Say, Klaus, What Do You Do on Your Days Off?

My Grandkids, Mac and Cash, in the back of my Mercury Colony Park

We get to know many of our customers very well, and they often become both business and personal friends. With my wife living in Germany, some inquire about how I spend my time, especially on the weekends. As a car enthusiast, I spend most of my weekends driving or admiring classic cars.

For instance, over the past 15 years, a group of us car enthusiasts have met every Saturday for coffee, to hang out, chat, and have fun. What started out as a casual meetup between a few friends has evolved into something that has become the highlight of my week – a tradition that has weathered job changes among some of the members, family milestones, and even a pandemic.

Classic Car Enthusiasts Unite

Cars are a great equalizer in that we enjoy everyone else's cars and love to show them off. There's something magical about how a shared passion can bring together people from completely different walks of life. Our group includes everyone from business owners like me, retired engineers, young people just getting involved in the classic car culture, teachers, building contractors, and mechanics.

One of the many reasons these weekly events are so much fun is that one never knows what will show up. For instance, last Saturday, we had a 1910 Packard parked next to a brand-new Rolls-Royce Black Edition, one of only thirty manufactured. Watching the owners of each car explain their vehicle's features and quirks to the others was really fun.

My Favorite Classic Car: A 1991 Mercury Colony Park Station Wagon

My current favorite is my 1991 Mercury Colony Park station wagon – the last year of the big station wagons. I still remember the day I found it on Facebook Marketplace in Florida, scrolling through listings. The photos looked too good to be true, and buying it sight unseen felt like the kind of impulsive decision my practical side usually talks me out of. Speaking with the owner convinced me to take a chance.

But something about those pristine wood grain panels on the Colony Park and that spotless interior just called to me. When it arrived on the transport truck three weeks later, I felt like a kid on Christmas morning. The car is pristine, way better than expected, and I truly lucked out on this one.

When friends and onlookers see the station wagon, everyone has a favorite story of their own about station wagons, like growing up with one, taking family trips in one, getting their license in one, and more. It is just great to hear.

The Joy of Cruising in San Diego

Here’s another reason I love my Colony Park station wagon: there's something deeply satisfying about cruising in a smooth-driving, exceptionally comfortable vehicle that was designed for long family road trips and weekend adventures. And, the beauty of owning cars in San Diego is the year-round, warm, sunny, and mostly dry weather. You can take them out for a drive about any time you please.

Over the 15 years I've been involved with this group, what I've come to realize is that these cars are not just machines - they're the vehicles that carry our friendships forward, week after week, year after year. Every Saturday morning, as I fire up the Colony Park and head to our usual coffee spot, I'm not just driving to meet some fellow car enthusiasts; I feel like I'm heading to see family.

-Klaus

🔥 There’s an Energy Bill Secret Hiding in Your Water System

Here's something most facility managers overlook: your water efficiency strategy is quietly cutting your energy costs too.

The Hidden Connection: Every drop of hot water you save = energy you don't have to pay for. It's that simple.

Real Impact Numbers:

>Homeowners: 10% reduction in gas/electricity bills just from water-efficient fixtures

>One efficient washing machine alone: $80 annual energy savings

>Commercial facilities: Substantially lower operational costs + improved energy performance ratings

Why This Matters for Your Bottom Line: When you install that water-efficient showerhead, low-flow faucet, or high-efficiency dishwasher, you're not just saving water—you're cutting the energy needed to heat that water.

It's a double win that most budgets don't account for.

The Strategic Advantage: Water efficiency delivers across four key areas:

💰 Lower monthly utility bills (water AND energy)

📈 Boosts property values

🌱 Reduced environmental impact

🎯 Enhanced tenant/buyer attraction

Looking Ahead: With water prices rising and energy costs volatile, facilities investing in water efficiency today are building protection against future rate hikes. It's not just environmentally responsible—it's financially strategic.

The question isn't whether you can afford to invest in water efficiency. It's whether you can afford not to.

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

California, Texas, and Arizona Lead US Water Efficiency Rankings in 2024

California, Texas, and Arizona emerge as America's most water-efficient states according to new research, while Mississippi ranks lowest

That's not only the top line for this article but also the answer to our recent poll on LinkedIn. Here's the poll and how LinkedIn members voted:

Which of the following are the most water efficient states in the United States?

• New Mexico, Arizona, and Texas: 10%

• California, Texas, and Arizona: 34% ✓

• Alaska and the Dakotas: 34%

• Pennsylvania, Michigan, Ohio: 21%

California, Texas, and Arizona is the correct answer according to a 2023 study by the Chicago-based nonprofit Alliance for Water Efficiency. The water efficiency rankings were based on comprehensive criteria including per capita water usage, water conservation policies, and water infrastructure improvements.

What Makes These States Water Efficiency Leaders?

These top-performing states distinguished themselves through innovative water management strategies:

Advanced Water Conservation Policies

• Establishing long-term water use reduction goals and regulations

• Implementing mandatory plumbing fixture standards to reduce water consumption

• Enacting comprehensive drought preparedness measures and water conservation planning

State-Level Water Efficiency Support

• Providing dedicated state funding for water efficiency programs

• Offering technical assistance for climate action initiatives

• Utilizing tiered water rate structures that encourage conservation

Least Water Efficient States: The Bottom Five

Conversely, the water efficiency study found Mississippi, Alaska, South Dakota, North Dakota, and Wyoming to be some of the least water efficient states in America.

Mississippi's Water Crisis

Mississippi's low water efficiency ranking is particularly impacted by the ongoing water crisis in the Jackson metropolitan area, where approximately 200,000 residents face unreliable access to safe drinking water.

Infrastructure Challenges in Low-Ranking States

While the report didn't detail specific reasons for low water efficiency scores in Alaska, the Dakotas, and Wyoming, aging water infrastructure—a nationwide problem causing significant water loss through leaks and inefficient systems—is likely a major contributing factor.

Alarming Trend: Little Progress Since 2017

A particularly concerning finding from the water efficiency research shows that "for most states in the country, there has been 'little to no meaningful progress' in water efficiency since 2017."

This stagnation in water conservation efforts not only hinders our ability to reduce water consumption today but also worsens water scarcity challenges for the future.

Why Water Efficiency Progress Has Stalled

Funding Challenges

Researchers attribute this lack of progress to an over-reliance on local water utilities, businesses, and residents to fund water efficiency improvements. However, these local entities often lack sufficient financial resources for major infrastructure upgrades.

Cost Concerns

Businesses and the public may resist covering the costs of water efficiency upgrades, which typically require substantial utility rate increases or new taxes.

Increasing Costs of Delay

Delaying critical water infrastructure improvements will only increase costs in coming years, creating a more expensive problem for future generations.

The Path Forward: Collaborative Water Conservation

While states have traditionally sought federal aid for water infrastructure issues, this approach may not be effective in the current political climate.

Multi-Level Cooperation Required

States, local governments, businesses, and residents must collaborate to:

• Reduce overall water consumption

• Enhance water efficiency through modern technology

• Improve water efficiency through established and proven technologies such as waterless urinals

• Invest in sustainable water infrastructure

• Implement comprehensive conservation programs

Getting Started is Key

It's possible that once stakeholders pool their resources and begin collaborative efforts, they may find water efficiency improvements can be accomplished more easily than expected. The critical step is simply getting started with coordinated action.

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 finding ways to use water more efficiently.  For more information, contact a Waterless Co Specialist. 

Waterless Urinals and The Greenest University in Germany

Trier University of Applied Sciences, a beacon of academic excellence, has become one of Germany's most esteemed universities. Nestled near Luxembourg and France, the University boasts 85 college degree programs, spread across three campuses, and a vibrant student body of over 7,000. This places it among the largest universities of applied sciences in Europe.

Within the esteemed Trier University system, the Birkenfeld Environmental Campus (BEC) stands out with its unique achievements. It has earned the title of the "greenest university" in Germany, a recognition it achieved through, among other things, its remarkable water reduction and management systems.

Their accomplishments were detailed in a study published on June 1, 2021.*

The study, Innovative Water Management at the Environmental Campus Birkenfeld, showcases the campus's use of existing as well as cutting-edge technologies and equipment, such as waterless urinals, low-flow toilets, automated and high-efficient faucets, to substantially produce water and energy savings, as well as reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

The reduction in greenhouse gas emissions results from less water needing to be pumped, delivered, and removed from the campus.

Of particular focus in the study were the waterless urinals. According to the study, the BECs' existing flush urinals were replaced, one by one, with waterless urinals. As of the study's publication date, "60 percent of them have been replaced with waterless urinals with more added each year."

The researchers added that "The waterless [urinal] systems are desirable for regions with water shortages and high-water costs."

Further, the authors pointed out that the hygienic advantages of waterless urinal systems should be emphasized. These systems "produce significantly less bacterial and mold contamination" landing on nearby surfaces compared to conventional flush urinals.

The researchers are referring to 'urinal plume' - the release of bacteria and germs when urine mixes with water in conventional urinals. This causes droplets to become airborne, landing on nearby surfaces and the actual urinal user. Waterless urinals reduce plume because they contain no stored water, a benefit "appreciated by cleaning staff."

It was also noted that BEC found that the "waterless urinals pay for themselves after a few months to a few years compared to conventional [flush] systems [due to] water savings, reduced operating costs, and a reduction in cleaning and maintenance needs.”

In most cases, it has been found that the return on the investment (ROI) of waterless urinals – the point at which the cost savings equal or surpass the costs to select and install the waterless urinals – is about two years.

While installing waterless urinals stood out because the water savings were so significant and quickly accomplished, this was just one part of BEC's water reduction and management systems. The other ways the campus reduced water consumption were the following:

• Replacing conventional flush toilets with vacuum toilets. Most often found on airplanes, these toilets use suction to remove waste.

• Rainwater was collected and stored in two large underground tanks; the rainwater was then used for irrigation, building services, and to flush conventional toilets and urinals.

• The water grid on the campus was closely monitored using smart sensing systems. These systems help detect water leaks in real time, allowing for quick repairs and preventing water wastage.

• BEC initiated regular water information sessions and educational events for newly enrolled students, educating them on the steps the campus is taking to reduce water consumption, and most importantly, the steps new students can take to reduce water consumption.

• Water efficiency standards were established for mechanical systems and appliances that utilize water. Systems failing to meet these standards are replaced progressively over time.

The study concludes that the BEC should be honored because it effectively reduced water consumption and improved water efficiency. This was primarily accomplished by using an "interdisciplinary approach," which involved selecting technologies proven to reduce water usage, educating students and staff on water conservation and water efficiency, and extensive research, looking for innovative ways not only to reduce but also recover water so it can be used for other purposes.

All we can say is, congratulations!

-Klaus

*Source: Innovative Water Management at the Environmental Campus Birkenfeld | Helling | Journal of Sustainability Perspectives

Water Efficiency: A Pathway to Long-Term Cost Savings

Water efficiency is a term many are now familiar with. Its core principle lies in the long-term reduction of water consumption using specific products, methods, and procedures. This isn't about temporary cutbacks during a drought; it's a sustainable strategy for managing operating costs and saving money for years to come.

A prime example of this is the installation of waterless urinals. Such an upgrade immediately eliminates the need for thousands of gallons of water per unit, delivering both immediate and ongoing water and cost savings.

Understanding this long-term approach, let's explore how water efficiency translates into financial benefits for both homes and commercial facilities:

1. Lower Water Bills:

The most direct financial advantage of water efficiency is a noticeable decrease in utility bills. By installing water-saving fixtures like the urinals just mentioned, low-flow faucets, high-efficiency toilets, and water efficient showerheads, property owners can achieve significant reductions in water usage.

While calculating precise savings in a commercial building can be multifaceted due to variables like building usage and occupancy, the impact on a household is more straightforward to illustrate.

Consider a four-person household where daily water use per person is reduced from 40 gallons to 26 gallons per day through water-efficient upgrades and practices. This change can lead to an annual water bill reduction of approximately 30 percent, a savings that will increase as water costs rise.

2. Increased Property Value and Market Appeal

Water-efficient properties hold a distinct financial edge that resonates with environmentally aware and budget-conscious buyers.

Consider two otherwise identical homes, each listed at $250,000.

• House A features water-efficient fixtures and landscaping, resulting in a 30 percent lower water consumption and annual water bills of $600.

• House B, with standard fixtures and traditional landscaping, incurs annual water costs of $850—an extra $250 each year and more as water costs rise.

This means that for over five years, the owner of House A saves $1,250 in water costs ($3,000 compared to $4,250 for House B). This tangible, ongoing saving adds immediate value.

For prospective buyers comparing similar properties, this water efficiency offers a significant competitive advantage. The home with lower operating costs, environmental responsibility, and insulation against rising water rates becomes a far more attractive investment in today's resource-conscious market.

These same principles apply to commercial properties, where the financial savings can be even more substantial.

3. Lower Energy Expenses

A frequently overlooked benefit of water efficiency is reduced energy consumption. Using less water—through water efficient showerheads, faucets, dishwashers, and other appliances—directly translates to lower gas and electricity bills.

The most significant energy savings stem from decreased demand for hot water. One study indicated that homeowners could cut their annual gas and electricity bills by about 10% simply by installing water-efficient fixtures and appliances. The same research found that just installing a water-efficient washing machine alone could save up to $80 annually on energy costs.

For facility managers, integrating energy-efficient water systems into new or existing buildings substantially cuts operational costs and improves the facility's overall energy performance rating over the long term.

So, here’s our takeaway: Investing in water efficiency yields multiple benefits:

·       It lowers monthly utility bills

·       Boosts property values

·       Lessens environmental impact

·       Can attract buyers and tenants.

Facilities of all kinds can realize immediate cost savings and gain protection against future rate hikes by adopting water-efficient products. As water prices continue to rise and regulations become stricter, prioritizing water efficiency is both a financially smart and environmentally responsible choice for the future.

-Klaus

Which of the Following are the Most Water Efficient States in the United States?

Take Our Poll on LinkedIn

Water efficiency refers to the long-term reduction of water consumption using specific products, methods, and procedures.

Which of the states below, according to recent studies, have done the most to be water efficient?

New Mexico, Arizona, and Texas

California, Texas, and Arizona

Alaska and the Dakotas

Pennsylvania, Michigan, Ohio

VOTE HERE:

https://tinyurl.com/peh6mwhc

Say Goodbye to Uric Acid Scale in Urinals

Vista, CA – NEWS - Uric acid scale is a mineral build-up commonly found in urinal basins. It forms when urine combines with flush water, making it primarily an issue with conventional flush urinals rather than waterless models.  

“This scale most often accumulates directly underneath waterspouts and water disbursement rims in urinals, creating both an unsightly appearance and unpleasant odors,” says Klaus Reichardt, CEO and founder of Waterless Co., Inc., a leading marketer of waterless urinals.

“The scale can also build up on the floors directly below the urinal.”  

Cleaning professionals consider removing this scale one of their most challenging cleaning tasks. Making matters worse, the longer the scale remains on the urinal or the floor below, the more difficult it becomes to remove.  

Ineffective Cleaning Methods

Standard cleaning products are usually not effective against uric scale:

• Regular all-purpose spray cleaners, sanitizers, and disinfectants fail to dissolve the deposits

• Scrubbing with powder cleaners and scouring pads can damage the urinal's inner bowl glazed surface and water disbursement rims.

Effective Solution: Enzymatic Cleaners

Enzymatic cleaners are often the most effective cleaning solution because they:

• They effectively break down uric acid scale, mineral deposits, and related odors

• Are usually easy to apply

• Have a neutral pH, making them safe to use per the manufacturer's instructions

Step-by-Step Cleaning Process

1.    Wear protective gloves and goggles

2.    Remove any screens and debris from the urinal

3.    Flush the urinal once or twice before cleaning

4.    Apply the enzymatic cleaner thoroughly using a spray cleaner; focus on the problem areas right below the waterspouts

5.    Allow 5-10 minutes for the enzymes to work

6.    Flush and wipe clean

7.    Repeat if necessary (may take 2-3 applications)

Once the uric scale is removed, the urinal can be cleaned as usual using a sanitizing or disinfecting cleaning solution.  

Prevention

Uric acid scale frequently builds up in conventional water-based urinals located in high-traffic restrooms, according to Reichardt.  

“Although this cleaning method will help address this cleaning challenge, purchasing patterns reveal [that] the third most common reason [why] waterless urinals are selected for men’s restrooms, directly behind saving water and cost savings, is to eliminate this uric acid scale problem.”

 ###

Keywords: uric acid; removing uric scale; urinals; mineral build-up; conventional flush urials; waterless urinals; cleaning professionals

About Waterless  

Waterless Co., Inc. is a family-run business founded in 1991 and is a leader in promoting water efficiency. Based in Vista, CA, the company's product range includes various waterless urinals for home and commercial settings, liquid plumbing solutions, and cost-saving accessories, reflecting their focus on sustainability and innovation in water-saving technologies.

Contact Information  

Waterless Co. Inc.

1050 Joshua Way
Vista, CA 92081 USA
800.244.6364

sales@waterless.com

EverPrime: Eliminate Floor Drain Odors

The Problem

Most facilities experience unpleasant odors from floor drains in restrooms, warehouses, public areas, and confined spaces. These odors occur when the water seal in drain traps evaporates due to:

• Lack of regular water flow

• Infrequent floor mopping

• Rapid evaporation in dry climates

The Solution

EverPrime® is a specialized sealing liquid that creates a long-lasting barrier in floor drain traps, preventing odors from escaping.

Simple Application

1.    Add just three ounces of EverPrime® to drain

2.    Then avoid pouring large amounts of water down the drain giving the product time to work

3.    That's it! No more odors!

Key Benefits

• Easy to apply

• Long-lasting protection

• Cost-effective solution

• Works in virtually all drains

• Biodegradable

Perfect For

• Floor drains

• HVAC condensation traps

• Unused shower traps

• Any drain with infrequent water flow

EverPrime® creates a seal that won't evaporate like water. Apply every few months as needed and forget about drain odors for good!

Customer Review Summary

The product effectively eliminates odors from floor drains, with customers highlighting several key points:

• Easy to use and works quickly

• Many customers were unaware floor drains could release odors

• Best applied when drains are not in use

• Avoid mopping floors or using showers shortly after application for best results

• Appreciate that the product is relatively inexpensive

• Requires reapplication approximately every three months for continued effectiveness especially in dry climates.

BlueSeal: The Ultimate Solution for Waterless Urinal Performance

BlueSeal® is not just another trap seal liquid designed to be used in waterless urinals—it's a revolutionary biodegradable solution engineered specifically for superior waterless urinal performance.

With its precisely calibrated specific gravity lower than water or urine, BlueSeal creates an impenetrable barrier that:

• Ensures the trap works effectively during regular use

• Provides odor protection for extended periods of time

• Performs flawlessly in extreme climate conditions, with zero evaporation at 100°F and freeze protection down to -70°F, eliminating costly winterization requirements

• Is biodegradable

Maintenance couldn't be simpler. The proprietary BlueSeal formula remains unaffected by standard commercial cleaners and is applied in precise 3-ounce portions using our specialized PortionAid dispenser. This system ensures optimal performance while minimizing waste.

When cleaning waterless urinal with BlueSeal applied, avoid the use of cleaning powders that could compromise performance of the product. Also avoid scrubbing the interior bowl surface of the no-water urinal to prevent damage.

With BlueSeal, you're not just maintaining a waterless urinal, you're ensuring peak odor control, maximizing operational efficiency, and embracing sustainable facility management.

Customer Review Summary for BlueSeal®

The product receives generally positive feedback from school maintenance personnel, office managers, and park and recreation managers and park caretakers that have installed waterless urinals. Here are the key points from the reviews:

• Consistently effective for protecting waterless urinals during winter facility closures

• Long-term users report reliable performance over years with no issues

• Proper application according to manufacturer instructions is important for effectiveness

• Small quantities are sufficient; customers advise against ordering large amounts

• Performs as advertised and is recommended for waterless urinal owners

Most reviewers confirm the product works exactly as described and accomplishes its intended purpose effectively.

The Hidden Crisis Beneath Our Streets

How Deteriorating Water Systems Impact Communities Nationwide

It is no secret that water infrastructure in the United States has been deteriorating for decades. While most Americans are aware of aging pipes and occasional water main breaks, the widespread consequences of this national crisis remain largely misunderstood and underreported.

To shed light on this critical issue, Klaus Reichardt, CEO and Founder of Waterless Co., Inc. – pioneers in water conservation technology and advocates for sustainable water management – addresses the most pressing questions about America's water infrastructure challenges.

Key Water Infrastructure Challenges Facing America Today

Funding Gaps and Workforce Shortages Slow Critical Repairs

"Securing adequate funding and finding qualified contractors to repair and replace our water infrastructure are the most significant obstacles we face," explains Reichardt. "While recent infrastructure legislation has allocated some resources, the financial requirements far exceed current commitments."

The situation is further complicated by workforce limitations. "Because water infrastructure improvements have been neglected for decades, many regions struggle to find contractors with crews properly trained for complete system replacement rather than temporary repairs," Reichardt notes.

Water Loss: The Invisible Drain on America's Most Precious Resource

When asked about the primary consequence of deteriorating water systems, Reichardt doesn't hesitate: "Without question, it is water loss. As water becomes increasingly more precious across America, losing it through aging pipes, leaky infrastructure, and preventable main breaks is unconscionable."

This water loss carries dual consequences – wasting a critical natural resource while creating significant economic burdens for communities nationwide.

The Economic Impact of Water Infrastructure Failure

Learning from History: Water Access and Civilizational Stability

"Clean, affordable, and dependable water is essential for the survival and prosperity of all nations," Reichardt emphasizes. Historical evidence supports this claim, as several once-prominent civilizations including the Mayan Empire and Tang Dynasty faced decline partially due to water supply challenges.

According to research published in the peer-reviewed journal PLOS ONE, archaeological evidence from Syria and Cyprus indicates that sophisticated civilizations across Europe and the Middle East collapsed following climate shifts that triggered water shortages. These changes coincided with a devastating 300-year drought approximately 3,200 years ago, leading to crop failures, widespread famine, and ultimately, societal collapse.

Current Impacts on American Communities

The consequences of America's aging water infrastructure aren't hypothetical future concerns – they're affecting millions today:

• An estimated 2 million Americans currently lack access to running water and indoor plumbing

• Rural communities face the greatest challenges, though urban areas increasingly report similar issues

• Water affordability problems spread as utilities raise rates to fund emergency repairs to systems that should have been replaced decades ago

• Water contamination incidents continue emerging nationwide, frequently traced to infrastructure failures

Promising Solutions for America's Water Infrastructure Crisis

Despite these challenges, Reichardt identifies several encouraging developments:

"We're finally seeing increased funding allocated for replacing crumbling water infrastructure," he notes. "Additionally, unprecedented community engagement is bringing together stakeholders from business, agriculture, education, and technology sectors to ensure reliable, healthy, and affordable water access."

The restroom industry itself is making significant contributions through water conservation innovation. "At Waterless Co., we're proud of our contribution to sustainable water management," Reichardt states. "There's simply no justification for a single urinal consuming up to 35,000 gallons of water annually when waterless alternatives exist. That level of waste has become environmentally irresponsible given today's water challenges."

Taking Action on Water Efficiency

As America confronts its water infrastructure challenges, individual and institutional water efficiency and conservation efforts become increasingly important. Adopting water-efficient technologies such as waterless urinals, supporting infrastructure investment, and raising awareness about water conservation are essential steps toward securing America's water future.

For more information about water conservation solutions and sustainable restroom technologies, visit Waterless Co., Inc.

Keywords: water infrastructure, water conservation, water crisis, aging pipes, water main breaks, sustainable water management, water efficiency, waterless urinals, water loss prevention, American water systems