Can You Save Energy by Saving Water?

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The answer to this important question is YES.  By reducing water consumption facilities can reduce their water utility bills – and often, very significantly. Here’s a Q&A that explains how this happens and why it is so important to you.

Q: How does a water efficiency strategy help cut energy costs in facilities?
A: Water efficiency quietly reduces energy costs because every drop of hot water saved means less energy is needed to heat it, directly lowering utility bills for both water and energy.

Q: What are some real-world impacts of water-efficient fixtures?
A: Homeowners can see up to a 10% reduction in gas and electricity bills by installing water-efficient fixtures. Even a single efficient washing machine can result in $80 of annual energy savings. For commercial facilities, the savings multiply, leading to substantially lower operational costs and improved energy performance ratings.

Q: Why does water-efficient equipment matter for a facility’s bottom line?
A: Water-efficient showerheads, faucets, and dishwashers reduce the energy required for heating water, providing a double saving that many budgets fail to account for. These upgrades generate ongoing reductions in both water and energy expenditures.

Q: Beyond utility costs, what other benefits does water efficiency offer?
A: Water efficiency provides four strategic advantages:

• Lower monthly utility bills for both water and energy

• Increased property values

• A reduced environmental footprint

• Stronger appeal to tenants and buyers seeking sustainable solutions

Q: Why is investing in water efficiency especially important now?
A: With water prices rising and energy costs remaining volatile, facilities that invest in water efficiency now protect themselves against future rate hikes. It's both an environmentally responsible and financially strategic decision.

Q: Who is a leader in water efficiency solutions?
A: Waterless Co., Inc is recognized as a pioneer in water efficiency, especially in reducing water consumption and promoting the benefits of waterless urinals. For more information, connect with a Waterless Co Specialist.

What Makes a Business an Icon? - Q&A

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Q: What exactly is a business icon?

A: Business icons are not just companies or brands - they are integral parts of our daily lives. Their names immediately evoke a sense of quality, innovation, and even nostalgia, reminding us of the significant impact they have made on our everyday experiences.

Q: What are the key factors that make a business iconic?

A: Several key factors contribute to a business achieving iconic status:

Brand Recognition: The company's name and logo are widely recognized and instantly associated with its products or services.

Innovation: Usually the cornerstone of their success, these businesses have a history of introducing groundbreaking products or ideas, inspiring creative thinking and pushing the boundaries of what's possible.

Quality: The company is consistently known for producing high-quality goods or services that customers can rely on.

Customer Loyalty: The business has built a dedicated customer base that is genuinely enthusiastic about its products or services.

Cultural Impact: The company has made a significant cultural impact, often by shaping trends or influencing consumer behavior in meaningful ways.

Legacy: These businesses have stood the test of time, earning a formidable reputation for longevity and stability. Their enduring legacy reassures customers of their commitment to quality and their ability to weather any storm.

Q: Can you give me some examples of business icons?

A: Certainly! Here are some prime examples of business icons and what makes them special:

Apple: Known worldwide for its innovative technology and sleek, distinctive design that has revolutionized multiple industries.

Coca-Cola: A truly global brand famous for its exceptional name recognition and masterful marketing expertise that spans generations.

IBM: Recognized as a leading technology company that holds the record for the most annual patents of any U.S. company, demonstrating consistent innovation.

Nike: A sports apparel giant with a powerful brand identity and unwavering focus on athletic performance and inspiration.

Google: A tech company that has fundamentally revolutionized how the entire world searches for and accesses information.

Waterless Co. Inc: The first company to market no-water urinals in North America and is recognized as a leading advocate for water efficiency and environmental sustainability.

Q: How do these businesses maintain their iconic status?

A: These businesses have achieved and maintained their iconic status by consistently delivering exceptional value to their customers, staying ahead of industry trends and technological curves, and building strong brand identities that truly resonate with consumers across different generations and cultures.

8 Ways Colleges Can Go with the Flow and Cut Water Costs

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With schools and universities back in session, campus managers are once again juggling rising operating costs. Among the biggest line items? Water.

Across the country, water rates continue to climb—and usage on a large university campus can exceed one billion gallons per year. Just one dorm student alone may consume up to 95 gallons of water daily. That means even small reductions can translate into huge savings.

So where is all this water going? Typically, two areas dominate:

• Landscaping and irrigation

• Restrooms and showers

(See sidebar below for UC Berkeley’s breakdown.)

With that in mind, here are eight proven steps college managers can take to reduce both water use and water bills—without sacrificing comfort or campus appeal.

Step 1: Collect Data

• Gather 2–3 years of water and sewer bills.

• Establish a usage baseline.

• Break down consumption by building (dorms, labs, athletics, dining, etc.) to pinpoint high-use areas.

Step 2: Conduct a Water Audit

• Perform a campus-wide water assessment.

• Identify inefficiencies and leaks.

• Document locations of outdated toilets, urinals, faucets, and showers.

• Create a benchmark report to guide future water-saving goals.

Step 3: Target Landscaping & Irrigation

Campus irrigation alone can account for 30% or more of total water use. Strategies include:

• Switching to native or drought-tolerant plants.

• Installing smart irrigation systems with rain and soil moisture sensors.

• Adjusting sprinklers to avoid overspray.

• Reducing watering in low-traffic areas.

Step 4: Retrofit Restrooms & Plumbing

Restrooms are often the biggest water users. Upgrade fixtures to save thousands of gallons:

• Replace older toilets (>3.5 GPF) with 1.6 GPF or dual-flush models.

• Install waterless urinals.

• Add low-flow faucet aerators (0.5–1.0 GPM).

• Launch a leak inspection program—one dripping faucet can waste hundreds of gallons per month.

Step 5: Engage the Campus Community

Getting students and staff involved multiplies results:

• Launch water awareness campaigns in dorms, restrooms, and dining halls.

• Organize student-led sustainability challenges.

• Offer small incentives (free pizza, gift cards) for reporting leaks.

• Train custodial and maintenance staff in early leak detection.

• Partner with faculty to weave water conservation into coursework.

Step 6: Monitor & Report Progress

• Review quarterly bills for patterns.

• Install sub-meters in high-use buildings for real-time tracking.

• Share progress campus-wide to maintain momentum.

Step 7: Calculate ROI

Measure financial payback to build the case for more investment:

• Restroom retrofits: ROI in 1–3 years.

• Smart irrigation: ROI in 2–4 years.

• Water audits: often immediate if leaks are discovered.

Step 8: Reinvest Savings

• Channel savings into additional upgrades: expanded retrofits, irrigation technology, or improved HVAC systems.

• Remember: HVAC systems are major water users for heating and cooling. Replacing an outdated system can cut water and energy bills dramatically.

Sidebar: Where Water Is Consumed on Campus

A University of California, Berkeley study illustrates how campus water is typically allocated:

• 605 million gallons annually

• 8% → Irrigation

• 50% → Restrooms and kitchens

• 30% → Labs

• 10% → HVAC

The Bottom Line

Cutting water waste on campus is more than just an environmental win—it’s a financial strategy. By collecting data, upgrading systems, and engaging the campus community, colleges can significantly lower utility costs while modeling sustainability for students.

🌍 Water Viral Claim vs. Scientific Reality

In August 2022, a viral Instagram video claimed Earth has unlimited water due to “primary water” generated by geological processes.

• The video suggested water scarcity is a myth, but Instagram flagged it as “partly false.”

• Climate reporter Kate S. Petersen clarified: while Earth’s total water volume is stable, accessible freshwater is limited due to:

• Overuse

• Drought

• Pollution

• Infrastructure failures

📢 Water Awareness Strategies

1. Educational Approach

• Uses science-based facts to inform without exaggeration.

• Encourages understanding of real-world water challenges.

2. Doom-and-Gloom Tactics

• Rely on distressing imagery to provoke emotional reactions.

• Often backfires, creating hopelessness or resistance.

🧠 What Actually Works?

• Research shows that positive messaging is more effective than scare tactics.

• Example: The “Just Say No” anti-drug campaign failed due to its simplistic and fear-based approach, even causing a boomerang effect.

✅ Effective Behavior Change Strategy

• Inspire hope and action by:

• Highlighting successful water efficiency efforts.

• Offering clear, empowering steps people can take.

• Connecting audiences with organizations makes a difference.

💡 At Waterless Co., Inc. we believe optimism fuels motivation—and that’s the key to sustainable change.

-Klaus

Learn more here.

Water Bills Going Up? Here's What You Can Do

Image on Pixaby by Viktor Solomonik

Vacancy rates in commercial office buildings are decreasing, though most aren't yet at pre-pandemic levels. As occupancy rises, so do operating costs, especially for water. At Waterless Co., Inc., we address common questions from facility managers about reducing water use and expenses, offering practical solutions below.

Q: How can facility managers (FMs) quickly reduce water consumption in their facilities?

A: A relatively easy first step is eliminating “water waste.” This often happens outside a facility and includes:

• Allowing irrigation or leaks to let water flow off the property.

• Using water unnecessarily as a cleaning agent for cleaning sidewalks or outdoor areas.

• Failing to repair a malfunctioning water supply line within 48 hours.

• Running sprinklers between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m., when evaporation rates are highest.

Q: Is eliminating water waste enough to significantly reduce water use?

A: No, it’s just the beginning. Long-term water reduction requires a water efficiency savings plan. The first step is knowing how much water your facility uses. Many FMs never see their water bills because they go directly to accounting departments.

These invoices should go to managers first. By tracking and analyzing past and current bills—ideally over two years—managers can identify leaks, consumption spikes, and establish benchmarks for setting reduction goals.

Q: What is a reasonable water-reduction goal for a facility?

A: A practical target is to reduce water consumption by 5% in one year. However, once a facility begins the process and see cost savings, reductions of 10% to 15% are often achievable.

Q: What strategies can help achieve deeper water savings?

A: Facility managers can:

• Reduce water pressure: Many large buildings use “water boosters,” which are often set too high, leading to waste. Adjusting them delivers only the water needed.

• Manage cooling tower evaporation: Cooling towers constantly lose water. A solution is to use recycled or “gray” water for non-potable needs. Some utilities now support this.

• Upgrade restroom fixtures: Replace older toilets and urinals, which may no longer meet efficiency standards. Modern toilets use as little as 1.28 gallons per flush. In some regions, waterless urinals are now required for a very simple reason: they save up to 35,000 gallons of water annually per unit.

Q: Should FMs go beyond current water-use guidelines?

A: Yes. Many guidelines date back to the early 1990s. Today’s technology allows for far greater efficiency than the federal minimums. Where possible, select fixtures that surpass current water use standards.

Q: Beyond technology and equipment, what else can FMs do?

A: Education and messaging are critical. Facility users should be encouraged to conserve water and use it responsibly. Posting posters and messages in restrooms and kitchens is the easiest way to accomplish this.

The steps discussed here should be followed even when considerable rainfall has eased water concerns. The truth of the matter is that water must be managed from a long-term perspective. Protecting and wisely using this vital resource should always remain a top priority.

-Klaus

EverPrime: The Ultimate Odor Eliminator from Waterless Co., Inc.

Many facilities experience odors emanating from floor drains in restrooms, warehouses, public areas, and confined spaces. These odors are primarily due to the trap seal in the drainpipe evaporating; the trap seal not being replenished with trap primer; or no water entering the trap (such as through wet mopping the floor).

In addition, depending on your climate, trap seals may evaporate quickly. Or, if the trap does contain a trap primer, the trap primer may no longer work.

Enter EverPrime®! Add about 1 gallon of water to the floor drain then approximately 3 ounces of EverPrime on top of the water.

Done! If no additional significant amounts of water enter the floor drain, EverPrime will last for months.

Application Guidelines

• For floor drains 1-1/2" to 2": Add 3 oz. of EverPrime

• For floor drains 3" to 4": Add 6 oz. of EverPrime®

Cost Benefits

EverPrime pays for itself on its first application. Simply calculate what it costs to call a custodian or plumber to investigate the problem. Further, they may try to remedy the situation but often must return in just a couple of weeks and do it all over again.

Not with EverPrime.

Ideal Applications

Great for schools, colleges, stadiums, hospitals, and facilities where rooms are unoccupied for extended periods. Please follow the instructions on the bottle.

What is the Difference Between Water Conservation and Water Efficiency?

We asked AI to help us answer this question. Here’s what AI told us. Our thoughts are below:

Great question! 🌊 While both water conservation and water efficiency aim to reduce water use, they approach the goal in different ways:

💧 Water Conservation

• Behavior-based: Involves changing habits to use less water.

• Examples:

• Turning off the tap while brushing your teeth.

• Watering your garden during cooler hours to reduce evaporation.

• Only running the dishwasher when it’s full.

• Goal: Use water only when necessary and avoid waste.

🚿 Water Efficiency

• Technology-based: Focuses on using products that require less water to perform the same task.

• Examples:

• Installing waterless urinals, low-flow faucets, or toilets.

• Using water-efficient dishwashers or washing machines.

• Goal: Get the same results with less water through smart design and engineering.

🧠 The Key Difference

• Conservation is about how you use water.

• Efficiency is about what you use to do it.

Think of it this way: conservation is choosing to shower for 5 minutes instead of 10, while efficiency is using a showerhead that uses less water per minute. Combine both, and you’re a water-saving superhero💪.

I largely agree with AI’s points here but want to add based on my personal experience: Water efficiency measures, like installing high-efficiency toilets, waterless urinals, and water monitoring systems, encourage building occupants to change their habits and use water more responsibly. This shift makes water reduction a shared responsibility, increasing the effectiveness of these initiatives.

In other words, we all become part of the solution, addressing together our water challenges.

Klaus Reichardt, founder and CEO of Waterless Co. LLC in Vista, California, is a recognized authority on water conservation. Since 1991, he has led the company to innovate plumbing products like the Waterless No-Flush urinal, which operates entirely without water.

To contract Klaus, click here

The EcoTrap From Waterless Co., Inc: The Essential Component

The EcoTrap, product number, #3001, is a key component for Waterless No-Flush urinals, designed to work with BlueSeal sealing liquid for effective operation. This trap insert creates a barrier that prevents odors and sewer gases from escaping your waterless urinal system.

Key Features and Benefits

• Universal Fit: Compatible with all urinals manufactured by Waterless Co., Inc., including both ceramic and High Performance Composite models.

• Eco-Friendly: The trap is fully recyclable.

• Cost-Effective: Less expensive than competing trap inserts and cartridges.

• Durable and Long-Lasting: Built for extended use and can be refilled multiple times with BlueSeal sealing liquid, reducing the need for frequent replacements.

• Made in USA: Manufactured in the United States, ensuring quality craftsmanship.

How the EcoTrap Works

The EcoTrap and BlueSeal sealing liquid work together to form an effective barrier, keeping your urinal system odor-free without the need for water. Plus, unlike other trap cylinders, the EcoTrap is long lasting.

Find It In our Online Shop: Price: $9.95

The 5 Global Leaders in Water Efficiency (And Where the U.S. Stands)

Water scarcity affects billions worldwide, making water efficiency more critical than ever. While many focus on temporary conservation measures during droughts, true progress comes from long-term efficiency solutions that create lasting change.

Understanding the Difference: Conservation vs. Efficiency

Water conservation typically involves temporary restrictions during crises—think drought-related usage limits or emergency measures.

Water efficiency takes a different approach, focusing on:

• Innovative technologies and smart systems

• Advanced management and monitoring infrastructure

• Water-saving fixtures and equipment

• Public awareness campaigns that make efficiency a lifestyle

As Klaus Reichardt, CEO of Waterless Co., Inc., explains: "These approaches create lasting reductions in water consumption, and these reductions can be very significant."

The Top 5 Water-Efficient Countries

According to WorldoStats.com, these nations lead the world in water efficiency:

Singapore – Masters of desalination, water recycling, and comprehensive rainwater harvesting systems

Israel – Global pioneer in drip irrigation technology and wastewater reduction programs

Netherlands – Leverages advanced water recycling with strong public-private partnerships driving innovation

Denmark – Operates a national leak detection system with sophisticated monitoring and rapid repair protocols

Australia – Champions water-efficient agriculture and has created innovative water trading markets

Where Does the U.S. Stand?

While not making the top five, America is making meaningful progress. The biggest challenge? Aging, leaky infrastructure that wastes billions of gallons annually.

The encouraging news: Major water efficiency projects launched in the past two years are tackling waste nationwide. Since COVID-19, commercial buildings have accelerated retrofits with water-saving technologies, including no-flush urinals and other efficient fixtures.

"These upgrades are part of broader initiatives to make buildings healthier, safer, and more resilient to environmental risks," notes Reichardt. "Becoming more water efficient is one of their key goals."

The Path Forward

As water challenges intensify globally, the countries leading in efficiency offer valuable blueprints. Their success comes from combining technology, policy innovation, and cultural shifts toward valuing every drop.

The question isn't whether we can afford to invest in water efficiency—it's whether we can afford not to.

BlueSeal® - The Essential Component for No-Flush™ Urinals

BlueSeal® is our premium, long-lasting, and biodegradable trap seal liquid specifically designed for waterless urinal systems. This innovative solution enables No-Flush™ urinals to function effectively while preventing odors.

How It Works

BlueSeal® has a lower specific gravity than both water and urine, which provides two key benefits:

• During use: The liquid remains in the trap for extended periods, with only small amounts carried away with each use

• During non-use: BlueSeal® stays in the trap indefinitely, creating a permanent odor seal

Key Features

Temperature Performance

• Zero evaporation at temperatures up to 100°F

• No freezing until -70°F

• Reduces or eliminates costly urinal winterization procedures

Compatibility & Durability

• Compatible with commercially available cleaning products

• Will not be damaged by standard EcoTrap® cleaners

• Biodegradable and environmentally responsible

Application & Maintenance

Easy Installation

• Add 3-ounce portions directly into the urinal EcoTrap®

• Use the included PortionAid for accurate measurement

• Follow bottle instructions for best results

Simple Maintenance

• Clean waterless urinals the same way as conventional urinals

• Refill BlueSeal® using the PortionAid for precise measurement

• Fill PortionAid by squeezing the bottle, then pour directly into EcoTrap® holes

• PortionAid design minimizes waste and ensures accurate dosing

Product Options

• Standard bottles with PortionAid included

• Gallon size available (Item #1101)

• MADE IN THE USA

More BlueSeal Features and Benefits Here