We are updating our questions and answers about waterless urinals because of the growing interest in no-water urinals.
This growing interest is understandable. Water scarcity and stricter water regulations are prompting consumers, building owners, and managers to explore new and proven water-saving solutions.
Below are some of the questions we have recently received about waterless urinals, along with our answers.
Can you install waterless urinals in homes?
Yes, and this has been happening - a bit under the radar - for a few years. What's changed is that more people are considering installing these urinals, especially if they are renovating a bathroom.
Are waterless urinals better for the environment than conventional urinals?
The answer is yes, but this is a very broad question. Let's narrow it down. Waterless urinals are better for the environment in four essential ways:
1. They reduce water consumption. Without question, this is their number one contribution to improving and protecting the environment.
2. They cut water waste. Billions of gallons of water are wasted each year by malfunctioning flush mechanisms, restroom users tampering with urinal flush handles, leaking urinals, and unnecessary flushing.
3. They create less sewage because no water is necessary. This reduces the burden on failing and fragile water infrastructure throughout the U.S. and the world. In addition, fewer chemicals are used in effluent treatment.
4. They cut carbon emissions. It is estimated that for every 1 thousand liters or 264 gallons of water saved by a waterless urinal, approximately 175 grams of carbon are also saved, totaling 720 pounds of carbon annually. This is because unlike a waterless urinal, a conventional urinal requires energy to deliver and remove water - energy that releases carbon emissions into the atmosphere.
How often do you change the cartridge in waterless urinals?
This is not a new question. We are listing it here because we are being asked this question more frequently today. Our answer, as in the past, is that it depends. Under normal conditions, the cartridge should be replaced every three to six months with urinals marketed by Waterless Co., Inc. However, with some brands, the cartridge may need to be changed every two to three months and very often, these are more costly cartridges. Be sure to investigate this before selecting a no-water urinal.
How much should we budget in annual costs for maintaining a waterless urinal?
This varies, and we can only speak for our waterless urinals. Over the course of the year, the cartridges will need to be changed about two to four times per year. These cartridges cost, on average, $9 to $15. Also, a few ounces of liquid sealant, such as BlueSeal®, must be added to the cartridge to block odors from being released into the restroom. BlueSeal is a very cost-effective product. This makes the total yearly maintenance cost per urinal approximately $50.
In perspective, each time the flush mechanism on one conventional urinal must be repaired or replaced, expect to pay $60 to $250.
Where can we select waterless urinals?
We always suggest working with a plumbing distributor whenever possible. A plumbing distributor will understand your specific needs and help you select the best waterless urinal model to address those needs. Of course, several online retailers also market waterless urinals. However, many consumers purchase waterless urinals online with few, if any problems.
What are the main problems with no-water urinals?
Unlike a toilet, conventional urinal, or faucet, a waterless urinal has no mechanical parts that can fail, so it has few if any problems. Should the urinal cartridge become clogged, usually due to the accumulation of urine particle deposits, this can easily be corrected by replacing the cartridge per manufacturer’s instructions. A plumber rarely needs to be called in to service a waterless urinal.
Here's the big picture.
Waterless urinals are a practical solution for all facilities, especially those in drought-prone areas or with many restrooms. They are also cost-effective and reduce building operating costs, giving them a remarkably high return on the investment – something all building owners would certainly welcome right now.
- Klaus
Klaus Reichardt, CEO & Founder at Waterless Co Inc. He is widely known as a thought leader and influencer when it comes to water related issues. Waterless company helps facilities use water more efficiently, reduce water consumption, and lower operating costs.
