The Energy Policy Act of 1992 mandated that only “low-flush” urinals could be offered for sale in the United States after 1994. Low-flush was defined as using no more than one gallon per flush (1 gpf), compared to older styles that used 1.5 to 3 gpf. Since that time, manufacturers have developed “ultra-low-flow” urinals that use 0.5 gpf and now Zurn, among others, has a product that is rated at 0.125 (1/8) gpf. In addition, many manufacturers offer waterless urinals. Waterless urinals generally rely on a special liquid contained in a cartridge, which is inserted in the drain and provides a seal to prevent sewer gases from entering the space. The liquid is generally lighter than water, so that urine will flow under the liquid to the drain line. The liquid and/or the cartridge must be replaced and/or replenished periodically. Depending on the use, cleaning may be required more than once per day, and generally requires specific products and procedures.

Installation requirements are generally more stringent than for flush urinals. The drain line leaving the urinal must be sloped at least” per foot away from the urinal. A flush urinal will generally operate with a level or negatively-sloped drain line. Manufacturers generally recommend that all drain lines be cleaned with a cutting head to make sure there is no build-up of scale in the lines. Some users report needing to clean the lines annually to ensure continued proper drainage. Copper drain lines cannot be used as they are subject to corrosion. It should also be noted that the Uniform Plumbing Code, (the basis for the California Plumbing Code), requires rough-in supply piping in the wall if waterless urinals are to be installed in new construction.

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