Flushing the toilet is something we don’t think often about. It’s an autopilot behavior we have after we “go to the bathroom”. However, there is a right and wrong way to flushing the toilet. It’s not only about pulling the level down! Let’s learn why that is.
Close the Lid When You Flush
If you’re concerned about the water splashing up, you might close the lid. But there’s a more important reason. According to Business Insider, a microbiologist at NYU, Philip Tierno advises putting the lid down to avoid “toilet plume – the small particles of waste that mix with the water in your toilet after you flush, which can shoot aerosolized feces into the air as high as 15 feet!
Flushing Up Versus Flushing Down
There are two types to flush: up and down. Flushing up is for #1. It empties the toilet bowl partially. Flushing down is for #2. This completely empties the toilet bowl along with any waste. Flushing up can save you money by reducing water usage. It’s also better for the environment. Depending on your toilet, it may be necessary to install a “dual flush” kit which allows these two flushing options.
Flushing While Taking a Shower
Imagine this: you’re taking a shower, and someone flushes the toilet. Has the shower water temporarily turned very hot? If so, it’s because the only available cold water is being used to refill the toilet. If this happens in your home, you may reduce the amount of water needed to fill up the toilet. Or, you can wait to flush until you’re finished with the shower!
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