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Retrofit vs New Build: Converting Manual Dispensers to Automatic in Existing Facilities
Automatic soap dispensers are often added to improve touchless hygiene and reduce contact points, but the success of a conversion depends on the existing restroom conditions. In retrofit projects, the dispenser is only one part of the sink zone. Wall construction, countertop depth, splash patterns, power access, and maintenance workflow will determine whether the automatic unit performs reliably or becomes a repeated service call.
For AEC teams, the main difference between retrofit and new build is control. New construction allows coordination of rough-in, blocking, clearances, and layouts early. Retrofits require careful evaluation of what is already in place, what can be reused, and what needs to be corrected to avoid accessibility and maintenance problems.
Working definition
In this article:
Retrofit conversion means replacing a manual soap dispenser with an automatic unit while keeping most of the existing sink, wall, and restroom layout.
New build integration means planning the automatic dispenser as part of the full sink zone layout, including wall backing, electrical strategy, and accessory coordination.
Successful conversion means the dispenser is within accessible reach, does not create protruding object hazards, dispenses reliably under the facility’s lighting and splash conditions, and can be refilled and serviced without damaging finishes or walls.
Start with a field survey: what to verify before selecting a dispenser
A fast, structured survey prevents most retrofit failures.
1) Existing mounting type and substrate
Identify the current dispenser and mounting style:
- Wall surface mounted
- Wall recessed
- Countertop mounted
- Behind-mirror or multi-feed type
Then verify the substrate behind the mounting area:
- Tile over masonry or concrete
- Tile over gypsum board
- FRP panels
- Solid surface backsplash
- Stainless wall panels
Why it matters:
- Many automatic dispensers are heavier than manual units and need stronger anchors or blocking.
- Tile and waterproofing require controlled drilling and sealing details.
2) Existing hole pattern and scar coverage
Manual dispensers often leave visible holes and outline marks. Check whether the selected automatic unit:
- Covers the existing footprint
- Uses a compatible mounting plate
- Requires new holes that will not conflict with studs, tile joints, or waterproofing
3) Sink zone geometry and splash behavior
Automatic dispensers perform best when soap is dispensed over the basin, not over the counter. In retrofit conditions, the basin location and faucet spray pattern may force compromises.
Key checks:
- Counter depth and backsplash height
- Faucet position relative to the basin centerline
- Typical splash zone on the wall and counter
4) Accessibility constraints
In existing facilities, reach and protrusion problems are common after a conversion because the new unit is often deeper or mounted higher than the old one.
Operable parts and reach range guidance:
https://www.access-board.gov/ada/guides/chapter-3-operable-parts/
Protruding objects guidance:
https://www.access-board.gov/ada/guides/chapter-3-protruding-objects/
https://beta.access-board.gov/files/ada/guides/protruding-objects.pdf
Practical accessory planning reference used by many teams:
https://www.bobrick.com/wp-content/uploads/APG-Accessible-Restrooms_Commercial.pdf
Retrofit realities: what changes when you convert manual to automatic
1) Power strategy becomes a design decision
Manual dispensers have no power needs. Automatic dispensers usually require either batteries or low-voltage power via a transformer.
Battery-powered retrofits
Advantages:
- No new wiring
- Faster installation
- Lower disruption to finished walls
Common risks:
- Battery access becomes a maintenance problem if the cover is hard to open or staff do not have keys
- Battery replacement frequency rises in high-traffic restrooms
- Low battery conditions can look like sensor failure
Hardwired or low-voltage powered systems
Advantages:
- Reduced battery labor
- More consistent performance in high-use facilities
Common retrofit barriers:
- Routing wiring through tiled walls or behind mirrors
- Space for transformers and accessible service points
- Coordination with existing electrical circuits and local code
In many retrofit projects, battery-powered units are selected simply to avoid wall disruption. If the restroom is extremely high traffic, a more robust power plan may be worth the early effort.
2) Sensor performance changes with lighting and reflections
Older restrooms often have inconsistent lighting, mirrored walls, or glossy surfaces that increase nuisance triggering. When manual units are replaced with sensor units, false triggers become more noticeable because soap is dispensed without direct user intent.
Field actions that reduce complaints:
- Avoid mounting directly opposite mirrors that reflect the sensor field
- Keep the sensor lens out of the primary splash zone
- Use tighter activation ranges where adjustment is available
- Verify performance under the actual lighting conditions at peak daylight and night lighting modes
When retrofits also include sensor faucets, overall sink-zone water use and timing may change. This report provides context on sensor-operated fixture performance variability:
https://allianceforwaterefficiency.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Sensor-Operated-Fixtures-Final-Report-March-2010.pdf
3) Refill method and hygiene protocol matter more in retrofits
Retrofitting a building often means inheriting the existing janitorial workflow. If the facility is used to topping off bulk reservoirs, switching to an automatic unit without changing procedures can increase contamination risk and clogging issues.
Peer-reviewed evidence on bulk refill contamination risk:
https://journals.asm.org/doi/10.1128/AEM.02632-10
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0362028X22084575
Practical retrofit recommendation:
- If the facility cannot reliably enforce cleaning and no topping off policies, sealed refills are often more predictable.
- If bulk refill is retained, include a documented refill and cleaning procedure in closeout.
Industry discussion that summarizes the risk and points to research:
https://cmmonline.com/articles/danger-in-the-soap-dispenser
4) Locking access and service workflow changes
Automatic dispensers typically add:
- Locking covers
- Battery access panels
- Sensor lens cleaning requirements
- Pump and nozzle maintenance considerations
If maintenance staff do not have the right key or if service is slow, staff workarounds often lead to damage and misalignment.
Maintenance guidance example showing cleaning and flushing concepts:
https://www.bobrick.com/wp-content/uploads/2112_ii.pdf
New build advantages: what to plan when you have full coordination control
1) Provide blocking and correct substrates
New construction allows:
- Continuous backing in accessory zones
- Anchoring planned for heavy units
- Reduced risk of cracked tile from late drilling
2) Coordinate reach, mounting heights, and clearances early
Accessory planning guides used in design development often provide conservative mounting targets that reduce reach disputes.
Example reference:
https://www.bobrick.com/wp-content/uploads/APG-Accessible-Restrooms_Commercial.pdf
3) Plan multi-feed and top-fill systems where they make sense
New build projects with long sink runs can reduce refill labor by specifying a multi-feed system and placing the reservoir where it is serviceable.
Multi-feed system references:
https://www.bradleycorp.com/product/multi-feed-soap-system
https://www.bradleycorp.com/top-fill-multi-feed-soap-system
Multi-feed installation instructions example:
https://washroominc.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Installation-Instructions-1.pdf
In retrofit projects, multi-feed conversions are possible but typically require more casework and access planning.
Retrofit decision tree: what type of conversion fits the building
Option A: Like-for-like surface replacement
Best when:
- Existing mounting height is compliant
- Wall is robust and anchors are reliable
- Dispenser footprint covers old scars
Watch-outs:
- New unit may protrude more into circulation paths
Protruding objects guidance:
https://www.access-board.gov/ada/guides/chapter-3-protruding-objects/
Option B: Upgrade to recessed units
Best when:
- Restroom is being renovated with wall opening work
- Corridors and entries are tight and protrusion risk is high
Watch-outs:
- Requires framing changes, fire rating coordination, and waterproofing detailing
Option C: Countertop conversion
Best when:
- Casework is being replaced or modified
- Deck mounting improves reach and user sequencing at the basin
Watch-outs:
- Under-counter service access must be provided
- Deck staining and drip control must be considered
Option D: Multi-feed conversion for long sink runs
Best when:
- High traffic restrooms create frequent refill labor
- Maintenance team wants one service point
Watch-outs:
- Requires reservoir access, tubing routing, and consistent commissioning
- Reservoir hygiene protocol becomes critical
Multi-feed references:
https://www.bradleycorp.com/product/multi-feed-soap-system
https://washroominc.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Installation-Instructions-1.pdf
Common retrofit mistakes and how to avoid them
- Mounting too high or measuring to the top instead of the operable portion
Use reach guidance for operable parts:
https://www.access-board.gov/ada/guides/chapter-3-operable-parts/ - Creating a protruding object hazard at restroom entries or narrow paths
Use protruding object guidance and consider recessed placement where needed:
https://beta.access-board.gov/files/ada/guides/protruding-objects.pdf - Ignoring wall backing and anchor type
A strong dispenser on a weak wall fails quickly. - Placing the dispenser in the splash zone
Sensor lens fouling and finish degradation rise sharply with splash exposure. - Keeping bulk refill practices without a cleaning protocol
Research supports the contamination risk of refillable bulk systems when procedures are inconsistent:
https://journals.asm.org/doi/10.1128/AEM.02632-10
Specifier checklist for converting manual to automatic dispensers
Site and wall conditions
- Confirm substrate and backing
- Confirm existing hole pattern and scar coverage
- Confirm waterproofing and tile drilling details
Accessibility and layout
- Verify operable portion within reach range
- Check protrusion limits along circulation paths
- Confirm placement supports dispensing over the basin
Sensor and performance
- Verify performance under actual lighting conditions
- Reduce reflective interference and splash exposure
- Confirm dose consistency and reset behavior
Refill and hygiene
- Choose sealed refill or bulk refill based on facility discipline
- Include no topping off and cleaning procedures for bulk systems
- Document approved soap types and refill tools
Maintenance and security
- Standardize keys and access method
- Ensure battery access is serviceable
- Provide spare parts list and cleaning guidance in closeout
Example basis of design references
Operable parts and reach guidance:
https://www.access-board.gov/ada/guides/chapter-3-operable-parts/
Protruding object guidance:
https://www.access-board.gov/ada/guides/chapter-3-protruding-objects/
https://beta.access-board.gov/files/ada/guides/protruding-objects.pdf
Accessible restroom planning guide with dispenser height and protrusion notes:
https://www.bobrick.com/wp-content/uploads/APG-Accessible-Restrooms_Commercial.pdf
Sensor-operated fixture performance research:
https://allianceforwaterefficiency.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Sensor-Operated-Fixtures-Final-Report-March-2010.pdf
Bulk refill contamination research:
https://journals.asm.org/doi/10.1128/AEM.02632-10
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0362028X22084575
Multi-feed system references and installation support:
https://www.bradleycorp.com/product/multi-feed-soap-system
https://www.bradleycorp.com/top-fill-multi-feed-soap-system
https://washroominc.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Installation-Instructions-1.pdf
Maintenance guidance example:
https://www.bobrick.com/wp-content/uploads/2112_ii.pdf
Conclusion
Converting manual dispensers to automatic in existing facilities is usually straightforward mechanically, but performance depends on the surrounding conditions. Successful retrofits verify reach and protrusion compliance, avoid splash and reflective sensor problems, and match the refill method to the building’s real maintenance capacity. New builds have the advantage of coordinated backing, service access, and optional multi-feed planning, which can improve long-term reliability and reduce labor.
For AEC teams, the strongest approach is to treat the dispenser conversion as a sink-zone integration task that includes accessibility, wall detailing, refill protocol, and service workflow, not just a product swap.
Supporting References
https://www.access-board.gov/ada/guides/chapter-3-operable-parts/
https://www.access-board.gov/ada/guides/chapter-3-protruding-objects/
https://beta.access-board.gov/files/ada/guides/protruding-objects.pdf
https://www.bobrick.com/wp-content/uploads/APG-Accessible-Restrooms_Commercial.pdf
https://allianceforwaterefficiency.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Sensor-Operated-Fixtures-Final-Report-March-2010.pdf
https://journals.asm.org/doi/10.1128/AEM.02632-10
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0362028X22084575
https://cmmonline.com/articles/danger-in-the-soap-dispenser
https://www.bradleycorp.com/product/multi-feed-soap-system
https://www.bradleycorp.com/top-fill-multi-feed-soap-system
https://washroominc.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Installation-Instructions-1.pdf
https://www.bobrick.com/wp-content/uploads/2112_ii.pdf
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