What’s the Difference Between Water Withdrawal and Water Consumption?

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These two terms may sound similar, but they differ significantly. This distinction is important to consumers wanting lower water bills, businesses aiming to control costs, and data centers opening nationwide.

Knowing the difference clarifies how water is used and why certain industries face extra scrutiny from utilities and regulators.

Here's the essential difference you need to understand.

Water Withdrawal (Use)

Water withdrawal, also referred to as water use, refers to the total volume of water taken from a source, such as a river or aquifer, for use by industry, cooling, irrigation, power, or households.

Key points about water withdrawal:

  • Withdrawn water may be returned to its source or another water body after use.

  • Returned water is often lower quality—warmer, with chemicals or minerals, and may need treatment.

  • Less water is returned than withdrawn due to evaporation, leaks, or absorption.

  • Large withdrawals can still strain local systems, especially during drought or peak demand.

Here’s an example: a data center may withdraw millions of gallons of water per day for cooling. Even if much of that water is discharged back into a river, the temporary removal—and any changes in water temperature or quality—can impact ecosystems and downstream users.

Water Consumption

Water consumption refers to the portion of water withdrawn but is not returned to the original source or a different water body. This water is effectively removed from the water system.

Water is considered “consumed” when it:

  • Evaporates during cooling or industrial processes, or is lost due to poor water infrastructure

  • Is incorporated into products (such as food, beverages, or manufactured goods)

  • Is absorbed by plants or soil through irrigation.

From a cost and sustainability standpoint, water consumption is often the more critical metric. Consumed water reduces the amount available to other users and future needs, which can drive up utility costs, lead to stricter regulations, and raise community concerns.

In data centers, for instance, evaporative cooling systems may consume significant volumes of water even if total withdrawals seem moderate. That consumed water represents a permanent loss to the local supply.

Why the Distinction Matters

Utilities and regulators track both metrics to understand system stress and long-term water availability in a community. If much more water is consumed rather than withdrawn, businesses may face higher water charges or restrictions on how much water they can use.

We must also point out that communities and ecosystems are impacted most directly by consumption, since that water is no longer available locally.

In short, water withdrawal indicates temporary removal, while water consumption shows how much is permanently lost. This distinction is why organizations are looking into mechanicals and restroom fixtures that use less water, or, as in the case of waterless urinals, none at all.

This approach addresses both terms.  Far less water is withdrawn, which also means far less water is consumed.

 

Klaus Reichardt, founder and CEO of Waterless Co. LLC in Vista, California, is a recognized authority on water conservation. Since 1991, he has led the company to innovate plumbing products like the Waterless No-Flush urinal, which operates entirely without water.

To contact Klaus, click here.

The Future Doesn't Flush – Clean and Hygienic Waterless No-Flush™ Urinals

Facility Manager Questions Waterless Urinals: Have There Been Any Advances?

A facility manager recently asked an important question about waterless urinals, odor control, and modern restroom technology:

“Have there been any advances in waterless urinals? While we know they save water, many building owners and facility managers still believe they cause odor issues. Is this true?”

 Expert Answer: The Truth About Waterless Urinals and Odor Control

Thank you for your interest in waterless urinal. This is a great question and one that comes up frequently among facility managers, building owners, and maintenance professionals.

You are absolutely correct—waterless urinals save water, save money, support sustainability goals, and significantly reduce environmental impact. In addition to water conservation and efficiency, modern waterless urinals offer several advantages, including:

  • Lower maintenance and repair costs

  • Fewer plumbing issues

  • Improved restroom hygiene

  • Reduced long-term operating expenses

However, concerns about odor problems with waterless urinals still persist. But, with new advances and products, and a better understanding of waterless urinals – how to install them and maintain them - we rarely hear complaints about odor issues today.

First, About the Author: A Waterless Urinal Expert

Before addressing odor issues directly, allow me to introduce myself. I am widely recognized as a waterless urinal expert with more than 30 years of industry experience. As CEO and Founder of Waterless Co., Inc, I have been involved in the development, marketing, and installation of waterless urinals and related restroom technologies throughout North America and worldwide since 1991.

Why Early Waterless Urinals Had Odor Problems

In the past, odor issues in no-water urinals typically resulted from three main factors:

1. Ineffective Sealing Liquids and Cartridges

Many early waterless urinal manufacturers required the use of expensive cartridges placed at the bottom of the fixture. The sealing liquids used in these cartridges often evaporated quickly or failed to provide long-lasting odor protection.

The purpose of both the cartridge and sealing liquid is to block sewer gases from entering the restroom. Today, these components have improved significantly. Many manufacturers now recommend BlueSeal® sealing liquid, which lasts longer, is refillable, easy to maintain, and more cost-effective than competing products.

2. Improper Cleaning Practices

When waterless urinals were first introduced, cleaning professionals were unfamiliar with how to maintain them. In many cases, excessive water was used during cleaning, which diluted or washed away the sealing liquid and damaged the cartridge—leading to odors.

Today, this issue has been eliminated. Cleaning staff are now trained to properly maintain waterless urinals. In most cases, cleaning requires only a sanitizer or disinfectant sprayed on the urinal surface and wiped clean. There is typically no scale buildup, and aggressive scrubbing is unnecessary.

3. Lack of Sealing Liquid Replenishment

Another common issue was uncertainty about how often to refill the sealing liquid. While the process is simple, early adopters often did not train cleaning personnel properly, resulting in depleted sealant and odor problems.

Modern waterless urinal maintenance programs clearly outline refill schedules, ensuring consistent odor control and optimal performance.

The Bottom Line: Modern Waterless Urinals Are Odor-Free When Maintained Properly

Advances in waterless urinal technology, sealing liquids, and maintenance practices have eliminated the odor problems associated with early systems. When installed correctly and maintained as designed, today’s waterless urinals are reliable, hygienic, and highly effective.

If you have additional questions or would like to learn more about waterless urinals, BlueSeal sealing liquid, or maintenance best practices, please feel free to contact me.

Sincerely,

Klaus Reichardt

A Look at Canadian Data Centers and Water Consumption

“A look at Canadian data centers and water consumption”

Artificial intelligence is making significant strides not only in the United States but also across Canada. This rapid expansion has a direct impact on water usage, mirroring the trends seen south of the border.

Industry Perspective

Klaus Reichardt, CEO and Founder of Waterless Co., Inc., has authored an article recently published in Canada’s Facility Cleaning and Maintenance. In this article, Reichardt explores the challenges posed by AI’s increasing presence in Canada, particularly regarding water consumption.

Key Points

Rapid Growth and Water Demand

Canadian data centers are experiencing rapid growth, leading to the consumption of millions of liters of potable, drinking-quality water each day. This surge is a direct result of the expanding demand for AI-driven technologies and their associated infrastructure.

Concerns About Water Usage

With the increase in data center operations, there is growing concern about how much water is being used. Measuring and metering water use at these facilities has become essential to understand and manage their environmental impact.

Community Impacts and Cost Implications

The high water demand from data centers can drive up water costs for other users, including hospitals, commercial properties, and residences. In response, local governments may need to implement new pricing strategies, such as tiered water pricing, to encourage conservation and ensure equitable access.

Regulatory Landscape

As data centers expand, regulations increasingly require the adoption of water-efficient cooling and building systems. This shift aims to mitigate the environmental footprint of these large-scale facilities and promote sustainability.

Water Risk Planning

Water risk assessments are becoming an important tool for analyzing how new projects, especially data centers, will affect future water needs and long-term sustainability. Such evaluations help stakeholders prepare for potential challenges related to water availability.

Long-Term Outlook

Innovations in water efficiency and monitoring technologies have the potential to address the water challenges posed by data centers. Achieving meaningful progress will require collaboration among governments, businesses, and communities.

Sidebar: Data Center Water Use Insights

  • Data centers primarily use water to cool servers. Some facilities utilize open-loop cooling towers that evaporate water constantly, contributing to substantial daily water consumption.

  • A single large data center can use millions of liters of water per day, with the exact amount depending on the facility’s design and the local climate.

Discover More

To learn more about this topic, visit: https://www.reminetwork.com/articles/a-look-at-canadian-data-centres-and-water-consumption/

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The Connection Between Beer, Water, and Waterless Urinals

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Recently, we posted an article (Cheers to Reuse…) about a California company brewing beer from highly purified, recycled water. Since then, our inbox has been flooded with questions about the water/beer connection. (Apparently, people take their beer research very seriously.)

One particularly enthusiastic learner even called our office to discuss this pressing matter. So, in the spirit of public service, here's a summary of the questions we've been fielding.

Might as well start with the big one: How Much Water is in Beer?

That frosty bottle you're cracking open is about 95 percent water. In a 12-oz beer, you're looking at 11.4 ounces of H2O and a mere 5 percent alcohol.

Is This The Same for a Pint of Beer?

Yep. Whether you're sipping from a bottle, can, or pint glass, it's still 95 percent water. Math doesn't change just because the container does.

Does Beer Hydrate You?

Despite being mostly water, beer is not your hydration hero. It's a diuretic. This leads us to the next question below.

Why Does Beer Send Me to the Bathroom Every Five Minutes?

Let's recap: Beer is 95 percent water and a diuretic. Add those together, and congratulations—you're now best friends with the nearest bathroom.

Will Beer Still Quench My Thirst?

Sure! One or two beers on a hot day while you're mowing the lawn. Yup! Refreshing. You bet!  But knock back several (or reach for the high Alcohol by Volume stuff), and you'll ironically end up more thirsty and chugging water like a desert wanderer.

If I Make My Own Beer, Should I Use the Same Amount of Water?

Homebrewers, listen up: You'll need more water because the "wort" (that's unfermented beer—basically beer's awkward teenage phase) must boil forever to develop flavor. Boiling converts starches into sugar, giving beer its flavor.

Because Beer Contains So Much Water, Does That Make it Safer to Drink?

The Mayo Clinic says nope. Any amount of alcohol carries some health risks. The risk is low for moderate drinking, but it climbs faster than your tab at happy hour. This applies to all booze, beer included.

Some Runners Swear Beer with Electrolytes Improves Their Performance. True?

Ah yes, the age-old myth. Some athletes claim electrolyte-infused beer boosts performance and speeds recovery. Experts, however, say any alcohol will dehydrate you, potentially leaving you with post-workout headaches and nausea. Maybe save the victory beer for later.

Why is the CEO of Waterless Co., Inc. Even Talking About Beer?

Excellent question. We have zero opinions on beer itself (okay, maybe a jolly few). What does interest us is that a California company is brewing beer from recycled water. It's yet another example of how technology—like our beloved waterless urinals—helps us use water more responsibly and efficiently.

The Future Doesn't Flush – Clean and Hygienic Waterless No-Flush™ Urinals

What Users Really Think About Waterless Urinals

Waterless Urinals: What Users Really Think

As waterless urinal installations surge nationwide, we surveyed men about their experiences. Their responses reveal some surprising shifts in perception.

Where did you first encounter a waterless urinal? Most respondents first used one at a restaurant, If not, it was at a school or university, followed by airports and office buildings.

What was your first reaction? At first there was a bit of confusion or uncertainty because there were no flush valves. After the first use, this concern dissipated.

Did you expect any problems before your first use? Yes. Many assumed waterless urinals would have odor issues, while others questioned whether urinals could function properly without water.

After using one, do you still have those concerns? No. Most users reported that their initial worries about odors proved unfounded.

Is instructional signage necessary? The overwhelming response was no. Users found waterless urinals intuitive enough to use without guidance.

How would you describe the overall experience? Straightforward and unremarkable—in a good way. Most men said using a waterless urinal was just like using a conventional one, with nothing notable to report.

For frequent users: How do they compare to conventional urinals in terms of cleanliness? Many users highlighted an unexpected benefit: they appreciated the absence of water splatter. And most men viewed waterless urinals as a sign of the facility owner's commitment to water conservation—a positive first impression.

Were you aware that waterless urinals save approximately 26,000+ gallons of water annually per fixture? Most respondents were unaware of the significant water savings.

Did you know waterless urinals typically cost less to purchase and install than conventional or low-flow models? No—this came as a surprise to most survey participants.

In what types of facilities do you think waterless urinals should be installed? Restaurants, airports and convention centers were mentioned the most because they can get so busy. Also mentioned were schools, especially elementary schools.

Should more buildings install waterless urinals? Yes, particularly in water-scarce regions, though support was strong across the board.

 

The Future Doesn't Flush – Clean and Hygienic Waterless No-Flush™ Urinals

 

Why Water-Efficient Homes Are "The" Real Estate Trend of 2026

As water costs rise and shortages loom, smart home buyers are changing their purchasing criteria. Recent data from Realtor.com reveals a 290% increase in property listings that feature water-saving technology—but this trend is more than just saving water - it’s about security.

The rapid construction of AI data centers nationwide is projected to dramatically increase water consumption. This surge threatens to overwhelm local communities, resulting in potential water scarcity and spiking utility bills for residents.

So, is water efficiency – the long-term reduction in water consumption - the new standard for purchasing and to maintain a homes value? We explored this growing demand with Klaus Reichardt, CEO of Waterless Co., Inc. Having written about water efficiency for more than 35 years, Reichardt explains why buyers are clamoring for more water efficient homes.

Q: Klaus, could you first tell us a bit more about yourself and Waterless Co., Inc.?

A: I attended Pepperdine University in Southern California, where I observed firsthand California's dramatic water fluctuations—swinging unpredictably between severe droughts and floods. While these swings seemed random, the larger trend was clear: California was becoming progressively drier even as its population and industry were growing rapidly.

This contradiction made me realize we needed to either use water far more efficiently or eliminate water use entirely in certain applications. That's when I invented waterless urinals as a solution. Each waterless urinal saves approximately 35,000 gallons of water per year—and I believe few technologies can match this level of water reduction and efficiency.

Q: Are you surprised that homebuyers are placing much more emphasis on selecting water-efficient homes?

Not at all. This pattern echoes what happened during the 1970s oil crisis, when homeowners and commercial property owners first realized how energy-inefficient their buildings were. At the time, many homes—especially in the western United States—had minimal insulation. The prevailing attitude was simple: if it was hot, use more air conditioning; if it was cold, turn up the furnace. But as energy costs rose, this approach became unsustainable.

Just as buyers soon prioritized better-insulated homes to control energy costs, we now see a similar pattern with water efficiency—as water becomes scarcer and more expensive, homebuyers are seeking out residences that use less of it.

Q: You believe reducing costs and saving money is a key reason why homebuyers want more water-efficient homes?

A: Absolutely. This is basic economics: as demand for water increases or supply decreases, prices rise. We're already seeing this happen. With new pressures on water supplies—such as the massive water needs of AI data centers—combined with ongoing shortages in many regions, water costs are increasing dramatically. And this trend will only accelerate.

Homebuyers increasingly recognize that water-efficient homes can protect them from rising costs, making water efficiency both an environmental consideration and a smart financial decision.

Q: Are there other reasons why homeowners want more water-efficient homes?

Yes, though at the core are water efficiency and cost savings. Yet, there are other important drivers:

Sustainability: While not as dominant an issue as it was a few years ago, it remains a significant factor. Many people want to use water and other resources responsibly to ensure they remain available for future generations.

Lifestyle choice: Younger buyers especially prioritize reducing energy and water consumption, minimizing waste, and living more efficiently. These values are core to their identity and play a major role in their purchasing decisions.

Smart financial investment: Homebuyers increasingly view water- and energy-efficient homes as investments that will appreciate more strongly over time, protecting and increasing their home's future value.

Q: How is the surge in water-efficient fixtures in homes impacting your business?

A: For years, we witnessed slow but steady demand for waterless urinals in homes. But recently, that demand has increased far beyond our expectations. The installation of waterless urinals in homes has almost become a trend in itself—they've "caught on" among architects, home designers, and buyers.

Because they dramatically reduce water consumption, we're finding that homeowners are proud to showcase them as a feature of their homes. This is a significant shift. A decade ago, waterless urinals were still considered unconventional for residential use. Today, they're increasingly seen as a desirable, forward-thinking choice.

 

The Future Doesn't Flush – Clean and Hygienic Waterless No-Flush™ Urinals

 
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