How Do Automatic Flushing Toilets Work?
The convenience of hands-free flushing is just on another level, especially in public bathrooms. It is one of the underrated revolutions in today’s world. But do you ever wonder how they work?
Well, it is all science. The technologies used behind each brand’s automatic flushing toilet system vary, but its main trick is the infrared light concept. Generally, the sensor works to detect when infrared light is reflected by the user. An incorporated switch sends an electronic current which in turn activates the toilet’s valve.
This article delves deep into the automatic flushing toilets’ functionality. As an aside, check out automatic toilet seat closers to complement the auto flushing and automate everything!
Contents
How Does an Auto Flush Toilet Work?
Automatic flushing toilets are grounded on infrared sensors. These fixtures are equipped with infrared light-emitting diodes, LEDs, and detectors similar to those in remote controls. The sensor is designed to detect when infrared light is reflected by a user and activates the toilet valves when necessary.
A tiny microchip is programmed to reduce spurious activation cases, such as when one walks past the toilet to prevent water wastage. The microchip is also programmed to control the LED projector, so it emits infrared beams at regular intervals.
Often, you may notice that the light does not get reflected right back and thus no action. But when a user sits down, the infrared beam can be sufficiently reflected and informs the sensor that there is a user in a split second.
When the user leaves, the infrared beam does not get reflected. This prompts the sensor to activate the flushing mechanism, and the toilet is flushed. And that is just about it.
Moreover, most of these fixtures are battery-powered, and therefore there is a need to save energy. The LEDs stay on for a short while, so the battery reserves are not wasted while waiting for a user.
On the other hand, the water valves are designed to be activated by the electric current strictly when they move from close to open and vice versa.
No energy is utilized while in any of the two positions. You need not worry about the invisible light beam being hazardous since the power is low.
Hands-free flushing convenience: Automatic flushers for toilets offer convenience like no other. The public toilets, in particular, have adopted this technology, and aren’t we all grateful!
And the best part is, you can also install one in the home’s toilets. You can now realize your smart toilet dream in your own home.
There are automatic flushers for toilets in the market today that you can easily install in your existing toilets. They work to bring a modern element into an otherwise traditional fixture.
The other good thing about them is that you can install some other features on them- like toilet seat cushion risers and toilet safety rails.
What causes them to fail occasionally?
There are several complaints when it comes to these automatic flushing systems. It could be that it flushes when it should not, does not flush at all, or such an issue. If you have encountered any of these problems, it could be due to one of the reasons below.
Dirty sensor
In the case of a dirty sensor, it loses its ability to send and receive any infrared beams. The dirt could be in the form of normal grime and dust that you can easily remove with regular cleaning. It could also be a buildup of hard water minerals. Regular cleaning should do the trick.
Sensor calibration
Infrared sensors are contingent on the speed or time taken for the beam to return to calculate whether it is to flush the toilet. Therefore, the sensor calibrations should be proper to ensure correct calculations and proper timing of the flush.
User position
Even if the sensor has proper calibrations, the varying user positions are likely to affect the sensor’s function. If one leans too far forward, too far back, or stands while using the toilet, it might be difficult for the sensor to detect a user. You can calibrate the sensor to your typical use and adjust your position to one that will work best for you.
Battery life
As earlier mentioned, these devices are battery-powered. If the battery drains, it is likely that the sensor does not work as effectively. It would help if you regularly replace the batteries.
Conclusion
Automatic flushing toilets are a great convenience feature in any bathroom. Even more awe-inspiring is the science behind their innovation. We hope that this article goes a long way in shedding some light on how these systems work. If you’re interested in auto flushing systems, another bathroom convenience is a portable toilet. Check out our additional guide on how to clean and empty a portable toilet.
