Commercial Restroom Reflections: When AER-DEC® Meets SloanStone®

As demand grows for reliable, touch-free solutions in every commercial restroom, Sloan is answering the call. Sloan’s AER-DEC Integrated Sink System is now available in SloanStone Solid Surface—uniting proven three-in-one performance with enhanced durability, design flexibility, and value.

To explore the impact of this expansion, we spoke with Emerson Vogel, Sloan’s Product Line Manager for Sink Systems and Hand Dryers. Emerson shares exclusive insights into the development process, the market demand driving this innovation, and how this new launch aligns with Sloan’s vision for the future of commercial restrooms.

What inspired the decision to expand the AER-DEC to include SloanStone Solid Surface?

Our decision was driven by direct feedback from our customers. We’ve noticed a significant shift in market demand for three-in-one solutions available at all price points. When we launched the original AER-DEC over a decade ago, we were pioneers in the U.S. market for this type of integrated system. The market responded very positively, but historically, three-in-one systems were often viewed as exclusive to high-budget installations.

Recently, however, commercial projects of all shapes and sizes—not just luxury venues—have shown interest in more sanitary, integrated handwashing solutions. Expanding the AER-DEC platform to include SloanStone Solid Surface allows us to meet a wider variety of design intents and budgets. It aligns perfectly with our goal of providing restroom solutions for all commercial projects, regardless of timeline or budget constraints.

Were there any design or engineering challenges your team faced during development?

Even though the design and material were familiar—Sloan has been offering both for over a decade—we didn’t cut corners. Every fixture underwent rigorous Sloan standards, which include extensive internal testing and third-party certifications like cUPC (Uniform Plumbing Code). This nationally recognized certification, issued jointly by IAPMO (International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials) and CSA Group, provides contractors and business owners with the assurance that our products meet stringent compliance and performance requirements, reinforcing trust in our brand’s reputation for quality.

In addition, our engineering team conducted extensive cycle and durability tests to ensure the fixtures can withstand demanding environments. The focus was on delivering the same durability, performance, and reliability that customers expect from the AER-DEC. Through close collaboration between engineering, operations, and product management teams, we developed new fabrication processes, reinforced areas of high use, and validated the product with confidence.

Can you share any behind-the-scenes insights into the R&D process for integrating SloanStone with the AER-DEC system? 

The R&D process was hands-on and collaborative from the start, driven by extensive voice-of-customer feedback across the industry. Our customers include a diverse range of stakeholders—architects, designers, contractors, distributors, and facility managers. Each group brought unique perspectives and priorities, from aesthetics and design intent to installation, serviceability, and long-term maintenance. Engaging across this entire value chain allowed us to identify gaps in our portfolio and areas where customers wanted more flexibility, ultimately shaping the direction of the AER-DEC in SloanStone.

How does the SloanStone material enhance the durability and performance of the AER-DEC system, particularly in high-traffic environments?

SloanStone adds a significant layer of durability and resilience to the AER-DEC system. Its nonporous, impact-resistant construction resists both staining and physical damage, making it especially valuable in schools, airports, and public restrooms where usage is high, and conditions are demanding. SloanStone prohibits microbial growth and is easy to clean, supporting infection control and lowering maintenance costs. Over time, facilities benefit from the material’s resistance to chips and scratches, ensuring sinks look new and perform flawlessly for years.

What are some of the key differentiators of the AER-DEC in SloanStone, as well as the AER-DEC system in general?

One of the standout features of the AER-DEC in SloanStone—and the AER-DEC system overall—is the patented air dam integrated into the sink basin. This air dam plays a critical role in managing water and air flow, ensuring a clean and safe user experience. Unlike many other three-in-one integrated systems on the market, which often struggle with issues like water splashing onto the floor or air updrafts blowing hair or clothing, the AER-DEC’s air dam and carefully engineered basin geometry effectively minimize these concerns. This design not only enhances the user experience but also reduces risks for business owners, such as slip-and-fall incidents or maintenance downtime caused by water on the floor.

The AER-DEC in SloanStone maintains the same proven shape and functionality as its fabricated counterpart, ensuring that the air dam performs as intended, even with the transition to a new material. This consistency was validated extensively during the development process, giving customers confidence in the system’s reliability. By limiting water on the ground and air splashing up, the AER-DEC in SloanStone offers a safer, more practical solution for commercial restrooms, while still delivering the sleek, modern design that architects and designers value.

What has the feedback been like from designers and architects so far?

The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Many appreciate having an integrated three-in-one solution that no longer feels limited to a specific look or budget level. It’s seen as a way to specify a high-performance, touch-free system without sacrificing design intent, offering more flexibility even within tighter budgets. One designer shared that they loved the balance between aesthetics and practicality, achieving a clean, modern appearance while maintaining the durability and ease of maintenance that building owners value. It’s truly the best of both worlds—meeting the design intent of architects and designers while delivering the performance and reliability expected by facility managers and building owners.

What does the launch of the AER-DEC in SloanStone signal about Sloan’s vision for the future of integrated sink systems?

The launch of the AER-DEC in SloanStone reflects Sloan’s commitment to creating system-based solutions that go beyond stand-alone products. We see the future of commercial restrooms moving toward a complete, coordinated environment that’s easier to specify, install, and maintain. This launch is a step closer to that vision, showcasing our commitment to not only innovation but also expanding proven platforms into new materials, price points, applications, and markets. It’s about building on what works, continuously improving it, and leaving room for innovation, like we did with the FLITE-DEC™ Integrated Sink System.

Looking ahead, Sloan remains dedicated to practical, value-driven innovation. Expect continued investments in emerging sensor technologies, enhanced water and energy efficiency, and smarter systems that provide actionable data for streamlined operations. We’re committed to sustainability, user-centric design, and creating solutions that make day-to-day operations easier and more cost-effective for our customers.