While water can help flush away urine, the combination when concentrated especially by a low flow reduced water system, leads to accelerated pipe buildup and blockages due to uric acid crystallisation, biofilm formation, and mineral deposits.

These issues are particularly pronounced in low-flow systems, leading to long-term cost increases in frequent maintenance and materials, completely outweighing any short-term cost savings in water.

Water, urine and the defects at the heart of how traditional and low-flow urinals work.

A problematic combination

What the science says

How each damages urinal functionality

Uric acid crystallisation, biofilm formation and mineral deposits

Uric acid crystallisation

- Uric acid: Urine contains uric acid, which can crystallise and form solid deposits.
- Incomplete dissolution: While water helps to flush away urine, it may not completely dissolve all uric acid crystals, especially in low-flow systems.
- pH levels: When urine mixes with water, the pH levels can lead to the precipitation of uric acid crystals.
- Crystal formation: Over time, these crystals adhere to the pipe walls and accumulate, forming larger deposits that can restrict flow.

Biofilm formation

- Organic Matter: Urine provides nutrients that support the growth of bacteria.
- Biofilms: Bacteria can form biofilms, which are slimy layers that adhere to pipe surfaces.
- Reduced pipe diameter: Biofilms can grow and thicken over time, reducing the effective diameter of the pipes.
- Increased friction: The presence of biofilms increases friction, slowing down water flow and contributing to further buildup.

Mineral deposits

- Mineral content: Water, particularly hard water, contains minerals like calcium and magnesium.
- Scale formation: These minerals can precipitate out of the water and form scale deposits on pipe walls.
- Combined effects: When combined with uric acid crystals and biofilms, mineral deposits can exacerbate blockages and buildup.
- Reduced flow: The combination of these factors can significantly reduce water flow and increase the risk of blockages.

Specific issues in low flow systems

Insufficient water volume: Low flow systems use less water, which may not be enough to adequately flush away all urine and dissolved substances.

Slower flow rates: The reduced flow rate means that residues have more time to settle and adhere to pipe surfaces, increasing the likelihood of buildup.