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High Utility Rates Force Commercial Real Estate to Rethink Plumbing
Water costs are rising at an unsustainable rate, prompting building managers to "ditch the flush" in favor of more efficient alternatives. A February 2026 survey by Waterless Co., Inc. surveyed facility managers across Southern California and Arizona to identify the primary motivations behind the switch to no-flush urinals.
The consensus? Saving water and cutting overhead costs.
"The primary driver remains water savings," says Klaus Reichardt, CEO and Founder of Waterless Co. "But right behind that is the impact on water and sewer utility bills—and those bills have gotten significantly harder to ignore."
The Surge in Utility Costs: Arizona and California
The financial data reveals a stark reality for property owners in the Southwest:
Arizona: Water rates have surged by as much as 50% since 2022, largely due to reduced state water allocations.
Southern California: Depending on the district, managers have seen rate hikes between 20% and 60%.
With no immediate relief in sight, switching to waterless technology has become a strategic financial move rather than just an environmental one.
6 Key Benefits of Switching to Waterless Urinals
Beyond the immediate reduction in utility bills, building managers cited several operational advantages:
Lower Maintenance Costs: Without flush valves, handles, or sensors, there are fewer mechanical parts to fail.
Tenant Appeal: Modern tenants prioritize "green" building practices and LEED-certified environments.
Superior Odor Control: High-quality liquid sealant cartridges effectively block sewer gases.
Enhanced Hygiene: Touchless operation removes a major point of germ transmission in high-traffic restrooms.
Simplified Installation: No water supply line is required, making retrofits faster and more affordable.
Placement Flexibility: Fixtures can be installed in areas where running new plumbing lines would be cost-prohibitive.
Addressing the Trade-offs
While the benefits are significant, managers noted that success requires proper cleaning staff training and a budget for cartridge replacements. However, Reichardt notes that these operational shifts rarely outweigh the bottom-line savings.
"Resoundingly, the primary drivers are water and cost savings—especially in drought-prone regions or high-traffic commercial buildings," Reichardt concludes.
The Future Doesn't Flush – Clean and Hygienic Waterless No-Flush™ Urinals
