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How 2025 Plumbing Trends Will Impact Facility Management and Building Maintenance
The plumbing industry is set for a significant technological transformation in 2025, reshaping facility management, cleaning, and maintenance. Klaus Reichardt, CEO and founder of Waterless Co., Inc., attributes this transformation to advancements in artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things (IoT), robots, and enhanced water efficiency technologies..
Among the key trends he says we can expect are the following:
1. Remote Monitoring: New smartphone apps will provide real-time data on building water pressure, flow, temperature, leak detection, and enable water shutoffs. Reichardt notes, “This enables managers to be more proactive in water management 24/7, preventing costly water damage, eliminating emergency cleanups, and improving [water] efficiency.”
2. Smart Water Management Systems: These systems identify water consumption patterns, automatically adjust to prevent water waste, maintain optimal plumbing performance, and offer actionable recommendations to enhance water efficiency, such as suggesting the installation of low-flow toilets and no-water urinals.
Reichardt explains, “These intelligent systems go beyond monitoring to actively improve facility water management, optimization, and provide strategic upgrade recommendations.”
3. Augmented Reality (AR): Remarkably, AR simplifies repairs by allowing users to measure distances, angles, and pipe diameters precisely in plumbing systems deeply embedded in walls and under floors. It also offers step-by-step guidance for plumbing repairs, displays detailed 3D models of complex plumbing components, and creates training scenarios for skill development.
Reichardt notes, “AR enables facility managers and maintenance staff to manage complex plumbing challenges with greater confidence and competence, helping them quickly and effectively diagnose and resolve most plumbing issues.”
4. Robotic Pipe Inspection: Robotic devices can produce high-resolution images and collect data on a facility’s overall plumbing condition. Reichardt points out that many plumbing issues, such as tiny cracks and corrosion developing in pipes, cannot be seen with the naked eye. “These robotics can detect them, allowing plumbers and maintenance personnel to prioritize plumbing tasks.”
These new plumbing technologies will benefit property managers in several ways, according to Reichardt. “They will help them cut costs, ensure tenant satisfaction, and use water more efficiently, reducing overall consumption. They take the guesswork out of plumbing, allowing managers to make more confident decisions about their plumbing systems."
Curious About Waterless Wonders
At a recent conference in Germany, Klaus Reichardt, CEO and Founder of California-based Waterless Co., Inc., answered questions about waterless urinals, their pros, cons, and solutions before a group of German builders, building owners, and managers.
Below are some of those questions and his answers. While sometimes specific to Germany and Europe, these answers apply universally, making them relevant wherever Waterless urinals are considered or installed.
Do certain facilities benefit more from installing waterless urinals than others?
While all facilities can benefit from waterless urinals, some, like convention centers, may benefit the most. These large venues, used by millions of people annually, consume vast amounts of water. Installing waterless urinals can significantly cut water usage and operating costs. That's why many sports venues, which are also used by millions of people, have already installed them and are now enjoying water and cost savings.
Are there facilities where waterless urinals cannot be installed?
For the most part, not any longer. Some areas of the world may still have plumbing codes that deter the installation of no-water urinals, but in North America and most of Europe, these codes have mostly been removed or are no longer applicable. However, some exceptions may exist, such as historical buildings with strict preservation rules, which might prevent the installation of waterless urinals.
Along these lines, have you ever told a building owner or manager they should not install waterless urinals in an existing facility?
Actually, I have. Before installing waterless urinals, building owners and managers must ask themselves three questions:
1. How many men would be using the urinals?
2. How many times a day?
3. How many days per week?
Installing waterless urinals may not be cost-effective for a small location with just a few building users. However, waterless urinals should be considered during renovations or new construction, assuring a sound investment, no matter how many people use or work in the facility.
Is sustainability a key factor in installing waterless urinals?
Yes, that is a factor, but at the end of the day, cost savings has become the key reason for adopting waterless urinals. Water and sewer costs can vary by location in Europe and throughout North America. Still, overall, water is becoming very expensive around the globe especially in Germany and other parts of Europe. According to the NCESC Geographic FAQ, which provides information for people and organizations considering relocation, water in Europe 'can cost up to four times more than in the U.S.'
Additionally, wastewater removal from facilities can be 'considerably higher in Europe than in the U.S.' For instance, in Germany, the average cost of water and wastewater removal for a medium-sized business can be significantly higher than in the U.S.
Are waterless urinals less or more expensive to clean and maintain than traditional ones?
The costs to clean and maintain traditional and waterless urinals are the same – but with one exception. We still find that some manufacturers require specific cylinders (these are placed at the bottom of most waterless urinals) that cost more and have shorter life spans than other waterless urinals. As with the selection of virtually all products, some due diligence is necessary to select the most cost-effective waterless urinals.
What's the funniest or strangest question you've ever been asked about waterless urinals?
Well, since you asked, I was talking to a group of building owners and managers in a meeting just like this when suddenly, someone asked with genuine curiosity, "Should we install these in the ladies' restroom?" I just had to keep a straight face and say urinals are designed specifically for men in men's restrooms. Then I added, "They're definitely not something I foresee ladies lining up to use." It was a light-hearted moment that brought some humor to the discussion.
-Klaus
Addressing a New Set of Water-Related Challenges
Having been involved with water-related issues for over thirty years, I have witnessed a significant evolution in the terms used to discuss water-related issues.
Years ago, when it came to reducing water consumption, the term most frequently heard was water conservation. That was true until about ten years ago when a new term became popular: water efficiency.
So, we are clear: water conservation focuses on short-term reductions in water consumption, such as during a drought. That's not the case with water efficiency.
Water efficiency refers to long-term water reductions, emphasizing the need for sustainable, long-lasting solutions. Typically, this means installing products, devices, and technologies that use less, or no water compared to traditional products.
Waterless urinals are a perfect example. They eliminate the need for water, making them a long-term solution to reducing water consumption.
However, today, a new word is evolving. This one reflects changes in climate conditions in different regions around the globe. That word: aridification.
Aridification is the gradual process whereby a region becomes increasingly dry and hot, diverging significantly from its historical climate norms. At its very worst, aridification can lead to fires and severe fire conditions, as has happened in Southern California.
Dealing with the Challenges of Aridification
Fortunately, there are steps we can take now to address aridification. Among them are the following:
Embracing Water-Efficient Technologies
During the oil crisis of 1973, many countries around the world, along with builders and designers, were forced to examine their buildings' energy use and efficiency. They realized that these facilities were built to depend on fossil fuels to heat them in the winter and cool them in the summer. After the oil crisis, buildings were constructed so that they used less energy and used it more efficiently.
Due to aridification, we must do the same with water when constructing and renovating buildings. Further, with every restroom fixture and water-using device installed in a facility, we must ensure that the most water-efficient systems are selected and installed.
Expanding Water Reuse Programs
This is the practice of reclaiming water from various sources, treating it, and reusing it for beneficial purposes. This could be for vegetation and human consumption.
Some areas of the world have extensive recycling and reuse programs, but far too many have few or none. Making matters worse, it is often in these areas that aridification is most acute. To ensure water security around the globe and deal with the many challenges aridification poses, water reuse programs are necessary, and for those countries that already have them, they must be expanded.
Desalination's Possibilities
Saudi Arabia pioneered the use of desalination technology in 1938. However, historically, desalination plants have faced significant challenges starting with their excessive costs to build and operate. Plus, there are environmental concerns. They often require substantial energy, typically derived from fossil fuels like petroleum, to operate and can contribute to greenhouse gas emissions.
Today, desalination costs are decreasing. Moreover, mobile desalination systems are available that can be placed where and when needed, offering significant cost savings. This makes desalination technology more viable globally.
We started our discussion about how the terms used to discuss water-related issues have been changing. However, one thing that has not changed in all these years is that we can address our water challenges, including those caused by aridification. Technology is on our side. We just must put it to use.
Klaus Reichardt is CEO and founder of Waterless Co, Inc., a pioneer in advancing water efficiency. Reichardt is a frequent author and presenter who discusses water conservation issues. He can be reached at klaus@waterless.com
Waterless Urinals in America: Evolution, Solutions, Benefits
Cartridge used in a Waterless Urinal
Waterless urinals have transformed American restrooms by helping facilities reduce both costs and water usage. Introduced to North America in 1991 by Waterless Co., Inc., these fixtures faced several initial challenges that have since been overcome.
In 2004, engineers at a building systems symposium in Texas documented both the benefits and challenges of this new technology. Here's how the main challenges were addressed:
1. Making Users Comfortable
At first, people were hesitant to use waterless urinals simply because they couldn't find the flush handle. The solution was straightforward: universities pioneered the use of explanatory signs showing that users could simply walk away after use. As waterless urinals became commonplace, these signs became unnecessary.
2. Simplifying Maintenance
The key feature of waterless urinals is a base cartridge that collects urine and blocks sewer odors (see image above). Initially, maintenance staff struggled with servicing these units. Two developments solved this problem:
- Better tools for cartridge removal
- Improved staff training programs
Now, replacing cartridges and cleaning waterless urinals is a quick, simple process.
3. Streamlining Installation
Converting from conventional to waterless urinals requires capping water supply lines and removing flush valves. Sometimes the urinal needs repositioning since it no longer needs flush mechanisms. Today, plumbers and contractors are well-versed in these installations. In new buildings, waterless urinals can often use the same location as conventional ones, with the water supply simply turned off.
4. Managing Costs
While initial costs were once a concern, waterless urinals now cost about the same as conventional units. The real financial benefit comes from long-term savings on water costs, which have risen over 40% since 2012 according to Bluefield Research. Since waterless urinals use no water at all, they offer significant ongoing savings.
Looking ahead, water scarcity is expected to become a major issue in the United States. According to Klaus Reichardt, CEO of Waterless Co., Inc., resolving these early challenges has paved the way for wider adoption of waterless urinals as a water-conservation solution.
Climate Change and Water Security
Climate change is now a widely accepted global phenomenon, even if there is debate about its causes. As our planet warms, its effects are being felt worldwide, particularly in how it impacts our water resources.
While drought is often the first concern that comes to mind when discussing climate change's effects on water, the reality is more complex. Climate change impacts water patterns in multiple ways, including the following:
Increased Flooding
While some regions face drought and water shortages, others experience devastating floods – often in areas previously unaccustomed to such severe flooding. For example, in southern Germany's Bavaria region, flooding in 2024 claimed five lives and injured thousands. During his visit to the affected areas, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz emphasized that this wasn't an isolated incident, but part of a growing pattern of climate-related disasters, particularly flooding events.
Complex Water Cycle Disruption
Global temperature rise is dramatically altering Earth's natural water cycle. Here's how this disruption unfolds:
First, higher temperatures accelerate evaporation, pulling more moisture from soil, lakes, and rivers. This increased evaporation causes water shortages in many regions.
When this excess atmospheric moisture eventually falls as rain, it often comes as intense downpours rather than gentle rainfall. These heavy rains pose a particular problem when they hit areas suffering from drought: the parched, hardened soil can't absorb water quickly enough. Instead of soaking into the ground, the water runs off the surface, triggering flash floods that damage infrastructure and threaten both human and animal life.
After these flooding events, affected regions typically return to dry conditions. This creates a harmful pattern: long periods of drought punctuated by devastating floods, rather than the more balanced distribution of rainfall that characterized these regions in the past.
Impact on Ecosystems and Water Sources
Changing precipitation patterns and water availability are transforming ecosystems worldwide. These changes ripple through the environment, affecting:
- Plant life
- Wildlife
- Marine ecosystems
- Water quality and availability
In response, many regions, particularly in the United States, are increasingly relying on underground aquifers. However, these ancient water sources, which have taken thousands of years to collect water, face a critical sustainability challenge: once depleted, they may require centuries to replenish.
Meeting Future Water Security Challenges
Historical patterns of drought and flooding have shifted significantly with a changing climate. While such events were once considered temporary – happening just once or lasting one to three years – climate change has introduced unprecedented uncertainty. We can no longer reliably predict:
- The duration of droughts and water shortages
- The frequency of flooding events, such as those discussed in Germany earlier
- Which regions might face new water-related challenges.
Ensuring Water Security
To ensure water security in 2025 and beyond, two key strategies are essential:
Adaptive Water Management
Countries must develop flexible approaches to water management that can respond to rapidly changing climate conditions. This requires anticipating and preparing for various scenarios rather than relying on historical patterns.
Enhanced Water Efficiency
Water efficiency must become a priority through:
- Responsible resource management
- Adoption of water-saving technologies
- Implementation of water-elimination technologies where possible; the use of no-water urinals is a perfect example.
By combining adaptive management with improved efficiency, we can better protect our water resources, reduce waste, and maintain water security in an increasingly unpredictable climate future.
-Klaus
Four Ways to Keep No-Water Urinals Fresh, Clean, and Odor Free
There have been questions about no-water urinals in the past such as odor issues. However, we now know that with proper maintenance, these urinals contribute to a pleasant, odor-free restroom experience. This is due to our improved understanding of no-water urinal odors and our ability to address them effectively.
Here's four ways to keep your no-water urinals fresh, clean, and odor free:
1). Add Sealing Liquid or Replace the Cartridge
Most waterless urinals have a cartridge, a.k.a a trap, at the bottom of the urinal, pictured above. Its purpose is twofold:
1. Collect urine and send it down to the sewer line.
2. Prevent sewer odors from being released into the restroom through the sealing liquid inside the cartridge.
When the trap operates correctly, it helps ensure restrooms are odor-free. However, the sealing liquid and cartridges must be replaced based on how frequently the urinal is used. With some brands, the cartridges need to be replaced every two months. However, urinals using the EcoTrap® cartridge typically only need to be replaced every six months.
Regardless of the type of no-water urinal, if you notice urinal odors, check if the sealing liquid or cartridge needs to be replaced. If so, it’s a quick and easy procedure.
2). Cleaning the Urinal
Another key reason for no-water urinal odor problems, as with flush urinals, is improper cleaning. Before exploring this further, here's 2 things you should not do:
Never pour water down a waterless urinal. It is not needed. This can cause clogs in the cartridge as the urine may mix with the water and form calcium crystals.
The interior of the urinal does not need to be scrubbed, as no water deposits are present.
Instead, the most effective way to clean a waterless urinal is to use NviroClean - specially made to clean waterless and conventional urinals - or an all-purpose cleaning solution or disinfectant.
Spray the entire urinal first, then wait a couple of minutes. This is called dwell time, a technique that allows the cleaning solution to work effectively. Then wipe the urinal clean, preferably with a microfiber cleaning cloth.
3). Clean Urinal Surroundings
As any custodial worker will attest, men do not always have the best aim. By the end of a business day, urine droplets collect on floors, partitions, walls, and behind the urinal. As it collects, it releases odors.
To address this, cleaning the surrounding area of any urinal is essential during each cleaning visit. An all-purpose cleaner is usually all that is necessary. Also, be sure to mop around the urinal regularly using a clean mop.
Further, if a mat is installed under the urinal, be sure it is changed and cleaned regularly. This applies to no-water and water-using urinals. Have a professional linen service come in on a regular basis to collect the mats and replace them with fresh ones.
4). Check for Clogs
Clogs in the piping can lead to odor problems. If you suspect a clog, use an auger to clear the pipe. If this resolves the issue, you're all set. However, if the problem persists, it may be time to call a plumber.
There you have it.
Custodial workers often say cleaning and maintaining a waterless urinal is easier than cleaning a flush urinal. Plus, it can be safer. There is less splatter, and there is no concern that the cleaning solution will release fumes when mixed with urine.
That's why, when it comes to cleaning, we suggest staying healthy - the waterless way.
Urgent Action Needed to Ensure the World’s Supply of Fresh Water
Study Prepared by the UN Commission on the Economics of Water
Vista, CA – December 3, 2024 - Half the world’s population is currently grappling with a severe water scarcity crisis, according to a report from the Global Commission on the Economics of Water published in October 2024.
The report warns that this alarming figure is only set to escalate as the climate crisis intensifies.
The report also highlighted the following:
More than 2 billion people lack safe drinking water, and 3.6 billion people – 44 percent of the world’s population – lack safe sanitation.
Tragically, every day, 1,000 innocent children lose their lives due to the lack of access to safe water. This heart-wrenching statistic underscores the urgent need for action.
Demand for fresh water is expected to outstrip supply by 40 percent in just six years.
Without action, by 2050, water problems will shave about 8 percent off global gross domestic product (GDP), with poorer countries, such as those in sub-Saharan Africa and parts of Asia, facing a 15 percent loss.
Over half of the world’s food production comes from areas experiencing unstable water availability trends - including areas of the United States.
It also pointed out that two types of water serve the world:
Green Water. Found in soil, this water is used by agriculture, plants, and soil microorganisms. When used by vegetation, it is released back into the atmosphere through the process of transpiration.
Blue Water. This water comes from rainfall or the melting of snow.
While the study focused on many other dark realities related to water, it also provided some answers and solutions, according to Klaus Reichardt, CEO and Founder of Waterless Co., Inc., a leading marketer of no-water urinals.
According to Reichardt, the report concluded that we must reshape world economies so that water is used more efficiently, eliminating waste.
He also suggests that we should "begin with the end in mind when it comes to water, focusing on the desired outcome and then work backward to achieve it."
About Waterless
Waterless Co., Inc. has been a pioneer in water efficiency since 1991, when it introduced waterless urinals to North America. Headquartered in Vista, CA, the company has established itself as a key player in promoting water efficiency. Their product range includes a variety of no-flush urinals, liquid plumbing solutions, and cost-saving accessories, reflecting their commitment to environmental sustainability and innovation in water-saving technologies.
Contact Information
Waterless Co. Inc.
1050 Joshua Way
Vista, CA 92081 USA
800.244.6364
How Microsoft Is Addressing Water Challenges
This is part of our continuing series, Overlooked No More, where we highlight companies and organizations taking significant steps to reduce water consumption and use water more efficiently.
Many of the companies previously featured focus primarily on their own water use and finding ways to use less. However, our focus company this month, Microsoft, is extending its efforts far beyond its own operations. The company collaborates with countries and organizations worldwide to reduce water consumption, enhance water efficiency, and replenish water supplies.
Before exploring some of their efforts, the following two terms need to be clarified:
Water Efficiency. This refers to strategies that reduce or eliminate water consumption for the long term. Xeriscape landscaping, installing low-flow toilets, and no-water urinals are perfect examples.
Water Replenishment. According to Microsoft, replenishment activities typically address water quantity, availability, or quality by reducing water use and recharging local aquifers.
So, what's Microsoft been up to?
Among their major water efficiency projects currently are the following:
**The Colorado River** The goal here is to focus on water efficiency by using technologies that quickly uncover and repair leaks and introducing steps for farmers to reduce water consumption.
**Chile** This country frequently faces multi-year droughts that severely impact its water availability. To address this, Microsoft uses advanced leak detection technologies, helping farmers use water more efficiently, and develops projects that help the land absorb and retain more water, such as reforestation and soil conservation.
**Shanghai** This city of twenty-five million people has several water-related difficulties. Substantial amounts of water in Shanghai are polluted due to agricultural runoff and insufficient wastewater treatment. Additionally, there is a leadership vacuum in water management. To address this, Microsoft seeks ways to strengthen water stewardship, restore wetland areas to minimize runoff and improve water quality.
**Phoenix** Cooling systems can use vast volumes of water, especially in hot and dry areas such as Phoenix, AZ. Furthermore, these mechanicals often use more water as they age. Microsoft has developed a revolving loan program for the city's hospitals to address this. Loans are provided to hospitals to retrofit their HVAC systems. As the money is paid back, those funds are re-loaned to other hospitals, reducing water consumption and dramatically improving water efficiency.
Beyond water efficiency and replenishment, Microsoft's other water goals include the following:
Finding Water Alternatives: Exploring and implementing alternatives to water, particularly for data centers.
Monitoring and Measurement: Encourage water consumption tracking and replenishment efforts. Data allows communities to understand their water usage better and evaluate the effectiveness of their water reduction strategies.
Our series, Overlooked No More, aims to encourage you and your organization to support similar initiatives and implement strategies that help reduce water consumption and use it more efficiently. If we can help you in this endeavor, please contact us. In the interim, hopefully, we have provided you with some inspiration.
-Klaus
Top Eight Reasons Facilities Consider LEED Certification
LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is the world's most widely used green building rating system. Every five years, the LEED program is reevaluated and updated by the US Green Building Council, the non-profit organization that manages the LEED certification program.
These updates, crucial to staying abreast of the latest environmental trends and regulations, are typically driven by changes in our environment and culture, and a growing need to conserve natural resources, particularly water.
They set a higher standard for facilities seeking LEED certification, encouraging organizations to take more significant steps towards sustainability and resource protection.
The latest LEED version, "v5," will be introduced in 2025. Because of this, many companies, building owners, developers, and managers are expected to give the latest version a close look. This is especially true of organizations planning construction projects, renovating existing buildings in 2025, or believing the time has come to become LEED-certified.
But what are the compelling reasons for an organization to pursue LEED certification? The benefits are numerous and significant. Among them are the following:
1. Government incentives. Some cities and states offer rebates and tax benefits to LEED-certified facilities, especially if steps have been taken to reduce water consumption.
2. Lower interest rates on construction loans. Banks may offer lower interest rates on construction and renovation loans for properties seeking LEED certification. Banks view these as safer investments.
3. Address new rules and regulations. Both in the U.S. and especially in Western Europe, new rules and regulations are being put into place that put greater emphasis on sustainability, water efficiency, and environmental concerns. LEED-certified facilities typically can meet these new regulations and are often one step ahead of them.
4. Culture of sustainability. Numerous organizations are adopting a "culture of sustainability." This is when all aspects of their business operations - from the vendors they work with to the products or services they offer – are taking steps to reduce consumption and protect natural resources.
5. Happier employees. LEED-certified buildings have improved indoor air quality, typically because of the way they are cleaned and maintained. Further, there is much more emphasis on natural light and more open spaces. This contributes to happier employees and happier employees tend to be more productive and loyal to their employers.
6. Long-term savings. While there was once a belief that LEED-certified buildings would be more expensive to build and operate, the reality is quite the opposite. These more efficient buildings typically have lower operating costs and energy and water bills, providing a sound financial investment overall.
7. Real estate profitability. It is no secret that office buildings are struggling to attract tenants. However, LEED-certified facilities still maintain an edge over non-certified buildings. Potential tenants remain convinced that a LEED-certified facility tends to be better and more efficiently operated.
8. Resilience. Compared to past versions, LEED v5 places much more emphasis on facility resilience. This is because changes in our climate are having a more significant impact on existing buildings. The two hurricanes in Florida are often used as an example. LEED v5 buildings are built to be more resilient and protective environments for building users.
Throughout, we’ve mentioned concerns about water and protecting this natural resource. This is because water scarcity is a growing global crisis. Further, droughts are becoming more frequent and severe, impacting communities globally.
However, for businesses, the truth is inescapable: water is their lifeblood.
If taps run dry, production lines freeze, employees go home, and revenue evaporates. While companies acknowledge mounting water crises, they're not just embracing water efficiency as a noble goal, they're recognizing it as the very oxygen they need for survival.
-Klaus
