Zurn Blog

This blog post is a snapshot from the webinar “IoT Connected Product Design of Grease Monitors for Engineers, Facility Owners, Maintenance & Regulator Compliance.” IoT and automation in the right tools can provide bottom line results for businesses. IoT has changed the world of plumbing to create efficiencies for those who maintain the plumbing systems and cost savings for building owners. Let’s look at three main ways business are impacted by IoT plumbing products. IoT in plumbing The first way businesses are impacted by IoT in plumbing is through automating repetitive tasks. Some businesses need to check and document line pressures. Other businesses need to clean out grease or oil separators on a regular basis. All businesses need to plan out preventive maintenance. When automated, all these tasks can significantly reduce required labor by using technology already available in the plumbing industry. The second way is IoT creating visibility into the health of building operations. For example, connected fixtures, such as connected faucets and connected flush valves, can show how much the system is getting used right down to the individual faucet. Connected plumbing can also notify maintenance teams when something needs to be addressed in a restroom, like when a flush valve stops working or when a battery needs to be replaced. Did you know a dead battery is one of the leading causes of emergency maintenance dispatch for a non-functioning commercial faucet? Do you think the head of maintenance would like to know of a failing battery before it is an emergency? What do you think it does to maintenance costs when changing batteries moves from an emergency service call to a preventive maintenance task? One can imagine how some facilities could save a significant amount of money when the plumbing fixtures keep building managers informed of what is going on instead of waiting for a client or employee to report a problem. The third way is the ability to assess priorities earlier than before. Jan-san teams can see how often fixtures are activated, informing them where bathrooms are getting used or ignored. Usage insights allow team leaders to right size cleaning crews in specific areas while limiting crews in unused areas of a building or campus. SmartPro & IoT Savings from IoT go beyond restrooms such as with the SmartPro grease interceptor monitor. The SmartPro measures how much grease and sediment are in an interceptor tank. Those results are automatically recorded for regulatory compliance, but the daily measurements also mean pumper trucks can be schedule based on demand, based on when an interceptor tank is actually nearing its maximum limits, not based on a blind schedule. Blind schedules or calendar-based schedules for pumper trucks mean the trucks come more often than necessary creating unnecessary costs. In some cases, the trucks do not come often enough, which means breaking the law with grease flowing into the sewer. One chain of convenience stores started installing SmartPro to find one location out-of-compliance with local regulations, but most of the stores were over-pumping. Once all the stores have a SmartPro installed to change from interval pumping to on-demand pumping, the company expects to see annualized savings of up to $720,000 per year with an estimated ROI of 12-15 months. One may debate whether it is better to turn off a light by hitting a switch or through an app on a phone, but a $720,000/year savings in operating costs means IoT in plumbing is not a fad. Instead, IoT is a potential big win for maintenance teams, jan-san teams, and building owners as well as the engineers who bring these opportunities to the attention of stake holders. For a deeper dive into how IoT in plumbing products, be sure to check out our recent webinar called “Internet of Things: IoT Connected Product Design for Engineers, Facility Owners, Maintenance, & Regulatory Compliance.”

Grease interceptors are often pumped too often because pumping intervals are set using a best guess to ensure compliance. If the interceptor tank is pumped too often, clients could pay thousands of dollars in unnecessary pumping costs. If an interceptor is not pumped often enough, significant amounts of grease could move down into the sewer system, creating a risk of clogs or government penalties. The SmartPro-connected interceptor monitor ensures people know exactly when a tank needs to be pumped. Grease, Oil, and Interceptors Zurn produces a range of grease interceptors specifically engineered for the removal and retention of grease from kitchen and restaurant wastewater. Zurn provides an assortment of grease interceptors tailored for the elimination of grease from kitchen and restaurant wastewater. When in the market for grease interceptors, it's crucial to take into account elements like design, size, installation, and upkeep. Here are some recommended products to explore: Z1165 Grease Interceptor Z1170 Grease Interceptor ZS1170 Grease Interceptor Z1174 Grease Interceptor GT2700 Grease Interceptor Z1170-UN Grease Interceptor with User Notification Z1171 Low Profile Grease Interceptor GT2701 Low-Profile Grease Interceptor Z1172 Large Capacity Grease Interceptor GT2701-20-3NH Low-Profile Grease Interceptor GT2701-20-3IP Low-Profile Grease Interceptor GT2701-35-4IP Low-Profile Grease Interceptor GT2701-50-4IP Low-Profile Grease Interceptor GT2701-50-4NH Low-Profile Grease Interceptor GT2701-50-3NH Low-Profile Grease Interceptor GT2701-35-3NH Low-Profile Grease Interceptor Proceptor GMC Gravity Grease Interceptor Proceptor GMC 50-300 CSA CSA Fiberglass Hydromechanical Grease Interceptor CSA Certified Z1172-UN Low-Profile Grease Interceptor Z1171-RD Low Profile Grease Interceptor with Rigid Pipe Draw Off Z1171-TD Low Profile Grease Interceptor with Accumulating Cone and Flow Control Tee Proceptor GMC UPC Proceptor GMC 100-500 Retroceptor RC35 and RC50 Retroceptor RC35LP GT2700-35-4NH GT2700-07-2NH GT2700-04-2NH GT2700-10-2NH Grease interceptor monitoring systems Grease interceptor monitoring systems offer cost savings and aid in complying with local sewer regulations for businesses. These systems can: Track and record FOG (Fat, Oil, Grease) buildup. Reduce unnecessary pump-outs. Simplify reporting to ensure compliance. Transmit data wirelessly to a display panel. Utilize ultrasonic monitoring technology. Notable grease interceptor monitoring solutions include: SmartPro: Employs ultrasonic monitoring technology. Additionally, proper installation, usage, and regular cleaning of grease interceptors contribute to time and cost savings. SmartPro stands out as a grease interceptor monitoring system that employs ultrasonic monitoring, eliminating the common issue of clog-prone direct contact alarms. It offers real-time data on crucial metrics like grease/oil level, solids/sediment level, total liquid level, temperature, and battery life, all transmitted wirelessly. This allows JPG to remotely monitor customer interceptors, enabling faster responses to problems within the interceptor or downstream. The result? Prevention of costly backups and catastrophic overflows. According to Geiling, "With frequent personnel changes, it's difficult to have consistent oversight of the interceptor. When interceptors overflow, it's a really costly problem. Now our customers know we are monitoring their interceptors with SmartPro, and they don't have to worry about overflow or compliance issues." How SmartPro help restaurants and contractors SmartPro empowers restaurants and contractors to replace estimates with real-time data, ensuring compliance with regulations and avoiding potential fines for illegal discharges into municipal wastewater systems. It offers multiple monitoring options, such as wireless radio, cell network, gateway cloud solutions, and building automation connectivity. Geiling further notes, "We're using SmartPro to improve the quality of every pump by knowing the actual levels in the tank. That helps customers stay in compliance and keeps haulers accountable. The data gives a good look at the tank from a quality assurance perspective. Restaurants can make sure they're getting what they pay for when they get pumped." SmartPro's real-time insights into interceptor performance empower restaurants to maintain high-quality operations while achieving cost savings. The shift to demand-based pumping reduces unnecessary cleaning and associated waste. For JPG, SmartPro has revolutionized interceptor pumping. Remote monitoring not only enhances service quality and cost savings for customers but also expands pumping service capacity. Additionally, it fosters responsible wastewater system management, minimizing resources and unnecessary pumps. Installation is a breeze, typically taking less than 60 minutes. Geiling acknowledges the value of technology-driven solutions, stating, "We're trying to do more with new technology, and Zurn is doing a lot of the things we want to deploy to our customers. Technology-driven solutions and monitoring allow us to help our customers understand their needs a little bit better." “One JPG customer went from pumping every month for compliance to pumping every quarter based on their actual need,” says John Geiling, President and CEO, JPG Plumbing & Mechanical. “The data presents itself through the SmartPro System. At $450 dollars per pump at 200 stores, this customer could save up to $720,000 a year.” You can learn more about SmartPro Grease Interceptor Monitors in a new case study.

Labor shortages have hit university maintenance teams hard, causing delays and backlogs in their plumbing work. However, one southern university has found a solution. With Zurn Elkay smart restroom products, they’re able to send staff where they’re needed most. Gaining insights across campus At this 300+-acre campus, a team of eight plumbers manages nearly 200 buildings. The lean team was spread thin trying to keep up with routine and unanticipated maintenance tasks. The talent shortage created delays in responding to work orders. Now Zurn Elkay smart remote monitoring provides insights across campus down to the room level. The team checks solenoid and diaphragm life without leaving the department and can plan maintenance more efficiently and schedule preventive work before issues occur. The use of Zurn Elkay’s Hydro-X fixtures with smart sensor technology reduced battery changeouts by 1,197 annually, saved 4,788 batteries, and reduced the number of batteries going into landfills. Single-source standardization across all flush valves and faucets on campus simplifies the ordering of repair parts. With Zurn Elkay smart restroom products, the lean team has reduced truck rolls and maintenance visits by 50%. Smart Restroom Management System The workplace restroom is crucial, especially during flu season. Up to 50% of working individuals miss work due to illness, as per the CDC. Businesses must take precautions for employee health and productivity. Recent regulations focus on hand washing stations, proper restroom cleaning, and supplies. However, many companies still struggle with restroom cleanliness. Manual inspection is costly. Cleanliness challenges persist, driving the demand for smart washroom systems. IoT (Internet of Things) technology has revolutionized smart restroom management by connecting physical objects to the web. It monitors essentials like toilet paper levels, occupancy, and usage trends, reducing costs and enhancing janitorial efficiency. Smart restroom systems benefit both commercial and facility washrooms. Role of IoT in Turning Restrooms Smarter: IoT connects restroom devices to monitor and provide real-time data, enabling proactive issue resolution. Smart restroom management relies on accurate data for optimization. From soap dispensers to paper towels, smart systems eliminate guesswork and stockouts. IoT-connected dispensers transmit data through cloud, Wi-Fi, or cellular networks. Building managers access this data remotely, streamlining supply refills and orders. Smart restroom systems empower building owners to remotely manage cleaning routines and optimize janitorial expenses, focusing on high-traffic areas. Key Benefits: Enhanced Maintenance Schedules: Track restroom usage, cleaning frequency, products used, and time spent per task. Streamline cleaning schedules for efficiency. Consumable and Waste Control: IoT alerts prevent unnecessary device replacements, saving time and resources. Improved Occupant Experience: Prevent waste and stockouts with user reminders and low-supply alerts. Enhanced Facility Appearance: Clean restrooms significantly impact customer reviews, making smart restroom management systems essential for top-notch cleanliness. learn more about Plumbsmart to bringing work order chaos under control with campus-wide remote monitoring.

The restroom experience on campus has an effect on student satisfaction and a university’s reputation, and is an indicator of overall campus quality standards. At one central state university, maintenance teams routinely changed the battery in every faucet and flush valve on campus twice a year to prevent restroom downtime and reduce changeout work orders. With nearly 4,000 fixtures campus-wide, the effort required six plumbers working two shifts every six months. Facilities leaders realized that time could be better and more efficiently spent on other maintenance tasks. They found a solution to premature battery replacements with Zurn Elkay smart restroom products. Increasing maintenance efficiency with data The university’s maintenance team uses Zurn Elkay smart sensor low battery alerts and remote voltage monitoring to improve maintenance efficiency and reduce costs and hassle. Battery changeouts are now scheduled based on alerts for preventive maintenance closer to the battery’s end of life. As a result, the university saved 216 hours of labor and the cost of 30,400 premature battery replacements. Fewer battery replacements means fewer batteries going into landfills. The team also met its original goal of reducing battery changeout work orders. Empower Your Team with Real-Time Data: Prevent flooding, leaks, and costly repairs with instant alerts. Stay ahead with automated maintenance scheduling. Enhance performance management with advanced analytics. Utilize Metrics for Minimization and Optimization: Delve deeper into product trends and market insights to make informed decisions. Analyze user patterns and behaviors to tailor your strategies effectively. Streamline operations by reducing water usage, manual tasks, and overall costs. This revised version expands on the original points and provides more context for applying metrics to minimize and optimize various aspects of your operations. Ensure Seamless User Experiences Throughout Their Routine: Identify peak hours for scheduling to optimize service efficiency. Analyze demand usage patterns to inform future project planning and resource allocation. Sustain consistent product performance to meet user expectations on a daily basis." This revision provides a more detailed and explanatory version of the original text, emphasizing the importance of user flow and how data can support it. ZurnElkay Products ZurnElkay Products for water consumption metrics, and data for preventive maintenance. Zurn Connected Backflow Preventers Backflow preventers quietly safeguard our water supply, often out of sight and out of mind, until a failure or contamination incident strikes. That's when Zurn Connected Backflow Preventers step in. They diligently monitor performance, tracking everything from flow and pressure to valve discharge. With real-time insights, you and your team can take proactive measures before any real issues arise. You'll not only gain a deeper understanding but also increase predictability in your daily operations. When you're focused on your responsibilities, your backflow preventer is right there with you, silently doing its job. Zurn Connected Faucets Ever wished you could pinpoint the most consistently low-traffic times for restroom cleanups or precisely schedule faucet maintenance or part replacements? Perhaps you're eager for more precise water usage tracking. With Zurn Connected Faucets, you no longer need to guess – you can make informed decisions. Zurn Connected Flush Valves Tired of maintenance feeling like a guessing game? Put an end to unnecessary premature replacements and wasted water due to avoidable leaks and activations. With Zurn Connected Flush Valves, real-time insights empower you to take control of your restroom's cleanliness and performance. Find out more about Zurn Elkay Plumbsmart for improving work efficiency and reducing costs with smart restroom products.

You can’t save water if you don’t know how you are using it. That’s become a common starting point for water conservation at universities and colleges across the country. At one southeastern state university, administrators weren’t satisfied with after-the-fact water bill data or the option to install water meters in every building on campus. They wanted a deeper understanding of water usage to steer their water conservation initiative, and Zurn Elkay smart restroom products provided the solution. Most of the water consumed originates from toilets, showers, baths, faucets, and leaks. Improve Water Conservation and Water Usage Water conservation entails the efficient use of water to minimize unnecessary consumption. Its significance lies in the fact that clean, fresh water is both a finite and expensive resource. Furthermore, water conservation contributes to environmental preservation. Zurn and Water Conservation Zurn collaborates with a global clients to offer products and systems that elevate water quality, safety, hygiene, flow management, and conservation. With a legacy spanning over two centuries, Their products play a pivotal role in promoting well-being, facilitating healthy hydration, preserving precious natural resources, and ensuring safety. Zurn's diverse product line comprises: Smart connected solutions Finish plumbing products Building drainage systems Water control mechanisms PEX-Cross Linked Polyethylene solutions Fire protection equipment Repair parts Acid neutralization systems Creating remote visibility into water use Zurn Water Solutions is a company specializing in crafting water solutions for a wide range of sectors, including commercial, municipal, and industrial markets. Their product portfolio encompasses: Water management and safety solutions. Water distribution and drainage systems. Finish plumbing products. Hygienic, environmental, and site works solutions. Zurn Elkay smart restroom products create remote visibility into water use at the device level, and the baseline data the university needed to set conservation goals and identify actions, such as adjusting flow rates. Smart products also enable the maintenance team to verify that water bills match water use. With data from Zurn Elkay smart restroom products, the university can plan more efficient restrooms during renovations and builds with fewer fixtures and water-saving touchless sensor faucets and flush valves. With smart restroom data, the university has been able to reduce water use across campus, saving 917,172 gallons per year. To learn more about enhancing water conservation with smart restroom products, and Plumbsmart.

Learn the Basic Guidelines for When to Repair or Replace Your Restroom Faucets and Flush Valves. Are you wondering if you should repair or replace your restroom fixtures? Let’s cover some guidelines about when it is time to choose the repair or the replace option for your restroom faucets and flush valves. Ultimately, the decision revolves around time, money, and organizational priorities. You may have other factors that affect your repair or replace decision today, so take this input for what it is, guidelines that help you think through your own situation. In general, you want to ask yourself three questions: How old are the current fixtures? Do the current fixtures help to create a good restroom experience? Do the current fixtures help you comply with local laws and organizational sustainability initiatives? How Old is the Fixture? Fixtures in commercial restrooms work hard, and after ten years in a moderate to heavy use restroom, many fixtures are getting to the end of their life expectancy. In a busy restroom, some valves can easily see over half a million activations in ten years, so it is not hard to see why ten years is a good, long run for a commercial faucet, flush valve, or other fixture. In general, you will be better off replacing a faucet after the ten-year mark, because several of the parts are probably at or near the end of their life. You may replace one part to find another part breaks next week. Even with gentle use, eventually valves will start to leak, clog, or corrode. The age issue is especially true if you live in an area where the water is hard on the valve. Flush valves less than ten-years old are normally in the repair category, unless the valve has given you a lot of trouble over the last few years or it has been damaged due to an accident or vandalization. When you get to the fifteen-year range, generally you can repair it and get at least another five or more years of use from the fixture unless it is in an extreme environment. If your flush valve is over 20 years old in a moderate use restroom, it is a good time to change out the whole unit. Does the Faucet or Flush Valve Create a Positive Experience? Beyond ensuring the faucets and valves function properly, you need to ask about whether or not they create a good experience. It may sound like a silly idea, but after the pandemic, people feel uncomfortable with old, corroding valves, and people really do not like to touch the manual faucets and flush valves. When people feel you have a clean, hygienic restroom, customers spend more, and employee satisfaction is likely to be higher. If you don’t have the budget to completely redo the restroom, upgrading one valve at a time when they no longer work properly may be an acceptable alternative. When it comes to improving the restroom experience, you may also choose a flush valve retrofit kit over replacing the whole valve assembly that goes with the toilet. Kits are available that reduce the time and cost of going from a manual flush valve to an automatic flush valve making an upgrade worthwhile compared to a full fixture replacement. Do the current fixtures help you comply with local laws and organizational sustainability initiatives? Some states and municipalities require low flow fixtures, so replacing outdated fixtures is an obvious choice. Beyond local laws, many organizations have made sustainability an organizational initiative, which often includes a water conservation component. If water conservation is important to the organization, then an early upgrade to reduce water usage makes sense. With those guidelines, you should be well on your way in the decision to repair or replace your fixtures. Remember to consider your unique situation and include things such as expiring budgets, limited time government incentives, or labor availability. Find links below for long lasting replacement parts or water saving fixtures for whatever decision you make. Long Lasting Repair Parts New Products that Conserve Water Water Savings Calculator

Plumbing continues to make technological advances including in today’s restrooms. Building owners want to give people what they want in a restroom, and they want to save money at the same time. Restrooms today can notify janitorial and maintenance staff of needs long before someone complains, create a feeling of safety, and lower ongoing costs compared to earlier designs. Newer designs and technology create higher satisfaction for both restroom users and building owners, making these restrooms an easy choice for both new buildings and remodeling projects. Building Users Want Better Restroom Experiences Technology has brought every industry into the future, and plumbing is no different. Modern restrooms can help people feel safer and be ecologically responsible, yet what people want goes beyond what was expected just a few short years ago. Stating the obvious, it is the minimum bar for today’s restroom to be clean and in good working condition. It is no surprise that post-pandemic, people have a heightened awareness of hygiene and germ transmission. More than half of the population (55%) now has concerns with touching sinks or sink fixtures in a public restroom, and almost the full population (94%) will avoid a business with a dirty restroom. People want a clean and functioning restroom where they feel safe. A restroom that is dirty isn’t just annoying or gross, it assaults the feeling of well-being of those using the restroom. A person starts questioning if their health is affected just by being in a restroom when the restroom is poorly cleaned or maintained. Since perception is as important as reality, even things such as lighting, color choices, and restroom features can affect how users feel about the restroom, and all the elements should be used together to create a feeling of a safe environment. Going Beyond the Minimum Bar in Today’s Restrooms Restroom users want as touch-free an experience as possible. Sensor-activated faucets, flush valves, and hand dryers are already standard for most public restrooms. Door free entryways remove a final touchpoint after people just finished washing and drying their hands. Eliminating touchpoints gives people confidence they are in a safer environment. Users want surfaces that are antimicrobial. You can now obtain handwashing systems and toilet partitions that discourage the transmission of germs. Similarly, hand dryers are available with HEPA filters. Make sure signs or labels clearly tell people how the bathroom surfaces protect them. Comfort from users increases knowing the restroom has layers of protection defending them from germs in every way possible. They want to feel there is room for their “personal space.” With increased sensitivity to the spread of disease, people no longer find it acceptable to use a public restroom shoulder to shoulder with strangers, especially if someone is coughing in the room. Creating a perceived sense of space allows people to feel comfortable in your restroom. Creating perceived space may be from adding physical space, but it may also be from the creative use of partitions, sinks, and other architectural features to create a feeling like someone’s personal space is kept. They want environmental responsibility that does not trample on their comfort. People would like to know your restroom uses less water and energy, but they don’t want to hear about how great your restroom is if it is at the expense of their experience. Water conservation is great, but the faucet must still give a good handwashing experience. People want a good restroom experience that is also ecologically responsible. Building Owners Want Less Maintenance and Lower Costs There has never been a time where a building owner has said, “I wish I had more expenses for my balance sheet,” and we can expect building owners will continue to look for the lowest total cost of ownership. What has changed with the tighter labor market is an increased wage rate for people who clean and maintain the restrooms, especially with skilled trades such as plumbers. The easy part of the equation is reducing water and paper consumables. Water-saving devices have a direct effect on costs and so does reducing the use of paper products. Today’s hand dryers use less energy to dry hands in less time than older models. New hand dryers often cost less than two to three years of paper towels in a moderate use restroom. We can add, with HEPA filters in today’s advanced hand dryers, users can again have confidence they are safe. Yet, today’s restrooms need to go beyond reducing water and paper products. Preventive maintenance needs to happen based on fixture use, not an estimated time based on estimated use. It should come as little surprise that some stalls and some sinks in a restroom get higher volume than others. If you scheduled maintenance assuming every fixture received even use, you are swapping parts on some units too early. Heavier use fixtures in the same restroom may fail before PM is scheduled because actual use of the fixture may exceed average or expected use. What if the restroom could go beyond these obvious savings? What if cleaning schedules were based on actual use of the restroom rather than a rotational schedule based on estimated use? What if the restroom could let you know when there is a fixture problem, while now maintenance staff only find out if there is a customer complaint? How Zurn Delivers the Restroom of the Future? It is no longer a zero-sum game choosing between costs or a better experience. Modern technologies allow building owners to supply a better experience AND save money. One of the largest airports in the United States recently completed a pilot project and is now installing “restrooms of the future” based on Zurn’s connected products platform. Since Zurn supplies every plumbing fixture needed, the fixtures gain cumulative knowledge feeding AI-powered insights giving early indicators something needs intervention. During the pilot project, the airport staff learned about 46 restroom problems over the 107-day trial period before anyone reported a problem to airport staff, which created a better user experience, and the maintenance and janitorial staff responded to real needs rather than blind schedules. Zurn’s connected restroom also supplies insights into which restrooms need to be cleaned when, as well as staffing insights from actual user data. Staffing can be matched to the actual day of week and hour of day use rather than treating every day the same. Scheduling to actual restroom use almost always creates a reduction in janitorial staffing hours because staff no longer clean low-use restrooms as often as higher use restrooms nor are they cleaning during lower use periods as if it is a higher use period. These insights can be real-time. As an example, janitorial staff at an airport won’t find out about every flight cancellation, but a flight cancellation can create a spike in use for what may normally be a low-use restroom. A connected restroom can inform janitorial staff when there is unexpectedly high use that creates a need for janitorial services earlier than expected. Zurn’s connected restroom How does Zurn’s connected restroom know when there is a problem? Connecting all devices together lets the system learn and understand restroom use at a deeper level than ever before. As an example, when the system sees the restroom is busy but one of the sinks is not getting used, a notification goes out to staff so staff can check on that sink and possibly find out the sink was filled with debris. Only when several devices in the restroom are connected into a single system can AI create the insights needed to accurately report problems. AI-powered restrooms also create new opportunities. Architects and engineers can get insights into how many restroom fixtures are needed in buildings so they can right-size future restrooms for similar buildings. Facility managers can provide hard numbers to justify staffing levels. Healthcare facilities can now measure the effectiveness of handwashing campaigns to show campaign efficacy. Building owners with dispersed locations can minimize travel time by planning out preventive maintenance schedules that concentrate work at nearby facilities or by doing preventive maintenance during a visit for a repair. In the end, the connected restroom creates a better user experience because you have a cleaning schedule that matches actual use, and all fixtures are likely to be in good working order. Building owners love it because they save money while giving a better user experience. And we find facilities maintenance and janitorial staff also appreciate it because they are doing the right work, not running around from one emergency to another nor are they working on something that doesn’t really need to be done, like replacing a perfectly good valve just because a calendar said it is time. We are pleased to provide building owners and users with the restroom of the future. To learn more about the restroom of the future, be sure to check out the Smart Restroom Innovations Whitepaper.

Today, HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filter technology can be found everywhere, from buildings spanning private, healthcare, and public spaces to product systems beyond air purification. Of course, in modern days, the demand for quality air supply has never been higher. While on the topic of higher, one of the most critical spaces in which HEPA filters help clean the air can be found inside an oversized steel tube that travels at a speed of 500+ miles an hour. Yup, travel continues to lead the way for innovation and sanitation. HEPA filters in flight Before you board your next flight, consider this. HEPA filters and efficient air circulation work together to ensure fresher air for passengers. In fact, the air is typically purer than what is breathed in at restaurants, bars, stores, or even at home. Now, you may be doubting that assertion since you can’t really open a window or door. But, it’s true. Let us explain with expert findings. National Geographic recently consulted air-purifying experts and found that around 40 percent of cabin air is filtered through a HEPA system, while the other 60 percent is brought in fresh from outside the plane. Cabin air completely changes over every three minutes, while the aircraft is cruising to someplace hopefully filled with umbrellas, sun rays and sound waves. The air is pumped from the ceiling into the cabin at a speed of about one yard per second and sucked out below window seats, raising the air quality level above that of a normal building. To sum it up, the air is filtered 20 times in one hour—now that’s a refreshing stat! Certified HEPA filters “block and capture 99.97 percent of airborne particles over 0.3 microns in size,” says Tony Julian, an air-purifying expert with RGF Environmental Group. With increased efficiency of HEPA filters for the smallest particles and added ventilation, the number of particles in the air is quite low — even comparable to a heavily sanitized room. According to Liam Bates, CEO and co-founder of air-quality monitor manufacturer, Kaiterra, “[Planes] are actually safer than virtually any other confined space.” This air-handling system design of a commercial aircraft makes it unlikely someone will breathe in air from anyone located more than a few rows away. A 2018 study examined the transmission of droplet-mediated respiratory illnesses during transcontinental flights and found that an infectious passenger with influenza or another droplet-transmitted respiratory infection was unlikely to infect passengers seated farther away than two seats on either side or one row in front or in back. A little dirt won’t hurt It is important to note, HEPA filters should be changed out frequently. However, even if an airline changes its filters less often than recommended, the International Air Transport Association states that although airflow through filters may be reduced, the filters’ particle-trapping capacity would not be. (Translation: dirtier filters can operate just as effectively as clean ones.) Filtration alone isn’t foolproof The good news? Most viruses and germs don’t spread easily on flights because of how quickly and efficiently air circulates and is filtered. The meh news? Air travel also involves spending time in shuttle buses, taxis and rental cars, busy security lines and airport terminals, which can put people in close contact with one another and frequently touched surfaces. In addition, social distancing can be difficult on crowded flights, which means passengers may have to sit in close proximity of one another (less than 6 feet) for hours at a time. That’s why consistent mask-wearing, wiping down high-touch surfaces and regular handwashing are all also vital with any kind of air travel today. Flying to hand drying Back on the ground and in a public restroom, what to do after washing your hands? Sensor hand dryers remove the “touch factor” (the grabbing, shared touching, watershed, more waste) and added costs that come with a paper towel dispenser. HEPA-filtered hand dryers take it a step further by purifying the air before it reaches hands. Beyond HEPA filtration, look for solutions with fast dry times, energy efficiency and antimicrobial technology. According to the CDC, completely drying hands can reduce germs up to 1000 times. An energy-efficient hand dryer speeds up the process while using less power and leaving zero paper trail. Look for models that dry hands in 12 seconds or less to meet user expectations. Finally, antimicrobial technology protects the treated surfaces on the dryer by inhibiting the growth of bacteria, mold and fungus that can cause stains, odors or deterioration. From flying to hand drying, HEPA filtration leads in sanitation. Learn more at WorldDryer.com.

George Karoubalis can handle the heat, whether it’s in the kitchen or solving a plumbing problem. Seven years ago, he traded his kitchen utensils for pipe wrenches and faucet keys. Meet George Karoubalis, a seasoned professional at Genitek, excelling in both kitchen and plumbing arenas. With seven years of expertise, George seamlessly transitioned from wielding kitchen utensils to mastering the intricacies of pipe wrenches. His versatility and commitment shine in every challenge he tackles, making George an invaluable asset to the Genitek team. Explore the depth of his skills and experience in our exclusive Plumbing Pro Spotlight. "Discover George Karoubalis' journey from the culinary world to becoming a skilled plumber at Genitek. With seven years of plumbing experience, George thrives on quick thinking and handling challenges under pressure. Learn how Genitek, serving Montreal for two decades, provides expert plumbing solutions, from new construction to emergencies, with 24/7 coverage. Thank you, George and Genitek, for your community support and plumbing excellence." “Prior to Genitek my work revolved around the restaurant industry,” Karoubalis explains. “I’ve been a plumber for about seven years now, and I’ve never looked back. The career change may seem like a leap, but both require quick thinking under pressure. I work hard and can handle challenges steadily. Above all, I love helping people. Plumbing is a trade many don’t know, and I can step in to fix their problems.” Genitek has served the Montreal area for two decades, from new construction projects and restroom renovations to plumbing maintenance and emergencies. Not only does the company retain certified plumbing professionals; it offers 24/7 coverage. Customers know they’re getting competent assistance when they need it most. Thanks, George and Genitek, for your community support and plumbing expertise. A heartfelt appreciation to George and the entire Genitek team for their unwavering support within the community and their exceptional plumbing expertise. Your commitment not only ensures the smooth functioning of plumbing systems but also contributes significantly to the well-being of the community you serve.

Tips on how to expand your outdoor space and keep it open during off-seasons The Upside Of Outside Connected yoga practice in the park. Cozy wool sweaters purchased at a sidewalk sale. A lovely dinner for two in an alley outlined by twinkling lights and a prismatic brick gallery. Commercial and small businesses’ outdoor spaces continue to be a cool trend in spring, fall, and even some tolerable winter days. A few years ago, shops, gyms, and even offices began to extend their everyday operations outdoors. And now more than ever before, opening your doors to the outside allows customers and employees a breath of fresh air and a sigh of relief. “Outdoor living has become the fastest-growing segment within the landscape industry for quite a few years,” shares Paul D. Wait, National Irrigation Sales Manager at Zurn Engineered Water Solutions. “Right now, we’re seeing requests for outdoor upgrades and new builds in commercial spaces and small businesses taking off. The growth has been incredible and critical.” Businesses are adapting in part because they must. Yet, many are seeing this change as a positive for businesses, employees, and customers. These businesses are cultivating unique, mood-boosting experiences through their outdoor setups and sanctuaries. And you can too! A Fresh (Air) Way Of Thinking As social distancing guidelines and mandates pervade the new normal, businesses see outdoor spaces as their opportunity to follow recommendations and keep customers coming back. A trend likely to have staying power. From restaurants, farmer's markets, and coffee shops to gyms, garden centers, offices, and boutiques, businesses are setting up shop alongside their brick and mortar buildings and finding ways to sell goods and services. All of this means getting creative and innovative. By expanding your businesses’ existing footprint on the patios, decks, lawns, sidewalks, and even the streets around you, customers can dine, exercise, sip, shop, or relax where fresh air is abundant and free for all to enjoy. Besides providing open air and a lot more spaciousness, this shift outdoors can greatly lessen consumer fears around crowded stores and interior ventilation. “Right now, commercial demand is so large, and local governments are developing business codes that allow for quick outdoor expansion. However, if you’re thinking about an outside build, take a pause and remember to expand wisely by choosing low-maintenance, cost-effective water solutions that will complement your own design plan,” explains Wait. Think Sustainable Water Solutions Any landscape architect or contractor can help you find a variety of product(s) to suit your unique build or upgrade needs. Here are three essential water solutions that can make your outdoor expansion an all-around success. Install Irrigation Solutions Exterior irrigation solutions offer many reliable water safety and water control features for outdoor landscaping, water fountains, and planters. These irrigation solutions will protect your non-potable water supply, manage water pressures and prevent backflow to promote water conservation. Look for backflow preventers and pressure-reducing valves that offer control and extend the life of your system for low lifecycle costs and easy system winterization. Consider Linear Trench Drains Worried about possible runoff pooling or looking to outline a fountain? Trench drains help ensure proper water management, prevent mud, and lower the risk of flooding or customers slipping. Trench drains can withstand years of heavy foot traffic and outdoor elements, like rain and snow. Plus, they filter debris, meet ADA compliant, feature heel-safe grates, and are easy to install. If you care about long-lasting performance, high-density polyethylene material is likely your best choice. Try PEX for Radiant Heating Never worry about salting again. Radiant heating under concrete pavers low-cost, low-maintenance solution for preventing ice or snow accumulation. Shoveling and sanding driveways, walkways, and patios is so early 2000s. Here’s how it works...it’s melting magic. PEX is filled with water or a mix of water and antifreeze. As heat transfers, fluid in a closed-loop circulates between the floor and the boiler. This construction is environmentally sound (recyclable), highly flexible, and resistant to high temps. Plus, it doesn’t require post-curing, which reduces energy during the manufacturing process. Now Think About The Details No matter what exterior design or functionality you choose, you want it to hold up over time. Your other concern comes down to the details. When your outdoor environment has the right finishing touches (furniture, fabrics, pots, planters, décor, and accessories), it will set the tone and create those experiences customers desire now more than ever. Here are a few ideas: If you’re part of a farmers’ market, be strategic with your heat lamp placement to keep customers warm on chilly days. Own an eatery? Entice guests to linger outdoors a little longer by adding some benches, low walls for seating, or even a lounge area with a firepit or lawn games. Salons, barbershops, and studios can install big planters with bountiful greenery to offer more privacy to their customers and employees. Setting up an outdoor sound system lets you set the mood and adds value without having to overspend. (Music hits the right note for practically any type of business!) Set Up Smart As you finalize design features for your outdoor space and finish up your project, make sure your permits are in order and set up hand sanitizer stations. Then, once your space is open to the public, establish social distancing practices, do routine cleaning as you would indoors, use contactless payment methods and train your employees. You want this outdoor space to be a continued success down the road without any second-guessing. Even if some requirements and concerns fade away, customers will always appreciate outdoor spaces and sanitary best practices. Communicate to Your Customers Of course, remember to spread the word and let new and existing customers know that you’re moving outside using a consistent message across multiple channels. Post it on your website, social media platforms, and customer email/snail mail distribution lists. Reach out to local media for some free press and community engagement. As you take it outside for greater ROI, consider these tips. Visit zurn.com to find wide-ranging product options for your next project.

Smart restrooms cut down on guest congestion and germ transference from hands to surfaces…to more hands and more surfaces. IoT-enabled flush valves, faucets, soap dispensers and occupancy sensors use real-time data to monitor performance, pinpoint peak traffic times, detect outliers (like clogs or vandalism), and keep the entire user experience hands-free and problem-free.  For the most sensitive space in your entire building, that’s an ideal scenario. Therefore, it’s no surprise smart restroom upgrades continue to rise, and these solutions continue to improve their capabilities for sanitation, water savings, maintenance and custodial teams, and guests’ needs. Smart makes sense  Smart makes sense, but like anything, the decision process needs to make sense to building owners before it can happen. So, what’s holding back these future adopters? Hesitation stems from a few things, namely initial upgrade costs, choice overload, and general questions around what features to look for beyond more uptime and touchless operation. People want to understand their options and what suits their restroom environment.  Instead of delaying your decision making even more, let’s get to answering the most common questions we get about smart restrooms.  Can I get financial assistance for my restroom upgrades? This is a biggie. Enterprises and government entities face ranging challenges, but budgets are always a factor, no matter what your year introduced. 2020 magnified challenges and shrunk budgets. Fortunately, relief funding exists for restroom upgrades that promote hand hygiene and sanitation. While availability and eligibility vary state by state, industry by industry, here are possible funding opportunities to check out. You may also find assistance through local resources, like water utilities and community banks. Visit their websites to see if rebates are out there or go to the EPA Rebate Finder page.  What about financial assistance for healthcare facilities?  Speaking of taking on challenges and budgets, healthcare facilities proved their agility in the face of adversity. Smart restrooms help this specific industry achieve more uptime, back handwashing best practices, and put cost savings back into patient care. Learn more about eligibility and the application process on the CARES Act site.  How does clog detection work?  Currently, any warnings from a failure, like a clog, are triggered by irregular flushing patterns. The data collected is compared to nearby fixtures and past performance metrics. Your technologies never stop learning the environment, so improvement is also ongoing. Clogs detected from water not flowing through a fixture will come to market in the next year or so. Preventing clogs allows for fewer out-of-order stalls and less restroom congestion.  Can we make our existing sensor fixtures smart without entirely replacing them?  Not all manufacturers offer scalable solutions, but some do. Zurn’s sensor fixtures upgrade to smart capabilities without fully replacing your flush valves, faucets, etc. You can connect what’s already installed to receive real-time data alerts and insights around restroom performance. That way, you’ll save time and costs.  Is a ½-inch feed line sufficient for urinals and sink faucets?  A ½-inch line is sufficient for the majority of manual or sensor faucet applications. Urinals depend on the flushing volume. Most North American urinal flush valves utilize ¾-inch inlet lines. When a flush valve is specified to use a 0.125 GPF pint flow urinals, the inlet piping can be downsized to ½-inch supply lines.  Can I retrofit any type of flush valve or faucet?  Our retrofit flush valves work with Zurn and several other commercial manufacturers. Our retrofit faucets also apply universally. Reach out to a Zurn expert to discuss easiest path to upgrade. Can you upgrade to smart and sustainable?  Consider hydropower solutions. These battery-operated fixtures efficiently generate and store energy from the source. The internal turbine systems transform flowing water into dynamic power, which is already smart if you think about it. Our Z6950, Z6955, Z6953, Z6956 Series feature Hydro•X Power. The hydropower harvests energy with just a few activations each day to take each battery life ten years uninterrupted. That’s a decade without tossing your fixture’s batteries in your landfills, year after year, restroom after restroom, fixture after fixture! Our solutions also offer low-flow rates to help you save water too and achieve your LEED goals. One last question—did we answer all of yours? If not, reach out to our team of experts so you can make smart decisions for your restrooms.

Image: Zurn Wilkins 375AST Reduced Pressure Principle Backflow Preventer Myth Busting: What You May Not Know About Backflow Prevention Did you know the majority of water illnesses could be avoided with a properly working plumbing system? High-performing backflow preventers can help protect the integrity of your system and drinking water. Clean water is mission critical, whether protecting residential, commercial, or irrigation systems. What is Backflow? Backflow is the undesirable reverse flow of water or mixture of water and other liquids, gases, and contaminants into the potable water system. When Does Backflow Occur? Backflow is caused by pressure changes, including conditions of gravity, vacuum, or other pressure changes. There are two factors that contribute to reversal of flow in pipelines. One is backsiphonage and the other is backpressure. Before you install your next system. Here are a few common misconceptions around backflow prevention, and what you should know before you select your model. Myth: Assemblies vs. Devices: These are the same Mechanical backflow prevention devices and assemblies offer the best protection against cross-connection hazards, but they are not the same. Backflow prevention assemblies consist of an inlet and outlet shut-off valve and test cocks to facilitate testing of the assembly while it is in its functional in-line position. Backflow prevention devices prevent backflow by stopping the reversal of flow and are not testable once installed because they do not have inlet and outlet shut-off valves or test cocks. Myth: Backflow Assemblies cover all hazard applications You must understand the degree of hazard in your system to determine the proper solution and backflow assembly device you choose. Low-hazard application: potential backflow can pollute the drinking water. Pollution refers to undesirable effects to the water that will not cause illness, such as discoloration, smell, or taste. The Zurn Wilkins Double Check Backflow Preventers provide low hazard protection from backsiphonage and backpressure for all water application. High-hazard application: potential backflow can contaminate the water supply. Contamination refers to any impairment to the quality of water that can result in illness. The Zurn Wilkins Reduced Pressure Principle Backflow Preventers provide high hazard protection against backsiphonage and backpressure for all water applications Myth: Zurn Wilkins Backflow Assemblies model numbers don’t help me identify the assembly type By just looking at the last two digits of our backflow preventer model numbers you will be able to understand if this assembly is a Double Check Assembly (DC) or a Reduced Pressure Principle Assembly (RP). Zurn Wilkins Double Check Assemblies (DC) and Zurn Wilkins Double Check Detector Assemblies (DCDA) always use the number 50 in the model number. DC Models include: 950XLT2, 950XL, 350XL, 350, 350A, 350AST, 450, 450ST. DCDA Models include: 950XLTDA, 350DA, 350ADA, 350ASTDA, 450DA, 450STDA Zurn Wilkins Reduced Pressure Principle Assemblies (RP) and Zurn Wilkins Reduced Pressure Principle Detector Assemblies (RPDA) always use the number 75 in the model number. RP Models include: 975XL2, 975XL, 375XL, 375, 375A, 375AST, 475, 475ST. RPDA Models include: 375DA, 375ADA, 375ASTDA, 475DA, 475STDA Myth: Innovation does not happen in Backflow Prevention due to the required standards, approvals and listings needed. Approval agencies, representing many diverse geographical areas and levels of government, require performance criteria regarding the function, manufacturing, installation, and testing and maintenance of backflow prevention devices and assemblies. These standards ensure the integrity of the drinking water by addressing each mechanical function, and materials of the backflow preventers *Design*. Although this testing is quite rigorous and intense our engineering team continues to be inventive in designing backflow assemblies. Any new backflow preventer assembly that comes to market with the required approvals and listings has been thoroughly vetted and in development with Zurn Wilkins engineers for multiple years before it has come to the market. Speaking of innovative, check our video on the Zurn Wilkins 300 Small Backflow Series to hear more about how our engineers and product management are designing products to set us above the competition. To learn more about Backflow Prevention and Zurn Wilkins Backflow Preventers check out the following brochure: Principles of Backflow Prevention

By Paul Wait, Zurn Industries Improving the efficiency of an outdoor irrigation system is an important factor in water conservation. Many existing lawn sprinkler systems are operating at water pressures exceeding pressures recommended by sprinkler manufacturers. Higher operating pressures create system inefficiencies due to excessive flow rates, misting, uneven coverage, and water waste when watering areas outside the landscaping. Lower water pressures generate appropriate water droplet size from the spray heads and provide a more uniform distribution of water across the landscape increasing the irrigation system’s performance. The most straightforward method of lowering water pressure in an irrigation system is accomplished by adding a single water pressure-reducing valve (PRV) at the point of connection (POC) to the irrigation system. The single PRV installed along the POC line will regulate variable high inlet water pressures to a constant lower optimal water pressure for the entire irrigation system. This allows the installed spray heads and drip emitters to operate in their recommended high-efficiency pressure range. Increased water efficiency will be immediately realized by the irrigation system with this one change. Therefore, irrigation systems that experience high inlet pressures would realize significant water savings when designed or retrofitted with a PRV installed along the POC to the mainline. This technique for lowering water pressure in an irrigation system is common practice for both landscape irrigation designers and landscape contractors. Save Money and Conserve Water! Installing a Pressure Reducing Valve (PRV) in your lawn sprinkler system will lower water pressure, optimizing it for the sprinkler valves and heads. This enhancement will increase the efficiency of your system and extend the lifespan of its components. It's important to keep in mind that city water pressure may vary depending on local demand in your area. Unlocking Efficient Landscape Watering with Pressure Reducing Valves (PRVs) Pressure-reducing valves (PRVs) play a pivotal role in enhancing landscape watering efficiency by addressing various aspects of water management: Reduce Water Flow: PRVs regulate high inlet water pressures to a constant, lower pressure for irrigation systems, leading to substantial water savings amounting to thousands of gallons per year. Improve Water Distribution: Ensuring even water distribution, PRVs contribute to avoiding over- or under-watering of plants, promoting healthier landscapes. Enhance Operational Efficiency: PRVs facilitate the optimal operation of spray heads and drip emitters by maintaining pressure within their recommended range, maximizing efficiency. Zurn Industries promotes efficient landscape watering using Zurn Wilkins Pressure Reducing Valves. For more information on Pressure Reducing Valves, visit zurn.com or our irrigation playlist on YouTube at OneZurn.

From beginnings to fittings and every application and connection in between In the mid-1900s, indoor pipes consisted of copper and metal materials. These plumbing solutions became problematic against corrosive environments. Pitting of the pipes put in question the integrity of the water supply and users at risk. Enter Engel... Pioneering PEX German inventor, Thomas Engel, pioneered a new way of piping by crosslinking polyethylene using a peroxide method. This method proved both more cost-effective and long-lasting—the piping held up to heat, it was easier to work with during installation, and more reliable against corrosion over time. By the 1980s, homes and businesses were using PEX for plumbing projects and radiant floor heating inside their buildings. There are three types still used by contractors: Engel’s or PEXa, the Silane process or PEXb and Electron Beam method or PEXc. PEX A vs PEX B PEX A uses larger-diameter expansion-style fittings, requiring an expansion tool to enlarge the pipe and sleeve. Its unique expandable nature, driven by memory features, ensures a snug fit when it contracts back to its original size around the fitting. PEX A offers exceptional flexibility, enabling tighter radial bends and easy kink repair with a heat gun. The material can expand back to its original shape. Pros: PEX A ensures unrestricted flow with matching pipe and fitting diameters, making it ergonomic for tight spaces and quick connections in challenging areas like joist bays. Con: In cold climates expansion fittings may delay their return to the original size. Solution? Use a heat gun to speed up the contraction. PEX B PEX B utilizes insert-style fittings by inserting them into the pipe and securing them with a copper sleeve using a crimp tool. PEX B, although made of similar material as PEX A, has limited flexibility. In case of kinks, repairs are impossible, necessitating the replacement of the affected section. Pros: PEX B offers a tool-free, consistent joining method that's quick and easy in any weather. Con: PEX B fittings reduce flow and water volume at the joint due to their smaller diameter and may result in leaks if crimped incorrectly. PEX b built on Engel’s novel PEX a by crosslinking through a physical, chemical process, essentially fortifying the pipe’s high temperature threshold, resistance to UV rays and harsh or acidic elements, and overall toughness. Even with the robust reinforcement, PEX b proved to be just as flexible on the job. Today, this is by far the most widely used solution for all the above. We’re talking like well over half of all plumbing projects. In frigid climates, freezing pipes and potential bursts are worrisome. PEX A offers higher burst resistance, capable of withstanding up to 500 PSI in extreme cold, while PEX B, being more rigid, is less resilient. The manufacturing enhancement opened the door (literally) to more outside applications for both residential and commercial spaces, such as irrigation systems, radiant heating on sidewalks and driveways, and outdoor water systems. PEX a and PEX c also meet these jobsite requirements for these applications. They’re closer than cousins to PEX b. All follow crosslinking methods. All must be tested and third-party certified to meet ASTM standards in North America. However, PEX b boasts performance advantages over other crosslinking methods, such as UV and chlorine resistance, thermo stability, and burst strength. Expanding the Way of Connecting PEX b is expanding on its capabilities too when it comes down to the connection. PEX b used to be limited to crimp fittings for installation, while PEX a offered a larger opening for expansion fittings. Through meticulous enhancements, PEX b expanded its way of connecting. PEX b pipes are now fully certified for use with both ASTM F1807/F2159 crimp and ASTM F1960 expansion fittings and accessories. What does this mean? Well, expansion PEX can offer a path of leak resistance if used with a certified expansion tool. Certified tool heads feature interlocking teeth and unique nose design, specifically for PEXb. This industry innovations allows homeowners and building owners to upgrade to the strength of PEX b without worrying about complications during installation or difficulties in cold weather conditions. PEX Expansion Tool The Zurn PEX F1960 Expansion Head, compatible with DEWALT® DCE400 and Milwaukee® M12™ ProPEX® Tools, streamlines PEX system assembly, ensuring leak-free connections. Designed for Zurn Non-Barrier PEX pipe, it creates secure connections with ASTM F1960 fittings. Choosing PEX for Your Project No matter, which option you choose—a, b, or c—PEX surpasses copper piping for reliability across all indoor applications. You’re guaranteed to save project costs and labor and extend the lifespan of your system with fewer maintenance requests or problems down the road with your water source. However, if you’re looking to get more creative outdoors or want more jobsite flexibility, you may want to consider PEXb. It’s hard to say what’s next for PEX. But seeing as it’s the most versatile solution in the plumbing world, we can only expect another advancement or discovered use in time.

Upgrading to Smart Restrooms? Right now, it’s a no-brainer in higher education At colleges and universities today, decision-makers and facilities managers face more and more financial stressors. Student enrollment and tuition revenues are provisionally declining, operating costs are spiking in general, and budgets and funding are being trimmed back because of both. That’s why higher ed decision-makers and facilities managers can no longer just follow their gut. They must rely on trustworthy data to make informed decisions to guarantee budgets are met. Fortunately, data-driven sensors double as touchless solutions. Because of this, smart restroom technology helps keep your campus clean, promotes more effective hand hygiene and social distancing, saves on water, decreases downtime, and gives your maintenance and custodial team more control over their tasks—all this on top of ROI! Here are the leading smart restroom solutions being adopted today: Handwashing score – encourages proper handwashing with flush/wash ratio Touchless, smart fixtures – give instant alerts and detect outliers, such as a clog or tampered flush valve  Feedback surveys – help you better understand the guest experience Occupancy lights – indicates any open stalls and keeps traffic flowing and distanced The smart choice Smart restroom solutions are quickly becoming a key contributor in campus restrooms across the country. With so many data-driven fixtures and technologies available, you won’t have to overwork your crew (or strain your budget). From the very first day of installation, a smart restroom instantly boosts guest and student and staff satisfaction by: Owning the restroom experience for all, start to finish Checking in with maintenance employees in real-time Helping meet strategic goals through trends and analytics Assisting entire teams behind the scenes every day Real-time for fewer dollar signs Data is king. An informed decision is almost always the result of easy-to-understand, easy-to-access learning — offering the answers you need, when you need them. If your campus restroom needs attention, count on an upgraded smart restroom. From reporting negative user feedback to raising the flag on a plumbing issue ASAP, smart restroom technology turns mobile alerts that bring instant action. This decreases the number of users affected before a problem is resolved and lessens the size and scope of the remedy (aka fewer dollar signs). Analytics and trends for strategic planning Interested in saving water, reducing costs, and ensuring uptime? You can set up your parameters and goals based on the results you receive. Smart restroom products offer valuable, actionable statistics that uncover trends and analytics around usage patterns, peak hours, preventative maintenance, and water consumption. Plus, dashboard-style portals provide all these helpful details in a user-friendly format. Users get 24/7 access anywhere via phone, tablet, or computer, so they can dive deeper in their office or remotely. Machine learning is next-level smart Once installed, your level of learning takes off! You’ll harness smart restroom product data to increase user satisfaction, solve operational issues, make better decisions, and experience cost savings. Plus, customization can help teams divide and conquer to reach a place of predictive maintenance, thanks to learned trends and patterns. Your restroom and team basically never stop improving, because the technology keeps adapting to the environment. Start questioning … everything Now that you’ve become enlightened on smart restroom technology, ask yourself these questions: Are there gaps in your restroom performance now? What smart solutions could be added to enhance and streamline the experience? How can this group of products work together to perform better? What’s working and what isn’t? Take time to find answers first. You’ll be ready to take advantage of the built-in learning that smart restroom solutions can offer, create a cleaner, better experience for your institution, and establish a more manageable routine for your maintenance and custodial teams. Interested in learning more? Download the latest whitepaper, “Smart Restroom Innovations for Your Customers.”

We’re continuing to spotlight the plumbing professionals who put our solutions to the test and make us look good at the end of their long workday. Here’s our latest pro worth mentioning. Chad Brooks chose the plumbing trade for its stability, yet constantly changing nature. He’s spent almost two decades driving out to both residential and commercial job sites throughout the Lake Elsinore community. Brooks states, “Every dispatch requires expedience and expertise. You need those two skills at once to be truly good at what you do. Our team makes the complex seem simple and quick fixes even faster, and our customers get that and appreciate it.” Today he works as a Foreman at Bennett’s Plumbing. The established company shares the same sentiment as Brooks. In fact, its tagline echoes: No job is too big or too small… Bennett’s Plumbing is equipped with the latest technologies and the sharpest talent. The team responds with a sense of urgency and completes each job professionally, no matter the scope. “I don’t just install backflow preventers; I rebuild them and turn them into seamless systems. I have to know what I’m doing, and I have to trust what solutions I’m using. In my 17 years, I’ve never encountered an issue with Zurn. It’s both durable and reliable.” Thank you, Chad!

Have you ever noticed how the latest innovations tend to take off with the airport industry first? I mean, whoever thought of the cosmetic and electronics vending machines deserves a medal. Or how about using your own identity as your passport? That’s an actual thing in the works. Let’s face it (pun intended), airports experience high traffic and even higher risks. They need to accommodate a lot of people to keep everyone both happy and safe. Smart technologies streamline the traveler experience and improve operational efficiency. So, whether it’s self-service check-in kiosks to speed up the process or AI baggage-drop terminals to track your suitcase from point A to point B, C and maybe even D, airports keep moving forward. Now, you may be wondering if airports are in neutral or if they've slowed down on innovation while we transition through the turbulence. In short, not really. Safety now matters more than ever. This approach puts hand hygiene and the user experience as top priority. Today, airports care most about reducing germ transference and easing traveler concerns. Beyond mobile check-in and contactless dining, smart restroom technology enhances the intuitive, touch-free experience. For several years, airport travelers ranked cleanliness as one of the most important factors in their satisfaction, according to J.D. Power and Associates research.1 Now, it’s non-negotiable. Airports are elevating touchless technology with smart capabilities to create a seamless process for travelers and maintenance. These solutions help cut down on long lines and congestion. Staff can perform tasks at low-traffic periods and see exactly what needs to be done versus manually checking every fixture. In the process, airports cut down on water use, save costs and optimize resources’ time and performance overall. Real-Time Data Makes a Real Difference Smart fixtures monitor their own performance using sensors to gather data, which facilitates deeper understanding for airport maintenance and facilities professionals. Data is communicated via wireless technology to a secure cloud portal, such as plumbSMART. Teams can use these data-driven insights to conserve water, reduce costs, and enhance cleanliness. Smart faucets and flush valves uncover patterns across the restroom, down to the fixture level. Staff can see when a part is near end of life, such as a solenoid, and order the parts through the system, schedule the task around user patterns and avoid any downtime or disruption. Staff can also respond faster to handwashing and toilet system repair issues through real-time alerts, instead of hours upon hours while users circulate in and out with displeasure. When the smart flush valves and faucets are integrated, they provide a handwashing scorecard. This tracks the ratio of flushes to frequency and duration of hand washes to promote hand hygiene from all users, personnel and travelers. Other smart solutions that enhance the user experience include stall occupancy lights and smart air quality sensors that send real-time alerts when attention is required. Smart Restrooms Lead to Satisfaction Smart restrooms. But in reality, it’s a way all industries can speed up restroom visits, shorten and space out lines, promote hand hygiene, and help staff maintain a cleaner, high-functioning restroom environment with fewer surprises and manual tasks. And if sanitation wasn’t reason enough, it’s a way to conserve our most precious resource—water. Learn more about smart, touchless solutions for any industry

Upgrades you can make and celebrate Today is Earth Day. Fortunately, businesses, organizations and individuals nationwide consider their impact to our planet virtually every day, whether cleaning up garbage, new technologies or cutting back on usage. In fact, plenty of our customers choose Zurn solutions simply for their water-saving results. We’re happy to be a part of their positive decisions. We want to use this occasion to look at another area of concern. Are your water fixtures and systems environmentally sound? For instance, concrete interceptors break down over time, even when lined and cleaned out regularly. This is not good. Acidic foods, oils and grease can seep out and pollute the surrounding environment. Whether you’re an educational institute or business operation, it’s worth knowing what’s installed inside and outside your building and how you can upgrade to benefit our environment and your budget. Think Under the Classroom Sink – PHIX Acid Neutralization Cartridges When it comes to neutralizing acidic wastewater inside a school laboratory or classroom, you don’t want to experiment during cleanup. Our PHIX cartridge is a safe and effective solution for neutralizing acid at the source compared to alternatives like limestone. These systems fit conveniently under a lab sink and require minimal effort to clean. View PHIX Case Study: Fort Worth Independent School District Plus, PHIX cartridges cost way less and are safer for the environment. If properly maintained, each system lasts five times longer, while cutting down on cleaning steps and cross-contamination risks. PHIX cartridges make the grade in safety, savings, and simplicity: 5 times more efficient for less maintenance Last up to 30 times longer than limestone Compact design for retrofit applications Durable glass-filled, polypropylene construction extends life Backed by an industry-leading 10-year warranty Doesn’t require special piping, equipment, storage or handling Tested to NSF International What’s Cooking Outside the Kitchen – Proceptor Protection If you work in a restaurant or food service business, you know backups literally stink. All food preparation produces grease that interferes with plumbing and sewer lines. Over time, captured food waste and cleaning chemicals create a highly corrosive mix. Eventually, food, oil, and grease eat away and break down concrete and metal systems, causing them to fail and foul the environment around it. If you smell rotten eggs near a restaurant, this could be why. Frequent cleanups, replacements, fines, and remediation quickly diminish any savings initially enjoyed from a lower price tag. Fortunately, there are better, longer-lasting upgrades out there: fiberglass interceptors. Our Proceptor system boasts a lifetime warranty, simply because it won’t break down. Fiberglass handles acidic foods, grease, oils, fats and chemicals like a pro without cracking, corroding, failing or hurting the environment. It’s a far more responsible environmental choice, as it meets customer expectations and government regulations. View Proceptor Case Study: Seafood Restaurant Look for the Labels – Fixtures and High-Efficiency Toilets and Carriers There’s power behind efficiency in today’s modern restrooms. Most water-saving faucets and flush valves use less through innovative features and by design without affecting the user experience. This helps businesses of all sizes achieve LEED® Certification and guest satisfaction. One way to cut down on consumption is to look for the WaterSense® label. You can also find fixtures that feature CalGreen® or LEED point approvals. This is an easy way to know you’ll cut usage and costs, since they already meet set standards and went through the steps to prove so. For example, high-efficiency toilets and carriers exceed LEED performance 31 percent, while going the distance. View High Efficiency Restroom Case Study: Caltech University Other ways you can further your water savings can be found in the callout features. Timeout functions keep water from running continuously. Like the name, they time out after a preset duration. Smart capabilities help you remedy leaks and ghost activations using real-time data. Many products can be upgraded to smart without major replacements. Clog-resistant solutions reduce overflowing water, out-of-order stalls, and larger maintenance requests. To learn more about these environmentally sound solutions, visit zurn.com. Remember you can do your part at any level. Celebrate Earth Day in some way today and keep doing your part all year long.

Inhale and exhale. Now, imagine what just went in and out of your lungs. The indoor air surrounding us in our homes, schools, places of work, and all the public places and spaces we go to can contain all sorts of contaminants like dust, germs, viral particles, droplets, debris, you name it. Fortunately, most of the particles in the air are harmless. Individual situations and environments like healthcare settings, more confined public spaces like airplanes, commercial clean rooms, and restrooms can benefit from filtered air. The hub of human activity, public restrooms are a high-turnover environment with their own set of unique factors where clean air can make a difference. This is where HEPA filtration really cleans up! HEPA in Hand Drying Center for Disease Control (CDC) states that clean towels and air hand dryers are both effective at drying your hands. Germs spread more easily when hands are wet, so drying hands completely with a hand dryer or paper towel is best. However, automatic touchless hand dryers further promote hand hygiene and cut down on added expenses by eliminating touchpoints and cross-contamination, costs from restocking paper towels, and negative impressions from overflowing trash bins. Couple that with HEPA filtration, and these specific hand-drying solutions are a superior option for maintaining a clean restroom. Learn how this technology works to rid contaminants from the air. Click the image below to view the full infographic. How does HEPA filtration work? HEPA filters consist of interlaced glass fibers that are intricately twisted, turned, tangled, and warped. This intricate structure forms a complex maze that effectively captures contaminants as air flows through. When particles come into contact with the filter, they are halted through four mechanisms: Direct impact: Particles collide with the glass fibers and adhere to them. Sieving: Small gaps between fibers are created, preventing particles from passing through. Interception: The labyrinthine arrangement of glass fibers forms a convoluted path for airflow, making it challenging for heavier particles to navigate and causing them to adhere to nearby fibers. Diffusion: Smaller particles are jostled by air molecules, eventually colliding with and adhering to the fibers. Where is HEPA filtration used? Due to its established dependability and efficiency in eliminating nearly 100% of airborne contaminants, HEPA filtration technology is employed across a diverse range of industries today. Commercial-grade HEPA filters are integrated into various HVAC systems and are also present in the ventilation systems of commercial airplanes, portable air purifiers, and, naturally, in restroom hand-drying stations. *99.97% effective for particles 0.3 µm or larger.

When is the last time you used a public restroom? How did it make you feel? If it wasn’t great, would you return to that business and simply steer clear the restroom next time? Good or bad, your experience left an impression. According to a new study, more than half of American customers (58%) say they are less likely to use public restrooms in our current climate.1 Their concerns primarily stem from touching restroom fixtures and poorly cleaned surfaces. Below we break down the main concerns and solutions communicated by the survey. Customer Concerns While 84% of the survey respondents said they are generally concerned about exposure from people around them, a large majority (67%) also worried about catching germs and viruses from surfaces. This sentiment carries the most weight in restrooms. When asked about their restroom experiences, all linked back to manual versus touchless fixtures. Only 46% of customers indicated they were satisfied with these in healthcare facilities. Just one in four were satisfied with their restroom experience in convenience stores. And, 19% of restaurants still have more traditional handwashing and toilet systems. But of course, there’s good news. Businesses and organizations continue to problem solve and upgrade, as they always do. Customer peace of mind is their top priority. Nearly three-quarters (74%) of customers indicated they would make more trips to businesses that have touch-free restrooms. In addition, when asked which protective measures would best keep them safe, customers ranked more frequent cleaning and touch-free fixtures as the top two approaches. So, there you have it. Upgrade to Touchless Fixtures for Sure There are many choices in the types of touch-free technologies businesses can utilize to promote restroom cleanliness and customer safety. Touchless sensor faucets and flush valves work in tangent to keep hands off surfaces, from flush to wash. That way, the first real touchpoints are the soap and water. Building owners can even install sensor hand dryers or automatic doors to completely remove touch from the restroom equation. Consider Smart Fixtures for Further Measure Smart is the next step to restroom sanitation. Smart or connected faucets and flush valves provide businesses with data-driven insights into use patterns and maintenance needs. This empowers facilities teams to keep restrooms stocked, stay ahead of cleaning tasks, ensure fixtures are operating, and even offer more social distancing with more open stalls, washing stations and occupancy indicators. Facilities managers can even promote handwashing best practices with handwashing scores. They can use that data to know when it’s necessary to sanitize, such as instances with quick wash times or none at all. Feedback on Touchless and Smart Fixtures Touchless solutions in public restrooms can go a long way in helping businesses rebuild customer confidence. When asked about these technologies, 84% of customers indicated touch-free faucets would make them feel safer, and 81% said touch-free toilets would make them feel safer. In addition, three in four (74%) agreed that visual aids like restroom occupancy capacity LED screens and stall occupancy lights would help with social distancing in public restrooms. Measures Customers Can and Do Take It’s not all on the businesses and organizations. Customers continue to be proactive in the way they navigate public buildings. Consistent with their concerns, 82% of customers don their own personal protective gear, distance from others and carry individual hand sanitizers. More than half (55%) say they intentionally enter and exit spaces without touching door handles. They also appreciate and take advantage of technology that’s available. Customers across age groups consistently say they would use a mobile app to check public restroom conditions, such as the availability of soap and papers towels, when the restroom was last cleaned, the availability of touch-free fixtures, and restroom occupancy capacity. Businesses work hard to maintain positive customer interactions. Customers equally want to support businesses and praise their efforts to create a clean environment. From the survey to spreading the word to friends and family, feedback can help move the restroom experience forward. 1 Survey results gathered from "Restroom Experience Survey 2020" with a total of 580 survey respondents. Zurn Industries, LLC, August 2020.

Plumbing professionals keep our daily lives flowing. They’re responsible for getting water to our showers, sinks, and hoses. They ensure it’s safe once it reaches our toothbrushes, coffee pots and dinner tables. Plumbing professionals devise piping efficiencies, improve water pressure, and fix leaks, so we can conserve our most precious resource for generations to come. It’s a pretty big role that deserves some kudos. So, we decided to give it more than a day and an identity by spotlighting real professionals in the field every day. Dominic Santo is our first feature expert. Santo works as a commercial and residential plumber at Pedrosa Plumbing in Niagara Falls, Ontario. He brings a lot more than his toolbelt with him to every jobsite. Santo comes from a seasoned family of contractors and plumbers and boasts nearly a decade in the industry himself. While the plumbing field is familiar territory, every project presents different ways to problem solve for his customers, which Santo appreciates the most. The jobsites span beyond restroom sinks and toilet systems. Most recently, Santo installed a back-water valve for an electrical room, which required installation and testing. He takes great pride in his ability to think quickly and execute thoroughly. “I love brainstorming piping layouts and troubleshooting common plumbing issues. At Pedrosa Plumbing, we complete every project confident in the job we’ve done and value to our customers.” Thank you, Dominic! See other installations from Dominic and Pedrosa Plumbing on Instagram

For a lot of us, “the dead of winter” means that we’re knee deep in snow — or dealing with stubborn ice accumulation brought on by chilly weather. If you’re a small‐to‐mid‐sized business or a home with a demanding driveway, you can prevent these precarious precipitation issues by including a PEX Snow and Ice Melt System the next time you pour concrete. What is a PEX Snow and Ice Melt System? A PEX Snow and Ice Melt System is a convenient way to stop snow or ice from accumulating on your property. Easily embedded in your concrete slab, it provides a long‐lasting winter solution that makes shoveling, salting, sanding and snow‐blowing driveways, walkways and patios a thing of the past. How it works The PEX piping is filled with a mix of water and anti‐freeze, such as propylene glycol. This fluid is in a closed loop that circulates through the PEX piping embedded in the concrete and a boiler. The PEX piping transfers heat to the concrete so the snowflakes melt when they touch the concrete. The system's snow sensor continues the fluid circulation until the concrete surface is safe and dry. Debunking the a‐b‐c grading myth If you believe that PEXa, PEXb or PEXc is a distinction between good, better and best, you’ve been misinformed. This a‐b‐c designation is actually a European classification that denotes the manufacturing method of the pipe: “a” designates that the pipe was manufactured using the Engel method. “b” designates that the pipe was manufactured using silane method. “c” designates that the pipe was manufactured using Electron Beam method. The truth is, all PEX pipe is made to the same exacting standards and must be third‐party certified to be used in North America. However, because there are subtle differences in burst strength, flexibility and chlorine/UV‐ resistance levels, one type of pipe stands out from the rest. PEXb melts best PEXb is structurally superior, thanks to the resin blend. Its silane manufacturing method far exceeds the strength standards and achieves the highest UV/chlorine rating, making it a radiant heating and snow melting standout because of its strength and flexibility. Learn more about our full line of PEX products on zurn.com.

The workforce shift to home environments emptied commercial buildings across the nation. Dynamic gyms, bustling offices, lively dormitories, and other once-filled public spaces pressed pause at least once in recent months. As building owners reopen, there are water safety issues to consider. Lead, copper, and harmful organisms, like Legionella, often accumulate in stagnant water, making it hazardous for employees, guests and residents. There are steps building owners can follow to prevent contamination and improve water quality over the long term. Flush Out as a First Line of Defense Before people begin flowing through your doors, flush out your building’s water system via all points of use. If you detect odor, you’ll want to get water moving through a few times, until it subsides. If occupants return in segments, consider repeating the flushing protocol for several months in corresponding phases. Now is also a good time to do some maintenance: Check on pressure reducing valves and backflow preventers. If there is standing water, look for debris and sediment in the water, especially for solutions with steel-on-rubber elements. Inspect the strainer screens. Strainers also catch debris and sediment, which can build up over time. Clean out strainer screens, as part of the flushing protocol. To minimize any aerosolizing of bacteria from the water system, clean out flow controls or aerators in your system. Consider changing them over to a laminar product. Is your building smart? You can schedule automatic flushouts based on your operation. Set sensor faucets to turn on once a day to purge the lines. Use smart, also known as IoT-enabled, technology, like Zurn plumbSMART, to monitor usage, set up custom alerts for high or low usage, and track trends. That data can be used to adjust the building’s water management plan for optimized performance and ideal intervals. Combat Bacteria and Control User Temps Water temperature also helps reduce risks associated with water stagnation, particularly against bacterial growth. While the right hot water temperature can combat bacteria, such as Legionella; it can scald hands during handwashing. So, how can you address both safety issues at once? Thermostatic mixing valves control temps at the source, instead of the water heater. That way you can: Inhibit bacteria growth before it reaches point of use Cut down on wasted running water, while waiting for right temps Ensure consistent, safer temps for user comfort Prevent risk of bacteria growth and scalding at once Upgrade economically without major install steps or system changes Understand the Risks of Legionella and Take Control Legionella is a naturally occurring bacteria in fresh water that can be hazardous to humans. The bacteria can grow in large plumbing systems. People who breathe in aerosolized contaminated water droplets may develop a serious lung infection known as Legionnaires’ disease. Usually this disease is treatable with antibiotics. However, it is fatal in about 1 of 10 people.1 Maintaining a temperature of 140° F in hot water heaters can minimize the potential of Legionella growth. In Summary… All these proactive steps can help building owners battle the issues of water stagnation and improve water quality. Zurn offers a range of water control and connected products and solutions to fit your goals and budget for water safety and quality. Visit zurn.com to learn more. Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, Legionnaires’ Disease Fact Sheet, 7/18/2016.

What makes more sense? Choosing the right touchless technology. When it comes to sensor product actuation, you have two options—solenoid or motor-gear operation. Before we break down the differences, let’s quickly cover the mutual benefits. For the sake of simplicity, we’ll stick to restroom fixtures. First and foremost, they’re touchless, whether it’s a faucet or flush valve. Both allow users to wash their hands or flush the toilet without physically touching a handle or button, which helps cut down on germ transference and user concerns. Both come with low-flow options to reduce water waste. Both can be upgraded to connected capabilities, using IoT wireless monitoring for data insights. Finally, both typically outlast many manual alternatives. To sum it up, both are preferred by today’s restroom standards for efficiency and hand hygiene. Now let’s break it down further by taking a look inside the technology. How Solenoid Sensors Work Solenoid technology combine an IR sensor, solenoid valve, power source, and electronics module to physically start and stop waterflow, using push/pull movement. Once it senses an object's presence in front of the faucet or flush valve, the solenoid pulls open to initiate the flow of water. When the object is no longer present, the sensor and control electronics push the solenoid valve to terminate the flow of water, but only after a predetermined time has passed. Another differentiator is the location of the technology. Solenoid valves are positioned in the direct path of the water flow in order to properly sense the user. However, this can be problematic over time as dirt and debris accumulate. When that does occur, the fixture may cease to actuate, which leads to repairs or replacements. All and all, solenoid sensors operate dependably and accurately. How Motor-Gear Sensors Work Motor-gear platforms take sensor operation to the next level of performance, making them ideal for high-use commercial restrooms. The dual action of the ceramic disc cartridge and motor-gear operation reduce the moving parts in the water pathway. But it’s much more than working with less. The ceramic disc cartridges wipe against each other in a way that self-cleans and prevents debris buildup. TPE-constructed components, such as the diaphragm, gaskets and seals, resist corrosion. That and all the above allow motor-gear solutions to tack on more years to their lifespan—typically lasting around one million cycles, if not longer. Added features take the benefits from the maintenance team to the guest experience. The technology’s soft close activation creates a seamless, quiet flow. The gears turn slowly and steadily, which releases pressure and prevents water hammer. And while water hammer damages the plumbing line (not great), it’s equally negative for the user—no one enjoys loud clanking, flush after flush. Motor-gear faucets and flush valves also tend to deliver even greater precision. Their downward and forward angled IR sensors detect users without delay or wasting water. No matter how you upgrade, you can’t go wrong with touchless solutions—solenoid or motor-gear operation.

Bluetooth comes up short with range, analytics, bandwidth, security and more. Imagine this: You’re confronted with a DIY project or some serious cleaning you can no longer put off. You pop in your wireless headphones to get in the zone. It’s working its magic. You’re feeling productive, enjoying a podcast you’ve been meaning to check out. You quickly run outside to throw out the garbage and...(signal lost). The problem is Bluetooth can only take you so far. That is, unless you’re willing to carry your device with you from task to task (which is a no). Bluetooth falls short in other areas aside from limited proximity, such as bandwidth, security, and data mining. Leverage LoRa for a Smart Restroom True IoT-enabled, Cloud-enabled products rely on LoRa devices for their intelligent data analytics and far-reaching range. In fact, LoRa literally translates to Long Range. Its function is in the namesake. How much so? Your entire ecosystem of plumbing products should only require this single gateway device. LoRa covers a 1,000-ft spherical radius and can communicate with up to 900 products—you can acquire loads of restroom insights from that! What’s more, you get a lot of gusto from the gateway. LoRa has a very persistent signal. As mentioned, with Bluetooth you must be close in range. Even when you put a mesh network together, you are limited by distance and the number of products that can communicate to one device. LoRa, on the other hand, manages an entire building of products, great distance and far fewer disruptions, while cutting down on power consumption. Whether it’s hardwired or battery operated, Zurn has the largest number of smart plumbing products that will keep you connected anywhere in your building. Connected Faucets Connected Flush Valves Connected Backflow Prevention

New construction tends to organically LEED the way to increased energy and water efficient measures. More and more commercial operations innovate through technologies, and contractors design smarter and leaner every time they break ground. Customers expect businesses to be more environmentally aware, which adds even more motivation. Still, you don’t have to go back to square one to reduce your footprint and achieve your LEED certification. Existing buildings can earn points (and prove them) by upgrading to IoT-enabled technology. LEED recognizes green buildings across the world with approximately 70,000 building projects rated and registered as LEED in the US alone since the program came out. For existing businesses that may not want to rebuild, data helps them find opportunities and prove efficiencies. LEED rating systems for existing buildings Building owners have options for pursuing LEED certification, depending on their goals, such as cost savings, increased productivity or operational enhancements: LEED Operations and Maintenance (LEED O+M) – used to certify the operations and maintenance of a building project – rates both the physical systems and the way the building is operated. You can work towards LEED O+M for the entire building or simply approach a specific area within the building, such as a cafeteria or exercise room. LEED for Interior Design and Construction (LEED ID+C) centers around improving the interior for people’s wellbeing, not just the environment’s. This option works well for shared spaces, especially ones in metropolitan areas or that experience high traffic over long periods of times, such as office buildings. Smart water solutions for both certification options In both cases, the Smart Water Systems help owners score points for certification (and score points with customers). Connected products, enabled by IoT technology, improve, measure and verify a building’s water consumption and water system efficiency. The LEED Smart Water Systems credit focuses on data collection, analysis and data-driven efficiency improvement. This is where smart technologies come in. Connected plumbing fixtures and devices gather data to alert owners of leaks and dive deeper into water usage insights. From there, facilities teams can better control water consumption, performance thresholds and preventive maintenance. For example, with connected faucets and connected flush valves, facilities teams can closely track fixture usage patterns and water consumption metrics and trends. They can set customized alert parameters to detect issues and repairs needed, and reminders to perform preventive maintenance at low-traffic times. They can also learn more about the restroom environment itself, allowing them to lower flow settings, etc. Connected backflow preventers can monitor flow, pressure and allow for remote shutoff. Maintenance and facilities teams can also view relief valve discharge over periods of time. That way, they can get a better handle on total water used from your municipal water supply and segregate those metrics from your building’s use of other water sources. Backflow preventers dually work towards LEED by conserving indoor greenspaces. Bottom line: Monitoring is the key to gaining a better understanding of an existing building’s water system and usage patterns and data takes you to the certification finish line. Connected products allow facilities management teams to identify opportunities to reduce water consumption and make data-driven decisions that can prevent major issues or water loss. Top 3 Reasons LEED certification is much more than a rubber stamp to show your commitment to sustainability. There are measurable operational benefits and economic impacts. Here are the top three: Higher building occupancy and lease rates According to data analysis by the S. Green Building Council, LEED-certified buildings attract more tenants at higher rents than non-green buildings. Reduced energy and water use A year-long assessment of 22 sustainably designed US buildings, revealed the LEED-certified buildings used 25% less energy and 11% less water than industry average. What would that mean for your utility bills? Competitive market advantage and improved financial performance Real estate investors look for a faster return, making the property more valuable. On top of that, building owners may experience local and federal tax breaks, greater profits from a boost in productivity, and lower energy and water consumption costs. Interested in connected products to improve your building’s efficiency? Visit zurn.com/plumbsmart to start your path to LEED Certification without a complete rebuild.

Virtual, split schedule, or in-person with safety measures—however you’re back to school, you’re doing what’s best for your students, staff and community. There’s the physical aspect to promoting hygiene. There’s also the emotional aspect. You want everyone to feel comfortable within your environment. K-12 education faces unique challenges, depending on age and structure. By nature, younger students want to be social and interact and play. At the middle and high school levels, students engage in collaborative learning. They also frequently flood the hallways throughout the day. How can you maintain positive interaction for development while adhering to safe measures? Take steps that make sense for your community As school facilities reopen, many are encouraging handwashing education, social distancing strategies, and cleaning and disinfecting best practices. Many are also addressing fluctuating building occupancy levels and density of traffic flow. Here are a few of the practical steps school administrators and facility managers plan to integrate to offer some peace of mind and help minimize the spread of germs. Implement alternating schedules to reduce student volume during the school day. Reorganize desks in a pattern that encourages socializing from an appropriate physical distance, such a circle with the teacher’s desk included. Reduce the frequency students switch classrooms or enter the halls for breaks to control traffic flow. Add temperature stations at all entrances, which can be run by staff or automated. Upgrade HVAC air filters, and supplement HVAC systems with portable air cleaners. Install HEPA filtration. Increase ventilation by keeping classroom windows open, even a few inches, when appropriate for temperatures. Add handwashing stations or make hand sanitizer easily accessible throughout your building, especially around entryways with doorknobs or handles. Make restrooms the ultimate sanitation station School restrooms are the epitome of shared-surface, high-traffic areas. Consider updating restrooms with touchless technologies that contribute to a cleaner environment. Touchless solutions that are IoT-enabled (connected) allow facility and maintenance managers to monitor and understand restroom usage so they can adjust traffic patterns and cleaning protocols. Touchless and smart technologies for restrooms include: Connected sensor faucets – a concealed sensor lens enables hands-free operation to reduce the spread of germs, while wireless monitoring technology tracks data on usage, water consumption, and preventative maintenance No-splash handwashing systems – sensor-operated faucets and soap dispensers mounted in a wide, shallow basin enable students to complete handwashing quickly and effectively in school restrooms without touching surfaces, bumping elbows or splashing water Handwashing scorecard – connected solutions capture students’ handwashing ratio, frequency and duration in real time to promote hand hygiene Connected sensor flush valves – enable facilities managers to monitor flush valve usage count, water consumption, and preventative maintenance for toilet systems and urinals—all while students and staff go through the motions without manually flushing. Investment in upgrades to smart, sensor-operated restrooms will create value for schools over the long term no matter what the new normal looks like. Zurn offers a range of connected solutions, depending on your budget and desired results. If you’re looking for a more immediate ROI, Zurn’s touchless solutions (without smart capabilities) also enhance the restroom experience, helping to reduce germs on surfaces and hands. For additional information and best practices for cleaning and disinfecting, visit the Global Biorisk Advisory Council® (GBAC), a division of ISSA.

Did you know there’s a global observance today? It’s nothing to do with pumpkin spice or bubble wrap appreciation (that is indeed a real designation). No, today we draw our attention to something more critical and relevant than ever—sustainable sanitation and public health. November 19 marks World Toilet Day—an awareness and actionable campaign spearhead by the United Nations. Just how critical is WTD? Currently, 4.2 billion people around the globe do not have access to safely managed sanitation. 673 million lack any form of toilet systems and 3 billion lack basic handwashing facilities. Untreated human waste can spread diseases into water supplies and the food chain for billions of people, and an estimated 432,000 people diarrheal deaths occur every year. World Toilet Day aims to tackle this global problem and achieve sustainable sanitation and water for all by 2030. Since commencing in 2001 and an annual observance starting in 2013, its reached great milestones through working with public and private sectors, including hygienic programs and toilet system installations in healthcare facilities in wide-reaching developing countries. Last year, we were fortunate enough to donate our solutions and monetarily for future projects underway this year and beyond. We look forward to hearing more about the progress after installation and will keep our audience updated. Here are some ways you can join the movement and raise awareness on your own. Straight from the UN—here’s how YOU can recognize WTD Learn: Read up As strange as it is to say, the history of the toilet, and plumbing in general, is a fascinating read. From the ancient Romans to the Middle East to John Crapper and today’s futuristic thrones, there’s plenty to learn about. A Brief History of The Flush Toilet Share: Post something From facts to inspirational stories, share posts from the UN-Water, Plumbers Without Borders, or even Zurn. You can find stories, data and social media content from the UN website. Don’t forget #WorldToiletDay! Act: Act on it With the help and guidance of UN-Water and its partners, you can host an event to raise for the cause. You can even virtually connect with others interested in making a difference. Whether it’s simply educating yourself on this global crisis, posting for others to learn too, or taking action, no measure is insignificant. If this year has taught us anything, it’s that we can find community during challenges and personal growth after problem solving. Above all, we are thankful for our health.

Connect the right power source for your restroom Is your maintenance team manually monitoring each fixture in every restroom? Are your guests still manually (and miserably) flushing levers, pushing buttons or lifting handles? You’re ready to automate both experiences by upgrading to connected, touchless flush valves and faucets. This IoT-enabled technology delivers real-time alerts and insights for preventative maintenance, while the sensor operation ensures a hands-free, stress-free visit for users. Building owners optimize water usage, costs, and resources and keep their guests happy. The case is made in your mind, but you still have question marks around your options. Does it matter if you connect using hardwire or battery powered? Are there pros and cons specific to your industry? Here are considerations to help guide your decision and get you closer to less manual and more data. BATTERY BENEFITS Battery-connected fixtures make a smart, flexible choice for lower-traffic restrooms or operations where power outages could impact safety. They reduce costs, simplify the installation process, and cut down on maintenance through real-time alerts and insights. Lower Costs Battery powered solutions save up to 30 percent in energy costs by eliminating the power running to fixtures. Simplified Installation With no need to run wire to fixtures, you’re guaranteed a more non-intrusive install with fewer steps and grumbles from your team. Low Maintenance Battery powered also helps you sidestep any downtime in the event of a power outage. And while batteries must be swapped, low-to-medium traffic environments only require replacements every three to four years. Recommended industries at a glance include hospitals, small businesses, restaurants, retail, public buildings and educational institutions. Connected Battery Sensor Faucets Overview Connected Battery Sensor Flush Valves Overview HARDWIRE HIGH POINTS Now, if you experience high traffic at steady rates or if you have too many restrooms to even count off the top of your head, you may want to consider hardwire. Hardwire-connected fixtures help your team lower long-term operational complexity and consumable items costs—again through the valuable tracked and analyzed data. Reduce Operational Complexity When you go hardwired, you eliminate ongoing battery-replacement cycles in larger buildings, as sensors receive their power in a mechanical chase or drop ceiling. That means, you’ll also reduce your consumable items cost. Recommended industries at a glance include airports, stadiums, entertainment venues, high-rise buildings and large-scale hotel proprieties. Connected Hardwired Sensor Flush Valves Overview Connected Hardwired Sensor Faucet Retrofit Kit Overview BOTH EQUALLY SMART Whether you choose battery or hardwire, you can connect your maintenance professionals to valuable product data to ultimately achieve a seamless guest experience (and save some costs in the process). From alerts to analytics, connected flush valves and faucets give you, your team and users an advantage. Remote, Real-time Alerts Receive high-use and high-water-consumption warnings and real-time alerts remotely via email, text and/or mobile push notifications. These timely alerts can help prevent flooding, leaks or any other major repairs in your restrooms. Advanced Analytics A virtual inspection monitors your devices and sends alerts on restroom anomalies created by factors other than the electronics. You can also keep track of handwashing scores when combined with connected flush valves to promote hand hygiene best practices. Data, Data, Data Your team can do a ton with the ongoing insights you receive: ☑️Plan ahead with an automated maintenance calendar ☑️Manage and maintain daily product performance better through smart analytics ☑️Dive deeper into product trends ☑️Assess your user patterns ☑️Pinpoint peak hours for scheduling and identify high-demand usage for your future projects All this great data will allow you to cut back on water, manual maintenance and costs. CLOSER TO CONNECTED Ready to upgrade to both a touchless and connected experience? You have options now with battery and hardwire. Already have touchless, but still want a smart restroom? There’s no need to swap out entire fixtures. Retrofit kits can get you connected in fewer steps and at a much lower cost. Sensor Data Delivery 101 Data that’s collected gets communicated from the faucet/flush valve sensor to a gateway. Once transported to a portal, it’s analyzed to deliver real-time notifications and deeper-dive insights to facility managers and maintenance personnel via email or text.

Handwashing seems like a relevant topic…well always. We do it daily, multiple times a day. It helps us maintain hand hygiene. It helps us prevent our germs from transferring to other hands, doorknobs, shared objects, etc. Well in honor of Global Handwashing Day—which is Oct. 15 (put it in your mobile calendar)—we’re going through the tips you may miss every time you lather your mitts. Now, you’re probably thinking: Okay, I’m an adult; I know how to wash my hands. Well, would you believe us if we told you only five percent of adults wash their hands properly after using the restroom, according to a Michigan State University study? It’s true. Let us explain. Most of us know the magic number, recommended by the CDC, is at least 20 seconds to wash your hands. But did you know not drying your hands completely can spread germs? Yeah, like 1000X more germs. Woof. Did you also know you should wet your hands before you use soap and start to wash? If you’re among the 95 percent of people who aren’t washing their hands properly—it’s as easy as 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 below. We can all have a hand in protecting our health and each other’s. Wet your hands with water (warm or cold) and apply soap. Lather your hands by rubbing them together with the soap. Don’t forget your thumbs! Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. Here are 20 songs for 20 seconds, because the birthday song can get old (get the joke?). Rinse your hands well under clean, running water. Dry completely your hands using a clean towel, paper towel or hand dryer. Finally, make a point to wash your hands every time you sit down to eat, grab a snack or use the restroom. It’s an easy habit to form and a way to do your part. Support This Way If you want to do more than properly wash your hands, you can spread awareness (instead of germs), get involved in causes, like Global Handwashing Partnership, or upgrade to a touchless restroom. Visit GlobalHandwashing.org On their website, you can find ways to promote hand hygiene or give to the cause through virtual events. You can also share their material or follow us on LinkedIn to repost their message while saving a step or two. Install touchless solutions within your facility’s restrooms From flush to wash to dry, make the entire experience hands-free and worry-free for your staff and guests. Our fixtures and hand dryers that activate using sensor technology detect the user without delay or wasting water. Tell healthcare facilities about our touchless product donations Finally, if you know of a healthcare facility in need of touchless sensor flush valves or faucets, you can direct them to our donation page to see if they qualify.

When our ‘normal’ worlds turned upside down, we began speculating what would permanently imprint our daily lives. What new habits would stick around for good? What would we instantly go back to doing as soon as we could? Formal handshakes? Maybe. Maybe not. Hugging loved ones? Absolutely. We will return to enjoying time with friends and family, dining and entertaining, and travelling for both work and play. Perhaps those familiar practices will be slightly modified, but we will bounce back as a society even safer than before. The smart toilet era is here! hands-free technology We’re already seeing it unfold. Businesses are turning to hands-free technologies to ensure public health and peace of mind. Touchless solutions, especially in the restroom, allow for more control over the environment to reduce the spread of germs. Many of our customers are installing touchless faucets and flush valves, even as we write this blog. But technology can take us a step further than touchless in this new environment. Now is the time connected products and solutions, like plumbSMART, will really help rebuild user confidence. Data driven insights allow businesses to promote best practices, clean more effectively and conveniently, and space out users—all to ease guests’ anxieties. Did you miss our Touchless + Connected Webinar? Download it now! Let’s look at a recent use case An airport client recently installed connected flush valves and faucets. Shortly after, the maintenance team received high activation alerts on their plumbSMART dashboard for one specific flush valve. The flush valve activated 358 times during the night on May 15—a non-peak hour for the airport. The maintenance team identified the problem in real time. They quickly assessed that debris was obstructing the diaphragm. Within minutes, they were able to clear the debris from the diaphragm and get the flush valve back in working order—all before the airport even opened the next morning. These insights are only possible with a connected flush valve or a connected faucet. If not identified sooner, the restroom lines would elongate, the toilet could overflow, the environment would be messier and possibly unsanitary. Above all, guests would be turned off and their well-being affected. Connect your restroom to deeper insights and better hygiene Decision makers will install touchless, hygienic solutions in their restrooms as we consider the user experience and adapt to make it better. Here’s what a connected restroom can offer: Handwashing scores Smart maintenance schedules Usage patterns and trends Real-time alerts for preventative maintenance and cleaning tasks Reduction in water usage consumption Improved efficiencies and costs Ability to identify leaks and stop them How will your restroom look in the coming months? Explore touchless and connected solutions.

COVID-19 stay-at-home orders emptied many commercial buildings across the nation. Once bustling gyms, offices, dormitories, and other public spaces remain on pause. This is problematic for water safety. When water sits still, it can accumulate water contaminants, including lead, copper, and harmful organisms. We partnered with PHCPros and Purdue University to put on the free webinar, Building Water System Safety in the Era of COVID-19, that address these issues. Over the course of an hour, we covered actions building owners can take to maintain or improve water quality, as well as the role professional plumbers, contractors, and facilities managers have in implementing these plans. The Purdue experts outlined examples of water maintenance plans and water safety guidelines for reopening buildings. Zurn product experts also weighed in on a number of questions after the webinar. Below we recapped the leading Q&As. To hear the rest, download the on-demand webinar from PHCPros or contact our Zurn product experts directly (contact information is located at the bottom of this post). Q: How long does flushing a building take? It really depends on the building and devices inside. Water pressure either generates inside the building with pumps or is delivered to the building. So, for instance, if you open too many faucets in the building, there is an unlimited pressure and you won't have any water flowing out of these certain faucets. You have to be very deliberate in your approach to flushing. It will depend on the amount of water that's in the building and the speed at which that water can come out of the faucets. Q: When is the best time to implement this process - before workers go back to the office or after they return? When you're flushing out the water system, it's a little bit easier to do before there are people in the building. This is especially true if you're implementing something like disinfection where there's going to be something toxic contaminants in the water. It's a great idea to do these sort of flushing activities and anything more extreme before people go back to work. But we must keep in mind that people are not coming back to work all at once. Therefore, maintenance plans may include staggered steps. You may repeat actions for several months after people come back to work. Q: Is there any product maintenance that Zurn would recommend before occupying a building? It’s a great time to look back at the pressure of the building. With stagnant water, you get more debris and sediment in the water and that tends to impair all the different plumbing valves, especially where you have steel on rubber elements. Make sure to check on your pressure reducing valves and your backflow preventors. Also, if you're doing a flushing protocol, it's a good time to consider cleaning out the strainer screen. Strainers are typically put in the plumbing system ahead of important equipment that is subject to fouling with debris. So, this is a good time to flush out your strainer screens as well. Q: Is there evidence that COVID-19 survives in a drinking water system? There's been a lot of research on this, but there is no evidence that COVID-19 survives in the drinking water system. Legionella can exist, which is cause for concern. People who have COVID-19 could be more susceptible to Legionella infections, but there's no evidence that COVID-19 actually goes through the water system. Q: Workers in my building are more concerned with not spreading germs when they return to work. Beyond flushing the system to make sure the water quality is safe, what else can building owners do to put their workers at ease? We’re seeing a dramatic shift to hands-free environments in the workplace. There’s a huge spike in demand for hands-free, hygienic product. Some businesses are completely retrofitting their restrooms to sensor faucets or sensor flush valves, soap dispensers, and even hand dryers with HEPA filters, which filter the bacteria out of the air prior. All of these can help minimize the transference of germs to surfaces in your commercial building. The Purdue team recommended minimizing any aerosolizing of bacteria from the water system. You can limit use or clean out your shower valves and change or clean out your flow controls or aerators in your system, turning them over to laminar. Q: Is there a way to automate system flushing on a regularly timed schedule? Plumbing system monitoring and flushing continues to be a hot topic. New products are evolving and solving challenges. First and foremost, we recommend following the CDC guidelines for creating an all-encompassing water management plan for your building. This will ensure that there aren’t any parts of your building or your plumbing system that you miss. Additionally, this can help you understand what treatments are effective for all areas of the system, whether it be a physical flushing, a thermal treatment, chemical, etc. We offer connected solutions to help monitor various aspects of your plumbing system—starting with your incoming backflow preventer all the way through your point-of-use fixtures in a commercial bathroom. plumbSMART delivers these product insights in real time. Here are a few proactive ways to battle stagnation. You can set your sensor faucet to turn on once a day to purge the lines. You can also monitor your usage, set up custom alerts for high or low usage and track trends through the plumbSMART app. These insights will give you more accuracy and control over your water management plan and building maintenance plan. Q: If these contaminants can be spread from the water to the air where there's splashing, what would be the best types of faucets to cut down on that? There's a couple of things to do. Any type of faucet with laminar flow control at the point of use would help induce air into the water stream. You could also reduce your building water pressure a little bit or turn down the stops a little bit as your point of use faucet. That would help reduce the force of the water coming out of your faucet into the sink and minimize splashing. For more information on how to safely open your building, contact the Zurn product experts featured on this webinar: John Mankins Product Manager, Water Control & Safety e: john.mankins@zurn.com Daniel Danowski Product Manager, Finish Plumbing e: dan.danowski@zurn.com

Let’s face it. Backflow preventers are essential for safeguarding our water supply, but they’re not necessarily glamorous. Hiding them underground, otherwise known as a “pit installation” is one way to keep them out of sight, but is it a win-win situation? Not exactly. Pit installations can pose some serious problems. Pitfalls of pit installs Lack of accessibility Potential for cross-connection More corrosive Low-hazard only applications Advantages of n-Pattern backflows above ground Smallest footprint Cost saving Easier to maintain, repair, secure and conceal Flow performance Read the full article to learn more about what you should consider before you go down into the pits.

Zurn Industries, LLC pledges one million dollars in product donations to qualifying healthcare facilities. These touchless products help reduce the transfer of germs from surfaces or objects. “Zurn’s vision has always been to provide the safest and most efficient water solutions to protect human health and the environment,” says Craig Wehr, President of Zurn. “Donating this product to healthcare facilities will allow them to increase hygiene with touchless, sensor-operated products, support CDC recommendations for handwashing in a Wet-Scrub-Rinse-Dry (WSRD) fashion and, hopefully, decrease the risk of germs spreading. We all must do our part during this pandemic, and Zurn will continue to provide support for our employees, customers, and communities.” The product bundle provided in donations plays a vital role in facilitating healthcare facilities' transition to a touchless environment. This comprehensive package encompasses sensor-operated handwashing faucets, soap dispensers, flush valves, advanced hand dryers. For healthcare facility administrators in the United States and Canada, detailed information and the application process for these donations are available at zurn.com. Furthermore, commercial facilities beyond healthcare that wish to convert their traditional, hand-operated plumbing fixtures to touchless models, or switch from paper-based hand drying to touchless hand dryers, can find valuable insights on the same website page, unveiling Zurn's hygienic touchless restroom solutions. About Zurn Industries: Zurn Industries, LLC, stands as a distinguished leader across commercial, municipal, healthcare, and industrial sectors. Zurn boasts an extensive portfolio of innovative water management solutions, including an array of sustainable plumbing products. These offerings provide comprehensive building solutions suitable for both new construction and retrofit projects, enhancing the overall environmental quality of any structure. For more in-depth information, please visit Zurn. Safety goes beyond the integrity of your water supply these days. Touchless solutions and IoT-enabled technologies help promote a clean environment and handwashing best practices. Learn more about our touchless solutions and see if you’re eligible for product donations.

Zurn Industries, LLC announces its acquisition of the assets of Just Manufacturing, a high-quality manufacturer of stainless-steel designer and engineered sinks, commercial faucets, and accessories. Just Manufacturing, with its 87-year legacy and 135 dedicated employees, operates out of a state-of-the-art 175,000-square-foot facility in Franklin Park, IL. The company has carved a solid niche in the commercial building specification market, earning a reputation for delivering top-notch stainless-steel sink solutions. The addition of Just Manufacturing to Zurn's portfolio represents a significant step in broadening Zurn's offerings in the commercial plumbing sector. Just Manufacturing is a third-generation family-owned business with 135 employees and operates out of a 175,000-square-foot facility in Franklin, Park, IL. The addition of Just Manufacturing positions Zurn as a leading provider of designer and engineered stainless-steel sinks for commercial and industrial applications. Top architects and engineers frequently specify Just Manufacturing products for non-residential building applications. The brand aligns with Zurn in terms of market segments and distribution channels, providing a seamless integration of operations. This acquisition empowers Zurn to enhance its offerings, delivering more comprehensive finish plumbing content to both new and existing buildings. Zurn Industries, known for its leadership in engineered water solutions, offers a wide spectrum of sustainable plumbing products. The company delivers total building solutions for both new construction and retrofit applications, contributing to the improvement of any building's environment. More information about Zurn Industries can be found at Zurn.com. “Just Manufacturing and the Just Sinks brand have been providing first-class stainless-steel sink solutions to their customers for the past 87 years,” says Craig Wehr, Zurn President. “They have a solid position in the commercial building specification market and continuously strengthen the brand with new industrial designs and system solutions. We are excited to add this complementary category to our portfolio and look forward to growing the business.” The acquisition of Just Manufacturing marks a strategic move for Zurn, solidifying its position as a key player in the commercial plumbing market.