Frequently Asked Questions - Toilet Rebate Program

How do I figure out the flushing volume of the toilet I'm replacing?

First look for a stamp on your toilet that lists the flushing volume.  It may be on the inside or rear of the tank, on the tank label, on the top of the tank, or on the flush valve.

If you can’t find a stamp you will have to measure the tank to calculate its volume.  This is very easy to do by following three simple steps:

1. Using a ruler or measuring tape:  Record the length, width, and depth of water in the tank.  Record measurements in centimetres!
2. Use a calculator to multiply the length (cm) by the width (cm) by the depth (cm) and record this number.
3. Divide the number from Step 2 by 1000 and record the result.  The result is the flushing volume of your toilet measure in litres per flush.

For example:

Step 1:  Using a ruler or tape measure you record a length of 40 cm, width of 30 cm, and a depth of water 20 cm for your old toilet tank.

Step 2:  40 times 30 times 20 = 24,000

Step 3:  24,000 divided by 1000 = 24 litres per flush.

If you have problems calculating the volume, contact the Engineering Department at (604) 793-2907.

Remember - you need to include the flushing volume of your old toilet on the application form for your rebate to be processed and approved.

What do I do with my old toilet?

• Old toilets can be dropped it off at the City of Chilliwack Bailey Sanitary Landfill at 5940 Matheson Road free of charge.  Hours of operation are Monday to Saturday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, and Sunday, 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm.  Keep your scale ticket as proof of drop off.
  OR
• Other disposal or recycling options can be used; however, tanks must not be allowed back into circulation.  Whatever alternate method of disposal you choose, photo proof of the tank broken is required.
  OR
• If a plumber is removing and disposing of the old toilet it must be indicated on the invoice.

Do low-flow toilets really work?  Does anyone test these toilets for performance?

Yes!  Low flow toilets are designed to perform as reliably at waste removal efficiency as any large volume toilet, but with less than half the water. 

North American wide independent testing and rating is conducted on an annual basis to determine the maximum performance (MaP) rating of toilets. MaP rating of 350 is widely cited as a minimum performance threshold for meeting customer expectation.  Toilets with higher MaP scores have better performance. 

What does “MaP rating” mean (Maximum Performance Rating)?

The maximum performance rating (MaP) of toilets is determined by independent testing carried out across North American.  MaP testing was created to identify how well toilets perform bulk removal using a realistic test media, and to grade each toilet model based on this performance.

The highest rating attainable is 1000 and a minimum of 350 is highly cited as the minimum performance threshold for meeting customer expectations.

Can I just replace part of my toilet and still be eligible for the rebate?

No – rebates are only available if the entire toilet is replaced.

Am I still eligible if a plumber supplied and installed the new toilet(s)?

Yes – as long as you submit an official receipt/invoice.

Are there a maximum number of toilets that I can purchase and expect rebates for?

There is a limit of two (2) toilet rebates per single family dwelling at this time. This is due to a limited number of rebates available for all of Chilliwack.

Why am I not eligible for a rebate if I have a permit for a renovation of my bathroom?

As of September 30th, 2005, under the Provincial Water Conservation Plumbing Regulation, any permit issued for a renovation of a bathroom requires that a 6 litre or less water-efficient toilet be installed.

How long after I submit an application do I have to wait for my rebate?

Rebates are issued on a first-come, first-served basis and submission of an application does not guarantee a rebate. The application process is estimated to take approximately 6 to 8 weeks.

What if I have other questions not covered in this FAQ?

For more information, please review the brochure or contact the Engineering Department at 604-793-2907.