Q&A with Klaus Reichardt: Founding Waterless Co. Inc.

Q: What does Waterless Co., Inc. do?

A: We market urinals that eliminate the use of water, reduce costs, improve restroom hygiene, and protect human health.

Q: Why did you start Waterless Co.?

A: The idea came from my college days at Pepperdine University in Southern California. Living through constant droughts and water shortages was a wake-up call. I watched the same pattern repeat: drought hits, restrictions are imposed, then everything "goes back to normal." I realized droughts aren't temporary—they're part of a larger pattern driven by climate change, population growth, and overuse of water.

Q: What inspired you to focus specifically on restrooms?

A: After graduation, I began exploring how we could rethink water use, especially in restrooms—one of the most water-intensive areas in any facility. That's when I discovered waterless urinals. It was a breakthrough: a way to save thousands of gallons of water every year without compromising hygiene or performance.

Q: When was Waterless Co. Inc founded?

A: In 1991. We were the first company in the U.S. to introduce and market no-water urinals nationwide.

Q: Where have your products been installed?

A: Our products have been installed in schools, offices, public buildings, and major sports stadiums across the country.

Q: After thirty-five years in the industry, what has remained constant?

A: Our "why." We exist to advance water efficiency—to help people, businesses, and communities use water more responsibly and sustainably. Purpose must always guide progress.

Q: What keeps you motivated after all these years?

A: Remembering why I started in the first place. I frequently rewatch Simon Sinek's talk about the importance of knowing your "why." It reminds me that when we act with purpose, innovation follows naturally. Let's continue to use water wisely—together.

Plumbing Questions You've Always Wanted Answered

What Is a Water Closet?

The term water closet, often abbreviated as WC, refers to a room containing only a toilet, usually without a sink. The WC dates back to 16th-century England and was a significant step in the evolution of indoor plumbing, moving sanitation from outdoor outhouses to the convenience and comfort of indoor facilities.

Originally, these fixtures were a luxury reserved for the wealthy and royalty. The first known WC in the U.S. was installed in a home in Annapolis, Maryland, around 1765. In 1804, Thomas Jefferson had two of them installed in the White House, a full 30 years before a water supply for bathing and drinking was available in the president’s home.

Why Do Plumbing Systems Have Air Vents on the Roof?

Sometimes these are called a plumbing vent stack and you can see them on top of roofs. This essential component is a vertical pipe that connects to all the drains in your home's plumbing system. Its primary purpose is to release unpleasant and potentially hazardous sewer gases that build up in the pipes.

In addition, the vent stack allows fresh air into the system. This fresh air helps water flow smoothly through your drains, preventing a gurgling sound or slow drainage.

If a vent stack gets blocked by debris like leaves or animal nests, you might notice a few warning signs. A telltale sign is a persistent foul odor in your home with no obvious source. Another common indicator is when a drain, like a sink or shower, drains very slowly. While your first instinct might be a clog in the drainpipe itself, the issue is often a lack of proper airflow from a blocked vent stack. Clearing the vent can solve the problem.

Why Do P-Traps Dry Out?

A P-trap is the curved pipe located under a sink or drain. Its design traps a small amount of water, which creates a water seal. This water seal is crucial because it prevents sewer gases from entering your home.

The issue with P-trap is that they dry frequently, especially if you live in a hot, dry climate. When this happens, a foul, sewer-like odor can develop, sometimes carrying harmful gases like hydrogen sulfide.

Pouring water down the drain is a temporary fix, but the water will eventually evaporate again. Pouring bleach down the drain to fix the problem can be dangerous. Bleach can react with sewer gases to create toxic fumes.

A safer and longer-lasting solution is to use products designed to maintain the water seal, such as Everprime. This biodegradable liquid can keep the water seal intact for an extended period, even in hot climates or with infrequent use. Pouring a few ounces down all your drains can help maintain a healthy, clean, and fresh smelling home or office.

Waterless Co., Inc is a pioneer in water efficiency. We are the go-to company when it comes to reducing water consumption, understanding the many benefits of waterless urinals, and water efficiently. For more information, contact a Waterless Co Specialist. 

Image above by Orel Ankori found on Unsplash.

10 Must-Know Facts Before Installing Waterless Urinals

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When evaluating waterless urinal installation, most facility managers and building owners focus on one benefit — water savings. While reducing water use is a major advantage, several other critical factors should be reviewed before installing waterless urinals in your facility.

1. Understand How Waterless Urinal Technology Works

• Waterless urinals use no water to flush.

• They rely on gravity to direct urine into a cartridge filled with a sealant liquid.

• This sealant moves urine into the drain and blocks restroom odors from escaping.

• The result: odor-free, low-maintenance restroom performance with zero water waste.

2. Determine If Your Facility Is a Good Fit

• Best suited for high-traffic commercial buildings such as:

• Schools and universities

• Airports and transportation hubs

• Stadiums and arenas

• Office buildings and government facilities

• Delivers the greatest value where water savings, lower operating costs, and simplified maintenance make the biggest impact.

3. Verify Installation Requirements

• Compatible with most existing plumbing systems.

• Can be installed directly in place of traditional urinals.

• Inspect older or corroded drain lines before installation to ensure optimal performance.

• Newer or modernized facilities typically present no compatibility issues.

• Proper installation and ventilation are key to long-term success.

4. Recognize the Full Range of Benefits

Beyond water conservation, the benefits of waterless urinals include:

• Lower water and sewer bills

• Reduced maintenance and plumbing costs

• No flush handles — fewer vandalism and repair issues

• Faster, easier cleaning and sanitation

• Potentially lower installation costs than traditional flush urinals

• Contributes to a cleaner, greener restroom environment

5. Understand and Reduce Urinal Splatter (Splash Back)

• Urinal splatter occurs when droplets rebound from the urinal surface.

• Can affect hygiene and cleanliness in public restrooms.

• Waterless urinals minimize splatter because there’s no flush water creating turbulence.

• Urine drains directly to the bottom, reducing mess and improving restroom hygiene.

6. Learn How to Clean Waterless Urinals Properly

• Never flush with water — it can damage the cartridge or trap.

• Use a neutral cleaner or disinfectant and a soft cloth to wipe surfaces.

• Regular cleaning keeps urinals odor-free and performing efficiently.

• Proper maintenance can extend cartridge life and reduce long-term costs.

7. Explore Product and Cartridge Options

• Not all waterless urinal systems are created equal.

• Cartridge lifespans differ by manufacturer — from a few months to longer intervals.

• Choosing a long-life cartridge system reduces maintenance frequency and costs.

• Review brand warranties, replacement costs, and environmental certifications before purchasing.

8. Consider LEED and Green Building Certification

• LEED v5 and other green building standards award points for installing water-saving restroom fixtures.

• Waterless urinals contribute to LEED certification, helping facilities meet sustainability benchmarks.

• Can also help contribute to WELL certification.

9. Align with Your Sustainability Strategy

• Perfect for organizations pursuing water reduction, net-zero, or sustainable operations.

• Reinforces your corporate sustainability commitment.

• Demonstrates environmental leadership in response to growing water scarcity across North America.

• Publicly showcasing these efforts can strengthen your brand reputation.

10. Know the Expected Lifespan and ROI

• A high-quality waterless urinal can last as long or longer than flush urinals.

• With no moving parts, there’s less risk of breakage or downtime.

• Choose a timeless design to maintain aesthetic appeal over time.

• Long-term ROI comes from reduced water use, lower maintenance, and fewer repairs.

Key Takeaway

By reviewing these ten factors, facility managers and building owners can make an informed decision about installing waterless urinals. In most cases, the conclusion is clear — waterless technology is the smarter, more sustainable, and more cost-effective choice.

👉 Contact Waterless Co. Inc. today to learn how our waterless urinals can:

• Save water and reduce utility costs

• Lower maintenance demands

• Help your facility meet sustainability and LEED goals

Visit www.waterless.com to get started.

Plumbers: Protectors of Public Health

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Plumbers: Protectors of Public Health

Plumbers are more than just pipe fixers; they are essential to public health. While you're often called to fix leaks and clogs, your most critical role is protecting people from unseen dangers. One of the most important but often overlooked parts of this job is understanding and maintaining the U-trap.

What is a U-Trap?

A U-trap is the curved pipe found under every drain in North America. Its simple design is brilliant: it holds a small amount of water to create a seal, preventing dangerous sewer gases from entering a building. These gases are a byproduct of decomposing waste and contain harmful germs and bacteria. The U-trap acts as a protective barrier, keeping these noxious odors and potential health risks out of the building.

The Silent Threat: U-Trap Evaporation

This protective barrier is only effective if the water remains in the trap. If a drain is not used regularly, the water in the U-trap can evaporate in just a few days, breaking the seal. This allows sewer gases to escape and circulate throughout the entire building, posing a health risk to everyone inside. The health consequences can range from foul odors and mild discomfort to serious illness.

This problem is particularly critical in today's commercial real estate market. With many offices and commercial spaces sitting vacant or underutilized, numerous drains are inactive for extended periods. This creates a perfect storm for U-trap evaporation and the release of sewer gases, which can affect the entire building, even occupied areas.

Your Role as a Trusted Advisor

As a plumber, you are a vital link in ensuring a safe and healthy environment. Many building managers and clients are unaware of the dangers posed by dry U-traps. It's your responsibility to educate them on the science behind U-traps, the risks of sewer gas exposure, and the importance of preventative maintenance.

While pouring water down drains may seem like a simple fix, it’s not a sustainable or practical solution, especially in large commercial buildings. A far more effective approach is to recommend a specialized liquid like EverPrime®. This non-evaporating, anti-freezing solution creates a lasting seal that prevents U-traps from drying out, protecting the health of building occupants. It's a small investment that prevents a potentially significant health crisis.

By proactively educating your clients and offering practical solutions, you not only enhance your professional reputation but also become a trusted advisor committed to public health.

The Ticking Tap: Questions and Answers about America's Water Crisis

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Q: What are the main challenges facing America's water infrastructure today?

A: According to Klaus Reichardt, CEO and Founder of Waterless Co., Inc., the two biggest hurdles are funding gaps and workforce shortages. While recent legislation has helped, the money available doesn't come close to what's needed for repairs. Finding qualified contractors is also a major problem, as decades of neglect have created a shortage of crews trained for complete system replacements.

Q: What is the most significant consequence of deteriorating water systems?

A: The most immediate and serious consequence is water loss. As America's population grows and water becomes more precious, millions of gallons are lost daily through leaky pipes and failing infrastructure. This not only wastes a vital natural resource but also creates a significant financial burden on communities.

Q: What is the economic impact of water infrastructure failure?

A: The failure of water systems has a direct impact on communities. Millions of Americans lack access to running water and indoor plumbing, particularly in rural areas. Utilities have to raise rates to pay for emergency repairs, which leads to water affordability problems. This places a strain on low-income households. Furthermore, aging pipes often lead to water contamination incidents that pose a public health risk.

Q: What solutions are being implemented to address this crisis?

A: There is increasing hope as more funding is being allocated to replace crumbling infrastructure. There's also a growing effort by communities to come together and find solutions. The restroom industry, for example, is making a difference through water conservation and efficiency technologies like waterless urinals that significantly reduce water waste.

Q: How can individuals and institutions help with this issue?

A: Individuals and institutions can play a vital role by adopting water-efficient technologies in their homes and businesses. Supporting investments in infrastructure and raising public awareness about water conservation are also crucial steps toward securing a more sustainable water future for the U.S.

Study Finds Water Bills Increasing Around the Country

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Not All Water Bills are Created Equal

Vista, CA – October 1, 2025 - The Bank of America Institute recently reported that the cost of water "has increased significantly across the U.S. in the past decade."

 As of March 2025, median water utility payments have increased by 7.1 percent—twice the rate of inflation.

Water utility bills cover the delivery, removal and treatment of water, according to Klaus Reichardt, CEO and Founder of Waterless Co., Inc. "One way to keep water-related costs in check is to update water infrastructure that can work efficiently, like a well-oiled machine."

Therein lies the problem, according to the Institute. While water infrastructure improvements are happening, it’s a slow process and many communities rely on aging infrastructure dating back decades.

Additionally, changing weather patterns have compounded the issue, putting more pressure on these aging systems.

As to changing weather patterns, studies by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, which analyzes U.S. weather trends every ten years show that every area of the country is warmer today than it was in 1981.

The Institute also reported that rates have increased most in the Midwest, likely due to infrastructure issues and growing populations. However, Mid-Atlantic states—New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania—are also experiencing surging water rates, far exceeding the national inflation rate.

The study referenced a report by Bluefield Research, which found that U.S. water and sewer bills have increased 24 percent over the past five years.

Interestingly, higher-income households are paying the most for water—six percent more than last year—likely because they have larger properties.

However, lower-income households are most impacted by rising rates, as they pay a higher percentage of their income for water compared to middle- and high-income households.

"Unfortunately, the study did not provide any solutions," Reichardt said.

“Waiting for government action alone is not enough. We must be part of the solution, finding ways to use water more efficiently. This is a proven method of reducing water consumption—and the high water utility costs that go with it."

Available for Interviews on Water Efficiency Issues: Klaus Reichardt, klaus@waterless.com

About Waterless

Waterless Co., Inc., Introduced waterless urinals to North America in 1991.  Based in Vista, Ca, the company has become a leader in water efficiency. The company offers a full line of Waterless No-Flush urinals, cleaning solutions, and other cost-saving accessories. Visit: www.waterless.com 

Waterless Co. Inc.

1050 Joshua Way
Vista, CA 92081 USA
800.244.6364

sales@waterless.com

Can You Save Energy by Saving Water?

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The answer to this important question is YES.  By reducing water consumption facilities can reduce their water utility bills – and often, very significantly. Here’s a Q&A that explains how this happens and why it is so important to you.

Q: How does a water efficiency strategy help cut energy costs in facilities?
A: Water efficiency quietly reduces energy costs because every drop of hot water saved means less energy is needed to heat it, directly lowering utility bills for both water and energy.

Q: What are some real-world impacts of water-efficient fixtures?
A: Homeowners can see up to a 10% reduction in gas and electricity bills by installing water-efficient fixtures. Even a single efficient washing machine can result in $80 of annual energy savings. For commercial facilities, the savings multiply, leading to substantially lower operational costs and improved energy performance ratings.

Q: Why does water-efficient equipment matter for a facility’s bottom line?
A: Water-efficient showerheads, faucets, and dishwashers reduce the energy required for heating water, providing a double saving that many budgets fail to account for. These upgrades generate ongoing reductions in both water and energy expenditures.

Q: Beyond utility costs, what other benefits does water efficiency offer?
A: Water efficiency provides four strategic advantages:

• Lower monthly utility bills for both water and energy

• Increased property values

• A reduced environmental footprint

• Stronger appeal to tenants and buyers seeking sustainable solutions

Q: Why is investing in water efficiency especially important now?
A: With water prices rising and energy costs remaining volatile, facilities that invest in water efficiency now protect themselves against future rate hikes. It's both an environmentally responsible and financially strategic decision.

Q: Who is a leader in water efficiency solutions?
A: Waterless Co., Inc is recognized as a pioneer in water efficiency, especially in reducing water consumption and promoting the benefits of waterless urinals. For more information, connect with a Waterless Co Specialist.

What Makes a Business an Icon? - Q&A

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Q: What exactly is a business icon?

A: Business icons are not just companies or brands - they are integral parts of our daily lives. Their names immediately evoke a sense of quality, innovation, and even nostalgia, reminding us of the significant impact they have made on our everyday experiences.

Q: What are the key factors that make a business iconic?

A: Several key factors contribute to a business achieving iconic status:

Brand Recognition: The company's name and logo are widely recognized and instantly associated with its products or services.

Innovation: Usually the cornerstone of their success, these businesses have a history of introducing groundbreaking products or ideas, inspiring creative thinking and pushing the boundaries of what's possible.

Quality: The company is consistently known for producing high-quality goods or services that customers can rely on.

Customer Loyalty: The business has built a dedicated customer base that is genuinely enthusiastic about its products or services.

Cultural Impact: The company has made a significant cultural impact, often by shaping trends or influencing consumer behavior in meaningful ways.

Legacy: These businesses have stood the test of time, earning a formidable reputation for longevity and stability. Their enduring legacy reassures customers of their commitment to quality and their ability to weather any storm.

Q: Can you give me some examples of business icons?

A: Certainly! Here are some prime examples of business icons and what makes them special:

Apple: Known worldwide for its innovative technology and sleek, distinctive design that has revolutionized multiple industries.

Coca-Cola: A truly global brand famous for its exceptional name recognition and masterful marketing expertise that spans generations.

IBM: Recognized as a leading technology company that holds the record for the most annual patents of any U.S. company, demonstrating consistent innovation.

Nike: A sports apparel giant with a powerful brand identity and unwavering focus on athletic performance and inspiration.

Google: A tech company that has fundamentally revolutionized how the entire world searches for and accesses information.

Waterless Co. Inc: The first company to market no-water urinals in North America and is recognized as a leading advocate for water efficiency and environmental sustainability.

Q: How do these businesses maintain their iconic status?

A: These businesses have achieved and maintained their iconic status by consistently delivering exceptional value to their customers, staying ahead of industry trends and technological curves, and building strong brand identities that truly resonate with consumers across different generations and cultures.

8 Ways Colleges Can Go with the Flow and Cut Water Costs

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With schools and universities back in session, campus managers are once again juggling rising operating costs. Among the biggest line items? Water.

Across the country, water rates continue to climb—and usage on a large university campus can exceed one billion gallons per year. Just one dorm student alone may consume up to 95 gallons of water daily. That means even small reductions can translate into huge savings.

So where is all this water going? Typically, two areas dominate:

• Landscaping and irrigation

• Restrooms and showers

(See sidebar below for UC Berkeley’s breakdown.)

With that in mind, here are eight proven steps college managers can take to reduce both water use and water bills—without sacrificing comfort or campus appeal.

Step 1: Collect Data

• Gather 2–3 years of water and sewer bills.

• Establish a usage baseline.

• Break down consumption by building (dorms, labs, athletics, dining, etc.) to pinpoint high-use areas.

Step 2: Conduct a Water Audit

• Perform a campus-wide water assessment.

• Identify inefficiencies and leaks.

• Document locations of outdated toilets, urinals, faucets, and showers.

• Create a benchmark report to guide future water-saving goals.

Step 3: Target Landscaping & Irrigation

Campus irrigation alone can account for 30% or more of total water use. Strategies include:

• Switching to native or drought-tolerant plants.

• Installing smart irrigation systems with rain and soil moisture sensors.

• Adjusting sprinklers to avoid overspray.

• Reducing watering in low-traffic areas.

Step 4: Retrofit Restrooms & Plumbing

Restrooms are often the biggest water users. Upgrade fixtures to save thousands of gallons:

• Replace older toilets (>3.5 GPF) with 1.6 GPF or dual-flush models.

• Install waterless urinals.

• Add low-flow faucet aerators (0.5–1.0 GPM).

• Launch a leak inspection program—one dripping faucet can waste hundreds of gallons per month.

Step 5: Engage the Campus Community

Getting students and staff involved multiplies results:

• Launch water awareness campaigns in dorms, restrooms, and dining halls.

• Organize student-led sustainability challenges.

• Offer small incentives (free pizza, gift cards) for reporting leaks.

• Train custodial and maintenance staff in early leak detection.

• Partner with faculty to weave water conservation into coursework.

Step 6: Monitor & Report Progress

• Review quarterly bills for patterns.

• Install sub-meters in high-use buildings for real-time tracking.

• Share progress campus-wide to maintain momentum.

Step 7: Calculate ROI

Measure financial payback to build the case for more investment:

• Restroom retrofits: ROI in 1–3 years.

• Smart irrigation: ROI in 2–4 years.

• Water audits: often immediate if leaks are discovered.

Step 8: Reinvest Savings

• Channel savings into additional upgrades: expanded retrofits, irrigation technology, or improved HVAC systems.

• Remember: HVAC systems are major water users for heating and cooling. Replacing an outdated system can cut water and energy bills dramatically.

Sidebar: Where Water Is Consumed on Campus

A University of California, Berkeley study illustrates how campus water is typically allocated:

• 605 million gallons annually

• 8% → Irrigation

• 50% → Restrooms and kitchens

• 30% → Labs

• 10% → HVAC

The Bottom Line

Cutting water waste on campus is more than just an environmental win—it’s a financial strategy. By collecting data, upgrading systems, and engaging the campus community, colleges can significantly lower utility costs while modeling sustainability for students.