Principles of Good Restroom Design
The article outlines cost-reducing restroom design principles including easy-to-clean features like multiple floor drains and ceiling outlets, use of automated technology to improve hygiene and control water use, selection of hand drying methods that minimize paper waste such as automatic dryers or dispensers, and installation of occupancy lighting sensors to enhance energy efficiency by turning lights off when restrooms are unoccupied.
How to Design a Restroom to Reduce Costs
1. Design for Easy Cleaning
- Multiple floor drains make cleaning the floor easier and faster.
- Ceiling-installed outlets help prevent moisture infiltration and keep cords off the floor when powered equipment is used.
- Stacking restrooms in a multifloor building allows for the use of a common supply and waste line, which can be more efficient.
- Lighter countertops are preferable to darker ones, as stains and spills are more noticeable on dark surfaces.
- Soap dispensers should be placed over sinks rather than over counters to minimize messes.
2. Automatic Technology for Lower Costs
- Automated technology reduces the amount of contact people have with restroom surfaces, improving hygiene and reducing costs.
- Although automated faucets and toilets have a higher upfront cost, they control water flow and prevent damage (such as people flushing with their feet).
- Automatic flush valves eliminate problems associated with manual flushing.
3. Hand Drying Methods for Less Paper Waste
- The most hygienic and cost-effective hand-drying methods are automatic hand dryers, automatic paper towel dispensers, and regular paper towel dispensers with paper towels in a roll.
- Regular paper towel dispensers with folded paper towels are less desirable, as they can lead to waste when towels fall on the floor or when people take too many.
- Automatic hand dryers eliminate the need for ordering, storing, replenishing, and disposing of paper towels.
- Dispensers that fall between these extremes can be a good compromise.
4. Occupancy Lighting for Increased Energy Efficiency
- The average restroom is empty 90 percent of the time, yet lights often remain on throughout the day.
- Installing occupancy sensors can reduce energy consumption. Although they may be expensive initially, the cost is typically recouped within a year through energy savings.
- When using occupancy sensors, ensure at least one low wattage fixture remains on so occupants are not left in the dark.
A clean and functioning restroom is essential and can significantly impact how guests perceive your company. Consider evaluating your restrooms based on these four principles to ensure they meet high standards.