Modern Flush Switches Also Feature Tank-full Indicator

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Modern Flush Switches Also Feature Tank-full Indicator

All of these units came with what we call “smart” switches, which control the flow and timing of various filling and flushing functions. Most allowed for about a half-gallon of water for a full flush and a 5-second delay between rinse and flush. On some units, the user could adjust the timing and volume of water required for flushing.

1. The Planus had a simple push-to-flush button with a tank-full indicator. Flushing was timed, and water use could be custom-set.

2. Testers found the Dometic toggle switches for “fill,” “flush,” and “empty” easy to use. The newest switch has a power and tank-full indicator.

3. The chrome-plated handle on the Raritan Atlantes is linked to an electronic switch that triggers a customizable flushing sequence.

4. The two-button Thetford-Tecma switch for the Silence Plus has timed fill and flush functions, as well as a full-tank light, an important feature.

Darrell Nicholson
Practical Sailor has been independently testing and reporting on sailboats and sailing gear for more than 50 years. Its independent tests are carried out by experienced sailors and marine industry professionals dedicated to providing objective evaluation and reporting about boats, gear, and the skills required to cross oceans. Practical Sailor is edited by Darrell Nicholson, a long-time liveaboard sailor and trans-Pacific cruiser who has been director of Belvoir Media Group's marine division since 2005. He holds a U.S. Coast Guard 100-ton Master license, has logged tens of thousands of miles in three oceans, and has skippered everything from pilot boats to day charter cats. His weekly blog Inside Practical Sailor offers an inside look at current research and gear tests at Practical Sailor, while his award-winning column,"Rhumb Lines," tracks boating trends and reflects upon the sailing life. He sails a Sparkman & Stephens-designed Yankee 30 out of St. Petersburg, Florida. You can reach him at darrellnicholson.com.