4 Signs It’s Time to Update Your Facility’s Restrooms

Do your facility restrooms need updating? Are you sure?

No one wants to make a bad impression, but your bathrooms could be creating a less-than-ideal user experience for building occupants or visitors.

It's easy to be blinded by what you experience every day and not recognize the areas that could use updating. But a look through fresh eyes could reveal some opportunities, both large and small, to update your restrooms to be more functional, modern and appealing.

Here are four notable signs it's time to update your facility's restrooms.

1.    You don't have sensor faucets

As operators seek to improve hygiene while also meeting the expectations of users, switching to sensor faucets are the number one change happening in facilities of all kinds right now. Particularly in the aftermath of the coronavirus pandemic and the accompanying public emphasis on hygiene, hands-free faucets are increasingly perceived by the public as a basic amenity, not a luxury.

For instance, our WaveCrest line includes a hidden sensor in each faucet fixture, not only adding elegance but also enhancing reliability and safeguarding the sensor from potential damage caused by harsh chemicals. We're also working on the incorporation of Bluetooth technology within the WaveCrest line to further enhance user experience.

While you're at it, consider other sensor-operated fixtures within the restroom - including soap dispensers, towel dispensers and flush valves - to promote a feeling of modernity and cleanliness.

2.   There are tarnished finishes, leaks, neglected maintenance

Simply put, if it's broken, fix it.

Even if it's not a problem that affects overall functionality, elements that appear to be worn out or poorly maintained can reflect badly on the rest of the facility. Something as seemingly small as a dripping faucet can give users the impression of neglect. And if a space feels neglected, it's also likely to feel unclean or unsafe. 

Pay attention also to ongoing maintenance. Sensor faucets that don't activate because of a dead battery, empty soap dispensers, full trash cans - scenarios like these can give users a negative impression of your entire facility. Implement and follow daily, weekly and monthly checklists for maintaining appropriate cleanliness and functionality.

3.    You haven't checked (or thought about) flow rates in existing plumbing products for a long time

As technology and government regulations advance, flow rates on fixtures like faucets and toilets have been reduced substantially over time. What was once a standard flow rate may now be viewed as excessive - and is likely wasting significant water and resources.

If it's been a while since you've audited existing flow rates, a simple test can measure what's being used.

Reducing flow rates to save water might be as easy and inexpensive as installing an aerator. And the savings on water and sewer bills can offer a return on investment in as little as a few weeks or even days (not to mention the boost to your organization's sustainability initiatives).

Our WaveCrest sensor faucets, for example, only activate when needed, saving up to one gallon of tempered water per handwash. Additionally, the incorporation of hydrogen as an alternative power option further aligns with sustainability efforts, utilizing water flow to power devices and eliminating the need for regular battery replacement or electrical power.

And in our LakeCrest manual line, the metering faucet significantly reduces water usage and energy by regulating the water flow and duration without using even the minimum amount of energy required by electronic faucets.

4.    It seems institutional

Walk into the bathroom and look around. Does it feel dated? If so, it may be time to consider an aesthetic refresh in addition to a functional one.

Modern commercial restroom equipment is available in sleek, stylish designs, and features like good lighting or an attractive backsplash and wall materials can go a long way toward helping restrooms feel less like an institutional necessity and more like a welcoming experience.

As such, facility managers considering a restroom upgrade with T&S' aesthetic faucet fixtures should understand the needs and preferences of restroom users to guide their selection process, like tailoring the faucet design to complement the overall theme of the restroom space and leveraging the options provided for modern, classic or contemporary aesthetics.

At the end of the day, professional guidance in plumbing and design is recommended to ensure a seamless integration process and maximize the overall impact on the restroom environment. Contact our plumbing experts for more information on restroom updates and the durable, yet aesthetically pleasing T&S faucet fixtures available to help with the job.