Introduction

File:SLOAN Waterless Urinal-Top View.JPG/thumb Waterless urinals function without the use of water. They are not a recent invention, in fact have been around since 1991. Waterless or no-flush urinals were first developed and manufactured in the United States by Waterless Co. Inc [1] With growing interest in such technologies, many companies have begun to manufacture and modify the designs of waterless urinals improving ease of maintenance and odor control. Some problems have arise from this new technology including complaints by consumers of the cost of required frequent replacement of the units trap/cartridges.[2] However,there are low cost replacements at $7.00 and odors are easily controled by better sealing liquids; many consumers have reported overall reduction in water use and cost as a result from switching to waterless urinals. With rising water and sewer costs all over the world this is a technology that will stay around.

Design

Implementation

Waterless urinals have been growing in popularity over the years, being installed worldwide in many public and private institutions. A survey of waterless urine implementation was conducted by the Massachusetts company, Industrial Economics Inc. found waterless urinals being installed in major airports, municipal and retail properties such as IKEA and Boston City Hall, as well as malls and higher education facilities including Harvard.[3] Both federal and state governments within the United States have also fund large scale conversions from conventional urinals with in their facilities. Waterless Co. LLC currently has projects of installation within over 20% of the major US military bases in the county. Many national parks, post offices, middle and high schools, as well as county government buildings have seen the implementation of waterless urinal.[4]

Several cities, such as Austin, TX, and Seattle, WA, currently provide rebate incentives for the installation of waterless urinals. New construction project designers find that the installation of waterless urinals also helps to achieve the 30% water use reduction required to qualify for Water Use Reduction Credit and also help a new building qualify for LEED certification (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design).[5]

Costs and Savings

Cookies help us deliver our services. By using our services, you agree to our use of cookies.