IN the quest to address critical challenges such as excessive water use, hygiene and the burdens of outdated systems, educational institutions need to transform their approach to water management. Installing water management technologies can transform a building, significantly reducing water waste and operational costs while improving the overall user experience – setting the stage for a more hygienic and sustainable educational environment. Hygiene in school and university washrooms is paramount, and installing Direct Flush systems can be transformative. The simple act of flushing, is often overlooked, yet plays a significant role in maintaining the overall ambiance and hygiene of washroom facilities in educational environments. Direct Flush systems are engineered to deliver efficient and effective flushing while conserving water, addressing the common problems of unflushed toilets and poor sanitary conditions without excessive water use.

These innovative systems use increased dynamic pressure to provide a comprehensive single flush, unlike traditional tank fed toilets which often require multiple flushes, leading to water wastage and some will perform automatic hygiene flushes to maintain cleanliness and prevent the build-up of bacteria. To directly address the problem of users not flushing, there are systems that operate without any user input. Cistermiser's Easyflush Direct, for instance, offers 'wave' and 'walkaway' modes. In 'wave' mode, users can initiate flushing by simply waving their hand in front of a sensor. 'Walkaway' mode however, automatically triggers flushing when a user leaves the cubicle. This system utilises a dual flush mechanism, providing a partial flush if the user departs within 45 seconds and a full flush if the stay is longer. Historically, universities have opted to install cold water storage tanks configured with a division or as two separate tanks. The rationale for this is to facilitate maintenance allowing for periodic cleaning and chlorination while ensuring an uninterrupted water supply.

However, this method can lead to issues such as tank imbalance and stagnation; if one float valve responds more efficiently to water demand, it may cause backfill into the less active side. Such conditions can foster the formation of biofilm, creating a prime habitat for waterborne bacteria to thrive. Intelligent tank management systems offer an effective solution here. These systems can comprehensively manage and control the filling process, while also monitoring and reporting on water levels and temperatures.

They can provide accurate alerts to building managers if water levels become abnormally high or low. Additional features like holiday modes allow these systems to adjust the water usage based on reduced occupancy during specific periods, efficiently matching tank capacity to demand. Keraflo's Tanktronic is an advanced electronic tank management system that integrates seamlessly with building management systems to notify the management team of any changes in stored water. It features sensors in each tank compartment that continuously monitor and display water levels, volume and temperature and can control water influx into both sides of a tank. Installing motion-detecting sensors in washrooms is another driver to improved hygiene and reduced water wastage. Infrared sensors activate water flow to fixtures like taps, toilets and urinals only when presence is detected. When the washroom is unoccupied, as indicated by the absence of movement, the sensors automatically shut off the water supply, ensuring that water is used efficiently and there is minimal chance of leaks or floods. Embracing cutting edge technologies can revolutionise water management in educational settings. By integrating smart solutions, universities are not just conserving resources, they're creating healthier, more sustainable learning environments that lead the way in environmental stewardship. www.cistermiser.co.uk