At a recent conference in Germany, Klaus Reichardt, CEO and Founder of California-based Waterless Co., Inc., answered questions about waterless urinals, their pros, cons, and solutions before a group of German builders, building owners, and managers.  

Below are some of those questions and his answers. While sometimes specific to Germany and Europe, these answers apply universally, making them relevant wherever Waterless urinals are considered or installed. 

Do certain facilities benefit more from installing waterless urinals than others?

While all facilities can benefit from waterless urinals, some, like convention centers, may benefit the most. These large venues, used by millions of people annually, consume vast amounts of water. Installing waterless urinals can significantly cut water usage and operating costs. That's why many sports venues, which are also used by millions of people, have already installed them and are now enjoying water and cost savings.  

Are there facilities where waterless urinals cannot be installed?

For the most part, not any longer. Some areas of the world may still have plumbing codes that deter the installation of no-water urinals, but in North America and most of Europe, these codes have mostly been removed or are no longer applicable. However, some exceptions may exist, such as historical buildings with strict preservation rules, which might prevent the installation of waterless urinals.  

Along these lines, have you ever told a building owner or manager they should not install waterless urinals in an existing facility?

Actually, I have. Before installing waterless urinals, building owners and managers must ask themselves three questions:

1.    How many men would be using the urinals?

2.    How many times a day?

3.    How many days per week?

Installing waterless urinals may not be cost-effective for a small location with just a few building users. However, waterless urinals should be considered during renovations or new construction, assuring a sound investment, no matter how many people use or work in the facility.

Is sustainability a key factor in installing waterless urinals?

Yes, that is a factor, but at the end of the day, cost savings has become the key reason for adopting waterless urinals. Water and sewer costs can vary by location in Europe and throughout North America. Still, overall, water is becoming very expensive around the globe especially in Germany and other parts of Europe. According to the NCESC Geographic FAQ, which provides information for people and organizations considering relocation, water in Europe 'can cost up to four times more than in the U.S.'

Additionally, wastewater removal from facilities can be 'considerably higher in Europe than in the U.S.' For instance, in Germany, the average cost of water and wastewater removal for a medium-sized business can be significantly higher than in the U.S.  

Are waterless urinals less or more expensive to clean and maintain than traditional ones?

The costs to clean and maintain traditional and waterless urinals are the same – but with one exception.  We still find that some manufacturers require specific cylinders (these are placed at the bottom of most waterless urinals) that cost more and have shorter life spans than other waterless urinals.  As with the selection of virtually all products, some due diligence is necessary to select the most cost-effective waterless urinals. 

What's the funniest or strangest question you've ever been asked about waterless urinals?

Well, since you asked, I was talking to a group of building owners and managers in a meeting just like this when suddenly, someone asked with genuine curiosity, "Should we install these in the ladies' restroom?"  I just had to keep a straight face and say urinals are designed specifically for men in men's restrooms. Then I added, "They're definitely not something I foresee ladies lining up to use." It was a light-hearted moment that brought some humor to the discussion.

-Klaus