Why Metering Faucets in Schools Make Sense: A Comprehensive Overview

With an increasing focus on sustainability, educational institutions are on the lookout for eco-friendly alternatives. One innovative yet often overlooked solution is the adoption of metering faucets in schools. This article takes a closer look at the benefits of metering faucets, featuring insights from T&S Brass product manager, Dave Scelsi. From water conservation to cost savings, hygiene, durability and real-world case studies, discover how metering faucets are making a difference in the realm of education.

Saving water, one faucet at a time

Metering faucets take center stage in revolutionizing water usage in school environments. Their short cycles not only make regulatory compliance easier but also play a significant role in conserving water. According to Scelsi, these brief cycles directly translate into reduced water usage, putting an end to worries about faucets being left running during handwashing. What's more, the clever design of metering faucets makes it less likely for students to accidentally leave them on, setting them apart from manual faucets and paving the way for substantial water savings.

Cost savings associated with metering faucets

The implementation of metering faucets vs. sensor faucets in educational institutions introduces potential savings including the following key points:

Cost-effectiveness: With metering faucets, the initial investment is more cost-effective than sensor faucets.

Battery and electricity savings: Metering faucets eliminate the need for battery changes or plug-in electricity.

Durability: Kids' attempts to damage sensor faucet sensors often result in expensive replacements. The push-button design of metering faucets enhances durability and reduces maintenance costs.

Water savings: Again, preventing wasted water, a common occurrence with manual faucets, further contributes to cost savings.

Enhancing hygiene in school settings

In the realm of school settings, where the health and well-being of students take center stage, maintaining optimal hygiene is more than just important-it's a top priority. Metering faucets step up to the plate, offering more than just water conservation. Their user-friendly design is intentional, making handwashing a breeze for students. What's more? Some metering faucet fixtures boast anti-microbial properties, going the extra mile in ensuring compliance with hygiene standards. The aim is to cultivate a practical and effective hand hygiene routine, contributing to a school environment that's not just safer but also healthier for everyone involved.

Built to last 

According to Scelsi, metering faucets in schools prove to be hardy champions, facing less wear and tear compared to their manual counterparts. Lever handles on manual faucets are prone to breakage, but the push-button design of metering faucets makes them tougher to damage. These faucets are not just robust; they're also built with vandal-resistant features, tackling concerns about mischievous hands scratching or tampering with the sensors. It's durability that's designed to stand up to the everyday hustle and bustle of school life. 

Streamlined maintenance for lasting efficiency

While adhering to standard maintenance practices, such as the periodic cleaning of the aerator, metering faucets bring an added layer of convenience. Their standout feature lies in the absence of batteries, a notable benefit that simplifies maintenance routines. 

Unlike counterparts requiring frequent battery changes, metering faucets reduce the hassle and costs associated with battery replacements. This not only adds to the efficiency of faucet management but also contributes to the long-term durability and reliability of the system within school facilities.

Example of successful implementations

The Great Wolf Lodge Anaheim in California faced operational challenges with a competitor's electronic sensor faucets, hosting around 200 children daily. The existing faucets posed considerable hygiene and operational issues, failing frequently within less than a year of installation and creating concerns about cross-connections with the kitchen's hot water supply.

In response, the director of engineering at Great Wolf Lodge made a strategic decision. Opting for a switch, all sensor faucets were replaced with T&S Brass metering faucets in the pool area. These faucets were chosen for their ability to withstand heavy traffic, particularly in the pool restrooms where children are the primary users. Additionally, the water conservation properties of T&S Brass metering faucets aligned with the lodge's goals.

The outcome of this transition to T&S products was significant, as noted by GWL Engineering. Integrated checks in the new faucets resolved cross-connection issues, addressing concerns related to the kitchen's hot water supply. The switch to T&S Brass metering faucets not only provided a solution to the operational challenges but also showcased the durability and efficiency of the chosen products.

Key considerations for school faucet selection

When schools contemplate the adoption of metering faucets, emphasizing factors such as vandal resistance and water conservation is crucial. These considerations play a big role in ensuring not only optimal functionality but also efficiency within the unique context of educational settings. By prioritizing these factors, schools can make informed decisions that align with their specific requirements and contribute to an effective learning environment.

As far as specific models are concerned, the LakeCrest line by T&S Brass mixes sophisticated design with commercial durability and is particularly well-suited for the demands of modern, high-traffic facilities. As educational institutions seek solutions that balance style with resilience, the LakeCrest line stands out as an ideal choice, aligning with the evolving needs of contemporary educational environments. Scelsi suggests school personnel on the fence install a few metering faucets and experience the benefits firsthand.

Efficiency at the core

Think of metering faucets as the unsung heroes orchestrating efficiency within educational spaces. Beyond the basics, they become tools that contribute to a practical narrative - where every drop saved, every penny spared and every hygienic practice works together to shape a more sustainable and efficient learning environment.