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Many facilities, both new and old, are transitioning to waterless urinals to improve efficiency and sustainability. For instance, the Royal Hotel in Sydney, Australia, recently retrofitted all common-area men’s restrooms with waterless technology.
“We installed waterless urinals for several reasons,” says Dennis Callahan, owner of the Royal Hotel. “I thought it was a more efficient way to go as water becomes increasingly expensive, but we also did it to help eliminate restroom odors.”
Key Benefits of Waterless Urinals for Commercial Facilities
According to industry experts, interest in waterless technology is surging, particularly within the hospitality sector. Here is why hotel owners are making the switch:
1. Significant Installation and Maintenance Savings
While waterless urinals must connect to a drain, they eliminate the need for the complex plumbing required to carry water to the unit. This represents a major cost saving for building owners. Furthermore, you can avoid the ongoing maintenance associated with:
Electronic sensors
Flush batteries
Moving mechanical components found in traditional flush urinals
2. Massive Water Conservation
A traditional urinal uses approximately 1 to 1.5 gallons of water per flush, while older units can consume as much as 4 gallons.
Considering the average urinal is flushed roughly 2,000 times per month, a single unit can waste over 35,000 gallons of water per year. That is equivalent to the total annual water usage of a family of four. In drought-prone regions, switching to waterless systems is not just a financial decision—it is a vital part of a "Green" sustainability strategy.
3. Improved Hygiene and Health
In the hotel industry, minimizing cross-contamination is a top priority. Because germs and bacteria are frequently spread by touching restroom surfaces, eliminating the flush handle significantly reduces the spread of harmful microorganisms.
One Caveat: Do Your Homework
While the benefits are clear, hotel administrators should research different manufacturers before committing to a system. Not all waterless urinals are created equal; each brand uses a slightly different mechanism, leading to variations in maintenance and operating costs.
Understanding the Trap or Cylinder System
Most waterless urinals utilize a trap or cylinder at the base to prevent sewer odors from entering the restroom.
The Cost Factor: Some replacement cylinders are expensive, which can eat into the monetary savings gained from lower water bills.
The Durability Factor: Conversely, certain systems use more affordable cylinders that actually last longer.
To maximize your ROI and enjoy the full benefits of waterless technology, it is essential to analyze the long-term cartridge costs of each system.
Learn More About Waterless Solutions
Ready to upgrade your facility? For more information on high-efficiency waterless urinals, contact a Waterless Co. representative at 800-244-6364.
