💧 Waterless Urinals: Your Latest Questions, Answered

Waterless Urinal Installed in an artist’s studio.

Interest in no-water urinals has surged in recent years — and for good reason. With growing concerns about water scarcity, stricter regulations, and the push for sustainable building solutions, more people are exploring proven ways to cut water use without sacrificing performance.

At Waterless Co., Inc., we’ve been receiving more questions than ever about how these urinals work, where they can be used, and what to expect when making the switch.

Here are answers to some of the most frequent questions we’ve recently received. 👇

🏠 Can You Install Waterless Urinals in Homes?

Yes — and it’s becoming more common!
Homeowners, especially those remodeling bathrooms, are beginning to see the appeal. Waterless urinals have been installed in homes “under the radar” for a few years, but interest is quickly rising.

🌍 Are Waterless Urinals Better for the Environment?

Absolutely. But let’s break that down.
They’re better in four key ways:

1️⃣ They reduce water consumption.
Each urinal saves thousands of gallons every year.

2️⃣ They cut water waste.
No malfunctioning flush valves, leaks, or unnecessary flushing.

3️⃣ They save money - Significantly.
When less water is delivered and removed from a facility water utility costs go down – yes, a lot.

4️⃣ They lower carbon emissions.
For every 264 gallons (1,000 liters) of water saved, roughly 175 grams of carbon are avoided — about 720 pounds of carbon per urinal annually. That’s because delivering and removing water requires energy.

🔁 How Often Do You Replace the Cartridge?

Typically, every 3–6 months for Waterless Co. urinals.
Some brands may require replacements every 2–3 months, often at higher cost — so always compare before you buy.

💵 What Are the Annual Maintenance Costs?

For our systems, annual maintenance averages around $50 per urinal.

That includes:

• 2–4 cartridge changes ($9–$15 each)

• Occasional refills of BlueSeal®, our odor-blocking liquid sealant.

For context: repairing or replacing a conventional urinal flush mechanism can cost $60 to $250 — each time.

🛒 Where Can You Buy Waterless Urinals?

We recommend starting with a plumbing distributor, who can help match the right model to your needs.
However, many customers purchase these urinals from reputable online retailers or directly from the manufacturer.

⚙️ What Are the Main Problems with No-Water Urinals?

Very few. With no flush valves or moving parts, there’s little that can go wrong.

If a cartridge ever clogs from mineral buildup, just replace it following manufacturer instructions — no plumber required.

🧭 The Big Picture

Waterless urinals are a practical, proven solution for all types of buildings — from schools to offices to homes — especially in drought-prone regions.

They save water, cut costs, and deliver a high return on investment. In a time when every drop counts, that’s innovation worth paying attention to.

Klaus Reichardt
CEO & Founder, Waterless Co., Inc.
💧 Helping facilities use water more efficiently, reduce costs, and support sustainable operations.
🔗www.waterless.com

Sewer Gas Odors: Causes, Health Risks, and Prevention Tips 😷

Inside a Sewer. Image by Denny Muller found on Unsplash

The smell of sewer gas in a building is more than just an unpleasant odor—it's a warning sign of a potentially serious health hazard. Understanding what sewer gas is, how it enters facilities, and how to prevent it is crucial for maintaining a safe and healthy environment.

What Causes Sewer Gas Odors?

The most common culprit for sewer gas odors being released into a facility is a dried-out P-trap (often mistakenly called a "J" or "U" pipe) located directly beneath drains.

• The P-Trap's Role: The P-trap is a U-shaped plumbing fixture that holds a small pool of water. This water acts as a simple, effective water seal to block sewer gases from rising up through the drain and into the building.

• The Problem: When a drain isn't used for an extended period, the water in the trap can evaporate, allowing the foul-smelling, and potentially harmful, sewer gases to escape.

A stark historical example highlights the danger: the 2003 SARS epidemic in Hong Kong was tragically spread through dried-out P-traps under floor drains, severely impacting the health of residents in an apartment building.

What is Sewer Gas? The Complex, Toxic Mixture

Sewer gas is a complex mixture of gases, pathogens, and compounds that originate from the decomposition of organic waste in sewage. Some of these components are toxic and can cause disease.

The primary and most dangerous components of sewer gas include:

• Hydrogen Sulfide: A poisonous, corrosive, and flammable gas that often has the distinctive, offensive smell of rotten eggs.

• Methane: A potent greenhouse gas believed to contribute to ozone layer depletion. While non-toxic, it displaces oxygen and is highly flammable.

• Ammonia: A colorless gas with a sharp, strong odor. High concentrations can cause severe health issues, including blindness, and it can be deadly when mixed with other fumes.

• Carbon Dioxide: Although widely used, when released from drains, elevated concentrations can be detrimental to human and animal health and harmful to the environment.

Health Symptoms of Sewer Gas Exposure

If sewer gas is present in a home or facility, occupants may experience a range of unwelcome health symptoms. These can vary depending on the concentration and duration of exposure:

• Common Symptoms: Fatigue, headaches, nausea, and dizziness.

• More Severe Symptoms: Memory loss, seizures, coma, and in extreme cases, death.

Simple and Effective Prevention Solutions

Thankfully, preventing sewer gases from entering your space is typically a straightforward task that involves maintaining that vital water seal in the P-traps.

1. Basic Maintenance

The simplest solution is to pour a small amount of water down all drains (sinks, showers, floor drains) at least once a week. This straightforward action replenishes the water in the P-trap, preventing it from drying out.

2. Long-Lasting Protection for Commercial Facilities

For a more practical and efficient method, especially in large facilities like schools, offices, and commercial buildings, consider using a specialized product like Everprime.

• How it Works: By pouring a small amount (about 3 ounces) of Everprime® into all drains every few months, you create a consistent, long-lasting barrier against sewer gases.

• Product Benefits: Everprime® is effective, inexpensive, biodegradable, and easy-to-use. It provides durable protection, offering peace of mind that your facility is continuously protected from dangerous sewer gases.

Maintaining an effective water seal is one of the most proactive ways to keep people safe and healthy in the facilities we use every day.

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.

Still Standing Strong: The Enduring Legacy of Waterless Company, Inc.

Certain American companies—Apple, Nike, Harley-Davidson, and IBM—have achieved iconic status. Nearly everyone recognizes these brands and holds them in high regard. Customers often develop emotional connections with their products, treating them almost like trusted companions.

Ask a marketing professional how to build an iconic brand, and you'll likely hear a familiar playbook:

• Maintain consistently high product quality

• Launch a distinctive product

• Investing carefully in product promotion

• Be patient. It typically takes a decade or more

Consider Nike: founded over 50 years ago, the company didn't achieve icon status until the mid-1980s when it created special sneakers for Michael Jordan and made similar versions available to consumers.

Apple followed a similar path, combining unique products with substantial advertising. Though popular in the early 1980s, Apple reached iconic status with the 1984 Macintosh launch. Despite years of challenges, the company's groundbreaking computer secured its lasting iconic position.

However, some icons emerge simply through longevity. UPS exemplifies this perfectly. Founded in 1907, UPS has outlasted countless delivery competitors over the past 117 years. The company earned icon status through steady growth, international expansion, and remarkable staying power.

This brings us to Waterless Co. Inc.

In 1991, Waterless introduced the first waterless urinals to North America. By the early 2000s, our proven technology attracted competitors, including major restroom fixture manufacturers. Many of those companies have since exited the market or refocused on traditional water-based products.

Today, Waterless Co. Inc. stands as the industry's longest-operating manufacturer of waterless urinals—recently earning us recognition as an icon in our field. We've achieved this through dependable products that enhance any men's restroom while delivering consistent performance.

Without massive advertising budgets, we still have managed to generate significant publicity and industry attention. The results speak for themselves: thousands of Waterless urinals installed across North America, reducing water consumption, lowering operating costs, and a much greater widespread education about waterless urinal technology.

For more information on waterless urinals, contact a Waterless Co. representative at 800-246-394.

Educating Tomorrow's Water Stewards Today

Image: Classroom Kids by Yan Krukau found on Prexels

Many advocates for water efficiency and reducing water consumption believe that early education is a powerful tool for addressing the urgent water-related challenges, including water scarcity, that our planet is facing.

By teaching children about water-related issues from a young age, we can empower them to become informed, responsible citizens committed to protecting our planet's most precious resource. This can be achieved by integrating water education into various subjects, such as science, geography, and even art, making it a part of the regular curriculum.

Here's a Q&A that explores this further.

Q: Why is teaching children about water efficiency (long-term water conservation) so important?

A: Today's children, as tomorrow's decision-makers and leaders, have a crucial role to play in shaping a more sustainable future. By educating them about water scarcity and efficiency now, we empower them to make informed choices and contribute to a healthier planet.

Q: What's the biggest misconception children have about water?

A: Most children—and many adults—take water for granted. They assume it will always be there when they need it and rarely give it a second thought. Children typically don't know where their water comes from, how it's treated and distributed, or that four billion people worldwide experience at least one month per year with little to no water available.

Q: What are the key facts children need to learn about water?

A: Students need to understand five essential truths:

- Water is life itself—without it, we cease to exist

- Forty percent of the world's water is polluted and unusable, spreading diseases when used for cooking and bathing

- Water is a finite, precious resource that must be protected

- Droughts are becoming more frequent and longer-lasting in many parts of the world

- Solutions exist, and we can all take action to address water challenges

Q: What solutions should we teach children about?

It's crucial to show children that positive steps are being taken globally. These real-world solutions, such as water audits and efficient water use practices, the installation of waterless urinals in restrooms, alll demonstrate that we can all play a part in addressing water challenges.

Q: How does water education develop broader life skills?

A: Addressing water challenges requires problem-solving and critical thinking abilities. By teaching children about water issues early, we help them develop analytical skills they can apply to various complex challenges throughout their lives, not just environmental ones.

Q&A with Klaus Reichardt: Founding Waterless Co. Inc.

Q: What does Waterless Co., Inc. do?

A: We market urinals that eliminate the use of water, reduce costs, improve restroom hygiene, and protect human health.

Q: Why did you start Waterless Co.?

A: The idea came from my college days at Pepperdine University in Southern California. Living through constant droughts and water shortages was a wake-up call. I watched the same pattern repeat: drought hits, restrictions are imposed, then everything "goes back to normal." I realized droughts aren't temporary—they're part of a larger pattern driven by climate change, population growth, and overuse of water.

Q: What inspired you to focus specifically on restrooms?

A: After graduation, I began exploring how we could rethink water use, especially in restrooms—one of the most water-intensive areas in any facility. That's when I discovered waterless urinals. It was a breakthrough: a way to save thousands of gallons of water every year without compromising hygiene or performance.

Q: When was Waterless Co. Inc founded?

A: In 1991. We were the first company in the U.S. to introduce and market no-water urinals nationwide.

Q: Where have your products been installed?

A: Our products have been installed in schools, offices, public buildings, and major sports stadiums across the country.

Q: After thirty-five years in the industry, what has remained constant?

A: Our "why." We exist to advance water efficiency—to help people, businesses, and communities use water more responsibly and sustainably. Purpose must always guide progress.

Q: What keeps you motivated after all these years?

A: Remembering why I started in the first place. I frequently rewatch Simon Sinek's talk about the importance of knowing your "why." It reminds me that when we act with purpose, innovation follows naturally. Let's continue to use water wisely—together.

Plumbing Questions You've Always Wanted Answered

What Is a Water Closet?

The term water closet, often abbreviated as WC, refers to a room containing only a toilet, usually without a sink. The WC dates back to 16th-century England and was a significant step in the evolution of indoor plumbing, moving sanitation from outdoor outhouses to the convenience and comfort of indoor facilities.

Originally, these fixtures were a luxury reserved for the wealthy and royalty. The first known WC in the U.S. was installed in a home in Annapolis, Maryland, around 1765. In 1804, Thomas Jefferson had two of them installed in the White House, a full 30 years before a water supply for bathing and drinking was available in the president’s home.

Why Do Plumbing Systems Have Air Vents on the Roof?

Sometimes these are called a plumbing vent stack and you can see them on top of roofs. This essential component is a vertical pipe that connects to all the drains in your home's plumbing system. Its primary purpose is to release unpleasant and potentially hazardous sewer gases that build up in the pipes.

In addition, the vent stack allows fresh air into the system. This fresh air helps water flow smoothly through your drains, preventing a gurgling sound or slow drainage.

If a vent stack gets blocked by debris like leaves or animal nests, you might notice a few warning signs. A telltale sign is a persistent foul odor in your home with no obvious source. Another common indicator is when a drain, like a sink or shower, drains very slowly. While your first instinct might be a clog in the drainpipe itself, the issue is often a lack of proper airflow from a blocked vent stack. Clearing the vent can solve the problem.

Why Do P-Traps Dry Out?

A P-trap is the curved pipe located under a sink or drain. Its design traps a small amount of water, which creates a water seal. This water seal is crucial because it prevents sewer gases from entering your home.

The issue with P-trap is that they dry frequently, especially if you live in a hot, dry climate. When this happens, a foul, sewer-like odor can develop, sometimes carrying harmful gases like hydrogen sulfide.

Pouring water down the drain is a temporary fix, but the water will eventually evaporate again. Pouring bleach down the drain to fix the problem can be dangerous. Bleach can react with sewer gases to create toxic fumes.

A safer and longer-lasting solution is to use products designed to maintain the water seal, such as Everprime. This biodegradable liquid can keep the water seal intact for an extended period, even in hot climates or with infrequent use. Pouring a few ounces down all your drains can help maintain a healthy, clean, and fresh smelling home or office.

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 water efficiently. For more information, contact a Waterless Co Specialist. 

Image above by Orel Ankori found on Unsplash.

10 Must-Know Facts Before Installing Waterless Urinals

Image by Zach Szohoflcvy found on Unsplash

When evaluating waterless urinal installation, most facility managers and building owners focus on one benefit — water savings. While reducing water use is a major advantage, several other critical factors should be reviewed before installing waterless urinals in your facility.

1. Understand How Waterless Urinal Technology Works

• Waterless urinals use no water to flush.

• They rely on gravity to direct urine into a cartridge filled with a sealant liquid.

• This sealant moves urine into the drain and blocks restroom odors from escaping.

• The result: odor-free, low-maintenance restroom performance with zero water waste.

2. Determine If Your Facility Is a Good Fit

• Best suited for high-traffic commercial buildings such as:

• Schools and universities

• Airports and transportation hubs

• Stadiums and arenas

• Office buildings and government facilities

• Delivers the greatest value where water savings, lower operating costs, and simplified maintenance make the biggest impact.

3. Verify Installation Requirements

• Compatible with most existing plumbing systems.

• Can be installed directly in place of traditional urinals.

• Inspect older or corroded drain lines before installation to ensure optimal performance.

• Newer or modernized facilities typically present no compatibility issues.

• Proper installation and ventilation are key to long-term success.

4. Recognize the Full Range of Benefits

Beyond water conservation, the benefits of waterless urinals include:

• Lower water and sewer bills

• Reduced maintenance and plumbing costs

• No flush handles — fewer vandalism and repair issues

• Faster, easier cleaning and sanitation

• Potentially lower installation costs than traditional flush urinals

• Contributes to a cleaner, greener restroom environment

5. Understand and Reduce Urinal Splatter (Splash Back)

• Urinal splatter occurs when droplets rebound from the urinal surface.

• Can affect hygiene and cleanliness in public restrooms.

• Waterless urinals minimize splatter because there’s no flush water creating turbulence.

• Urine drains directly to the bottom, reducing mess and improving restroom hygiene.

6. Learn How to Clean Waterless Urinals Properly

• Never flush with water — it can damage the cartridge or trap.

• Use a neutral cleaner or disinfectant and a soft cloth to wipe surfaces.

• Regular cleaning keeps urinals odor-free and performing efficiently.

• Proper maintenance can extend cartridge life and reduce long-term costs.

7. Explore Product and Cartridge Options

• Not all waterless urinal systems are created equal.

• Cartridge lifespans differ by manufacturer — from a few months to longer intervals.

• Choosing a long-life cartridge system reduces maintenance frequency and costs.

• Review brand warranties, replacement costs, and environmental certifications before purchasing.

8. Consider LEED and Green Building Certification

• LEED v5 and other green building standards award points for installing water-saving restroom fixtures.

• Waterless urinals contribute to LEED certification, helping facilities meet sustainability benchmarks.

• Can also help contribute to WELL certification.

9. Align with Your Sustainability Strategy

• Perfect for organizations pursuing water reduction, net-zero, or sustainable operations.

• Reinforces your corporate sustainability commitment.

• Demonstrates environmental leadership in response to growing water scarcity across North America.

• Publicly showcasing these efforts can strengthen your brand reputation.

10. Know the Expected Lifespan and ROI

• A high-quality waterless urinal can last as long or longer than flush urinals.

• With no moving parts, there’s less risk of breakage or downtime.

• Choose a timeless design to maintain aesthetic appeal over time.

• Long-term ROI comes from reduced water use, lower maintenance, and fewer repairs.

Key Takeaway

By reviewing these ten factors, facility managers and building owners can make an informed decision about installing waterless urinals. In most cases, the conclusion is clear — waterless technology is the smarter, more sustainable, and more cost-effective choice.

👉 Contact Waterless Co. Inc. today to learn how our waterless urinals can:

• Save water and reduce utility costs

• Lower maintenance demands

• Help your facility meet sustainability and LEED goals

Visit www.waterless.com to get started.

Plumbers: Protectors of Public Health

Image by Timur Shakerzianov found on Unsplash

Plumbers: Protectors of Public Health

Plumbers are more than just pipe fixers; they are essential to public health. While you're often called to fix leaks and clogs, your most critical role is protecting people from unseen dangers. One of the most important but often overlooked parts of this job is understanding and maintaining the U-trap.

What is a U-Trap?

A U-trap is the curved pipe found under every drain in North America. Its simple design is brilliant: it holds a small amount of water to create a seal, preventing dangerous sewer gases from entering a building. These gases are a byproduct of decomposing waste and contain harmful germs and bacteria. The U-trap acts as a protective barrier, keeping these noxious odors and potential health risks out of the building.

The Silent Threat: U-Trap Evaporation

This protective barrier is only effective if the water remains in the trap. If a drain is not used regularly, the water in the U-trap can evaporate in just a few days, breaking the seal. This allows sewer gases to escape and circulate throughout the entire building, posing a health risk to everyone inside. The health consequences can range from foul odors and mild discomfort to serious illness.

This problem is particularly critical in today's commercial real estate market. With many offices and commercial spaces sitting vacant or underutilized, numerous drains are inactive for extended periods. This creates a perfect storm for U-trap evaporation and the release of sewer gases, which can affect the entire building, even occupied areas.

Your Role as a Trusted Advisor

As a plumber, you are a vital link in ensuring a safe and healthy environment. Many building managers and clients are unaware of the dangers posed by dry U-traps. It's your responsibility to educate them on the science behind U-traps, the risks of sewer gas exposure, and the importance of preventative maintenance.

While pouring water down drains may seem like a simple fix, it’s not a sustainable or practical solution, especially in large commercial buildings. A far more effective approach is to recommend a specialized liquid like EverPrime®. This non-evaporating, anti-freezing solution creates a lasting seal that prevents U-traps from drying out, protecting the health of building occupants. It's a small investment that prevents a potentially significant health crisis.

By proactively educating your clients and offering practical solutions, you not only enhance your professional reputation but also become a trusted advisor committed to public health.

The Ticking Tap: Questions and Answers about America's Water Crisis

Image by Cole Ciarlello found on Unsplash

Q: What are the main challenges facing America's water infrastructure today?

A: According to Klaus Reichardt, CEO and Founder of Waterless Co., Inc., the two biggest hurdles are funding gaps and workforce shortages. While recent legislation has helped, the money available doesn't come close to what's needed for repairs. Finding qualified contractors is also a major problem, as decades of neglect have created a shortage of crews trained for complete system replacements.

Q: What is the most significant consequence of deteriorating water systems?

A: The most immediate and serious consequence is water loss. As America's population grows and water becomes more precious, millions of gallons are lost daily through leaky pipes and failing infrastructure. This not only wastes a vital natural resource but also creates a significant financial burden on communities.

Q: What is the economic impact of water infrastructure failure?

A: The failure of water systems has a direct impact on communities. Millions of Americans lack access to running water and indoor plumbing, particularly in rural areas. Utilities have to raise rates to pay for emergency repairs, which leads to water affordability problems. This places a strain on low-income households. Furthermore, aging pipes often lead to water contamination incidents that pose a public health risk.

Q: What solutions are being implemented to address this crisis?

A: There is increasing hope as more funding is being allocated to replace crumbling infrastructure. There's also a growing effort by communities to come together and find solutions. The restroom industry, for example, is making a difference through water conservation and efficiency technologies like waterless urinals that significantly reduce water waste.

Q: How can individuals and institutions help with this issue?

A: Individuals and institutions can play a vital role by adopting water-efficient technologies in their homes and businesses. Supporting investments in infrastructure and raising public awareness about water conservation are also crucial steps toward securing a more sustainable water future for the U.S.

Study Finds Water Bills Increasing Around the Country

Clikr-Free--Vector-Images found in Pixaby

Not All Water Bills are Created Equal

Vista, CA – October 1, 2025 - The Bank of America Institute recently reported that the cost of water "has increased significantly across the U.S. in the past decade."

 As of March 2025, median water utility payments have increased by 7.1 percent—twice the rate of inflation.

Water utility bills cover the delivery, removal and treatment of water, according to Klaus Reichardt, CEO and Founder of Waterless Co., Inc. "One way to keep water-related costs in check is to update water infrastructure that can work efficiently, like a well-oiled machine."

Therein lies the problem, according to the Institute. While water infrastructure improvements are happening, it’s a slow process and many communities rely on aging infrastructure dating back decades.

Additionally, changing weather patterns have compounded the issue, putting more pressure on these aging systems.

As to changing weather patterns, studies by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, which analyzes U.S. weather trends every ten years show that every area of the country is warmer today than it was in 1981.

The Institute also reported that rates have increased most in the Midwest, likely due to infrastructure issues and growing populations. However, Mid-Atlantic states—New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania—are also experiencing surging water rates, far exceeding the national inflation rate.

The study referenced a report by Bluefield Research, which found that U.S. water and sewer bills have increased 24 percent over the past five years.

Interestingly, higher-income households are paying the most for water—six percent more than last year—likely because they have larger properties.

However, lower-income households are most impacted by rising rates, as they pay a higher percentage of their income for water compared to middle- and high-income households.

"Unfortunately, the study did not provide any solutions," Reichardt said.

“Waiting for government action alone is not enough. We must be part of the solution, finding ways to use water more efficiently. This is a proven method of reducing water consumption—and the high water utility costs that go with it."

Available for Interviews on Water Efficiency Issues: Klaus Reichardt, klaus@waterless.com

About Waterless

Waterless Co., Inc., Introduced waterless urinals to North America in 1991.  Based in Vista, Ca, the company has become a leader in water efficiency. The company offers a full line of Waterless No-Flush urinals, cleaning solutions, and other cost-saving accessories. Visit: www.waterless.com 

Waterless Co. Inc.

1050 Joshua Way
Vista, CA 92081 USA
800.244.6364

sales@waterless.com