Convert any toilet to variable flow for $10. and save the planet

Water conservation is one of the most important steps we can take to protect the environment. Fresh water is not only a finite resource, it is becoming more expensive. There are many instructables that show how to make a low flow toilet by adding a jar, but this is not a variable flow toilet. Low flow toilets often can not get the job done with one flush, so more water is wasted with two flushes. The solution is to use variable flow toilets, which can provide two sizes of flushes. Unfortunately, they are very expensive, starting at $400.
Here is a method of constructing a variable flush conversion for about $10. Not only does it provide substantial savings on your water bill over a period of a year, it is a very environmentally friendly project.

http://www.dualflushkit.com/uploaded_images/cms_files/dualflush_toilet.jpg
http://images.channeladvisor.com/Sell/SSProfiles/13000155/thumbs/51/tn4_940583.jpg

Step 1 Tool, parts and planning

the tools included

1) 1/8 drill bit
2) drill
3) hack saw
4) hobby knife
5) locking pliers
6) multi tool/pliers and assorted small tools
7) pen
8) ruler
9) tape measure
optional: scissors if you your multi tool doesn't have them

parts include

1) 2" ABS/PVC plastic pipe
2) acrylic sheet 1/8 or more
3) coat hanger
4) plastic container (see notes)
5) toilet flapper
6) waterproof epoxy
optional: super glue and latex glue

planing: Start by measuring the inside of the tank to see where and what size jar to use and where to place it. If there is a large float that takes too much space then you should move it or replace it. The new system will work by having the plastic jar holding some water in the tank for a small flush and for a big flush the flapper in the jar is opened to allow all water to drain.

notes: For the plastic container I used a P.E.T (Polyethylene Terephthalate) plastic jar, I found out that it resists glue, it still bonds to the plastic and preforms the job, however, it's not very strong, so AVOID anything with ethylene in its name it's better to use containers made of acrylic aluminum, PVC, lexan or ABS, you can I dentine the type of plastic. The easiest way to tell is to see if it snaps when bent, then it is good. If you cant find a jar then make one with a large peace of pvc and a pipe cap.

Comments

[fewfew]

This is a cool idea, but I didn't fully understand it from the "variable flow" headline. I think you need to push the 2 settings and maybe call it low power / high power flush mod or something. Originally I was thinking why not just toss a brick in the tank. FYI: The dualflush kit you linked to isn't that pricey: $40 for 1 with quantity discounts @ 4. Plus there's a $10 coupon code "Spring" until the end of April '09.

[Don Roberto]

Don't ever put a brick in your tank. They're not designed to be soaked: the brick will disintegrate and gum up the works.

[Kirsteen]

I've had a brick in my toilet tank for 4 - 5 yrs. BUT you must wrap it in a couple layers of thick plastic - maybe the kind used for a dropcloth? I've had no problem because wrapping it took care of any "crumbling" that might occur. I also added a small size soft drink bottle filled with sand and water. No problems.

Let's come up with more smart ideas that save us money and save the planet. I'm an older lady with no kids, but I love our planet and believe we have the responsibility to take care of it!!! I liked the comment about letting your waste water from the washer drain out into the garden. The Brits did this 20 yrs. ago in a village I lived in and called it "gray water". Kirsteen

[Kirsteen]

I've had a brick in my toilet tank for 4 - 5 yrs. BUT you must wrap it in a couple layers of thick plastic - maybe the kind used for a dropcloth? I've had no problem because wrapping it took care of any "crumbling" that might occur. I also added a small size soft drink bottle filled with sand and water. No problems.

Let's come up with more smart ideas that save us money and save the planet. I'm an older lady with no kids, but I love our planet and believe we have the responsibility to take care of it!!! I liked the comment about letting your waste water from the washer drain out into the garden. The Brits did this 20 yrs. ago in a village I lived in and called it "gray water". Kirsteen

[omarecontreras]

Inside the toilet tank, I placed a 1.5lt bottle filled with rocks or sand and water (rocks or sand so the bottle doesn't float/move and water instead of air for the same reason), this solution is virtually free and anybody can make it without the need of tools.
In addition, I only flush after number 2 (i don't know why some people find this gross to do on a residential bathroom and at the same time find it ok on a public restroom)
A friend of mine calculated the optimal volume of the bottle (i need to do this as well). calculate the volume by adding enough small bottles until the toiled could not flush (limit), then removing the last small bottle, add all volumes and find bigger bottle(s) volume equivalent.

[ranex]

cool idea, but having to explain to guests how to use the toilet seems a little weird - a strange conversation starter maybe