado Vortex flush comprises two nozzles that expel water in a cyclonic action through the bowl and down the trapway for better cleaning action. The great part is it gets the job done relatively quietly. As a result, the Swiss Madison St. Tropez is powerful enough to clear the waste and quiet enough to remain under wraps. 

The St. Tropez also has a fully glazed system that extends from its bowl to its skirted trapway to ensure residues, streaks, and dirt do not affect its shiny coat and sanitary quality. 

Unfortunately, we’ve seen complaints about its flush system being quite messy – “it flushes with a splash.” So unless you close the lid, the toilet water might end on your bathroom floor. Then, a few users claim a single flush never does the trick. But, again, don’t judge a toilet by its flush system alone. Let’s talk comfort. Check this full review of the Swiss Madison toilets for more information.

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Other St. Tropez Models

 

Our Final Take

While some users had trouble with tricky installation, most of them are happy with the sleek, modern design of the toilet, especially at this price. This toilet has a modern look, and the includes a soft-close seat.  Several users praised the expedience of Swiss Madison customer service.

 

6. TOTO Aquia IV – Runner Up

 

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The Aquia IV toilet has a CEFIONTECT ceramic glaze from its bowl to its skirted trapway for a smooth, ion-barrier surface that enhances its flush and cleaning performance. As a result, it is dirt, grime, waste, and skidmark-resistant and is easy to clean.

The dual-flush system is actuated by a large button on its lid that can be pressed fully to use 1.28 gallons per flush for solids flush or halfway to use 0.8 gallons per flush for fluids flush. It is, therefore, EPA WaterSense-certified and CalGreen-compliant. This means, regardless of your region, this toilet fits the standard.  

It uses the DynaMax Tornado Flush with an extra-large flush valve and two powerful nozzles that allows electrolyzed water to enter the bowl faster and with more force for better bowl scouring power.

Now, you’d expect a flush as powerful as this to make a lot of noise, but it doesn’t. Consumers have attested to its flush being relatively noiseless. 

However, this toilet lacks quality in some aspects: Consumers complain about the chrome button not lasting and the low water flush affecting its anti-stick and sanitary quality. 

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Other Aquia IV Models

 

Our Final Take

Buyers love the sleek look of this one-piece toilet.  Some buyers do mention that the water level is a bit too low for an effective flush, however, most customers are happy with this toilet.  “Easy to clean without the molded curvatures at the base found in other models. No issues with flushing.”

7. Deer Valley Symmetry

 

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Dual Flushability 

Let’s start with the basics. This unit has the highest MaP score possible of 1,000 grams. Right off the bat, we’re impressed with the sheer power each flush uses. You can choose between 1.1 and 16 gallons per flush depending on your needs.

The Symmetry uses siphonic technology to make sure each flush packs a punch. The fully glazed flush is super quiet, even with its sheer strength. The flushing power also eliminates chance of clogs or leaks. Don’t believe us? The toilet has been 100% factory tested!

To flush the toilet, press the button on top of the toilet tank.

Design & Style

We love the Deer Valley on a purely aesthetic level as well. The angular tank with the smooth skirted trapway finish connect at a beautifully crafted oval seat. The toilet is effortlessly stylish. Whether you want a statement piece or a unit that camouflages without an issue, the Symmetry can play either part.

The toilet comes with pre-installed soft closing toilet seat (with bumper to prevent slamming), pre-installed flush valve, high-quality wax ring, floor bolts, and also installation instructions. Installation is fairly straight-foward as the supply line inlet comes in two sizes: ½” and ⅞.’

The Symmetry is a compact unit, with a seat height of 16.” The unit is not ADA-certified so keep that in mind. However, this compact size is perfect for smaller bathroom set-ups.

The toilet is only available in white.

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Product Documentation

• Spec Sheet (PDF)
• Manufacturer Product Listing

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Our Final Take

With an average rating of 4.5 stars, there aren’t many complaints over this Deer Valley unit. The most positive comments talk about the toilet’s fantastic MaP score, awesome price, and comfortable set-up. One user even said they couldn’t believe they could love a toilet this much! Of course, the compact design is a double-edge sword. For some it’s the best part, and for others it’s the biggest source of complaint.

8. HOROW HWMT – 8733

 

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HOROW is one of the up and coming toilet greats!

Dual Flushability 

This unit gives you the option of 1.1 and 1.6 gallons per flush to choose from depending on your waste size. Not only is this dual-flush design eco-friendly but it’s also cost-effective. What’s better than saving hundreds of dollars off your water bill each month? The toilet is also WaterSense certified so you can rest easy knowing that you’re getting a unit that is design to conserve.

The 8733’s siphon flush design harnesses the power of gravity to remove waste without hassle in just a matter of seconds. The 360 fully glazes flush guarantees no clogs or leaks down the road.

To flush the toilet, just press the button on top of the toilet tank.

Design & Style

The HWMT is a cool, modern unit that would look in any bathroom aesthetic. Take a look at the angular tank compared to the smooth oval seat. We love the skirted trapway because it’s easy to clean and it looks effortlessly chic!

The 8733 also has a compact design. It measures 25 inches deep by 13.4 inches wide and 28.4 inches high. The seat height stands at 16.5.” While this should accommodate most users, those with mobility issues might have issues using the unit.

The HOROW comes with soft-closing toilet seat, pre-installed flush valve, high-quality wax ring, floor bolts, and instructions. Installation is fairly simple as there are two big installation access points behind the toilet. The toilet can come with a 10” or 12” rough-in depending on your bathroom set-up.

Lastly, we have to boast about the toilet’s price. This is one of the most affordable dual-flush toilets on the market. It’s perfect for smaller set-ups that want to fit in a toilet without compromising flushing power. The HOROW is straight to the point and we adore it for it.

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Product Documentation

• Manufacturer Product Listing

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Our Final Take

Users love the toilet because of its cool exterior, powerful flushing power, and affordable price. Positive reviews talk about the toilet’s great flushing strength in even the most compact spaces. The most common complaint (amidst the very few ones) is that the compact size is a bit small for taller users. While this may be a negative for some, the compact size is also the selling point for others.

 

How Dual Flushing Works

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The working mechanism of the dual flush toilet lies on the buttons or the levers. There are two different buttons designed for two types of wastage. One is for liquid, and the other one is for solid wastage.

Likewise, the dual flush system works through two mechanisms. One is known as a dual flush valve siphon, and the other is a dual flush drop valve.

• The siphon is controlled by the toilet handle/lever. When the handle is pressed (half or full), it acts as an internal plunger. As a result, the water draws and is passed to the commode/bowl. Here gravity does the rest of the work after pressing the handle to pull the water.
• On the other hand, the mechanism of the dual flush drop valve is different from the siphon. There are two buttons on the cistern. You have options to press the small button for half flush and two buttons together to flush a full flush.

When the half flush button is pressed, the cistern allows half of the water and then stops more water from flowing by the adjust overflow mechanism.

When you press both buttons together, the adjustment mechanism allows it to pass the full water, and it gets adjusted after the full water has flown.

Introduced to the Market

Dual flush toilets were designed mainly to save water. Since you only need to use 50% of the canister for a liquid flush, using a these toilets leads to significant water savings over time. And while they may seem like new technology, they were actually patented a long time ago.

The first system was developed by TOTO in 1960 and initially had two levers. It also came with a hand-washer, and the water from the hand-washer was reused for flushing. 

However, the first practical implementation of a dual flush toilet was designed in 1980, with future iterations working to further decrease the water needed without compromising on flush performance. 

EPA Rating

Overall, toilet companies are required to keep the flush capacity of their toilets below 1.6 gallons. Many manufacturers try to go below this requirement, with some toilets that are designed to only consume 1.28 gallons per flush. Toilets that are proven to flush effectively with 80% or less of the 1.6-gallon requirement qualify for EPA WaterSense certification.

This certification ensures you save on your overall water consumption each month and can even include rebates on your water bill, depending on location. When considering a dual-flush toilet, look for EPA WaterSense certification if reducing water consumption is an important factor for you.

Advantages of Dual Flush Toilets

One of the main advantages of best dual flush toilets are they save money over time. It might not seem like a big difference, but imagine only needing half the resources for each flush to remove liquid waste.

According to the American Water Association, an average person’s annual water expenses will reduce by about $250 by using a dual flush toilet. While toilets overall are built to consume less water with each use, they use the least amount of water when compared to any other type of toilet.

Another advantage is that they are very environmentally friendly. According to the EPA, around 4,000 gallons of water can be saved each year in a standard household if a dual flush toilet is installed instead of a standard one. 

Finally, another benefit that we should mention is that dual-flush toilets use gravity to force waste down a large trapway. Thanks to this design, you should experience minimal clogging with these toilets, meaning overall performance isn’t compromised even while you save on water.

Amount of Water Used

Both theoretically and practically, dual flush toilets save a lot of water daily around the world. In terms of modern dual flush toileting, it is designed for 6 liters for a full flush and 3 liters for a half flush.

But initially, when it was first developed in 1980, the full flush used to draw 11 liters, and a half flush 5.5 liters.

 

Dual Flush Toilet Water Usage
From 1980 to 1993	11 liters for a full flush,
	5.5 liters for a half flush
Since 1994 till now	6 liters for a full flush,
	3 liters for a half flush

Dual vs. Single Flush Comparisons

The primary difference between single-flush and dual-flush toilets is seen in their name. Simply put, the single-flush toilet uses a single-flush mechanism that empties the cistern entirely with a single press.

On the other hand, dual flush, you know, uses a dual flushing mechanism for liquid and solid wastage flushing differently.

Here is a table comparing the differences between single and dual-flush toilets.

 

Single Flush	Dual Flush
Use single flush for any type of wastage	Use dual flush differently for liquid and solid wastage
Flush as low as 1.28 gallons to 3.6 gallons (4.5 liters to 13.6 litter) of water in every flash	Flush maximum of 3 (0.8 gallons) liters for half flush and 6 liters (1.58 gallons) for a full flush
Easy to use, less effort is enough to press the button	Comparatively, needs more effort and are not easy for elderly people and children
Single flush toilets are easy to maintain	As the parts are a little hard to find, and the mechanism is a little complicated, dual flush toilets need professional maintenance
Single flush toilets waste a lot of water	Dual flush toilets significantly save water
Single flush toilets are less costly	Dual flush toilets are expensive and aesthetic

Situations when Dual Flushing is Needed

The earth is full of water, but the irony is only 0.3% of water is usable for us. So, when you ask why you would want one dual-flush toilet, there are many reasons. However, it has both advantages and disadvantages as well.

Advantages

The primary objective of dual-flush toilets is to save water. And dual flush toilets allow you to use the necessary amount of water for both solid and liquid wastage separately.

Aside from this, there are several advantages of using dual flush toilets. They are as follows.

• Dual flash toilets save water, so it’s eco-friendly
• Though the expense of the dual flush toilet is costly, it will last longer. In this sense, it actually saves your money
• Generally, dual flush toilets don’t clog so quickly
• They are aesthetic to look

With the above-mentioned attributes, you may choose dual flush toilets based on your needs.

Disadvantages

Along with many advantages, you might face the following drawbacks of dual flush toilets too.

• The costly expense seems not to fit many people
• The maintenance is a little harder, and harder to clean as well
• Generally, you need professionals to install dual flush toilets or even fix the toilet chain

 

Dual Flush Lever vs. Button Options

We have already discussed the lever and buttons of dual flush toilets in the “How Does It Work” section. By the way, here is a glance at the comparison between the dual flush lever and button options to understand their differences.

Dual Flush Lever

The lever option is used in the dual flush siphon. You have to operate the dual flush siphon valve through the lever. The lever (handle) is set to handle-down in two settings. Half-down for a half-flush, and full-down for a full-flush. The lever backs to its place automatically after pressing down.

Dual Flush Button

The button option is the traditional and most common type of dual flush toilet. Two buttons are set on the cistern. One is singly for the half-flush (the smaller one). For a full flush, you have to press two buttons together.

Frequently Asked Questions

Our reader have asked many of these questions about dual flush toilets.