Recently, a publication focusing on operating college and universities asked us about the unique selling points of waterless urinals. What sets them apart and what makes them a valuable addition to college campuses?
They sent us written questions, and we provided written answers.
Some of those are below:
What are some short and long-term benefits for colleges and universities to install no-water urinals?
Based on the feedback from hundreds of our customers over the past 34 years, waterless urinals offer both initial and long-term savings.
Initial Benefits
• Reduced Installation Costs: Flush handles, sensors, or incoming waterlines are unnecessary.
• Simplified Maintenance: Easier cleaning with an all-purpose cleaner and cleaning cloth.
• Improved Hygiene: Their dry interior prevents bacteria and contaminant growth.
• Vandalism Resistance: No flush handles to damage.
Long-term Benefits
• Significant Water Conservation: Savings of up to 35,000 gallons of potable water per urinal annually
• Ongoing Cost Savings: Reduces water bills.
• Minimal Repairs: These urinals rarely require repair, eliminating maintenance expenses.
• No Mineral Buildup: The absence of water prevents rust and mineral deposits.
• Healthier Environment: Waterless urinals stay dry, so there is less contamination, helping to keep the entire restroom healthier.
How does the technology work?
The technology behind waterless urinals is straightforward. They use gravity to drain urine into a trap cylinder at the base of the urinal. It’s filled with a liquid sealant to prevent odors from being released into the air. The urine then flows into a standard drainpipe below the urinal, similar to conventional urinals.
How long have waterless urinals been available in North America?
Waterless urinals were introduced in 1991. Variations of these urinals have been installed in parts of Europe for decades, but their steady growth in North America has been particularly notable. The technology gained traction in the U.S. due to record droughts and among facilities seeking LEED certification. Facilities can earn several points toward certification when these urinals are installed.
How else can college campuses reduce water consumption?
When it comes to water efficiency, it's crucial to view it as a journey rather than a destination. This perspective inspires continuous improvement and a commitment to finding new and better ways to reduce water consumption.
With this mindset, here are some more effective strategies:
1. Install Water Efficient Fixtures: This includes dual-flush toilets, faucets, showerheads, in addition to waterless urinals. In kitchens, opt for water-efficient dishwashers.
2. Upgrade Irrigation Systems: Implement smart irrigation systems that adjust watering schedules based on weather conditions. Also, drought-tolerant native plants should be installed in landscaping to reduce the need for watering.
3. Leak Detection and Repair: This is very important. Regular inspections should be conducted to identify and fix leaks in the plumbing system. Also, smart water meters should be installed to monitor usage 24/7and detect leaks quickly.
4. Recycling and Reusing Water: Implement greywater systems to recycle water from sinks and showers for irrigation. This is a perfect use for greywater.
5. Awareness and Education Campaigns: Educate students, faculty, and staff about the importance of water efficiency. This can be very powerful. It helps encourage all types of water-saving behaviors.
6. Policy and Incentives: Implement policies promoting water efficiency, such as restricting potable water use for non-essential purposes. Another policy that can work wonders is to provide incentives for departments and dorms to implement their own water-saving goals - and be rewarded for doing so.
When it comes to water efficiency, it’s not one strategy that works best but a combination of methods. And remember what we mentioned earlier. View water efficiency and reducing water consumption as a journey.
Once the process starts, new strategies are sure to follow. This helps campuses become even more water efficient and helps to reduce what is invariably a significant operational cost – the cost of water.
Klaus Reichardt is CEO and founder of Waterless Co, Inc., a pioneer in advancing water efficiency. Reichardt is a frequent author and presenter who discusses water conservation issues. He can be reached at klaus@waterless.com
