INTERIORS 75
Lifting the lid on water control F
Carole Armstrong from Delabie provides some practical options for water controls in commercial washrooms, and looks at the specification challenges
or building users, a visit to the washroom comprises three simple steps: use toilet, wash, hands, dry
hands. As a specifier, the decision-making process to make these three steps work is more complex. The specification choices must take into account comfort, practical requirements, environmental concerns, hygiene, safety, budget, to name a few.
When you’ve got to go The defining factor of commercial washrooms is frequency of use. Urinals are a popular choice for high- footfall venues facing periods of intensive use, for example during school breaks or half-time at football matches. However, they require regular flushing to prevent bad odours due to urine crystallising in the pipework which involves significant water consumption. And, of course, not everyone can use a urinal. Conventional WCs are also not ideal for intensive use. A cistern-flush WC has a minimum refill time (up to 60 seconds), so there is a delay between potential uses. Originally designed for domestic use, they are prone to leaks which seep undetected into the pan (consuming up to 400 litres per day according to Thames Water). The cistern also contains standing water at room temperature – ideal conditions for bacteria such as Legionella to develop, which are then released in aerosol format when flushed.
A practical solution is direct flush technology – available for both urinals and WCs. The flush mechanism connects directly to the water supply, harnessing system pressure to flush the bowl or pan, making cisterns redundant. The flush is instantly available, so there is no refill delay. Hygiene is improved since there is no standing water, and the pipework is rinsed with every flush, preventing bacterial development and urine crystallisation. Typically made from hard wearing materials, direct flush mechanisms will also withstand intensive use. Sensor-controlled direct flush mechanisms for urinals and WCs provide additional
ADF JULY 2022
© Delabie
user and system hygiene. The valves are activated by user presence, flushing automatically when the user leaves. Intelligent flush technology adapts the flush according to the duration of use, ensuring optimised rinsing. Some electronic models also have an automatic duty flush which takes place every 24 hours; ideal when facilities are closed for extended periods, such as offices at weekends, sports grounds between matches, or during school holidays. Recessed options also provide an aesthetic, yet vandal-resistant solution, with the mechanism concealed from the user, but easily accessed via a control plate for servicing.
Now wash your hands Users, as consumers, are more demanding in terms of aesthetics, comfort and hygiene in the post-pandemic era. Washrooms in restaurants, bars and hotels are fast becoming a major part of the user experience. If facilities fall below the consumer’s expectations, the consumer will take their business elsewhere, and are likely to share their experiences online.
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Sensor-controlled direct flush mechanisms for urinals and WCs provide additional user and system hygiene
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