What Is a Dual-Flush Faceplate? Everything You Need to Know

What is a dual-flush faceplate?

A dual-flush faceplate (also known as the toilet faceplate) is the external plate that stays fixed on the wall above or near a wall-hung toilet. Ideally, the dual-flush faceplate is the part that we press to flush after using the toilet.

As the name goes, “dual-flush” stands for two flush options. The smaller button is generally used when you need less water, whereas the larger button helps with a stronger flush.

Here’s a closer look at the main parts of a dual-flush faceplate:

• An outer panel,
• A reduced-flush (or slow-flush) button,
• A full-flush button,
• A mounting frame and either actuation rods or pneumatic tubes, and
• A service access opening (behind the plate to check and repair internal cistern parts)

For modern, design-led bathrooms, a dual-flush faceplate adds to the scene as a prominent accessory. Take Kohler’s dual flush faceplate range, for instance, available in handpicked finishes like chrome, matte black, brushed nickel, gold, rose gold, and bronze. A carefully chosen dual flush plate is the perfect fitting piece to complete a picturesque bathroom scene with faucets, shower trims, towel bars, robe hooks, and other cabinet hardware.

How does a dual-flush faceplate work?

A dual-flush faceplate regulates the water pressure from the button to the flush valve inside a concealed cistern. Simply put, the cistern stores water while the faceplate controls when and how much water is released.

When you press the smaller flush button, the system releases a lower volume of water. Similarly, when you press the larger (or full-flush) button, more water starts flowing. The exact flush volume is determined by the type of cistern, toilet bowl, and flushing system.

Classical toilet faceplates use mechanical rods and pneumatic air-pressure tubes for some models. Advanced sensor-based toilet faceplates offer a touchless flush experience. However, to make things work, the faceplate must match the concealed cistern or in-wall tank behind the wall.

Types of dual-flush faceplates

Before you know how a dual-flush faceplate works for your toilet, let’s understand the different types.

Mechanical dual-flush faceplate

A mechanical toilet faceplate gives a firm feel when one presses the button due to mechanical rods or direct-contact parts activating the flush valve. Mechanical dual-flush faceplates are generally preferred for individual homes and apartments.

Pneumatic dual-flush faceplate

A pneumatic faceplate uses air pressure to trigger the flush and therefore feels softer and smoother to press. Go for it if you like accessories for refined bathroom spaces.

Sensor-based dual flush faceplate

Fancy a touch-free experience for toilet flushing? Say yes to sensor-based faceplates that allow touchless flushing, either through hand movement or proximity. Sensor-based faceplates are ideal for any premium bathroom space, powder rooms, hospitality spaces, and just about any high-usage washroom.

Designer finish dual flush faceplate

A designer-finish flush faceplate checks the boxes for functionality and appearance. From timeless chrome to bold matte black, or soft brushed nickel and warm gold and bronze tones, these faceplates are definitely the glamour quotient for any washroom.

4 golden rules to choose the right toilet faceplate

The smaller the detail, the more difficult it becomes to choose. Choosing the right toilet faceplate is no exception either. Sometimes, you fall for the look. Other times, you prefer the function. Fret not! Picking the right toilet face plate is easy when you follow a few simple rules.

Rule 1: Check compatibility first

No matter how beautiful a toilet plate is, it’s of no use if it's incompatible with the concealed cistern, flush valve, actuation type, and installation frame. At Kohler, we recommend our customers to pick Kohler toilet faceplates to go with Kohler cisterns. For example, the Evo Flush^™ in-wall tank works with compatible wall-hung bowls and selected dual-flush faceplates.

Rule 2. Match the actuation type to your need

Picking the right actuation for a dual-flush faceplate is always a personal choice. Mechanical rod-fitted toilet faceplates are direct and firm to touch. On the other hand, pneumatic faceplates feel a lot softer, and sensor-based faceplates require no touch at all.

Rule 3. Pick the right finish

A toilet faceplate should never be viewed as a single bathroom accessory. Instead, it is a part of a complete toilet system. Therefore, toilet faceplates should blend with the overall look and function of your bathroom across faucets, shower fittings, towel bars, mirror trims, and cabinet handles.

For instance, chrome is effortlessly easy to pair, while matte blacks are a bold choice. Similarly, brushed nickel can be understated, and gold, rose gold, and bronze work well only in luxury settings.

Rule 4. Confirm service access and tile alignment

The best dual-flush faceplates in the market are essentially those models with direct access to the concealed cistern for repair needs. Besides, it should also align properly with the WC centerline, tile joints, and wall finish.

Dual-flush faceplate: Installation and maintenance tips

No matter how small or big a bathroom accessory, choosing the right product is only half the job done. Next comes the right installation and maintenance. Here are some pro tips to install and maintain your dual-flush faceplates the right way.

Tip 1: Install dual-flush faceplates only after the concealed cistern, wall frame, plumbing connections, and wall finish are ready.

Tip 2: Align the mounting frame, connect the rods or pneumatic tubes, and clip the faceplate into the desired place.

Tip 3: Test both the switches.

Tip 4: Ensure the faceplate sits evenly against the wall without any gap.

Tip 5: Use a mild cleaner and soft cloth only to clean the dual flush faceplate. Use of acidic cleaners, harsh chemicals, and abrasive pads are strongly discouraged.

Tip 6: Don’t block the faceplate opening with tiles, silicone, wall panels, or decorative coverings.

Smart tip: Never force the buttons on a dual-flush faceplate if the flush feels jammed.

Conclusion

So, you see, dual-flush faceplates bring the best of both worlds, high-end aesthetics and top-notch functionality for modern bathroons. However, to get the best user experience, it's pick a compatible model, the right actuation, finish, and alignment. Come, explore Kohler faceplates and flushing solutions.