The 2025 Guide to Waterless Urinals: Your Questions Answered

Waterless No-Flush Urinals in a Sports Stadium Restroom

With more people returning to offices, schools, and campuses, there's a growing interest in upgrading restroom facilities. Waterless urinals are becoming a popular choice, and we've gathered the most common questions to help you understand them better.

Installation and Maintenance

Is a waterless urinal's trap easy to clean?

Yes. The cylinder or trap at the base of a waterless urinal, such as the EcoTrapĀ®, only needs to be wiped down during regular cleaning. There's no need to remove the trap for a special cleaning. This simple process makes upkeep a breeze.

Do you need to clean the drainpipes?

No. Unlike with flush urinals, you don't need to perform extra cleaning of the pipes. The only time you'd need to clean them is if there's an obstruction, which is rare.

Will urine crystallize and clog the pipes?

The hard crystallization of urine that can build up in flushed urinals is not a problem with waterless models. The soft sediment that remains in the drain line won't cause blockages.

How long does it take to install a waterless urinal?

Replacing a traditional urinal with a waterless one typically takes a plumber about an hour. Installation can take longer if the new urinal has a different "footprint" or if there are unexpected plumbing or structural issues.

Manufacturing and Selection

How many companies make waterless urinals?

There are several manufacturers in North America, with Waterless being a leader in the market. More companies also operate in Europe, Asia, and India.

Should I shop around before buying a waterless urinal?

Absolutely. It's a mistake to assume all waterless urinals are the same. Key differences to consider include the design, how the system works, and the overall cost of ownership. Some models have a much higher long-term cost than others, so it's smart to compare options before you make a decision.

Usage and Scalability

Is there a user limit for waterless urinals?

No. There's no such thing as a "boy limit" or a user limit for waterless urinals. They are designed to accommodate high-traffic facilities, including schools with hundreds of students, just like traditional urinals.

How many waterless urinals are installed globally?

It's estimated that waterless urinals make up about 5% of all urinals worldwide. This number is expected to grow as more facilities adopt this water-saving technology.

Is there anything else you'd like to know about waterless urinals?

Just ask.