Staying hydrated can be tough, and even more so at work! Endless meetings, phone calls, and commuting can all make it hard to keep your water bottle at hand. Hydration in the workplace is incredibly important though, and office water dispensers can make everything easier. Office water dispensers enhance employee wellness and productivity! In this article, we’ll explore some of the key features to consider when choosing an office water dispenser and how you can help enhance your office experience!
For starters, there are a few types of office water dispensers. When working with a managed vending service provider, they’ll be able to give you options including bottled water dispensers, water coolers, water filtration services, and even ice production.
Types of Office Water Dispensers
There are many types of office water dispensers, but choosing the right solution for your office needs doesn’t need to be difficult. The most basic option is a bottled water vending machine. Coca-Cola vending machines offer Dasani office water solutions and are simple and easy to set up. However, there are many other options available depending on your particular office's tastes.
Then you have bottled water dispensers. These dispensers rely on large bottles, typically five gallons, which are placed upside down on the unit. Bottled water dispensers are ideal for smaller offices or locations where connecting to a water supply is difficult. They provide an easy way to ensure fresh water but may require frequent bottle replacements depending on usage.
Point-of-use (POU) dispensers connect directly to the building’s water supply, offering an unlimited supply of water without the need for bottles. This option is often more cost-effective over time and reduces the hassle of managing bottle deliveries. It’s perfect for medium to large offices with a stable water source.
Filtered office water dispensers come equipped with built-in filtration systems to improve water quality. They ensure that the water is free from impurities and tastes fresh, making them popular in areas with hard or poor-quality tap water. Both bottled and POU dispensers can include filtration options.
Hot and cold office water dispensers are also available. For offices where employees prefer a variety of drinks, such as tea, coffee, or chilled water, hot and cold water dispensers provide flexibility. These dispensers offer both hot and cold water at the push of a button, adding convenience to the workplace.
Key Office Water Dispenser Features to Consider
When selecting an office water dispenser, there are several important features to keep in mind.
They’ll determine how the office water dispenser meets your team’s needs and its maintenance convenience.
You’ll want to consider capacity and size. The capacity of a water dispenser should align with the size of your office and the number of people using it. For small offices, a bottled water dispenser might suffice, while larger offices should consider point-of-use systems that provide continuous water without the need for bottle replacements. Ensure the dispenser is compact enough to fit comfortably in your office space while serving everyone adequately.
Water quality is paramount, and dispensers with advanced filtration systems ensure that the water is pure and tastes good. Many office water dispensers come with multi-stage filtration, including carbon filters that remove chlorine, sediment, and other impurities. Investing in a high-quality filtration system is a must, especially if you are located at sea level or have impure local drinking water.
Not all water dispensers are created equal when it comes to temperature control either. Some models offer only room-temperature water, while others include both hot and cold options. Consider your office’s needs—do employees want cold water for hydration, or is there a demand for hot water for tea and coffee? Dispensers with dual temperature options are highly versatile and practical for office environments.
You’ll also want to take energy efficiency into consideration. With rising energy costs, it’s important to choose a water dispenser that doesn’t add significantly to your utility bills. Many modern dispensers come with energy-saving features, such as sleep modes or energy-efficient compressors, ensuring that they use minimal power when not in active use. An energy-efficient model can reduce long-term operational costs.
Finally, consider maintenance. A water dispenser should be user-friendly, allowing employees to access water with minimal effort. In addition, easy maintenance is critical—regular cleaning, filter changes, and general upkeep should be as hassle-free as possible. Look for models that have clear indicator lights for filter changes or automatic cleaning cycles.
Related Content: Water Vending: Options to Hydrate Your Team
Additional Considerations
A few additional factors might influence your choice of office water dispenser, depending on your office's specific requirements.
Water source compatibility is important. If your office is in a rural area or uses well water, make sure that the dispenser is compatible with your water source. Some models may require specific water connections or pressure levels, so it’s worth checking compatibility before purchasing. Check with your service provider for more detailed information as they will be aware of any water issues in your geographical area.
For offices with children or visitors, it’s important to consider dispensers with safety features, especially for hot water. Child locks on hot water taps can prevent accidental burns, ensuring a safe environment for everyone.
Sustainability is increasingly a growing concern for many businesses. POU water dispensers are generally more eco-friendly than bottled versions, as they eliminate plastic waste from disposable bottles. Some dispensers are made from environmentally friendly materials or are designed to minimize energy consumption, helping to reduce your office’s carbon footprint.
Choosing the right office water dispenser involves more than just selecting a model that looks good. It’s essential to consider the needs of your office in terms of size, water quality, and convenience. Features such as filtration systems, temperature options, energy efficiency, and ease of maintenance can make a significant difference in how well the dispenser serves your team. By focusing on these key aspects, businesses can invest in a water dispenser that promotes health, convenience, and sustainability in the workplace.
Frequently Asked Questions About Office Water Dispensers
What types of office water dispensers are available?
There are several types including bottled water vending machines, bottled water dispensers using large bottles, point-of-use (POU) dispensers connected directly to the water supply, filtered dispensers with built-in filtration systems, and hot and cold water dispensers that provide temperature options.
How do I choose the right office water dispenser for my office size?
For smaller offices, bottled water dispensers may be sufficient, while medium to large offices benefit from point-of-use systems that offer continuous water without needing bottle replacements. Consider the number of users and available space when selecting capacity and size.
Why is water quality important and how do dispensers address it?
Water quality ensures the water tastes fresh and is free from impurities. Many dispensers include multi-stage filtration systems, such as carbon filters, to remove chlorine, sediment, and other contaminants, which is especially important in areas with poor tap water quality.
What temperature options do office water dispensers offer?
Some dispensers provide only room-temperature water, while others offer both hot and cold water. Hot and cold dispensers are ideal for offices where employees want options for hydration as well as hot beverages like tea or coffee.
How important is energy efficiency in office water dispensers?
Energy efficiency helps reduce utility costs. Many modern dispensers feature energy-saving modes or efficient compressors that minimize power use when not actively dispensing water, making them cost-effective over time.
What maintenance features should I look for in an office water dispenser?
Look for dispensers that are easy to maintain with features like clear indicator lights for filter changes, automatic cleaning cycles, and user-friendly designs that allow employees to access water with minimal effort.
Are there any safety or sustainability considerations for office water dispensers?
Safety features such as child locks on hot water taps are important in offices with children or visitors. For sustainability, point-of-use dispensers reduce plastic waste compared to bottled options and some models are designed to minimize energy consumption and use eco-friendly materials.
