Toilet Statistics Australia: Water Usage, Trends & Growth

Have you ever considered how much water you use daily, especially when flushing your toilet? Australians typically have a dual-flush or single-flush cistern in their homes or offices, and GWM Water in Victoria estimates both types.

A dual-flush toilet uses approximately 3 litres for a half-flush and 6 litres for a full flush, while a single-flush toilet uses between 9 and 11 litres per flush. Based on these figures, let’s explore the monthly water consumption for a typical family of four.

A family using a single-flush toilet could use between 10,800 and 13,200 litres of water per month, assuming each person flushes an average of four times daily. In contrast, a family with a dual-flush toilet could use around 4,320 to 8,640 litres of water a month, significantly reducing their consumption.

Understanding these toilet statistics in Australia can provide valuable insights into your household’s water consumption. With this knowledge, you can adopt effective water-saving tips to conserve water and reduce environmental impact.

Water Usage by Toilets in Australian Homes

Water usage by toilets in Australia varies depending on several factors, but the cistern type used is crucial for determining more accurate toilet statistics. Let us explore these toilet statistics in Australia. 

Average Water Usage per Flush

A modern toilet features water-efficient designs such as dual-flush systems, sleek aesthetics, and advanced materials for better hygiene and enhanced durability. Modern toilets use as much as 1.6 gallons of water per flush.

In contrast, old-style toilets often have single-flush systems, bulkier designs, and higher water consumption. Most old-style cisterns were installed before 1992 and frequently use as much as 7 gallons of water for every flush. 

Water Consumption in Dual-Flush Toilets

Toilet water consumption varies depending on the type of flush system used. Modern toilets with a dual-flush system offer a more water-efficient option than a traditional single-flush, reducing household water usage.

• Dual-flush cisterns use around 3 litres for a half-flush and 6 litres for a full flush.
• Older toilets with a single-flush system use 9 to 11 litres per flush, regardless of your water needs.

Dual-flush toilets can help families save thousands of litres annually by reducing unnecessary water consumption in every flush.

Impact of Toilets on Overall Household Water Use

Toilet usage accounts for a significant portion of a household’s water use. The Australian Government Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts has analysed Australian opportunities for more water-saving toilets and found that water used in toilets in cities and towns represents at least 25% of indoor residential water use.

The agency further stressed that water use increases during drought situations when restrictions on water usage are in place. Traditional single-flush toilets contribute to higher water usage, and the agency urges switching to a dual-flush system to help families dramatically reduce indoor water use and conserve water.

Common Toilet Problems and Their Frequency

One of the most common toilet problems with toilets is leaking, and most homeowners are unaware of the problem until it’s too late, often only discovering it when they get an unexpectedly high water bill! The following are the most frequent toilet issues faced by Australian homeowners.

Leaking Toilets and Water Wastage

An average leaking toilet can waste tens of thousands of water between billing cycles. This leads to higher water bills and unnecessary water wastage, which affects the environment and the household budget.

Clogged and Blocked Toilets

Australian homeowners frequently experience blocked toilets, mostly due to the buildup of various materials, including toilet paper, wipes, and other non-flushable items. Blockages are common but easily preventable with regular maintenance and correct flushing habits.

Worn Out Flush Mechanisms

Flush mechanism repairs and replacements are common in many households, as these wear out over time because of frequent use. Most homeowners may replace or repair worn-out flush systems every few years, especially in older toilets. 

Toilet Installation and Replacement Trends in Australia

In Australia, plumbing and drainage products, including toilets, must be WaterMark certified. This certification ensures that products are tested, authorised, and meet quality standards for safe and effective usage. It also assures that these products are fit for purpose and follow natural regulations.

Thus, when looking at Australian toilet installation trends, ensure you’re using products with the WaterMark seal of approval.

New Toilet Installation Statistics

Thousands of new toilets are installed in Australian homes and businesses each year. Most of these are modern dual-flush toilets aimed at conserving water. Dual flush systems use less water per flush compared to traditional models. By 2007, around 81% of homes reported having at least one dual-flush cistern, with 74.8% of homes using only dual-flush models. Also, installing water-efficient fixtures such as low-flow showerheads and dual-flush toilets is the most effective way to reduce home water usage.

Trends in Toilet Replacement and Upgrades

Toilet replacement in Australia has seen an increasing focus on modern and eco-friendly products as homeowners and businesses look into improving functionality and sustainability. Trends also indicate a national interest in switching to water-saving and energy-efficient toilets. The following are key trends in toilet replacements:

• Growing demand for dual–flush toilets to conserve water in every flush.
• Touchless flush systems are increasingly popular to enhance hygiene and usage.
• Choosing toilets with integrated bidets for comfort and eco-consciousness.

Demand for Smart Toilets and Bidet Installations

The increasing demand for smart toilets and bidet installations in modern Australian homes and businesses results from more people choosing toilets with advanced features that promote convenience and hygiene. These water-saving toilets have automatic flushing, self-cleaning functions and heated seats, which make them eco-friendly and user-friendly.

Most modern toilets have bidets for personal hygiene, reducing toilet paper usage. Australians are becoming more aware of sustainable living practices and choosing smart, water-saving toilets that help them commit to efficiency and environmental conservation.

Environmental Impact of Toilets

Choosing between traditional and water-saving toilets can dramatically affect water usage, energy demands, and the overall eco-footprint of your home and business.

Water Savings from High-Efficiency Toilets

Reducing every flush by just one litre can save a family of four around 6,000 litres of water annually, translating to $17.50 in supply fees. Upgrading an older single-flush system with 12 litres per flush to an efficient 4-star toilet with a 3.5-litre flush can save up to 50,000 litres of water a year! An average family can save approximately $148 in annual water expenses.

Toilet Recycling and Disposal Practices

Many states and suburbs have recycling programmes for outdated or broken toilets, diverting them from landfills. Toilet bowls and tanks are made from porcelain, which is crushed and mixed with concrete and other building materials to build footpaths and roads. Plastic and metal from toilet flush mechanisms and tank fittings may be refurbished and reused, thus promoting sustainability.

How Link Plumbing Supports Toilet Maintenance and Installation

Link Plumbing offers efficient, professional toilet installation and maintenance services. Our team is ready for any toilet repair jobs, including leaks and blockages, and will gladly assist you in finding the best eco-friendly toilet solutions.

Toilet Repair Services

We specialise in toilet repair services, providing the best solutions for common issues, including leaks, blockages, and faulty flush systems. Our team can diagnose problems efficiently to provide effective repairs and restore your toilet’s function ASAP. We offer quality workmanship, ensuring each repair job is long-lasting and meets customer satisfaction.

Installation of Water-Saving Toilets

We provide professional installation services for dual flush and water-saving toilets to help you reduce water usage and decrease utility costs. We can also set up high-efficiency toilets to conserve water without sacrificing performance. Thus, you and your family can enjoy long-term savings and sustainability.

Eco-Friendly Toilet Solutions

We offer eco-friendly toilet solutions to reduce water consumption and promote sustainable living practices in homes and offices. We can help you select from a wide range of high-efficiency toilet models and provide expert installations as soon as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. How much water does an average Australian toilet use per flush?

Australians may have older single-flush and modern dual-flush toilets installed in their homes or businesses. Dual-flush cisterns use around 3 litres for a half-flush and 6 litres for a full flush. Meanwhile, older models with a single-flush system use 9 to 11 litres per flush.

2. What are the most common problems with toilets in Australian homes?

Leaks, clogs, and worn-out flushes are Australian homes’ most common toilet issues. These problems lead to water waste, inconvenience, and the need for regular toilet maintenance.

3. How can I reduce water usage in my toilet?

Reducing water usage in your toilet at home or business is possible by upgrading to an efficient model. Consider the following:

• Install a dual-flush cistern to select from a low or high-water flush, depending on your needs. This type of toilet can save water significantly over time.
• Choose a high-efficiency toilet with less water for every flush without compromising performance.
• Always check for leaks and repair issues ASAP.

4. How often should I replace my toilet?

Toilets have an average lifespan of 25 years, but this depends on usage, maintenance, and model. You may need to replace your toilet if it encounters frequent repairs or cracks in the porcelain or if you wish to upgrade to a water-efficient toilet.

5. What are the environmental benefits of water-saving toilets?

Water-saving toilets offer significant environmental benefits, minimising water usage and helping homeowners reduce utility costs. Consider these key advantages:

• Reduced water usage means less strain on local water supplies.
• Lower energy demand for water treatment and pumping indirectly reduces greenhouse gas emissions.
• Decreased water bills.

Conclusion 

Understanding toilet-related water usage is necessary for conserving water, lowering utility bills, and promoting sustainability. Replacing old, single-flush toilets with modern dual-flush systems provides long-term benefits, cutting water consumption and utility costs.

Contact Link Plumbing today to learn about your eco-friendly toilet options. Call 0412 056 027 for a free, no-obligation quote!