Top 5 Low-Flow Plumbing Fixtures for Green Commercial Buildings

Overview: Below are five leading water-saving plumbing fixtures, each from a top manufacturer (Kohler, Sloan, Toto, American Standard, Zurn). Each product is evaluated on six key parameters (10 points each, total 60) – Water Efficiency, Ease of Installation, Durability & Maintenance, Smart/Touchless Tech, Certifications, and High-Traffic Suitability. We provide a breakdown of scores, pros and cons, and credible sources (spec sheets, product pages, third-party reviews) for each. A comparison table at the end highlights the scores and the overall top-rated product.

Kohler – Steward™ Waterless Urinal

Kohler Steward half-stall waterless urinal in white – a vitreous china urinal that uses zero water, saving up to 40,000 gallons per year per fixturela.kohler.com. This wall-mounted urinal is cartridge-free, using an integral trapway design to prevent odors and reduce maintenance costsla.kohler.com. Its splash-free bowl design and touch-free operation enhance hygiene and vandal resistancela.kohler.com, making it popular in green building projects aiming for maximum water conservation (can contribute to LEED Water Efficiency credits)la.kohler.com.

• Water Efficiency: 10/10 – Uses 0 GPF, completely waterless. Eliminates water use entirely, yielding enormous savings (~40k gallons/year)la.kohler.com. This is the highest possible efficiency (100% savings).
• Ease of Installation: 9/10 – Installs like a standard wall urinal (includes mounting bracket, spud, hangershomedepot.com) but no water supply connection is needed. Plumbers simply connect the drain, which simplifies installation. (Retrofitting an existing urinal requires capping the old supply line.)
• Durability & Maintenance: 6/10 – Made of durable vitreous china, but maintenance is critical. No flush valve means fewer mechanical failures, but the trap must be kept clean. Regular cleaning and occasional use of a sealing liquid or enzyme are needed to prevent urine salt buildup and odor. The cartridge-free design lowers maintenance cost (no expensive cartridges to replace)la.kohler.com, yet custodial staff must still flush the drain line periodically and clean the bowl to avoid odor.
• Smart/Touchless Tech Integration: 8/10 – Touch-free by design – no handle or sensor needed. Users don’t touch anything to flush (hygienic). However, there’s no “smart” electronic system. It’s a passive fixture with no sensors or automation (which also means nothing electronic to fail). It achieves touchless operation inherently.
• Certifications: 7/10 – While not eligible for an EPA WaterSense label (since it uses no water), it meets plumbing standards (ASME A112.19.2) and can help earn LEED points for Water Efficiencyla.kohler.com. It’s ADA-compliant when installed at the proper height. Lack of a WaterSense certification is offset by its unmatched water savings.
• High-Traffic Suitability: 7/10 – Ideal for facilities with extremely high use (stadiums, airports) if maintenance is diligent. It can handle heavy usage without mechanical wear (no flush valve to break). However, in very high-traffic scenarios, maintenance demands (frequent cleaning to prevent odors) are elevated. Many large facilities successfully use waterless urinals, but some have reverted to low-flow flushing models if maintenance lapses. In summary, it’s suitable for high-traffic use only with a robust maintenance program to ensure long-term odor-free operation.

Pros:

• Unbeatable water savings – completely eliminates water usela.kohler.com, dramatically cutting utility costs.
• No flush valve mechanical parts – lower risk of mechanical failure; inherently touch-free and hygienicla.kohler.com.
• Cartridge-free design – simpler maintenance than other waterless units that require costly cartridge replacementsla.kohler.com. Contributes to green building credits (LEED) for water reduction.

Cons:

• Requires vigilant maintenance – needs regular cleaning and occasional flushing of lines to prevent buildup/odors. Any neglect can lead to odor issues.
• No WaterSense label – waterless design isn’t covered by WaterSense; some green building programs prefer labeled fixtures (though savings typically outweigh this).
• Perception and retrofitting – Users may be unfamiliar with no-flush fixtures; retrofits must address drain line slope and odor control carefully. Initial cost can be higher than standard urinals (partially offset by water/sewer savings).

Final Score: 47/60

Sloan – ECOS® Dual-Flush Flushometer (Sensor Toilet Flush Valve)

Sloan’s ECOS dual-flush flushometer is a sensor-activated flush valve for toilets that automatically adjusts flush volume based on usage. It provides a full flush (e.g. 1.6 GPF) for solid waste and a reduced flush (e.g. 1.1 GPF) for liquid waste, using Sloan’s Smart Sense Technology to detect how long the user is presentblog.thepartworks.com. This polished chrome, exposed flushometer is a staple of commercial restrooms, known for rugged brass construction and reliable performance. It pairs with any compatible flushometer toilet bowl (often a high-efficiency bowl) to create a low-flow, hands-free toilet system. In practice, Sloan dual-flush valves have achieved major water savings – for example, an airport installation of 400 dual-flush valves cut water usage by ~63%, from 280k to 103k gallons per dayblog.thepartworks.com.

• Water Efficiency: 8/10 – Supports a dual-flush of approx. 1.6/1.1 GPF (full vs. reduced)s1.img-b.com. In liquid-only use, it flushes only 1.1 gallons, saving ~30% per use. In mixed real-world use, it averages ~1.2–1.3 GPF, meeting the High Efficiency Toilet (HET) standard (20–25% water savings overall). While not as low as some single-flush 1.0–1.1 GPF designs, the smart dual-volume approach ensures water is not wasted when a smaller flush will do. Example: At Portland’s airport, adding Sloan dual-flush valves (and handles) immediately reduced flush water consumption to ~37% of prior levelsblog.thepartworks.com.
• Ease of Installation: 8/10 – Installs onto standard toilet flushometer fittings (¾” or 1” supply) like any Sloan valve. It’s largely a drop-in replacement for older manual flushometers. The ECOS model is battery-powered (with ~6-year battery life), avoiding hardwiring – just mount the unit and insert batteries. (Hardwired versions are available too.) Setup involves setting the sensor range, but Sloan units come pre-calibrated. Maintenance staff will find the installation and programming straightforward, especially if replacing existing Sloan valves.
• Durability & Maintenance: 9/10 – Sloan flushometers are famed for durability. Constructed of high-quality brass with replaceable internal parts, these valves can last for decades. The diaphragm and seal may need replacement after many thousands of cycles (an inexpensive routine maintenance task). Sensor components are generally reliable; battery changes (~every 5–6 years) are the main upkeep. The unit is robust for high use: its vandal-resistant design and automatic operation also prevent users from causing continuous flushing (the handle cannot be stuck down, etc.). Overall, minimal maintenance is needed, and parts are widely available.
• Smart/Touchless Technology: 10/10 – Fully touchless infrared sensor activation for improved hygiene. The Smart Sense logic intelligently selects flush volume (saving water by avoiding unnecessary full flushes)blog.thepartworks.com. It also features a manual override button for courtesy flush. Some models (SOLIS) even incorporate solar panels for battery life extension. This integration of automation and “smart” water use is state-of-the-art for flush valves. The technology greatly enhances user experience (no touching handles) and water efficiency without user effort.
• Certifications: 9/10 – Sloan’s dual-flush systems help meet or exceed standards. When paired with a compatible bowl, the system qualifies as a WaterSense-compliant HET (≤1.28 GPF effective)americanstandard-us.com. (Many Sloan valve + bowl combinations are WaterSense certified – e.g., a 1.28/1.1 GPF dual-flush meets the criteriaamericanstandard-us.com.) The valve itself is UPC/cUPC and ADA compliant. Sloan flushometers also contribute to LEED credits by reducing water use. The only reason this isn’t 10 is that WaterSense labels apply to the valve+bowl system rather than the valve alone – but in practice Sloan dual-flush setups are absolutely capable of meeting WaterSense and code requirements.
• High-Traffic Suitability: 10/10 – Excellent for heavy use. Sloan valves are the industry standard in airports, stadiums, schools – built to handle hundreds of flushes a day. The sensor prevents “missed” flushes and can reduce double-flushing. Its brass body withstands abuse, and the automatic operation ensures consistent performance even with continuous usage. Case studies like Seattle’s Climate Pledge Arena (with over 700 Sloan flushometers installed) show these valves performing reliably in extremely high-traffic venuesblog.thepartworks.comblog.thepartworks.com. In short, the ECOS dual-flush is engineered for busy commercial restrooms – it will keep up with demand while saving water.

Pros:

• Significant water savings – Dual-flush mechanism can cut water use by ~30% or moreblog.thepartworks.comblog.thepartworks.com, especially in venues with high liquid-waste usage. Automatically prevents unnecessary full-volume flushes.
• Touchless, hygienic operation – Infrared sensor activation means no touching flush handles (improved restroom sanitation). Also helps compliance with COVID-era hygiene expectations.
• High reliability – Sloan’s proven design, robust brass construction, and long-life battery make it a low-maintenance solution even in demanding environments. Widely used in high-traffic facilities with great success.

Cons:

• Initial cost and power – Sensor flushometers are pricier than manual ones, and batteries must be replaced every few years (or a power connection installed for hardwired models). These add modest ongoing costs.
• Requires compatible bowl for optimal performance – Must be paired with a toilet bowl rated for low flush volumes. Using the 1.1 GPF setting on an older bowl could compromise flushing performance (though Sloan provides matched fixture recommendations).
• Sensor sensitivity – In rare cases, improper sensor range adjustment or restroom layout can cause phantom or missed flushes (e.g. if a user stands too far off-center). Proper setup mitigates this, and newer Smart Sense tech is quite reliable.

Final Score: 54/60

Toto – EcoPower 0.5 GPM Sensor Faucet

TOTO EcoPower Faucet (0.5 GPM) – a sleek, touchless sensor bathroom faucet that generates its own power. This faucet uses an internal hydro-turbine to harness the energy of water flow to charge its capacitor, requiring no external power or batteriesmodernbathroom.comafsupply.com. It delivers a low flow of 0.5 gallons per minute with an aerated spray, meeting commercial water-saving standards (CalGreen, CEC)afsupply.com. The EcoPower faucet features Smart Sensor technology at the spout tip for quick, precise activationmodernbathroom.com. Once hands are removed, it automatically shuts off, preventing water wasteafsupply.com. With a solid brass body and polished chrome finish, it’s designed for heavy use in restrooms like airports and offices, where its self-sustaining power and low maintenance shine.

• Water Efficiency: 8/10 – Rated at 0.5 GPM, it significantly reduces water use compared to older 2.2 GPM faucets (up to ~75% savings). It meets EPA WaterSense criteria for faucets (which is ≤1.5 GPM) easily, and is compliant with stringent California standards (0.5 GPM max for public lavatory faucets)afsupply.com. Some newer fixtures achieve 0.35 GPM, but 0.5 GPM is a proven sweet spot balancing cleansing ability and conservation. With its on-demand sensor (10-second cycle uses only ~0.08 gal)modernbathroom.comafsupply.com, no water runs needlessly – it shuts off immediately when hands leave, eliminating waste**afsupply.com**. Overall, it provides excellent water efficiency for hand washing.
• Ease of Installation: 8/10 – No hardwiring or battery packs are needed – a big plus. It mounts like a standard single-hole faucet. The faucet comes with a small control box (containing the hydro-generator and solenoid valve) that sits under the sink, which is similar to installing any sensor faucet control module. The lack of wiring simplifies install for retrofits (no electrician needed). Plumbers note that TOTO provides all necessary hoses and the unit is largely plug-and-play. Initial setup simply requires running water through it to charge the power cell. Given its self-contained power, installation is straightforward with minimal ongoing power maintenance.
• Durability & Maintenance: 8/10 – Constructed of solid brass, it’s durable and vandal-resistant. The EcoPower turbine and electronics are rated for high usage – frequent use actually keeps it charged. No batteries to replace (ever) is a major maintenance advantage. The faucet has a 3-year warrantymodernbathroom.com, reflecting confidence in longevity. Maintenance is mostly limited to periodic cleaning of the aerator and filter, and occasional checkups on the inlet screen for debris. The self-charging battery/capacitor is designed to last years (charged and recharged millions of times). One consideration: very infrequent use could eventually deplete the charge, but the design is “highly efficient and replenishes power with no minimum daily usage” requirementafsupply.com. In essence, it’s low-maintenance; just keep it clean.
• Smart/Touchless Technology: 10/10 – Fully touchless operation via infrared sensor. The sensor’s placement at the spout tip ensures quick response and no need for users to wave around for detectionmodernbathroom.com. The EcoPower self-generating energy feature is an innovative green technology – it powers the faucet sustainably, eliminating battery waste and wiring energy. This faucet exemplifies smart integration: it only flows when needed (preventing running taps)afsupply.com, and its micro-sensor adjusts automatically to ambient light and vessel conditions (no manual calibration typically needed). For hygiene and user convenience, as well as sustainable tech, it scores full marks.
• Certifications: 8/10 – Complies with ADA (hands-free and easy to use), CALGreen and CEC for water efficiencyafsupply.com. It is likely UPC/cUPC approved. While not explicitly labeled WaterSense (WaterSense mainly certifies residential faucets, 0.5 GPM is actually more efficient than that program’s spec), it meets or exceeds the same goals. Many LEED projects use EcoPower faucets to earn WE (Water Efficiency) credits – it contributes to overall water reduction percentages. It doesn’t have a WaterSense logo simply due to category specifics, but it checks all the sustainability boxes, including being energy-self-sufficient. We give it 8 because it lacks a formal WaterSense sticker, though functionally it’s as “green” as a faucet gets.
• High-Traffic Suitability: 9/10 – Ideal for high-traffic restrooms. In fact, heavy use keeps the internal generator charged. It’s designed for commercial applications (airports, stadiums, campuses) where dozens of uses per hour are common. The more it’s used, the more power it stores – very well suited for busy locationsafsupply.com. The durable build and lack of manual handles (that wear out or get damaged) give it longevity in high traffic. With no battery swaps needed, facility managers love it for large deployments. The only minor caveat: like any sensor faucet, extremely high sediment in water could eventually affect the solenoid or turbine, but normal maintenance prevents this. In terms of throughput, it has no recovery time – it can serve user after user with no wait. Overall, it thrives under heavy use.

Pros:

• Self-powered green tech – No external electricity or batteries requiredmodernbathroom.comafsupply.com. Saves energy and maintenance hassle, and aligns with sustainability goals (no battery disposal).
• Excellent water savings – Low 0.5 GPM flow with automatic shutoff prevents water wasteafsupply.comafsupply.com. Over a year, it substantially cuts water usage in busy restrooms.
• High reliability in busy settings – Designed for commercial high-traffic use; sensor is responsive and unit is robust. Touchless operation improves hygiene and user satisfaction in crowded facilities.

Cons:

• Higher upfront cost – Sensor faucets, especially with EcoPower tech, cost more than manual faucets. However, they deliver ROI through water and maintenance savings.
• Temperature control complexity – As with many single-supply commercial faucets, if not using a pre-mixed warm water line, you may need to install a mixing valve. (Toto offers thermostatic or manual mixing valvesmodernbathroom.com, but it’s an extra component.) Ensuring comfortable water temperature adds a small complexity to setup.
• Potential servicing of electronic parts – While rare, if the solenoid or sensor fails, repairs require specific parts. Toto’s quality mitigates this, but it’s slightly more complex than fixing a drip in a manual faucet. Overall, issues are infrequent, and the benefit far outweighs this con for most users.

Final Score: 51/60

American Standard – Afwall® 1.1 GPF Flushometer Toilet (Wall-Mount Bowl)

The American Standard Afwall Millennium is a wall-mounted commercial toilet bowl designed for ultra-high efficiency. Paired with a flushometer valve, it achieves a flush as low as 1.1 gallons per flush while still providing reliable waste removal. This wall-hung, elongated bowl features the FloWise® technology and a fully glazed 2⅛″ trapway for effective flushing at low volumesamericanstandard-us.com. In fact, it can flush 1000 grams of solid waste with only 1.1 gallonsamericanstandard-us.com, as proven by MaP testing – a top-tier performance that matches many 1.6 GPF toilets. It’s WaterSense-certified as a High Efficiency Toilet when installed with a 1.1 GPF valvefergusonhome.com. The Afwall mounts on a concealed in-wall carrier, easing floor cleaning and supporting up to 1,000 lbs loadamericanstandard-us.com (though not intended for bariatric use). With an antimicrobial EverClean® glaze and a rim design for even water distribution, it’s ideal for high-traffic restrooms requiring both water savings and vigorous flushing power.

• Water Efficiency: 9/10 – Rated 1.1 GPF (4.2 Lpf), which is ~31% less water than the standard 1.6 GPF commercial toiletamericanstandard.caamericanstandard-us.com. This qualifies as an Ultra-High-Efficiency Toilet. American Standard’s testing shows it meets the High Efficiency Toilet criteria and saves ~20% more water than even the WaterSense requirement (which is 1.28 GPF)americanstandard.ca. Few commercial toilets go below 1.1 GPF due to drain line considerations, so 1.1 is about as low as it gets for flushometer toilets. Importantly, it achieves this without sacrificing performance – its 1000g MaP score at 1.1 GPF confirms it flushes as well as (or better than) many older 3.5 GPF modelsamericanstandard-us.com. This combination of very low consumption and high efficacy earns it a top efficiency score.
• Ease of Installation: 7/10 – Being a wall-mounted bowl, installation is more involved than a floor-mounted toilet. It requires a properly installed in-wall carrier and a knowledge of carrier alignment. In new construction this is standard practice, but retrofitting an Afwall in place of a floor toilet means significant wall work. Once the carrier is in, attaching the bowl with the provided bolts is straightforward. The top-spud design connects to a flushometer easily. The bowl is a bit heavy (because commercial-grade china), so two installers make the job easier. American Standard also offers this bowl in “universal” models that fit various carriers. Overall, for a commercial plumber, it’s a routine job, but it’s slightly harder than a floor toilet or urinal installation.
• Durability & Maintenance: 9/10 – Vitreous china construction with a robust design for commercial duty. The Afwall is designed to handle heavy use: it’s firmly bolted to a carrier, and with no tank, there are no tank parts to wear out. The EverClean® glaze on the bowl surface resists stain and biofilm buildup, meaning it stays cleaner longer and requires less frequent scrubbingsheret.com. The wall-hung design makes floor cleaning in restrooms easier (no pedestal in the way). Durability is excellent – the bowl can support static loads up to 1000 lbsamericanstandard-us.com. It’s glazed and factory-tested for leaks. Maintenance is limited to normal cleaning and the flush valve upkeep. Since the bowl’s large 10″x12″ water spot and fully glazed trapway help clear waste effectively, clogs are rare (especially given the strong siphon-jet action). This reduces maintenance calls. In sum, it’s built to last and to minimize maintenance needs.
• Smart/Touchless Technology: 7/10 – The bowl itself has no electronics – it relies on the flushometer valve chosen. However, American Standard often pairs the Afwall with their Selectronic® sensor flush valves for a complete touchless solution. (One model variant is sold with a Selectronic sensor valve includedfergusonhome.com.) With a sensor flushometer, it becomes a fully touchless system. We score the bowl’s integration a 7 since the fixture readily accommodates such tech (top spud works with any sensor valve), but it doesn’t include smart features on its own. Notably, the bowl’s design does facilitate efficient flushing which is a kind of “passive smart” water-saving design. For example, its siphon jet and bowl shape were engineered via computational fluid dynamics to maximize flush efficacy at 1.1 GPF – that’s design intelligence, albeit not electronic.
• Certifications: 10/10 – EPA WaterSense certified for high efficiency when used with a 1.1 GPF valvefergusonhome.com. This means it meets strict flushing performance and water-use criteria. It also meets or exceeds ANSI A112.19.2 and CSA B45 plumbing fixture standardsamericanstandard-us.com. Being wall-hung, it contributes to ADA compliance when installed at the proper rim height (the bowl’s design allows the rim to be set at 17″ for ADA). Its low consumption can help earn LEED credits for Indoor Water Use Reduction. American Standard’s sustainability info notes their ultra-HET models like this save 20% more water than standard WaterSense toiletsamericanstandard.ca. All in all, it carries the key certifications that matter (WaterSense, ADA, etc.), hence full points.
• High-Traffic Suitability: 9/10 – Engineered for high-use commercial environments. The Afwall’s pressure-fed siphon jet flush is extremely effective, meaning even with constant use, it will clear waste without needing double-flushing. The wall-mounted design and absence of a tank allow rapid successive flushes – it’s only limited by the refill rate of the plumbing system, which in commercial setups is instantaneous. There’s no tank recharging delay, so a line of users can flush one after the other with no wait. Its heavy-duty commercial carrier (installed behind the wall) ensures stability even if many people use it or even occasionally misuse it (standing on it is not recommended but the 1000 lb support provides a safety margin). These attributes make it ideal for busy restrooms in airports, hospitals, schools, etc. It loses just a point because wall-hung bowls, if impacted with extreme force or vandalism, could crack – but in normal high-traffic use this is rarely an issue. Additionally, the fixture’s high flushing performance maintains functional restrooms during peak usage (no clogs or mess with proper use). Maintenance staff also find the EverClean glaze helpful in high-traffic bathrooms to keep them presentable.

Pros:

• High efficacy at ultra-low flow – flushes extremely well on just 1.1 gallonsamericanstandard-us.com, verified by top MaP score (1000g). Users experience effective flushes, and clogs are minimal, all while saving ~30-35% water versus older toilets.
• WaterSense & LEED friendly – 1.1 GPF WaterSense-certifiedfergusonhome.com, helps meet building water reduction goals. A straightforward way to gain LEED credits or code compliance for high-efficiency fixtures.
• Hygienic wall-hung design – Easier to clean beneath; coupled with sensor flush valves (optional), it creates a modern, touch-free, easy-clean restroom. EverClean surface glaze inhibits mildew and bacteria, improving hygiene and reducing cleaning frequency.

Cons:

• Installation complexity – Requires in-wall carrier and skilled install. Not as simple to retrofit as a floor-mount toilet; ideal for new builds or major renovations. Wall carriers add cost and construction time (though they allow space savings in small restrooms by concealing the tank/flush works).
• No built-in tech – The bowl itself doesn’t include sensors or automation. Achieving a touchless flush requires pairing with an electronic flushometer (additional component).
• Initial cost – The combination of a commercial wall bowl and a quality low-flow flushometer (especially if sensor-operated) can be more expensive upfront than a standard toilet. However, it pays off in water savings over time. Also, wall-hung toilets require maintenance access panels for the valve which must be planned for in design.

Final Score: 51/60

Zurn – “The Pint®” 0.125 GPF Urinal System

Zurn’s EcoVantage Pint Urinal is an ultra low-flow urinal that flushes with just 0.125 gallons per flush (1 pint) of water. This fixture (e.g. model Z5798 or Z5738 series) is a vitreous china wall-hung urinal optimized to use a tiny volume of water yet still evacuate and rinse the bowl effectively. When paired with Zurn’s matched flush valve, it provides 87% water savings compared to a standard 1.0 GPF urinalzurn.ca. In practical terms, a typical high-traffic urinal using ~20,000 gallons/year would only use ~2,500 gallons/year with this system – a huge reduction. Zurn packages “The Pint” as a complete system (fixture + valve) to ensure reliability: the flush valve (available in manual or sensor, battery or hardwired) is specifically calibrated for the pint flush. The design includes a washout flushing action that thoroughly cleans the bowl with minimal water, and an integral trap and strainer to prevent clogsferguson.com. This urinal is a popular choice in schools, theaters, and office buildings aiming to drastically cut water usage while maintaining conventional plumbing (as opposed to going waterless).

• Water Efficiency: 9/10 – Uses only 0.125 GPF, which is one of the lowest flush volumes in the industry. That’s an ~87% reduction in water use versus the old 1.0 GPF baselinezurn.ca, and even a 75% reduction versus the now-common 0.5 GPF low-flow urinals. It handily exceeds the WaterSense standard for urinals (≤0.5 GPF). We score it 9 because the only thing more efficient is a waterless urinal (0 GPF). Among flushing fixtures, this is virtually top of the class. The slight trade-off is that it does use a small amount of water, but this water provides a rinse and drain carry that waterless models lack. In essence, you get a bit of water use for a big gain in cleanliness and functionality, and it’s still extremely frugal with water.
• Ease of Installation: 8/10 – Installs similarly to any wall-mount urinal. It has a standard 3/4″ top spud inlet and 2″ outlet. No special drain requirements beyond normal slope (though following the manufacturer’s drain slope guidance is important due to the low volume). Zurn’s “The Pint” often comes with an oversized footprint to cover old urinal outlines, making retrofit easier without retiling wallszurn.ca. The fixture is mid-sized and not too heavy for one person to handle during mounting. The flush valve installation is standard; if it’s a sensor valve, there’s that added step of mounting the sensor or control box (for the hardwired concealed version, an electrical box is needed per speczurn.ca). Overall, straightforward for a plumber familiar with urinals – just ensure the supplied regulator and parts are used to get the intended performance.
• Durability & Maintenance: 8/10 – The vitreous china urinal is durable and comes with a 3-year warrantyferguson.com. There are no moving parts in the fixture itself. The ultra-low flush volume means less water to wash down urine, but Zurn engineered the bowl and internal geometry to minimize deposits. Still, over time mineral or urine salt buildup in the drain lines could occur slightly faster than with higher flows – maintenance might include occasional drain line flushing. The system includes an integral strainer to catch debris (like gum) from entering the drainferguson.com, which is a helpful feature but does require periodic cleaning of that strainer. The good news: using a bit of water each use keeps the trap wet and mitigates odors better than waterless designs. The flush valve (if manual) is a simple, reliable mechanism (and if sensor, maintenance involves battery changes and keeping the sensor clean). Many facilities report these pint urinals work well as long as regular cleaning is done (as with any urinal). In summary, maintenance is normal: keep it clean, occasionally check the trap for buildup, and maintain the flush valve. No significant durability concerns; Zurn’s china and valve are high quality.
• Smart/Touchless Technology: 7/10 – Zurn offers this urinal with both manual and sensor flush valve options. The fixture itself is just the bowl, so it doesn’t have built-in tech. However, Zurn’s AquaSense® ZEMS sensor flush valves or hardwired sensor kits can be used, providing touchless flushing. In fact, Zurn sells a battery-powered sensor version as the “Omni-Flo” pint urinal systemhomedepot.com (0.125 GPF with a sensor included). The smart valve technology isn’t as feature-rich as Sloan’s (no dual-flush needed here, since it’s just one tiny flush volume), but it reliably detects users and flushes automatically. We give 7/10 because touchless is available and often implemented, though not inherent to the fixture unless you opt for it. On the plus side, going sensor does not impact the water-saving performance. Zurn’s sensor valves use infrared and are straightforward. (The concealed hardwired version even uses “smart” proximity detection in a wall-box for vandal resistancezurn.ca.) So, a touchless experience is easily achieved, but since a manual handle is also common (and perhaps chosen by some to avoid battery maintenance), we don’t assume 100% smart tech integration by default.
• Certifications: 10/10 – EPA WaterSense labeled – this urinal meets the WaterSense specification (which requires ≤0.5 GPF and at least 4 flushes on a bucket of water for drain line carry). The Ferguson data confirms WaterSense certificationferguson.com. It also meets ANSI/ASME A112.19.2 and CSA B45 standards for plumbing fixtures. It’s ADA compliant in terms of fixture height when installed correctly (extended rim for handicap compliance)zurn.ca. LEED projects can earn points by using this fixture due to its very low water use. Because Zurn provides the system as a combo, they ensure all components work together to meet certifications. In short, it ticks every box: WaterSense, UPC, ADA, and it’s often cited as contributing to high-efficiency plumbing designs. Full marks here.
• High-Traffic Suitability: 8/10 – Designed with commercial use in mind, it performs well in high-traffic settings provided the rest of the plumbing is in good shape. The flush is very short (a quick 1/8 gallon burst), but in a busy restroom this still effectively refreshes the bowl and moves waste given the frequency of use. Many pint urinals have been installed in places like schools and offices with success. The only reason it’s not higher is a consideration: in extremely high traffic continuous use (like stadium halftime), some plumbing engineers worry that such a low volume per flush might not push urine far enough down long horizontal drain runs. However, Zurn’s documentation indicates that, with proper sloping and their flush valve regulator, the pint flush has sufficient drain carry for standard commercial plumbing layoutszurn.cazurn.ca. And unlike waterless urinals, you do get a bit of water each use, which helps in heavy-use odor control. Structurally, the urinal is as robust as any, and the valve will handle frequent cycling (Zurn valves are built for commercial duty). We have real-world evidence of many facilities using these in high-use bathrooms successfully. Maintenance in heavy use might mean more frequent cleaning of the strainer or trap due to the minimal water per use, but overall it stands up well. Thus, it’s well-suited for high traffic, with just a slight caveat about drain line design for peak loads.

Pros:

• Massive water savings – Only 0.125 GPF, reducing water usage by ~80–87% per flushzurn.ca. This can save tens of thousands of gallons annually per urinal, which is significant for large facilities. Great for meeting aggressive water reduction targets.
• Validated performance – Engineered as a system (fixture + valve) to ensure it still flushes and rinses well at such a low volume. Has high efficiency washout action and is WaterSense approved, meaning it passed tests for waste removal and drain carryferguson.comferguson.com. Provides peace of mind that performance isn’t sacrificed for savings.
• Flexible configurations – Available with manual or sensor flush valve options. Facilities can choose battery-powered or hardwired sensor modelshomedepot.com for touchless operation, or a manual valve with a non-hold-open handle (to prevent excessive flushing). The system is also retrofit-friendly: its large footprint covers old urinal scars, and a retrofit mounting bracket option allows it to fit existing carrier bolts without changeszurn.ca.

Cons:

• Drain line sensitivity – As with any ultra-low urinal, plumbing must be correctly pitched and periodically maintained. In lower-usage periods, some owners opt to pour water down the lines occasionally as a precaution. If installed in an older building with flat or undersized drains, there’s a slight risk of buildup over time due to reduced flushing volume (though far less than with waterless systems).
• Slightly higher maintenance than 0.5 GPF – Because each flush has minimal water, cleaning the bowl frequently is important to avoid any urine residue or odor. The integral strainer needs occasional checking (but it’s a quick task). Essentially, custodial routines should treat it like any urinal but remain aware that its water is very limited – so manual spray cleaning might be more relied upon for thoroughness.
• Upfront cost of system – The specialized pint flush valve and urinal together can be more expensive than a standard 0.5 GPF urinal setup. The cost difference is often justified by water savings payback, but budget-conscious projects need to plan for the premium. Additionally, if sensor-operated, battery replacements every few years (for battery models) add minor ongoing cost.

Final Score: 50/60

Comparison and Top-Rated Product

All five fixtures above are excellent choices for water conservation in commercial settings, each excelling in different areas. The Kohler Steward waterless urinal achieves absolute water savings but demands diligent maintenance. Zurn’s Pint urinal uses a trickle of water for big savings and easy certification compliance. American Standard’s Afwall toilet combines very low flush volume with top-tier flushing performance and cleanliness. Toto’s EcoPower faucet innovatively saves both water and energy, virtually eliminating maintenance down-time for power or batteries. Sloan’s ECOS dual-flush valve, however, emerged as the most well-rounded solution – it provides significant water reduction with minimal trade-offs and integrates smart technology and durability ideally suited for high-traffic restrooms.

In the scoring, the Sloan ECOS dual-flush flushometer ranked highest overall, making it the top-rated product in this comparison. It scored especially well on durability, smart features, certifications, and high-traffic suitability, reflecting its balanced strengths across all criteria. The Toto EcoPower faucet and American Standard Afwall toilet were close runners-up, each excelling in specific categories (tech innovation for Toto, and water efficiency/flushing power for American Standard). The Zurn urinal also scored strong points, particularly in efficiency and certifications, just a hair behind. Kohler’s waterless urinal, while unbeatable in raw water savings, scored lower primarily due to maintenance and practical use considerations in very busy scenarios.

Below is a summary comparison table of the score breakdown:

Product (Manufacturer)	Water Efficiency <br>(10)	Ease of Installation <br>(10)	Durability & Maintenance <br>(10)
Sloan ECOS Dual-Flush Flushometer	8 – Low 1.6/1.1 GPF dual flushs1.img-b.com	8 – Standard flushometer install (battery)	9 – Brass build, ~6yr batterythepartworks.comthepartworks.com,
	(auto-adjust saves ~30%)		minimal upkeep
TOTO EcoPower 0.5 GPM Faucet	8 – 0.5 GPM ultra-low flowafsupply.com	8 – No wiring; standard faucet + controller	8 – Solid brass, self-powered (no batt.),
	(0.08 gal per use)		3-year warrantymodernbathroom.com
American Std. Afwall 1.1 GPF Toilet	9 – 1.1 GPF (≈31% water savings)americanstandard-us.com	7 – Wall-mount (carrier needed), std. hookup	9 – Vitreous china, EverClean glazesheret.com,
	1000g flush performanceamericanstandard-us.com		no tank parts
Zurn “The Pint” 0.125 GPF Urinal	9 – 0.125 GPF (87% savings vs 1.0)zurn.ca	8 – Standard urinal install; retrofit-friendly	8 – Vitreous china, 3-yr warrantyferguson.com; strainer to clean
Kohler Steward Waterless Urinal	10 – 0 GPF (saves ~40k gal/year)la.kohler.com	9 – No water line; mount to wall like normal	6 – No flush parts, but requires vigilant cleaning (odor control)

Product (Manufacturer)	Smart/Touchless Tech <br>(10)	Certifications <br>(10)	High-Traffic Suitability <br>(10)	Total Score <br>(60)
Sloan ECOS Dual-Flush Flushometer	10 – Sensor dual-flush, Smart Sense techblog.thepartworks.com (touchless)	9 – WaterSense with HET bowlamericanstandard-us.com,	10 – Built for heavy use (proven in arenas/airports)blog.thepartworks.comblog.thepartworks.com	54
		ADA, LEED
TOTO EcoPower 0.5 GPM Faucet	10 – Touchless sensor, self-generating powermodernbathroom.comafsupply.com	8 – CALGreen, ADA compliant (no WaterSense label)	9 – Ideal for high use (self-charging, robust)afsupply.comafsupply.com	51
American Std. Afwall 1.1 GPF Toilet	7 – Pairs with sensor valve (no built-in electronics)	10 – WaterSense Certified HETfergusonhome.com,	9 – High-performance flush, no tank delay;	51
		UPC, ADA	built for heavy use
Zurn “The Pint” 0.125 GPF Urinal	7 – Available with sensor flushhomedepot.com (manual standard)	10 – WaterSense labeledferguson.com,	8 – Great for busy restrooms; tiny flush OK with proper plumbing	50
		UPC, ADA, LEED
Kohler Steward Waterless Urinal	8 – Inherently touch-free (no flush handle); no “smart” tech to fail	7 – Helps LEED creditsla.kohler.com; meets standards (no WaterSense category)	7 – Suited for high-traffic only with strong maintenance routine	47

Top Pick: Sloan’s ECOS dual-flush flushometer stands out as the best-rounded choice, scoring 54/60. It offers substantial water savings with advanced sensor technology and exceptional robustness in busy commercial environments. That said, each of these fixtures can play a key role in a green building’s water conservation strategy – often, they are used in combination (e.g., waterless or pint urinals alongside low-flow toilets and sensor faucets) to achieve maximum efficiency and improved user experience. By selecting any of these top-tier products from Kohler, Sloan, Toto, American Standard, or Zurn, commercial building projects can significantly reduce water consumption while maintaining performance and compliance.

Sources: Detailed manufacturer specifications, certifications, and case studies were referenced in compiling these comparisons, including Kohler’s Steward urinal datala.kohler.comla.kohler.com, Sloan’s product literature and a Part Works case studyblog.thepartworks.comblog.thepartworks.com, Toto’s technical sheets for EcoPowerafsupply.comafsupply.com, American Standard’s spec and WaterSense infoamericanstandard-us.comfergusonhome.com, and Zurn’s catalog and Ferguson data for the pint urinalzurn.caferguson.com. These sources and performance tests affirm the capabilities and scores discussed for each fixture.