Reducing Washroom Water Consumption: Practical Steps for Business

The Water Challenge

Commercial washrooms consume substantial amounts of water. A typical office washroom can use thousands of litres per week, much of it unnecessarily.

Reducing water consumption:

Cuts utility costs

Demonstrates environmental responsibility

Reduces strain on water infrastructure

May be required for environmental certifications

Where Water Goes

Understanding water usage helps target reductions:

Toilets

The largest water users. Older cisterns use 9-13 litres per flush; modern low-flow systems use 4-6 litres.

Urinals

Can be significant users, especially with older continuous flush systems.

Taps

Running taps during handwashing—particularly where taps run longer than necessary.

Cleaning

Water used in cleaning processes.

Toilet Water Reduction

Dual Flush Systems

Dual flush toilets offer full and reduced flush options:

Reduced flush (3-4 litres) for liquid waste

Full flush (6 litres) for solid waste

Saves 30-50% compared to single flush systems

Modern Cisterns

If dual flush isn't possible, modern cisterns use less water than older models. Replacing old toilets delivers significant savings.

Flush Optimisation

Ensure flush mechanisms are correctly adjusted—over-flushing wastes water unnecessarily.

Urinal Water Management

Urinals often waste significant water through:

Continuous flushing systems

Flushing when not in use (overnight, weekends)

Over-frequent flushing

Sensor-Activated Flushing

Sensors detect use and flush only when needed:

Eliminates flushing when facilities are unused

Reduces water consumption by 70-80%

Quick payback period

Time-Controlled Flushing

Less sophisticated but still effective:

Flush only during operating hours

Adjustable frequency based on usage

Waterless Urinals

The most water-efficient option:

Zero water usage

Modern systems are hygienic and odour-free

Require specific maintenance approach

Not suitable for all environments

Tap Water Reduction

Sensor Taps

Touchless sensor taps:

Run only when hands are present

Eliminate running taps

Reduce water consumption by 50-70%

Hygiene benefits (touchless)

Aerators and Flow Restrictors

Low-cost additions that:

Reduce flow while maintaining perceived pressure

Easily retrofit to existing taps

30-50% water reduction

Timing Mechanisms

For taps without sensors:

Auto-shutoff after set period

Prevents taps left running

Leak Detection and Maintenance

Hidden leaks waste significant water:

Regular Inspection: Check for dripping taps, running toilets, and leaking connections.

Meter Monitoring: Unexplained increases in water usage often indicate leaks.

Prompt Repair: Fix leaks immediately—a dripping tap can waste thousands of litres annually.

Cleaning Efficiency

Water used in cleaning adds up:

Efficient Equipment: Modern cleaning equipment uses less water.

Training: Staff trained in efficient techniques use water more carefully.

Smart Scheduling: Cleaning schedules that minimise unnecessary water use.

Calculating Savings

Water savings can be quantified:

Current Usage: Read meters to establish baseline consumption.

Post-Implementation: Compare after changes are made.

Cost Calculation: Apply water rates to consumption changes.

Water savings often pay for equipment investments within 1-3 years.

Getting Started

Audit current water use (meter readings, equipment inventory)

Identify biggest opportunities (often urinals and old toilets)

Calculate potential savings and payback periods

Prioritise investments based on impact and payback

Monitor results to confirm savings

How Doves Can Help

We can advise on water-efficient options for washroom equipment and supplies. While our core service is hygiene rather than plumbing, we work with facilities every day and understand what works.