Water Scarcity: An Interview with Klaus Reichardt, of Waterless Co., Inc

The following is a recent interview with Jeff Cross from ISSA (the International Cleaning Industry Association) and Klaus Reichardt, CEO and Founder of Waterless Co., Inc.

Today, I'm speaking with Klaus Reichardt, the CEO and founder of Waterless Co, Inc. His company markets waterless urinals and other restroom products and supplies.

Our discussion will focus on water scarcity, which is becoming a critical issue across many regions of the United States. As parts of the country experience hotter and drier conditions, this trend could significantly impact how buildings are managed and operated.

Q: Klaus, could you tell us about starting Waterless Co? I understand you were the first to market waterless urinals in the United States?

A: Yes, I founded the company in 1991. After graduating from Pepperdine University near Los Angeles, I learned about waterless urinal technology. California was already experiencing worsening drought conditions. Even 35 years ago, I recognized that water conservation and efficiency solutions would become increasingly important. This insight led me to pioneer the introduction of waterless urinals in the U.S.

Q: Are water scarcity issues confined to California, or are other parts of the country affected?

A: While the number of states experiencing drought conditions fluctuates annually, the overall trend is increasing. In recent years, 30 to 35 states have faced varying levels of drought, or an even more serious condition called aridification.

Q: Could you explain what aridification means?

A: Aridification is a long-term process where a region becomes progressively hotter and drier. Unlike drought, which typically lasts one to three years, aridification can persist for decades or become permanent. Scientists predict that large portions of the western United States are entering this phase. We're seeing evidence of this in several ways:

- The Colorado River is experiencing significant water loss.

- Lake Powell and Lake Mead have reached historically low water levels.

- Many streams and lakes throughout the western United States are drying up.

- The recent fires in Los Angeles are very likely the result of aridification.

 Q: How do you see aridification affecting the professional cleaning industry?

A: The cleaning industry will need to undergo significant changes in several key areas:

Traditional Cleaning Methods

In the past, restaurants and commercial kitchens relied on hosing floors and walls for cleaning. This method uses approximately five gallons of water per minute. Similar high-water-volume systems were standard for outdoor cleaning. These water-intensive cleaning methods are no longer sustainable.

Necessary Industry Changes

New cleaning methods must be developed that use less water while maintaining effectiveness. We also need innovative cleaning solutions that don't rely on high-pressure water systems.

I'm also hoping that organizations like ISSA will develop best practices for water efficiency.  Cleaning professionals need training on water-efficient cleaning techniques and reducing the amount of water used in cleaning.

This shift toward using less water and using it more efficiently in cleaning is becoming increasingly critical for long-term industry sustainability.

Q: What advice would you give to building managers regarding water conservation?

A: Building managers should focus on the two primary areas of water consumption in their facilities:

Outdoor Water Use

Managers need to transition to natural, drought-resistant landscaping. These native plants require significantly less irrigation and help reduce outdoor water consumption.

Restroom Management

Managers must go beyond federal guidelines for water efficiency. Select toilets that use 1.25 gallons of water or less per flush and install waterless urinals.

Waterless urinals offer several advantages other than just reducing water consumption.  They tend to have a lower purchase price, and installation costs are less when compared to conventional urinals. Plus, they require minimal, if any, maintenance. Conventional urinals seem to always have problems with their flush mechanism.

These changes will help facilities reduce both water consumption and operating costs. 

Q: Do you have any final thoughts on this topic?

A: Despite our challenges with water scarcity, I remain optimistic. While we can't create new water sources, we're becoming increasingly skilled at using our existing water resources more efficiently and wisely. This trend of improved water management will continue in the years ahead and help us through our current and future water challenges.

Plumbers as Educators

Plumbers, with their expertise and knowledge, are not just pipe fixers; they are integral to public health.

For instance, they know the U-trap, a simple piece of plumbing, plays a vital role in protecting building occupants from harmful sewer gases, and it's the plumbers who understand its mechanics and should convey its importance to clients.

The U-trap, a curved pipe found under every drain in North America, acts as a barrier against sewer gases. These gases, produced by decomposing human and animal waste, contain a cocktail of potentially dangerous germs and bacteria.

The U-trap works by trapping a small amount of water, creating a seal that prevents these noxious gases from entering the building. Think of it as a bouncer at the door of your plumbing system, keeping unwanted guests out.

However, this protective barrier is vulnerable to evaporation. If water doesn't regularly flow through the drain, the water in the U-trap can evaporate, sometimes in just a matter of days. This breach allows sewer gases to escape into the building, posing a significant health risk to everyone inside.

The challenge is amplified in today's commercial real estate landscape. With office vacancy rates hovering around twenty percent nationally, many buildings and specific areas within buildings are underutilized.

This uneven occupancy creates a perfect storm for U-trap evaporation. While some areas may see regular water use, others may sit dormant for extended periods, leading to dry U-traps and the release of sewer gases.

The insidious nature of this problem is that these gases can circulate throughout the entire building, affecting everyone, regardless of their proximity to the empty drain. The health consequences can range from unpleasant odors and mild discomfort to more serious issues, potentially even posing a risk of serious illness or, in extreme cases, death.

 As a plumber, your role as an educator is paramount. Clients, especially building managers, often don't fully grasp the potential health hazards associated with dry U-traps. It's your responsibility to empower them with the knowledge of the science behind the U-trap, the risks of sewer gas exposure, and the importance of preventative maintenance.

While simply pouring water down the drain might seem like a solution, it's often impractical and ineffective in the long run, particularly in large commercial buildings with numerous drains.

A more reliable and efficient approach is to treat all drains with a specialized liquid like EverPrime® every few months. This biodegradable, non-evaporating, and anti-freezing solution creates a protective barrier that effectively prevents U-traps from drying out, safeguarding the health and well-being of building occupants.

It's a small investment that can prevent a potentially significant health crisis and demonstrate your commitment to your client's well-being.

By proactively educating your clients and offering practical solutions, you enhance your professional reputation and play a crucial role in protecting public health. You become more than a plumber; you become a trusted advisor and a vital link in ensuring a safe and healthy environment for everyone.

-Klaus

The True Benefits of Water Conservation (Copy)

California Water Service (Cal Water), which serves 500,000 customers as the nation's third-largest water utility, has reported remarkable success in its water efficiency programs.

On July 29, 2024, the company proudly announced a 20.5% reduction in water bills for its customers over the past 15 years, a significant achievement compared to projected costs without conservation measures. This substantial financial relief is a testament to the power of water conservation.

This finding comes from research by the Alliance for Water Efficiency (AWE), a Chicago-based nonprofit research organization. AWE is widely respected in the water industry for its advocacy of conservation and efficiency practices, and its research forms the basis of many water management strategies.

While it may seem counterintuitive for a utility company to celebrate reduced customer bills, the benefits of water conservation extend far beyond individual savings.

Communities across California and increasingly throughout the United States are realizing that their collective efforts in using less water are creating multiple advantages for residents, municipalities, and utility providers alike. Your role in this movement is crucial, and your actions can make a significant difference.

The AWE study highlights a crucial economic insight: water conservation represents the most cost-effective water supply strategy.

Utilities can postpone or eliminate the need for expensive infrastructure expansions and new water source development projects by reducing consumption.

This approach not only saves money but also promotes environmental sustainability and resource stewardship. By reducing water consumption, we can help preserve natural ecosystems and reduce the energy required for water treatment and distribution, thereby lowering our carbon footprint.

Understanding Conservation vs. Efficiency in Water Management

Before exploring this further, it is essential to distinguish between water conservation and water efficiency, as these terms represent fundamentally different approaches to water management:

Water conservation refers to temporary reductions in water usage, typically implemented in response to specific circumstances such as droughts or short-term water restrictions. These measures are designed to address immediate water scarcity concerns and are usually lifted once the situation improves.

Example: During a drought, water restrictions prevent the washing of cars. When the drought is over, these restrictions are eliminated.

Water efficiency, by contrast, represents a comprehensive, long-term strategy to reduce water consumption permanently.

Example: A facility removes its conventional urinals and installs waterless urinals, which reduce water consumption in the long term.

This approach encompasses:

1. Permanent behavioral changes in water usage across homes, workplaces, and educational institutions.

2. Strategic replacement of water-intensive systems with innovative, water-efficient technologies.

3. Systematic improvements in water management practices.

For facility owners and managers, understanding this distinction is crucial. While conservation measures provide temporary solutions, efficiency investments deliver sustained benefits through permanent reductions in water consumption.

This long-term approach to water efficiency ensures consistent water savings and provides ongoing financial returns through reduced utility costs and improved operational performance. By investing in water efficiency, you can secure a sustainable future for your facility and the community it serves.

Odors No More: Watch and Learn About the Power of Everprime

Learn More About Everprime Here

Should We Add "Use By" Labels to Our Restrooms

Just as food products come with "Best Before" dates or “Use By” dates, perhaps it's time to consider expiration labels for restrooms in schools and commercial facilities. Like other building components, restrooms have a definitive service life that extends beyond mere functionality.

Most restroom components—including sinks, counters, toilets, urinals, and even tiled surfaces—typically have a functional lifespan of around 20 years. The critical point isn't that these elements stop working. Instead, they may no longer meet the evolving needs of building users or address current priorities like water efficiency.

For example, a restroom "use by" date can apply to the following:

1. Changing User Demographics: Buildings often experience shifts in occupancy. Large restrooms can look disproportionate and inefficient when user numbers decline. Alternatively, smaller older restrooms may not have the capacity to handle a more densely populated facility.

2. Evolving Building Codes: Older restrooms frequently fail to meet current accessibility standards, particularly ADA requirements. What was compliant two decades ago may now be inadequate.

3. Aesthetic Obsolescence: Walking into an aging restroom can feel like stepping into an old black-and-white movie—dated and disconnected from modern design sensibilities.

4. Hygiene Concerns: Older restrooms are more likely to harbor persistent bacteria and germs in hard-to-clean areas and aging surfaces despite regular cleaning.

5. Changing User Preferences: Modern design trends emphasize touchless and minimalist experiences. Restroom users do not want to touch any surfaces in the restroom.

6. Design: Contemporary designers view restrooms as more than just functional spaces. They are now conceptualized as potential respite areas and user comfort within commercial environments.

Restroom Renovation Essentials

When renovating a building's restroom, consider these critical updates:

1. ADA Compliance: Referenced earlier, but critical. Ensure the renovated space meets current Americans with Disabilities Act requirements. Older restrooms frequently fall short of modern accessibility standards.

2. Water Efficiency:

   - Install high-efficiency toilets that use less water than legal minimums.

   - Consider waterless urinals to maximize water efficiency and cost savings.

3. Plumbing Infrastructure:

   - Install isolation valves to minimize water service disruption during repairs. This prevents widespread water shutoffs if just a specific area needs service or repair.

4. Touchless Technology. Again mentioned earlier.

   - Implement touchless controls for:

     - Flush valves

     - Faucets

     - Soap dispensers

     - Paper towel dispensers

5. Lighting Upgrade:

   - Replace institutional fluorescent lighting with lighting systems that create a more comfortable, warmer, and more inviting atmosphere.

6. LEED Certification:

   - If seeking LEED certification, consult with a LEED professional before renovation begins.  Regarding restrooms, installing high-efficiency toilets and waterless urinals may be all that is needed to meet LEED requirements in restrooms.

The bottom-line: Don't let your restroom exceed its "use by" date. In today's fast-evolving and competitive commercial real estate market, regular renovations prevent restrooms from becoming outdated. View it as key to keeping old tenants happy while also providing new tenants with a good first impression of your property.

-Klaus

How 2025 Plumbing Trends Will Impact Facility Management and Building Maintenance

The plumbing industry is set for a significant technological transformation in 2025, reshaping facility management, cleaning, and maintenance. Klaus Reichardt, CEO and founder of Waterless Co., Inc., attributes this transformation to advancements in artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things (IoT), robots, and enhanced water efficiency technologies..

 Among the key trends he says we can expect are the following:  

1. Remote Monitoring: New smartphone apps will provide real-time data on building water pressure, flow, temperature, leak detection, and enable water shutoffs. Reichardt notes, “This enables managers to be more proactive in water management 24/7, preventing costly water damage, eliminating emergency cleanups, and improving [water] efficiency.”  

2. Smart Water Management Systems: These systems identify water consumption patterns, automatically adjust to prevent water waste, maintain optimal plumbing performance, and offer actionable recommendations to enhance water efficiency, such as suggesting the installation of low-flow toilets and no-water urinals.

Reichardt explains, “These intelligent systems go beyond monitoring to actively improve facility water management, optimization, and provide strategic upgrade recommendations.”  

3. Augmented Reality (AR): Remarkably, AR simplifies repairs by allowing users to measure distances, angles, and pipe diameters precisely in plumbing systems deeply embedded in walls and under floors. It also offers step-by-step guidance for plumbing repairs, displays detailed 3D models of complex plumbing components, and creates training scenarios for skill development.

Reichardt notes, “AR enables facility managers and maintenance staff to manage complex plumbing challenges with greater confidence and competence, helping them quickly and effectively diagnose and resolve most plumbing issues.”  

4. Robotic Pipe Inspection: Robotic devices can produce high-resolution images and collect data on a facility’s overall plumbing condition. Reichardt points out that many plumbing issues, such as tiny cracks and corrosion developing in pipes, cannot be seen with the naked eye. “These robotics can detect them, allowing plumbers and maintenance personnel to prioritize plumbing tasks.”  

These new plumbing technologies will benefit property managers in several ways, according to Reichardt. “They will help them cut costs, ensure tenant satisfaction, and use water more efficiently, reducing overall consumption. They take the guesswork out of plumbing, allowing managers to make more confident decisions about their plumbing systems."

Curious About Waterless Wonders

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

Addressing a New Set of Water-Related Challenges

Having been involved with water-related issues for over thirty years, I have witnessed a significant evolution in the terms used to discuss water-related issues.

Years ago, when it came to reducing water consumption, the term most frequently heard was water conservation. That was true until about ten years ago when a new term became popular: water efficiency.

So, we are clear: water conservation focuses on short-term reductions in water consumption, such as during a drought.  That's not the case with water efficiency.

Water efficiency refers to long-term water reductions, emphasizing the need for sustainable, long-lasting solutions. Typically, this means installing products, devices, and technologies that use less, or no water compared to traditional products.

Waterless urinals are a perfect example. They eliminate the need for water, making them a long-term solution to reducing water consumption.

However, today, a new word is evolving. This one reflects changes in climate conditions in different regions around the globe. That word: aridification.

Aridification is the gradual process whereby a region becomes increasingly dry and hot, diverging significantly from its historical climate norms.  At its very worst, aridification can lead to fires and severe fire conditions, as has happened in Southern California.

Dealing with the Challenges of Aridification

Fortunately, there are steps we can take now to address aridification. Among them are the following:

Embracing Water-Efficient Technologies

During the oil crisis of 1973, many countries around the world, along with builders and designers, were forced to examine their buildings' energy use and efficiency. They realized that these facilities were built to depend on fossil fuels to heat them in the winter and cool them in the summer. After the oil crisis, buildings were constructed so that they used less energy and used it more efficiently.

Due to aridification, we must do the same with water when constructing and renovating buildings. Further, with every restroom fixture and water-using device installed in a facility, we must ensure that the most water-efficient systems are selected and installed.

Expanding Water Reuse Programs

This is the practice of reclaiming water from various sources, treating it, and reusing it for beneficial purposes. This could be for vegetation and human consumption.

Some areas of the world have extensive recycling and reuse programs, but far too many have few or none. Making matters worse, it is often in these areas that aridification is most acute. To ensure water security around the globe and deal with the many challenges aridification poses, water reuse programs are necessary, and for those countries that already have them, they must be expanded.

Desalination's Possibilities

Saudi Arabia pioneered the use of desalination technology in 1938. However, historically, desalination plants have faced significant challenges starting with their excessive costs to build and operate. Plus, there are environmental concerns. They often require substantial energy, typically derived from fossil fuels like petroleum, to operate and can contribute to greenhouse gas emissions.

Today, desalination costs are decreasing. Moreover, mobile desalination systems are available that can be placed where and when needed, offering significant cost savings. This makes desalination technology more viable globally.

We started our discussion about how the terms used to discuss water-related issues have been changing. However, one thing that has not changed in all these years is that we can address our water challenges, including those caused by aridification. Technology is on our side. We just must put it to use.

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

Waterless Urinals in America: Evolution, Solutions, Benefits

Cartridge used in a Waterless Urinal

Waterless urinals have transformed American restrooms by helping facilities reduce both costs and water usage. Introduced to North America in 1991 by Waterless Co., Inc., these fixtures faced several initial challenges that have since been overcome.

In 2004, engineers at a building systems symposium in Texas documented both the benefits and challenges of this new technology. Here's how the main challenges were addressed:

1. Making Users Comfortable

At first, people were hesitant to use waterless urinals simply because they couldn't find the flush handle. The solution was straightforward: universities pioneered the use of explanatory signs showing that users could simply walk away after use. As waterless urinals became commonplace, these signs became unnecessary.

2. Simplifying Maintenance

The key feature of waterless urinals is a base cartridge that collects urine and blocks sewer odors (see image above). Initially, maintenance staff struggled with servicing these units. Two developments solved this problem:

- Better tools for cartridge removal

- Improved staff training programs

Now, replacing cartridges and cleaning waterless urinals is a quick, simple process.

3. Streamlining Installation

Converting from conventional to waterless urinals requires capping water supply lines and removing flush valves. Sometimes the urinal needs repositioning since it no longer needs flush mechanisms. Today, plumbers and contractors are well-versed in these installations. In new buildings, waterless urinals can often use the same location as conventional ones, with the water supply simply turned off.

4. Managing Costs

While initial costs were once a concern, waterless urinals now cost about the same as conventional units. The real financial benefit comes from long-term savings on water costs, which have risen over 40% since 2012 according to Bluefield Research. Since waterless urinals use no water at all, they offer significant ongoing savings.

Looking ahead, water scarcity is expected to become a major issue in the United States. According to Klaus Reichardt, CEO of Waterless Co., Inc., resolving these early challenges has paved the way for wider adoption of waterless urinals as a water-conservation solution.

Climate Change and Water Security

Climate change is now a widely accepted global phenomenon, even if there is debate about its causes. As our planet warms, its effects are being felt worldwide, particularly in how it impacts our water resources.

While drought is often the first concern that comes to mind when discussing climate change's effects on water, the reality is more complex. Climate change impacts water patterns in multiple ways, including the following: 

Increased Flooding

While some regions face drought and water shortages, others experience devastating floods – often in areas previously unaccustomed to such severe flooding. For example, in southern Germany's Bavaria region, flooding in 2024 claimed five lives and injured thousands. During his visit to the affected areas, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz emphasized that this wasn't an isolated incident, but part of a growing pattern of climate-related disasters, particularly flooding events. 

Complex Water Cycle Disruption

Global temperature rise is dramatically altering Earth's natural water cycle. Here's how this disruption unfolds:

First, higher temperatures accelerate evaporation, pulling more moisture from soil, lakes, and rivers. This increased evaporation causes water shortages in many regions.

When this excess atmospheric moisture eventually falls as rain, it often comes as intense downpours rather than gentle rainfall. These heavy rains pose a particular problem when they hit areas suffering from drought: the parched, hardened soil can't absorb water quickly enough. Instead of soaking into the ground, the water runs off the surface, triggering flash floods that damage infrastructure and threaten both human and animal life.

After these flooding events, affected regions typically return to dry conditions. This creates a harmful pattern: long periods of drought punctuated by devastating floods, rather than the more balanced distribution of rainfall that characterized these regions in the past. 

Impact on Ecosystems and Water Sources

Changing precipitation patterns and water availability are transforming ecosystems worldwide. These changes ripple through the environment, affecting:

- Plant life

- Wildlife

- Marine ecosystems

- Water quality and availability

In response, many regions, particularly in the United States, are increasingly relying on underground aquifers. However, these ancient water sources, which have taken thousands of years to collect water, face a critical sustainability challenge: once depleted, they may require centuries to replenish. 

Meeting Future Water Security Challenges

Historical patterns of drought and flooding have shifted significantly with a changing climate.  While such events were once considered temporary – happening just once or lasting one to three years – climate change has introduced unprecedented uncertainty. We can no longer reliably predict:

- The duration of droughts and water shortages

- The frequency of flooding events, such as those discussed in Germany earlier

- Which regions might face new water-related challenges. 

Ensuring Water Security

To ensure water security in 2025 and beyond, two key strategies are essential:

Adaptive Water Management

Countries must develop flexible approaches to water management that can respond to rapidly changing climate conditions. This requires anticipating and preparing for various scenarios rather than relying on historical patterns. 

Enhanced Water Efficiency

Water efficiency must become a priority through:

- Responsible resource management

- Adoption of water-saving technologies

- Implementation of water-elimination technologies where possible; the use of no-water urinals is a perfect example.

By combining adaptive management with improved efficiency, we can better protect our water resources, reduce waste, and maintain water security in an increasingly unpredictable climate future.

-Klaus