How to Specify Touchless Faucets and Soap Dispensers in Bid Documents and Architectural Plans
Bath Touchless Faucets
Technical guide for architects, engineers, and specifiers
How to Specify Touchless Faucets and Soap Dispensers in Bid Documents and Architectural Plans
CSI Division 22 sample specs includedBIM links for coordination and submittalsMEP checklist for closeout and commissioning
What this solves
Late substitutions, missing electrical scope, unclear mixing strategy, and mismatched basin geometry that creates splash and nuisance sensor triggers.
What to lock early
Sensor behavior, power strategy, flow target, temperature control approach, and service access requirements.
Deliverables
Short performance spec, drawings notes, BIM references, and a commissioning checklist that aligns plumbing, electrical, and facilities.
Scope and intent
Touchless faucets and automatic soap dispensers look like simple point fixtures, but they are system components.
In commercial and enterprise environments, performance depends on sensing behavior, power management, hydraulics,
temperature control, and maintenance access. This page provides language and checklists you can adapt for bid documents,
plans, and MEP closeout.
Working assumption
The fixture schedule is intended for high traffic restrooms such as airports, schools, healthcare, office towers, and hospitality.
Adjust flow, power, and vandal resistance parameters for each project type.
Use product images only as visual references. Your spec should stay performance based and serviceability focused.Include service envelope expectations in drawings and O and M requirements, not just the finish and model name.
System thinking for durability and uptime
In enterprise facilities, a touchless faucet is a small device that creates a large operational footprint. Failures typically come from
predictable causes such as debris on first flush, poor basin pairing that creates splash, low voltage at the control box, or missing access
for service. A spec that addresses these failure modes can reduce maintenance tickets and improve user experience without turning the document
into a product brochure.
System input
What to define in bid documents
Why it matters
Hydraulics
Rated flow at 60 psi, minimum operating pressure, laminar or aerated outlet, debris protection and strainers
Reduces poor wash performance in low pressure buildings and prevents solenoid sticking from construction debris
Temperature control
Cold only, pre tempered supply, or centralized mixing valve strategy and setpoint requirements
Stabilizes temperature and avoids tenant complaints and tampering risks in public restrooms
Power
Battery, hardwired, or hybrid, plus service interval expectations and access
Defines maintenance workload and avoids hidden electrical scope
Sensing behavior
Activation distance range, shutoff delay, maximum run time, and anti false trigger intent
Reduces nuisance triggering and water waste in reflective basins and variable lighting
Maintenance access
Clearance for solenoids, batteries, soap reservoir, and filter changes
Determines whether the fixture is serviceable without removing the sink or cutting access panels
Plan set tip
Add a note near typical restroom enlargements:
Provide service access to sensor control modules, solenoids, and soap reservoirs. Do not locate behind fixed millwork without access panel.
Durability for high traffic environments
Materials and finish performance
Select finishes and housings based on abrasion resistance, chemical exposure, and cleaning methods.
In commercial restrooms, daily wipe downs with disinfectants can degrade low quality coatings. Specify a finish performance expectation,
not only an aesthetic label.
Vandal resistance and serviceability
Specify tamper resistant fasteners where applicable and require a replaceable, field serviceable valve module and sensor window.
If batteries are used, require a defined replacement method and clear access that does not require fixture removal.
Wall mount routing changes rough in coordination. State chase access and control box location requirements clearly.
Sustainability and water efficiency
Water savings are not only a fixture attribute. They are a system outcome tied to flow rate, sensor behavior, and commissioning.
Many jurisdictions and owner standards align to EPA WaterSense specifications for faucets, and high performance buildings often push
lower flow targets where basin geometry supports it. Reference the governing criteria and require submittals that include rated flow and
performance range. Use the same rigor for soap consumption by requiring adjustable dispense volume and reservoir monitoring where applicable.
Water efficiency spec points
State the target maximum flow rate at 60 psi and minimum acceptable performance at low pressure.
Require maximum run time limit and a stable shutoff delay range.
Require laminar outlet where splash and aerosol control is a priority.
Soap system spec points
Require adjustable dispense volume and compatibility with foam or liquid as selected.
Define refill method, reservoir size, and level visibility for maintenance teams.
Require drip control and defined purge behavior after refill.
System integration: plumbing, electrical, and controls
Plumbing coordination
Touchless fixtures can be cold only, pre tempered, or mixed. In many commercial restrooms, centralized thermostatic mixing is preferred
for consistent setpoint control and to reduce adjustments at the fixture. State the mixing strategy in the fixture schedule and in the
plumbing diagrams so bidders do not assume a different approach.
Electrical and low voltage coordination
Define power method and routing. If hardwired, state voltage class and protection requirements, including wet location considerations.
If battery, state expected interval or performance expectation and require that access is not blocked by millwork.
System monitoring and enterprise standards
Some portfolios require asset tracking, standardized parts, and predictable maintenance cycles. Even without full BMS integration,
you can require standardized adapters, consistent mounting, and uniform sensor settings across restroom groups.
Accessibility note
Touchless operation supports accessible use by removing grasping and twisting actions, but you still need correct mounting height,
reach, and operable part compliance where any manual controls exist.
BIM and submittal package requirements
What BIM is for in this scope
BIM content supports coordination, not marketing. For sensor fixtures, the BIM model is most useful when it includes correct spout reach,
sensor envelope, control box placement, and maintenance access needs. Require BIM references as part of the submittal set when your project
uses coordinated models and clash detection.
The following is performance based sample language you can adapt. Confirm code, agency requirements, and owner standards for each project.
Where a model is named, treat it as an identified basis of design and preserve the performance requirements for substitutions.
22 40 00 Plumbing Fixtures
SECTION 22 40 00 PLUMBING FIXTURES
PART 1 GENERAL
1.1 SUMMARY
A. Provide electronic, touchless lavatory faucets and automatic soap dispensers including accessories, power supplies, control modules, and installation requirements.
B. Coordinate plumbing, electrical, and architectural requirements for mounting, service access, and commissioning.
1.2 SUBMITTALS
A. Product data: Include rated flow at 60 psi, operating pressure range, sensor settings, power requirements, and maintenance instructions.
B. Shop drawings: Include mounting details, rough in dimensions, spout reach, and control box location and service clearance.
C. BIM: Provide Revit family or BIM object for selected fixtures when project uses coordinated models. Include control module envelope where applicable.
D. Closeout: Provide O and M manuals, parts list, and recommended preventive maintenance schedule.
1.3 QUALITY ASSURANCE
A. Plumbing supply fittings: Comply with ASME A112.18.1 and CSA B125.1, as applicable.
B. Lead free: Provide lead free compliance for potable water applications where required by code and jurisdiction.
C. Accessibility: Install to satisfy ADA 2010 and applicable local accessibility requirements.
PART 2 PRODUCTS
2.1 TOUCHLESS LAVATORY FAUCETS
A. Type: Infrared sensor activated or equivalent touchless activation.
B. Performance:
1. Flow: Maximum 0.5 to 1.5 gpm at 60 psi as scheduled. Provide laminar outlet where splash control is required.
2. Pressure: Operate within 20 to 80 psi or as submitted by manufacturer and accepted by Engineer of Record.
3. Control: Adjustable shutoff delay and maximum run time limit. Provide stable operation under variable lighting and reflective basins.
C. Temperature control:
1. Provide cold only, pre tempered supply, or mixed supply as indicated on drawings.
2. Where centralized mixing is required, coordinate with thermostatic mixing valve schedule and setpoint requirements.
D. Power:
1. Battery, hardwired, or hybrid as scheduled.
2. Provide clear service access to batteries, solenoids, and filters without removal of lavatory or cutting millwork.
E. Installation accessories:
1. Provide inlet strainers or debris protection to protect solenoids from construction debris.
2. Provide mounting hardware and tamper resistant fasteners where required.
2.2 AUTOMATIC SOAP DISPENSERS
A. Type: Touchless, sensor activated soap dispenser, wall mount or deck mount as scheduled.
B. Performance:
1. Adjustable dispense volume.
2. Drip control and stable actuation to minimize false dispense.
C. Service:
1. Reservoir capacity as scheduled.
2. Provide refill method and level visibility suitable for maintenance workflow.
D. Power: Battery or hardwired as scheduled. Provide service access.
PART 3 EXECUTION
3.1 INSTALLATION
A. Coordinate fixture location with basin geometry to minimize splash and false activation.
B. Verify power routing, clearances, and access panels prior to close in.
3.2 COMMISSIONING
A. Set sensor activation range and shutoff delay.
B. Verify flow meets schedule target and does not cause splash.
C. Verify soap dispense volume and drip control.
D. Provide settings and as installed configuration in closeout documentation.
Substitution control
If substitutions are allowed, require that submittals include sensor settings, rated flow, operating pressure range, power method, and a maintenance access plan.
Do not accept submittals that omit control box placement or service envelope.
MEP checklist for plans, install, and closeout
Design and bidding phase
Confirm fixture schedule includes flow target, mounting type, finish, and power strategy.
State temperature control approach: cold only, pre tempered, or mixed with centralized control.
Define basin pairing intent: spout reach and outlet type aligned to minimize splash.
Call out service access for control modules, batteries, soap reservoirs, and filters.
Identify where electrical scope is required and whether power is low voltage or line voltage as applicable.
Construction phase
Flush lines before connecting solenoids. Use debris protection or temporary strainers during construction.
Verify pressure is within operating range at each restroom group, not only at building entry.
Confirm sensor calibration in actual lighting conditions after mirror and wall finishes are installed.
Verify soap dispense is set for the selected soap type and is stable after refill.
Closeout and commissioning
Record sensor settings for each restroom group: activation distance, shutoff delay, and maximum run time.
Record flow measurement at representative fixtures at stabilized pressure.
Provide battery type and replacement interval expectations where battery powered fixtures are used.
Provide spare parts list and recommended stocking for solenoids, sensor windows, and seals.
Closeout deliverable that pays back
Require a one page restroom group settings sheet. It reduces troubleshooting time and supports consistent operation across facilities.
This page is written as a technical planning aid. Confirm project jurisdiction requirements, authority having jurisdiction preferences,
and owner standards prior to issuing bid documents.
Technical guide for architects, engineers, facility managers, and contractors
Touchless Bathroom Faucets: What to Know Before You Buy
Touchless bathroom faucets appear simple at the point of use, but behind the spout is a system that combines sensing technology, power management, hydraulics, and code compliance. Selection should focus on long term performance, serviceability, and compatibility with real world building conditions.
Sensor behavior Power and maintenance Flow performance ADA and accessibility Standards and certifications
Sensor zone and basin geometry. Useful for explaining false activation risks.
Wall mount alignment and spout reach checks.
Under deck service access for solenoids, filters, and batteries.
How touchless faucets function in practice
Most touchless faucets operate using an electronic sensor that detects hands within a defined activation zone. The solenoid valve opens to enable water to flow and then closes when one’s hands are out of the range of the water detection area or when the preset water run time is completed.
Sensor activity
Infrared sensors are more widespread; however, their effectiveness also depends on light, reflection of light from basin surfaces, and sink designs. Mis-calibration of sensors causes the water to unnecessarily turn on or fail to switch off.
Control logic
High quality faucets have features such as adjustable shutdown timeouts, maximum run times, and consistent recognize times. Such features are most important in heavily used facilities like airports, schools, or healthcare.
Valve and temperature configuration
Touchless faucets may be cold only, supplied by a pre tempered line, or internally mixed. In public restroom facilities, thermostatic mixing valves may be more desirable for controlling temperature as well as less susceptible to tampering because they mix water in a more central location.
Define an application before picking an application fixture
The performance requirements differ widely depending on the conditions.
Public & Institutional Restrooms
Such environments require uniform sensor performance, rugged construction, and easy serviceability. Vandal-resistant construction, filtration, and shut-down performance are more significant than surface detail.
Commercial offices and Catering
User experience is even more important. Activation should be intuitive, splash should be minimized, and flow should aid in proper hand-washing techniques without using much water.
Residential and light commercial
Power source, temperature adjustment method, and compatibility with household water pressure are common decision points.
Institutional use case: durability and serviceability first.
Hospitality use case: splash control and intuitive activation.
Residential use case: power method and pressure compatibility.
Water efficiency and flow performance
Water efficiency requirements directly affect user satisfaction and system performance. Most WaterSense labeled bathroom faucets are limited to a maximum flow rate of 1.5 gpm at 60 psi. In public lavatory applications, many projects specify flow rates around 0.5 gpm depending on local code, sustainability goals, and owner standards.
Verify these items during selection
Rated flow at 60 psi
Performance at lower pressures such as 20 psi
Aerator or laminar flow type and its effect on splash and aerosolization
Practical note
Lower flow is not always better. Match the flow and spray pattern to the basin geometry to reduce splash and improve wash quality.
Power supply considerations
Battery powered faucets
Common in retrofit projects due to ease of installation. Battery replacement intervals must be planned, especially in high traffic restrooms.
Hardwired faucets
Eliminate battery maintenance but require coordination with electrical trades and proper moisture protection.
Hybrid Systems
Leverage both hardwired and battery backup to minimize unplanned downtime in mission-critical facilities.
Closeout checklist idea
Battery type, expected life, and service route must be recorded in the O&M manual for each group of restrooms.
Materials during certification
Touchless faucets should meet all requirements related to drinking water and plumbing.
Common items to verify:-
Lead Free Compliant for potable water applications
NSF/ANSI 61 compliance where necessary
Compliant with ASME A112.18.1 / CSA B125.1 requirements for plumbing supply fittings
Such certifications are effective in ensuring the long term durability and safety of the material as well as its compatibility with the requirements of inspections.
Accessibility and Interface
Touchless operation facilitates accessibility by not requiring the user to grasp and turn, although location becomes an issue.
Design teams should check
Proper Spout Position and Height
Sensor activation designed for users seated and standing on the bike
Complying with ADA 2010 Standards and ICC A117.1 where adopted
Installing and Maintaining Realities
The majority of problems lie in installation/commissioning deficiencies rather than product defects.
Critical checks
Inlet strainers to protect solenoids on-site from construction debris
Source
Confirmed operating pressure range
Basin & Spout to Prevent Splash & False Activation
Clear access to service batteries, solenoids, and mixing valves
Commissioning note: A quick checklist at closing may cut callbacks and fix deficiencies in multiple restrooms.
Documentation and BIM functionality
When it comes to the AEC industry, proper documentation is considered vital. Good cut sheets, installation manuals, and BIM documentation can go a long way in ensuring proper coordination of work related to plumbing, electrical work, as well as architectural work. Inadequate proper documentation can often result in substitution errors as well as field-related conflicts.
What to Request
Why It Matters
Cut sheet with flow and pressure range
Prevents under performance issues on low pressure buildings and helps submittal review.
Wiring & Power Information
facilitates the coordination of electrical scope and prevents ad-hoc solutions on the part of.
Maintenance Guide & Parts Sheets
Enhances long term serviceability and facilitates faster repairs.
B.I.M. Model or Dimensional Drawing
Supports clash checks and basin spout combination selections early on.
Touchless Basics and Buyer’s Guide for AEC Professionals
Learn all you can about specifying touchless faucets for your applications, from functional elements to aesthetic concerns.
Presently, the construction and designing scenario, the use of touchless faucets has become a necessity in the construction of buildings, especially those pertaining to bathrooms in both residential and commercial buildings. With the exception of hygienic factors, the aspect of sustainability and efficiency also plays a major role in the impact of this technology on the manner in which the issue of water management in buildings is considered.
Touchless Faucets – Definition
Touch-free faucets employ the use of sensors that sense the presence of hands or objects underneath the spout, leading to the dispensation of the water. This technology has vital advantages, the most significant being the improvement in sanitation and the prevention of water wastage. Touch-free faucets help greatly in preventing the spreading of germs within the washing process since the user is not needed to touch the handles. The technology is very appropriate for use in the restrooms within office blocks and learning institutions.
Characteristics of Touchless Faucets
Infrared Sensor Technology
The technology most widely used in touchless faucets is Infrared (IR) sensors. IR sensors are able to detect motion or presence in a particular range, including presence of hands in this context, and so induce water flow when triggered by these sensors.
Water Conservation
Many touchless faucets come along with flow regulators, which control the flow of water. This also assists with the issue of conserving water, especially where there is high consumption.
Hygiene and Safety
Touchless faucets prevent the transmission of germs like viruses and bacteria because one doesn’t have to come into direct contact with the handle when turning it to turn on the water tap. Such is even more important when one considers the use of sinks in health institutions like hospitals and other public facilities like restaurants.
Energy Efficiency
Some touchless faucets come with a battery-powered or self-sustaining energy technology – this means less battery replacement or dependence on the building’s power supply.
Buyer’s Guide: Choosing the Appropriate Touchless Faucet for Your Project
1. Accuracy and Distance of Sensors
The sensor’s accuracy is important in ensuring that the faucet turns on and off when it should. Sensor faucets with adjustable sensors can be set to meet different requirements to ensure water conservation.
2. Water Flow and Temperature Control
Try searching for faucets that can be operated without touching them and allow temperature and rate control. In fact, many faucets come with smart controls too!
3. Durability and Maintenance
Touchless faucets for commercial use must be more robust and maintainable. Stainless steel and/or PVD coatings are recommended for heavy use applications.
4. Power Source
Touchless faucets may be battery-operated, wired, or self-contained. The advantages of each depend on whether one considers sustainability or, for instance, water treatment and cost saving.
5. Integration with Smart Systems
Certain faucets can also be compatible with the Building Management System (BMS) for the purpose of controlling and managing the usage of water.
6. Aesthetic Consider
There are varying designs of touchless faucets, which may include finishes such as brush nickel, chrome, or matte black to blend with the interior of the space.
Where to Find Quality Touchless Faucets
FontanaShowers
Offering a full range of touch-less faucets and related bathroom products made with precision and reliability.
FontanaTouchlessFaucets
Operating in the touchless faucet system segment, it specializes in offering unique solutions that satisfy various demands and needs.
BathSelect
BathSelect is renowned for providing long-lasting and trendy faucets, along with touchless models designed for different needs of a building.
JunoShowers
Providing a range of touch-free faucets that combine cutting-edge technology and modern designs, JunoShowers is a name that can be relied upon in the AEC industry.
Conclusion
Touchless faucets are not just an added advantage; they are an essential part of contemporary bathroom designs, especially in the commercial sector. The functionality and performance of touchless faucets and other similar technologies are advancing with regards to efficiency, cleanliness, and environmental conservation. Technical details of touchless faucets should be taken into consideration by AEC professionals.
