🦠 Stop Sewer Gas Odors: EverPrime - The Essential P-Trap Seal for Property Managers

Image by Denny Muller found on Prexels

EverPrime is the revolutionary, non-evaporating barrier liquid designed to prevent noxious sewer gas and drain odors from escaping into commercial, institutional, and residential buildings.

As a property manager, you need a proactive solution to protect tenant health, maintain high Indoor Air Quality (IAQ), and end costly odor complaints.

The Hidden Risk: Dry P-Traps and Sewer Gas

When building restrooms or drains are unused for extended periods (vacancies, seasonal closures, or low-use areas), the water seal in the drain's P-trap (or U-trap) eventually evaporates.

This opens a direct path for harmful sewer gases (like hydrogen sulfide and ammonia) and bacteria to be released. A dry trap is more than just a source of unpleasant smells; it's a genuine health risk that leads to tenant dissatisfaction and compromises IAQ.

EverPrime solves this critical problem by creating a durable, protective liquid seal that maintains the water barrier in your drain's P-trap, even during long periods of inactivity or dormancy.

Why Property Managers Choose EverPrime

✅ Protect Occupant Health: Eliminate the release of harmful bacteria and sewer gases, mitigating health risks and liability.

✅ Improve Indoor Air Quality: Keep your properties compliant, fresh, and free from embarrassing dry drain smells and restroom odors.

✅ Save Time and Money: Drastically reduce tenant complaints, eliminate emergency maintenance calls, and lower overall plumbing issue costs.

Simple & Cost-Effective: Only 3 ounces of EverPrime per drain is needed, and the product works for months, making it an essential and highly cost-effective tool for proactive drain maintenance.

Stop odors and stop tenant complaints. Secure your P-traps today with EverPrime.

To purchase, visit Waterless Co. Inc. (The key supplier of this product, which offers direct ordering on their website). https://lnkd.in/g95yENhd

The product is typically available in quart-sized bottles (Item #1514) and gallon-sized bottles (Item #1501), often sold individually or in cases.

🚽 Plumbing & Potty Secrets: 5 Things You Always Wanted to Ask About Your Restroom

Get ready to plunge into the fascinating, sometimes funky, history and function of your bathroom. We're answering the four questions about plumbing and potties that everyone wonders about!

Image Courtesy Science Museum Group of the UK

🚾 The Water Closet: More Than Just a Toilet

The term Water Closet (WC) is a true historical marvel. Dating back to the 16th century, the WC marks a huge step forward in indoor sanitation—a glorious jump from outdoor outhouses to the comfort of modern, integrated plumbing.

• A Royal Flush: Initially, these ornate contraptions were status symbols, reserved only for royalty and the wealthy.

• American History: The first known WC in the U.S. was installed around 1765 at Whitehall, the home of Maryland's colonial governor.

• Presidential Plumbing: In 1804, Thomas Jefferson had two cistern-fed water closets installed in the White House. Fun fact: This was a full three decades before water for drinking and bathing was piped in!

Today, we still use the term WC in architecture, often to describe a small, separate room that houses just the toilet, a dedicated space for your porcelain throne!

Image by Anah Anoerb found on Prexels

🚽 Why are Some Toilets Called a "John"?

Toilets have had many nicknames over the centuries, from the formal "lavatory" to the playful "loo," "potty," and the less flattering "crapper." But the enduring, friendly name is "John."

One theory traces the term back to "jack" or "jake," medieval slang for a privy or a hole used for waste.

However, the most popular and celebrated theory credits a true hero of hygiene: Sir John Harington (1561-1612).

• The Inventor: Sir John, a godson of Queen Elizabeth I, is credited with inventing an early version of the flushing toilet with a water-fed cistern.

• The Honor: He installed his invention in royal homes. The nobility, in a nod to the inventor, began affectionately referring to the new device as a "John." So next time you're on the John, give a silent thanks to Sir John Harington!

Image made by AI

💨 Rooftop Vent Stacks: The Plumbing System’s Lungs

Ever wonder why there's a pipe sticking out of your roof? That's the vent stack! It's one of the most critical, yet often forgotten, components of your residential or commercial plumbing system.

The vent stack (a vertical pipe connected to all the drains) performs two essential jobs:

1.    Releasing Sewer Gas: It provides a safe escape route for smelly, and potentially hazardous, sewer gases (like methane and hydrogen sulfide) that accumulate in the drainage pipes.

2.    Air Flow Regulation: It allows fresh air into the system. Without this air, the water trying to drain would create a vacuum, leading to gurgling sounds and slow-draining water.

⚠️ Troubleshooting Tip: If your home or facility suddenly develops a foul odor or your water takes forever to drain, the problem might not be a drain clog below the sink—it's likely a clogged vent stack on the roof! Getting debris cleared from the top of the stack often solves the problem instantly.

♨️ Protecting the Water Seal: Why P-Traps Dry Out

You know that curved pipe under every sink, shower, and floor drain? That's the P-Trap (or U-Trap). It's ingeniously designed to hold a small amount of water—the water seal—which acts as a barrier to prevent nasty sewer odors and gases from entering your space.

• The Danger of Evaporation: P-traps are dependable, but they can dry out, especially in hot, arid environments or when drains are used infrequently (like in guest bathrooms, vacant units, or seasonal facilities).

• Harmful Fumes: When the water seal evaporates, it releases unpleasant and potentially health-risking fumes into your indoor air.

🚫 A Word on Myths: Decades ago, some believed pouring bleach down the drain was a fix. Do not do this! Bleach can react dangerously with sewer gases to create hazardous chemical fumes.

✅ A Safe and Convenient Solution: If you have drains that are used infrequently, a safe solution is to use a biodegradable liquid, such as Everprime, to maintain the water seal. Just a few ounces poured down the drain can maintain the water seal for extended periods, providing peace of mind and ensuring a pleasant, healthy, and odor-free environment.

What is Waterless Co., Inc?

Waterless Co., Inc., founded in 1991, has proven to be a pioneer in water efficiency. The company introduced no-water urinals to North America and has since been dedicated to helping facilities reduce water consumption. Today, it is widely recognized as the go-to company for innovative waterless urinal solutions and expert advice on water efficiency in commercial plumbing systems.

For more information on reducing water consumption and ensuring optimal plumbing maintenance, contact a Waterless Co., Inc. Specialist today.

💧 Can the Second Fastest-Growing City in Texas Survive Without Water?

The Kyle, TX Dilemma: Boom vs. Drought Crisis

Kyle, Texas, located in the dynamic corridor between Austin and San Antonio, is one of the fastest-growing cities in the U.S. Attracting major investment from companies like Amazon and fueled by the nearby Tesla mega-factory, Kyle is the definition of a modern boom town, boasting low taxes and massive development potential.

However, this explosive growth is facing an existential threat: the potent forces of extreme heat and water scarcity.

The Looming Crisis: Heat, Drought, and Foundation Failure

Kyle's rapid expansion is colliding head-on with changes in our climate, as reported in The Wall Street Journal:

• Relentless Heat: Soaring temperatures are making life a daily struggle, forcing residents indoors and limiting outdoor activity, impacting quality of life.

• Worsening Drought: The region is projected to experience drought conditions for 3-4 months every year through 2040. Creeks are drying up, and faster evaporation due to higher temperatures is accelerating the water shortage.

• Infrastructure at Risk: The parched soil beneath hundreds of new homes is causing foundations to buckle, forcing residents to use precious, scarce water to moisten the ground and protect their houses.

Escalating Water Demand Outstrips Supply

The statistics reveal a critical, escalating imbalance in Kyle's water system:

• Demand is rapidly outpacing the city's ability to supply water to its growing population and businesses.

• The cost of water is rising, yet it still fails to cover the true costs of treatment and delivery.

• Concerns that the shared Edwards Aquifer (supplying San Antonio and Austin) could run dry within 10-20 years

• The city is using over 4,000 additional gallons per minute compared to 2022

Sustainable Solutions: Water Efficiency is the Key to Survival

To mitigate this looming crisis, Kyle has taken steps, including purchasing temporary water rights and investing $250 million in a delayed pipeline project. However, long-term sustainability requires a shift toward aggressive water efficiency.

Waterless Urinal from Waterless Co., Inc.

Cities in the Southwest facing similar challenges have successfully implemented water-saving technologies. Chief among them are No-Water (Waterless) Urinals. These proven systems helped minimize water consumption, saving millions to billions of gallons of water and offering a healthy, effective alternative to conventional urinals.

By embracing responsible water use, adopting water-saving technologies, and exploring ways to eliminate water consumption altogether, Kyle and other fast-growing cities can secure a reliable water supply and ensure their economic boom doesn't end in a bust.

Klaus Reichardt is CEO and founder of Waterless Co, Inc., a pioneer in advancing water efficiency. He can be reached at klaus@waterless.com.

Here are the key benefits of installing waterless urinals

While the primary benefit of waterless urinals is the significant water efficiency they provide, their advantages extend across financial, operational, and hygiene aspects, making them a top choice for commercial facilities and green buildings.

💰 Financial and Operational Savings

Beyond the water bill, waterless urinals save money in several ways:

• Massive Water Bill Reduction: Each conventional urinal replaced with a waterless unit can save 26,000 to 35,000 gallons of water annually. In a large facility, this reduction translates into substantial savings on monthly water and sewer charges.

• Lower Maintenance Costs:

• They have no flush valves, cisterns, or electronic sensors to repair, which are common failure points in traditional urinals.

• The elimination of the water-urine mix drastically reduces drain line clogs caused by calcification (uric acid salts reacting with water).

• Faster and Cheaper Installation (Retrofits): Since they require no water supply pipes or flush valve hardware, they are simpler, faster, and less expensive to install during new construction or a restroom retrofit.

• Reduced Energy Consumption: Less water is being demanded, pumped to the facility, and treated as wastewater, which indirectly lowers the building's overall energy footprint and utility costs.

✨ Improved Hygiene and Odor Control

Contrary to common misconceptions, waterless urinals can provide a cleaner and better-smelling restroom:

• Better Odor Control: The specialized drain cartridges use a liquid sealant (or a one-way valve) that is lighter than urine. This sealant creates an effective barrier that traps sewer gases and odors in the drainpipe, preventing them from entering the restroom.

• Less Bacteria Growth: Traditional flushing urinals leave a moist environment that promotes the growth of odor-causing bacteria. Waterless urinals remain dry between uses, creating a less hospitable environment for germs and bacteria to thrive.

• Touch-Free Operation: Since there is no flush handle or sensor, they are naturally touch-free, minimizing the spread of communicable diseases.

• Reduced Splatter: The lack of a forceful flush eliminates the potential for the aerosolized spread of germs often associated with flushing fixtures.

🌿 Sustainability and Green Building Credentials

For organizations focused on their environmental impact, waterless urinals offer significant benefits:

• Wastewater Reduction: By eliminating flushing, they significantly decrease the volume of wastewater requiring treatment.

• LEED and Green Building Compliance: Installing waterless urinals directly contributes to earning points and credits for LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) and other green building certifications, enhancing the facility's sustainability profile.

💧 Maximize Savings: Why Water Efficiency Measurement is Your Ultimate Business Advantage

The ROI of Conservation: You Can’t Manage What You Can’t Measure

In today's operational landscape, water efficiency is not just an environmental initiative—it's a critical component of smart Facility Management and corporate sustainability. Yet, many organizations overlook the simplest truth: you can't manage what you can't measure. ⚖️

Tracking commercial water usage isn't just about recording data; it's about unlocking patterns, quantifying waste, and making informed, cost-saving decisions that directly impact your bottom line.

Five Essential Steps to Drive Water Conservation and Reduce Utility Costs

Start implementing a robust Water Management Strategy today with these practical steps, focused on achieving measurable results and minimizing your water footprint:

1.    Deploy Smart Water Meters: Install advanced metering infrastructure to access real-time water consumption data. These devices are crucial for immediately flagging major leaks and systemic water inefficiencies before they become financially devastating.

2.    Conduct Professional Water Audits: Schedule comprehensive assessments to rigorously evaluate usage across all operations. A commercial water audit helps pinpoint high-consumption areas and identifies specific opportunities for water reduction.

3.    Establish Measurable KPIs: Set specific, quantifiable, and time-bound targets for water reduction goals (Key Performance Indicators). Clear goals create accountability across departments and accelerate progress toward sustainability targets.

4.    Cultivate a Conservation Culture: Educate employees on the financial and environmental importance of water efficiency and conservation. Empowering your team to contribute ideas drives continuous improvement and reduces casual waste.

5.    Invest in High-Efficiency Plumbing: Immediately upgrade to low-flow fixtures and waterless urinals. Technologies like high-efficiency toilets, taps, and aerators are proven, sustainable solutions that dramatically improve water use efficiency with rapid returns on investment.

🦠 Stop Sewer Gas: EverPrime Prevents Drain Odors and Protects Tenant Health

EverPrime from Waterless Co., Inc.

The Property Manager's Solution to Dry Drain Seals and Costly Odor Complaints

EverPrime is a revolutionary, non-evaporating barrier liquid designed to prevent sewer gas and drain odors from escaping into commercial, institutional, and residential restrooms.

The Hidden Risk in Your Drains

When buildings are unoccupied for extended periods (vacancies, seasonal closures, or low-use areas), the water seal in a facility’s P-traps (a.k.a U-traps) eventually evaporates. This creates an open pathway for harmful sewer gases and bacteria to be released into the air. This dry trap is more than just a source of unpleasant smells; the released gases (like hydrogen sulfide and ammonia) can:

• Compromise indoor air quality (IAQ).

• Lead to tenant complaints and dissatisfaction.

• Pose a genuine health risk to building occupants.

EverPrime solves this critical problem by creating a durable, non-toxic, liquid seal that maintains the water barrier in your drain’s P-trap, even during long periods of inactivity.

Property Managers Image by Ivan S found on Prexels

Why Property Managers Trust EverPrime

• ✅ Protect Occupant Health: Eliminate the release of harmful bacteria and sewer gases into your environment, reducing the risk of illness.

• ✅ Improve Indoor Air Quality: Keep your properties fresh, compliant, and free from embarrassing restroom odors and dry drain smells.

• ✅ Save Time and Money: Drastically reduce maintenance calls, costly plumbing issues, and the time spent managing tenant complaints about sewer smells.

Verified Reviews: What Property Managers and Users Say About EverPrime

Don't just take our word for it—see why EverPrime is a must-have for maintaining trap seals and preventing drain smells.

User Testimony

"I'm a property manager. I got tired of tenants complaining about sewer gas smells in restrooms when the traps dry out. So far, EverPrime is not drying up, and complaints have stopped. Yea!"

Stops Sewer Gas Complaints

"It's easy to use. Follow the instructions, and the odors are gone. I had an overflow drain in the laundry that would dry out and cause an unwanted sewer smell. I purchased EverPrime, and there is no more smell."

Eliminates Unwanted Odors

"I use it in the drains in [our] Florida house. It works great, and after a couple of months of dormancy, the house doesn't stink."

Effective for Long-Term Dormancy

"Great functionality. Easy to use. Safe and effective. Good packaging."

Safe, Simple, and Reliable

Response from Waterless Co Spokesperson on Value: All that is needed is 3 ounces of EverPrime per drain as needed. The product works for months, making it very cost-effective and an essential tool for proactive drain maintenance.

💧 Water Reduction Solutions: Why Waterless Urinals Are Essential for Sustainable Buildings

Waterless Urinals Installed in a Campsite Restroom

Freshwater scarcity is no longer a distant concern. It’s a pressing global crisis affecting communities everywhere and demanding immediate action from businesses and governments alike.

One simple yet powerful water-reduction solution to address this challenge can be found in an unexpected place: the commercial restroom. Waterless urinals eliminate the need for flushing, saving tens of thousands of gallons of clean water per unit each year.

But their benefits reach far beyond water reduction and more efficient use of water. They represent a fundamental shift toward more innovative, more efficient building design and operation.

Below, we’ll explore the science behind no-flush technology, calculate the significant water savings, and explain why more facilities are adopting waterless urinals to drastically cut utility costs and improve sustainability performance.

How Do Waterless Urinals Work? The Science of No-Flush Technology

At first glance, a waterless urinal might seem almost too simple—but the engineering behind this innovative plumbing technology is anything but. While traditional urinals use 1 to 3 gallons per flush, waterless models operate without water.

They use a specialized trap system that relies on gravity and a sealing liquid.

• When the urinal is used, waste passes through a replaceable cartridge filled with a lightweight, non-water-soluble liquid that floats above the urine.

• This creates an effective odor barrier, preventing gases from escaping into the restroom.

• The urine then flows naturally into the drainpipe without ever mixing with the sealant.

Modern systems—such as those provided by Waterless Co., Inc.—use replaceable cartridges that typically last several months. With no flush valves, sensors, or moving parts, these units require less maintenance, experience fewer breakdowns, and can operate for thousands of uses before any service is needed.

The Environmental Impact: Waterless Urinal Water Savings Breakdown

The environmental impact of switching to waterless fixtures is both measurable and significant. In high-traffic settings like airports, stadiums, and office buildings, traditional urinals consume enormous amounts of water, which is no longer sustainable.

A single waterless urinal, on the other hand, can save up to 35,000 gallons of clean, potable water every year. Multiply that across dozens—or hundreds—of fixtures in a large facility, and the savings quickly reach millions of gallons annually.

Image found on Prexels

Key Benefits of Lower Water Use and Using Water More Efficiently:

• Reduced strain on municipal water systems.

• Lower energy demand for water treatment and pumping.

• Significantly reduced utility costs (water and sewer bills).

• Carbon emissions reduction (by saving the energy required for pumping/treating water).

On a broader scale, adopting water-saving fixtures supports certifications such as LEED and BREEAM* and helps organizations meet long-term water-efficiency goals.

Why Modern Facilities Are Adopting Waterless Urinals to Meet Evolving Building Standards

As environmental responsibility becomes central to modern facility management, businesses and public institutions are adopting waterless urinals as a straightforward, cost-effective step toward environmental stewardship.

From schools and airports to corporate campuses, shopping centers, and major sports venues, organizations are using no-flush urinals to:

• Meet sustainability and water-reduction mandates.

• Earn valuable green building certification points (LEED, BREEAM).

• Demonstrate leadership in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)**.

Local governments are taking note as well. Many cities now encourage waterless urinals through incentives, updated building codes, and funding for sustainable infrastructure.

Beyond compliance and cost savings, these fixtures send a clear message: small changes in everyday operations can drive meaningful progress in protecting global resources.

As populations grow, climates shift, and water becomes increasingly scarce, the installation of affordable, easy-to-maintain, and highly efficient waterless urinals will continue to expand worldwide, making them among the most practical technologies available for protecting global water resources.

Expert Insight:

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 in developing innovative products such as the Waterless No-Flush urinal, which operates entirely without water.

To contact Klaus and learn more about waterless solutions, click here.

* BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) is a leading UK-based sustainability assessment method for buildings, infrastructure, and master-planning projects.

** Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) refers to business practices that aim to make a positive impact on society and the environment.

The Power of BlueSeal: How This Trap Seal Liquid Transforms Waterless Urinals

Image by Grant Huges Found on Prexels

The Power of BlueSeal: How This Trap Seal Liquid Transforms Waterless Urinals

In an earlier post, we discussed how the EcoTrap cartridge—an essential component of every waterless urinal—must be filled with BlueSeal two or more times per year. But what exactly is BlueSeal, and why is it so important for maintaining a clean, odor-free restroom?

BlueSeal is a high-performance, biodegradable liquid trap sealant developed by Waterless Co., Inc. Its advanced formula is designed to prevent unwanted odors from escaping the urinal drain, while supporting efficient, sustainable restroom operation. By understanding how BlueSeal works, facility managers can enhance restroom hygiene, reduce maintenance costs, and achieve measurable water savings.

How BlueSeal Works

1. Trap Seal Barrier
BlueSeal’s specific gravity is lower than that of water or urine, allowing it to float on top of the liquid inside the urinal trap. This creates an effective odor-blocking barrier that prevents sewer gases from entering the restroom.

2. Reliable Odor Control
Because the seal stops odors without flushing, waterless urinals stay fresh and hygienic even with heavy use. The biodegradable formulation maintains performance over thousands of uses.

3. Temperature Durability
BlueSeal remains stable in extreme conditions—non-evaporating up to 100°F and freeze-resistant down to -70°F—making it ideal for facilities in both hot and cold climates.

4. Eco-Friendly and Biodegradable
Unlike chemical-based alternatives, BlueSeal breaks down naturally over time, minimizing environmental impact and supporting green building goals such as LEED certification.

5. Simple Maintenance
Each refill uses about 3 ounces of BlueSeal, measured precisely with a PortionAid dispenser. It is compatible with standard cleaning solutions, so no special products or extra maintenance steps are required.

Benefits for Facilities

• Water Savings: Enables true zero-flush urinal operation, conserving thousands of gallons per fixture each year.

• Cost Efficiency: Reduces plumbing and winterization costs over traditional flush systems.

• Ease of Use: Quick refills and low maintenance ensure consistent performance.

• Extended EcoTrap® Life: Helps maintain trap efficiency for up to 7,000 uses per cartridge.

• Improved Sustainability: Supports facility-wide water reduction and environmental compliance goals.

Comparing Waterless and Traditional Urinals

Water Use

Zero water; BlueSeal seals trap odors

1–3 gallons per flush; thousands wasted yearly

Odor Control

Biodegradable BlueSeal creates floating odor barrier

Depends on flushing; odors reappear if flush fails

Maintenance

Simple 3 oz BlueSeal refill; no valves

Requires pipe and valve repairs; seasonal maintenance

Cartridge/Seal Life

EcoTrap cartridge lasts ~7,000 uses

Flush parts wear faster; frequent replacements

Installation

No water lines or flush valves

Requires plumbing and water supply

Costs

Lower long-term expenses; only BlueSeal refills needed

Higher water bills and plumbing costs

Environmental Impact

Saves thousands of gallons per year; biodegradable

High water consumption and footprint

Key Takeaway

BlueSeal is the essential component that makes no-flush urinals efficient, hygienic, and sustainable. For facility managers seeking to reduce costs, prevent odors, and boost restroom sustainability, Waterless BlueSeal delivers measurable performance and environmental benefits.

Your EcoTrap Questions Answered Here

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

🥶 Winterizing Camp & Park Plumbing: Prevent Sewer Odors & Keep Drains Working All Season Long

For park and camp administrators in colder regions, winterizing the plumbing system is a critical annual ritual. When water is left sitting in pipes or fixtures, freezing temperatures can cause it to freeze into ice. As ice expands, it places tremendous pressure on pipes, fittings, and fixtures—often causing cracks, ruptures, and costly repairs.

Essential Steps for Winterizing Park & Camp Plumbing

Most facility managers follow this essential winterization sequence to protect their assets:

1.    Shut off the water supply at the source or pump.

2.    Open all taps and leave them open so pipes can fully drain and no vacuum forms.

3.    Flush toilets and urinals to remove standing water.

4.    Turn off and drain the water heater if your system requires it.

Once these steps are complete, the property is typically ready to close for the season.

Reopening Checklist: Don't Forget Drain Maintenance

When parks and camps reopen, the process reverses:

• Turn the water back on.

• Restore the water heater and close its drain.

• Run faucets and flush toilets to clear the lines.

• Check vent stacks for leaves, debris, or blockages.

• Inspect for leaks, as pipes refill and repressurize.

However, there is one critical step many overlook: checking for sewer odors in restrooms, kitchens, locker rooms, and mechanical spaces.

Why Sewer Odors are a Serious Health Risk

Unpleasant smells are more than a nuisance—they often indicate sewer gases entering the building. These fumes can contain bacteria and volatile compounds that may trigger headaches, nausea, and respiratory issues, especially for children and older adults.

The most common cause is a dried-out U-trap (or P-trap)—the curved section of pipe beneath sinks, showers, floor drains, and water fountains. When unused for months, the water in the trap evaporates, allowing sewer gases to escape and causing immediate odor issues upon reopening. This is a key concern for camp drain maintenance.

🛠️ The Fix: How to Prevent Dried Drain Traps and Odors

If the source is a cracked pipe or a failed seal, a plumber will need to make the necessary repairs. But when the issue is simply a dry trap, administrators can take quick, safe action.

Avoid These Common Mistakes:

• ❌ Don’t pour bleach or harsh chemicals into drains—they can create more fumes.

• ❌ Don’t mask odors with sprays or deodorizers.

Do This for Effective Drain Trap Protection:

• Ensure that vent stacks are clear and functioning correctly.

• Pour two cups of water down each drain for temporary relief.

• Use a liquid trap primer. A product like EvepPrime ® from Waterless Co., Inc., is a biodegradable liquid that sits on top of the water in the trap. It significantly slows evaporation—even through extreme winter temperatures—providing months of protection against sewer gas.

Many parks and camps now wisely add a drain trap primer during the fall winterization period. Applying them before closing helps prevent dried traps and the resulting sewer odors when the property is reopened.

Protect Your Facility: A Simple Step in Winterization

Sewer gas odors should always be treated as a health risk. A simple, proactive step during winterizing park plumbing—adding a high-quality liquid trap primer—can help protect indoor air quality, prevent tenant complaints, and avoid unnecessary repair costs when spring arrives.

-Klaus

Image Above by The Happiest Face = ) Found on Prexels

Professional Odor Control in a Bottle

Facility managers often struggle with persistent odors from floor drains in restrooms, mechanical rooms, kitchens, and other low-traffic areas. These smells typically occur when the drain’s trap seal evaporates, trap primers fail, or insufficient water flow allows sewer gases—such as hydrogen sulfide and methane—to enter indoor spaces. Environmental conditions like dry climates, HVAC-driven low humidity, negative air pressure, and winter heating can make the problem worse.

Poor odor control leads to frequent manual inspections, emergency maintenance calls, higher water use, workplace discomfort, and even potential code violations.

EverPrime, marketed by Waterless Co., Inc., offers a simple, long-lasting solution. Its biodegradable oil blend forms a protective barrier on top of the trap’s water seal, preventing evaporation and blocking sewer gas migration. Application requires only three steps: add water to the trap, pour in a small amount of EverPrime, and let it settle.

The barrier remains effective even with infrequent use or fluctuating environmental conditions, making it ideal for schools, hospitals, stadiums, correctional facilities, commercial properties, and seasonal buildings. With reduced maintenance demands and reliable odor prevention, EverPrime delivers a high-ROI, set-and-forget solution.

Learn more about odor prevention here: https://www.waterless.com/everprime-drain-odor-eliminator