Urinals are specialized plumbing fixtures designed primarily for males to urinate while standing. They are typically wall-mounted and designed to use less water than conventional toilets, making them an eco-friendlier option for liquid waste disposal.
Found predominantly in public restrooms, especially in commercial spaces, entertainment venues, and transportation hubs, urinals offer a quick and efficient way for men to relieve themselves. Their design aims to be space-saving, often allowing for multiple units in the same space that might accommodate fewer regular toilets. This efficiency and practicality make them a preferred choice for high-traffic male restrooms.
Urinals, as specialized fixtures for men to urinate while standing, began appearing in the 19th century, coinciding with urbanization and the development of public sanitation systems. Their introduction aimed to improve hygiene in densely populated areas. Over time, designs evolved, with flushing mechanisms enhancing cleanliness. By the 20th century, urinals became common in public male restrooms worldwide. Different cultures adapted unique designs, from simple troughs to individual porcelain fixtures, reflecting varying approaches to public sanitation and hygiene.
Urinals are evolving to be more sustainable and user-friendly. Waterless designs are gaining popularity, conserving significant water amounts. Sensor-based flush systems ensure hygiene without touch, and anti-splash technology enhances user experience. However, with changing societal views on gender, the challenge lies in designing inclusive restrooms. Furthermore, public sanitation in crowded urban areas or places with limited water poses installation and maintenance challenges. Innovations aim to balance efficiency, eco-friendliness, and user comfort in the changing landscape of restroom facilities.
To install a urinal, draw on your wall where the urinal should be installed with a pencil making sure to hang it from studs. Determine where the pipes will go and create outlets for the pipes. Shut off the water and connect your urinal to the pipes. Turn on the water and flush it a couple times to ensure it is working.
Waterless urinals divert urine into a trap valve. The trap valve contains a chemical that displaces the urine, forcing it lower into the trap. The liquid prevents odors and urine from leaking back to the urinal. As the trap fills up, urine is released to a drain connected to a sewer.
A urinal cake is a urinal deodorizer block and is designed to offset the scent of urine from the urinal and control bacteria. Urinal cakes are a necessity since urinals don’t always wash urine down the drain effectively. Urinal cakes also are known to have carcinogens.
