Many facility managers are unaware of the important role a waterless urinal’s trap/cylinder plays in keeping restrooms healthy and odor free. Although it serves other purposes as well, one of the key reasons for the trap/cylinder is to keep foul odors from escaping into the restroom from the pipes below. This is the same reason flush urinals and other restroom fixtures have a U joint, which is designed to hold water, blocking the release of odors.

However, the trap/cylinder does need to be maintained. Fortunately, this is often a simple process using “sealing liquids.” These have a specific gravity lower than that of water or urine, allowing them to remain in the urinal trap/cylinder to help the system function properly and block odors. In most cases about three ounces of sealing liquid will last about 1,500 uses, providing a cost-effective way to keep urinals clean and healthy.

Klaus Reichardt

Waterless Co., Inc.