A power flush toilet uses compressed air to significantly increase its flushing ability. Unlike traditional gravity models, it stores its flushing water in a special pressurized tank. The efficient design eliminates the need for second flushes and reduces water consumption. The high velocity flush produced by this toilet also reduces clogging of sewer lines. Some models are equipped with an electric pump for use in homes with lower water pressure.
Traditional flush toilets rely upon gravity to empty the contents of the bowl. A power flush toilet makes use of compressed air to force waste out and into the drain pipe. These toilets have a bowl and tank assembly that is similar to gravity models, but they are equipped with a specially designed pressure chamber inside the tank. The water supply is connected directly to the pressure chamber and recharges the device after each flush.
The flush of this style of toilet can be quite noisy, and some newer models have been redesigned for quieter operation. Certain types are also designed for dual operation, so they can be flushed by the traditional gravity method or by pressure-assisted operation.
The highly efficient flushing mechanism also reduces excess water consumption. Conventional gravity toilets sometimes require repeated flushing to completely remove waste from the bowl. The high velocity water movement of a power flush toilet is usually able to remove the entire contents of the bowl in a single flush. Fewer flushes result in decreased water consumption and lower utility costs, and it also puts less strain on sewer and septic tank systems.
The high velocity water movement produced by these toilets also helps to prevent clogged sewer lines. Most models carry waste twice as far as traditional gravity versions and keep sewer pipes cleaner. This action helps minimize the possibility of sewer backups caused by clogged pipes. A power flush toilet does require a sufficient amount of incoming water pressure to properly fill the storage chamber, so certain pressure-assisted models are also equipped with an electric motor to help fill the storage chamber when sufficient water pressure is unavailable.