What You Need to Know About Retrofit Flush Valves (Updated)

In this day and age, we expect our commercial lavatories to be equipped with the latest and most advanced technology. But oftentimes, you can’t afford to completely reconstruct your restrooms; you need products that fit with your existing setup. That’s where a retrofit flush valve comes in. From eco-friendly flush valves to products that add a high level of convenience and hygiene, Hydrotek has exactly what you need

What is a Retrofit Flush Valve?

As commercial buildings look to remodel their restrooms and ensure they are staying as clean as possible, upgrading equipment is the common approach. But even with the most outdated lavatories, adding an entirely new system can be costly and time-consuming. But when you utilize a retrofit flush valve, you can take advantage of highly advanced technology that fits with your existing components. A retrofit flush valve essentially converts your manual flush valve into an automatic model. They replace the manual handle flush valves that you commonly see in a lavatory. Therefore; retrofit flush valves replace the whole flushing mechanism. Side mount sensor systems replace just the manual handle.

Side Mounted Sensor System vs a Retrofit Unit

For many years, we have all been accustomed to using the standard toilet or urinal with the handle flush. But with the advancements of automatic, touchless restrooms, doing our business has now become cleaner — and more convenient, too. But although these side-mounted sensor systems have been doing the job for decades, retrofit units provide useful upgrades that can be very beneficial in a commercial restroom. Keep reading to learn some key points on how a retrofit unit can transform your lavatory.

Retrofit units require fewer replacement parts

A key aspect to remember is that side-mounted sensor systems only replace the handle mechanism on a toilet. So while that leaves you with a shiny, new handle to show off, you may still have old parts that aren’t suitable for the new mechanism. Old parts could be a potential issue because they may be at the end of their serviceable life.

Retrofit units have a stronger battery life

Another benefit of retrofit units involves the fact that they have an improved battery life compared to side-mounted sensor systems. Side-mounted systems have many moving parts that must have the necessary power to work effectively. The most important piece to the puzzle, the handle mechanism, is large and requires a lot of energy to move — far more energy than a retrofit unit. Retrofit units are designed as a whole system. Their components are more energy efficient and are a system originally designed as a manual system.

Side mounts can mismatch aesthetically

Another downfall of side-mounted sensor systems is that it can be difficult to make these systems look aesthetically pleasing. While you may have a sparkling new side-mount sensor system, that could be combined with a much older, worn-in flush valve. While that may work just fine in terms of functionality, that combination may not be very pleasing to the eye.

Side mounts limit your options

If you utilize a side mount sensor system, then you are limited in terms of which flush valves you can use. In other words, side mount systems are only compatible with certain flush valves. But with retrofit units, users can easily upgrade to different flush valves, leaving the door open for many possibilities. One popular upgrade involves flush valves that have remarkable water conservation features. This can create lower flow rates, which can save a great deal of money over an extended period of time — not to mention the lasting eco-friendly benefits

Cleanliness

The truth of the matter is, commercial lavatories are breeding grounds for germs and bacteria. In fact, these areas are some of the most germ-filled places on earth. Given those characteristics, sensor-operated flush valves have been a hit. When you completely avoid touching a flush valve in a lavatory, you can help to protect yourself against harmful germs that can cause serious illnesses. And although proper hand-washing techniques are always encouraged, touchless restrooms provide an extra line of defense. And with the advancement of retrofit flush valves, now you can utilize this amazing equipment with your existing setup!

HB8RFKC Concealed Retrofit Urinal & Toilet Flush Valve

Here at Hydrotek, we’re happy to offer a retrofit flush valve that can be used with both your urinals and standard toilets. With our field-tested electronic circuitry and slow-closing solenoid valve, Hydrotek has designed a retrofit solution like no other. And when you combine the innovative non-diaphragm, piston flushing mechanism, you have a valve that can provide decades of worry-free flushing power. Check out some additional features of our HB8RFKC retrofit flush valve:

Contact Hydrotek Today

If you’re looking to take your commercial lavatory to the next level, then our retrofit flush valve can make that dream a reality. Since we first opened our business back in 1985, we have made it a priority to provide some of the world’s finest sensor-operated faucets and flush valves. Call us today to find your next commercial lavatory solution!