Sustainability is not always the first priority in commercial washrooms. However, if the five principles of sustainability are factored into product selection, specifiers can ensure the buildings’ environmental credentials are assured.
Fit-for-purpose
Domestic tapware is regularly installed in commercial washrooms through habit, or for aesthetic reasons. However, a domestic WC cistern with plastic components is ineffective in a football stadium. Cistern refill times are too long between flushes and mechanisms quickly wear out. Conversely, a direct flush WC, such as TEMPOFLUX 3, withstands repeated use and the flush is instantly available for successive flushes.
Waste prevention
In commercial washrooms, waste occurs through neglect or voluntary abuse. Taps with an automatic shut-off will minimise waste. The water delivery is split into wetting, soaping and rinsing, which reduces consumption to a minimum. However, where abuse is rife, anti-blocking systems are effective. Water only flows once the push-button is released, or electronic systems will lock-out if a sensor is permanently activated or operated too frequently within a given time period.
Improved efficiency
Many urinal installations flush continuously to optimise hygiene but waste water. However, DELABIE has developed the TEMPOMATIC 4 “intelligent” urinal valve which detects busy periods and adapts its rinsing accordingly. During peak periods, the bowl is rinsed between users and at the end of the busy period, a complementary rinse occurs, cleaning the bowl and preventing crystallisation of uric acid in the pipes.
Design for future use
Electronic controls offer different operating modes which can adapt to changing usage patterns. DELABIE’s TEMPOMATIC WC offers choices: various flush length options; adjustable flow rate and flush volume to suit system conditions and pan size; and varying detection distances. The installation can adapt to future use without replacing the operating mechanisms.
Design for de-construction, re-use and recovery
For true sustainability, materials need to be durable and 100 per cent recyclable. Water controls are no exception. DELABIE’s products are designed to withstand intensive and prolonged use. Made from hard-wearing materials such as brass, stainless steel and Hostaform, they can also be fully recycled – even electronic models.