Replacing Inefficient Toilets: Durham's Subsidy Programs

Replacing Inefficient Toilets: Durham’s Toilet Subsidy Program

Replacing inefficient toilets has been a priority of the Region of Durham’s for the past 10 years. Did you know that toilets account for approximately 45 percent of the total indoor water use? Older toilets use between 13 and 20 litres per flush, while water efficient toilets use between four and six litres. New homes have been equipped with the standard six-litre toilet since 1996.

Between 1996 and 2003, the Region replaced close to 9,000 toilets in the townships of Uxbridge, Scugog and Brock.

Why Stop At Six Litres?

Toilet performance has improved dramatically in the past few years. This has led to the introduction of High-Efficiency Toilets (HETs). HETs use 20 percent less water than a 6L fixture, for an average of 4.8L. They come in a variety of designs including: dual flush (3/6L flush), 4L pressure assist and 4.8L gravity flush.  Refer to the California Urban Water Conservation Council’s website for a list of HETS.

Durham’s Toilet Truckload Sales

In 2005 and 2006, the Region held three toilet truckload sales. This project was designed to put the maximum amount of the budget into toilet subsidies by teaming up with local retailers to host the events. The toilet models offered by the retailers were Region-approved and had passed rigorous performance standards. The selection of toilets was not only limited to six-litre flush models, but also featured several HET dual flush (3 litre/6 litre), as well as an HET 4.8 litre model. Regional subsidies varied from $50 to $60, depending on the model. The program allowed us to replace over 1,900 toilets.

The Region does not have any subsidy programs planned for the current year. However, the potential savings for replacing older toilets in your home will result in a savings on your annual water bill. After replacing older toilets, a four-person home has the potential to save approximately $100 annually. Please review the "Maximum Performance Testing of Popular Toilet Models" for more information on shopping for a low flush or HET.