Smart toilets have become a must-have feature in modern bathrooms, offering comfort, hygiene, and convenience. But one common question remains: what happens to a smart toilet during a power outage?

The short answer is yes and no. Some models include features that allow them to flush without power, while others rely entirely on electricity. The difference comes down to how the toilet is designed and whether it has backup options in place.

If you live in an area prone to blackouts, this is more than a hypothetical concern. In this guide, we’ll break down how smart toilets function without electricity, what backup options are available, and how to prepare your bathroom for unexpected outages.

Do Smart Toilets Rely on Power to Flush?

The answer depends on the type of smart toilet you install:

• Tank-based smart toilets: Many use a traditional gravity-fed flushing system, meaning you can still flush manually even if the power is out.
  
  

• Tankless smart toilets: These rely on electric pumps to flush, so they may not function at all during a blackout unless equipped with a backup solution.
  
  

In short, the more advanced and fully electric the model, the more dependent it is on power for basic operation.

 

Backup Features in Smart Toilets

Manufacturers understand that power outages happen, so many smart toilets come with built-in solutions:

• Manual flush levers or buttons – A discreet lever or button often allows a gravity-powered flush.
  

• Battery backup systems – Premium models may include rechargeable batteries that provide limited flushing power during outages.
  

• Hybrid systems – Some designs combine electric and gravity-based mechanisms, ensuring you can still flush without power.
  
  

These features can make a big difference in emergencies, especially in family homes.

 

How to Flush a Smart Toilet Without Power?

If your toilet doesn’t have built-in backup features, you can still manage with some simple methods:

• Use the manual flush: If your model includes it, this is the easiest option.
  

• Bucket flush method: Pour around 4 litres of water directly into the bowl to simulate a flush.
  

• Portable power solutions: A small generator or power bank can sometimes provide enough energy for essential functions.
  
  

Tip: Keep a clean water container in your home for emergencies—it’s a quick fix for any toilet that won’t flush during an outage.

Preparing for Blackouts: Homeowner Tips

Being prepared avoids frustration when the power goes out. Here’s how:

• Choose a smart toilet with manual or battery backup features.

• Keep a small water supply ready for emergency flushing.

• If possible, connect your bathroom essentials to a portable generator.

• For new renovations, discuss with your installer whether a gravity-fed in-wall system or a tankless model is best for your lifestyle.
  
  

BathTec’s  in-wall tank smart toilets combine style with practicality, and many can still flush even if the power fails.

Do Heated Seats and Other Features Still Work?

During a power outage, high-tech extras like heated seats, warm water bidets, and automatic lids will stop working unless the model has battery support.

However, the basic function of flushing is what matters most in an emergency. Features like deodorisation, lighting, or air drying may have to wait until power is restored.

Why This Matters for Renovators and Homeowners

When renovating, it’s important to think beyond luxury. A smart toilet that only works with electricity can create problems during blackouts, while one with hybrid or backup systems offers both innovation and reliability.

For homeowners, this means:

• Peace of mind during outages

• Reliable sanitation no matter the situation

• Increased buyer appeal when selling, as buyers value both smart design and practicality
  
  

Final Thoughts

So, do smart toilets work during power outages? Yes and no—it depends on the model.

• Tank-based toilets with gravity flush will usually still work.

• Tankless or fully electric models may need manual flushing or backup solutions.

• Choosing a smart toilet with emergency features ensures you won’t be left stranded during a blackout.
  
  

When planning your bathroom renovation, balance luxury features with practical backup options. With BathTec’s smart toilet collections, you can enjoy modern comfort and still be prepared when the unexpected happens.

Explore the full BathTec smart toilet range to find the right fit for your home.