Flushing toilets use vast quantities of water in the workplace. Toilets installed before 1991 typically use 9 litres per flush, while those installed after that date typically use 6-8 litres.

Cistern water-savers can be installed to reduce the volume it takes to refill each time. An example of this in the UK is the ‘Hippo water saver’, which can reduce flush volume in 9-litre cisterns by up to 3 litres, and up to 2 litres in modern (smaller) cisterns. 

Hippo state that the typical cost saving will be approximately €3 per employee/annum.

How does it work?

Retrofitted cistern water-savers are typically made from polyethylene and resemble a bag that folds into the shape of a box, which can be simply submerged in the cistern and positioned under the large cistern float. The volume of water contained within the bag is the amount saved per flush.

Installing a cistern water-saver is simple and cheap – little to no plumbing experience is necessary – and causes minimal disruption. It is a very simple and cost-effective way of retrofitting the toilets in the workplace.