As more Waterless Co., Inc. urinals are installed throughout North America, many building administrators are unsure why the EcoTrap is placed at the bottom of these urinals and what functions they provide.
The quick answer is that a Waterless no-water urinal cannot operate properly if the EcoTrap is not installed. This is because it is key to odor control. Without the EcoTrap, fumes from pipes and the sewer – which are both unpleasant and unhealthy - could drift into the restroom.
🔑 With that said, here are some of the key questions people ask about the EcoTrap:
Does the EcoTrap need cleaning?
No. It’s a one-piece unit that doesn’t require opening or special cleaning. It is simply replaced when needed.How often should the EcoTrap be replaced?
Typically, 2–4 times per year, depending on restroom traffic. Each cartridge lasts for about 7,000–10,000 uses.How do you know it’s time to change the cartridge?
The EcoTrap can be compared to a filter. Over time, sediment, hair, and minerals accumulate in the trap. When this happens, the urinal starts draining slowly.What role does BlueSeal® liquid play?
BlueSeal forms a floating barrier inside the EcoTrap that prevents sewer gases from escaping. About 3 ounces lasts for ~2,500 uses, after which it must be replenished.Is BlueSeal biodegradable?
Yes. It’s made of mineral oils, alcohols, and dye, and is fully biodegradable. Biodegradable means the ingredients in BlueSeal break down into simpler, harmless components.Do waterless urinals smell?
Not if maintained properly. Odors are blocked by the EcoTrap and BlueSeal. Additionally, smells can come when the urinal is not thoroughly cleaned or if urine is absorbed into grout or floor beneath the urinal. Waterless Co. will provide cleaning and maintenance instructions with the urinal.Do drainpipes clog with Waterless urinals?
No. Clogging is primarily an issue with water-using urinals.Is installation complicated?
Replacing a traditional urinal with a waterless one usually takes about an hour for a plumber. Time is saved because Waterless urinals normally fit over the old footprint of a water using urinal. Plus, there is less plumbing required, so installation charges are minimized.Can EcoTrap be used in competitor urinals?
Unfortunately, no. Each manufacturer designs cartridges to fit their own urinals. Here is where the concept "buyer-beware comes into play. Some cartridges have a noticeably short life expectancy. On top of that, these same traps are often more costly than the EcoTrap, which is still under $10 to purchase.
⚙️ How does the EcoTrap Works
Urine flows into the EcoTrap insert.
It passes through the BlueSeal liquid barrier, which traps odors and gases.
The liquid and urine overflow into the central tube, draining into the sewer line.
Sediments are retained in the EcoTrap, which is later replaced using a special tool, a BlueSeal Ipack. ™
🚻 Why These Questions Matter
Understanding these points helps facilities managers and homeowners:
Keep restrooms odor-free.
Plan cost-effective maintenance.
Ensure sustainability by saving water and reducing plumbing issues.
🧾 Below is a ready-to-print one‑page maintenance checklist for the EcoTrap® cartridge in Waterless Co., Inc. urinals. It’s formatted so it can be posted in a janitorial closet or shared with building staff.
🔹 Daily / Routine Care
Wipe urinal surface with mild, non‑abrasive cleaner
Check for odors → confirm BlueSeal® level
Mop floor underneath the urinal carefully (odor often comes from grout, not the trap)
🔹 Weekly Care
As needed, add 3 oz. BlueSeal® liquid into EcoTrap (2,500 uses per refill)
Confirm smooth drainage
🔹 Monthly Care
Monitor for slow drainage or persistent odor
Track approximate number of uses
🔹 Cartridge Replacement (2–4 times per year)
Replace when:
Drainage slows noticeably
Odor persists despite BlueSeal refill
Steps:
Use BlueSeal Ipack™ tool to remove EcoTrap
Insert new cartridge
Add fresh BlueSeal liquid
Dispose of old cartridge with regular waste
🔹 Annual Review
Inspect plumbing for buildup
Check supply of cartridges & BlueSeal
Refresh staff training
📌 Quick Tips
Never add water to a waterless urinal, only BlueSeal maintains odor barrier
Avoid harsh chemicals or bleach
Keep a logbook of refills & replacements
