If you've been looking to get a new toilet, or two, for your home, now may be the time to do so.
Coquitlam says it's offering $100 rebates to homeowners to replace old thrones with specific light-flush models as part of a new pilot program aiming to preserve drinking water across the city.
Environment manager Caresse Selk says the average resident uses up to 250 litres of water at home each day, equivalent to 63 four-litre jugs of milk.
"In this region, that’s the same treated drinking water that comes from our mountain reservoirs to your household taps," she explains in a statement today (Oct. 27).
"Part of Coquitlam’s 2021 Enhanced Water Conservation Strategy, the toilet rebate program will help conserve water and reduce the pressure on the city’s water and sewer system. The water savings from switching toilets is significant."
According to the city, older-style toilets use up to eight litres of more water per flush than updated single- or dual-flush models.
It adds that number could also flood over to 13 litres through leaks in plumbing, service lines and even dripping faucets, which account for 15 per cent of Coquitlam's wasted water from both residential and non-residential homes.
Selk says by switching to toilets with bowls that hold up to six litres of water, usage would be reduced across the city by 30 per cent.
"By replacing their remaining older toilets, Coquitlam residents will help support drinking water conservation."
HOW DOES IT WORK?
At $100 each, homeowners could receive up to two utility tax credits if their application(s) is approved by Coquitlam.
The forms must be submitted after purchasing a new toilet. Qualifying applicants who bought one on or after Oct. 11, 2021, will be accepted, the city says.
The single- or multi-family residential property must have a City of Coquitlam utility account as that's where the money will be credited.
Detailed criteria are as follows:
- Purchase a new Canadian-certified toilet with a single-flush capacity of 4.8 litres or a dual-flush capacity of up to six litres
- Provide photos and proof of purchase showing they are replacing an old toilet that has a flush volume of 13 litres or more with a qualifying new model
- Submit the online application form within 90 days of purchasing the new toilet
For more information on Coquitlam's toilet rebate, you're encouraged to visit the city's website.
