Giving people quick and convenient access to water makes it easier for them to stay hydrated throughout the day. Having a reliable refill point in schools, universities, workplaces, healthcare facilities or gyms can also help to increase the use of reusable bottles and reduce dependency on single-use plastic.
But how does a refill station work, and what happens when someone places their bottle under the dispenser? Here is an overview of how Elkay bottle filling stations work.
How do Elkay bottle filling stations work?
Elkay bottle filling stations will be connected directly to the building’s mains water supply. When activated, water will flow through the unit before dispensing from the bottle filler’s outlet into the user’s reusable bottle.
Filtered bottle fillers will provide water that has been passed through an internal filter which gets rid of any contaminants. Similarly, chilled stations will deliver water that has been cooled by an integrated chiller.
How does a touch-free refill station work?
Many Elkay ezH2O® bottle filling stations feature an electronic sensor which detects when a bottle has been placed under the dispenser. When activated, the sensor will automatically switch on the flow of water. When refilling, you don't need to press any buttons or touch the station. Once the bottle is removed from the dispenser, the water will stop flowing.
How much water does it give out?
The amount of water poured can depend on the specific model. Most Elkay standard wall-mounted units flow at 1.1 GPM (gallons per minute) whereas recessed models can reach 1.5 GPM. To fill up a standard 20-ounce reusable water bottle, it takes roughly 10-12 seconds. Check your specific model for its specifications to find out more.
Where does the water come from?
Water bottle filling stations are connected directly to the building’s mains water supply. This means they won’t require replaceable water bottles or tanks that need to be manually filled.
Instead, water from the mains supply travels through the bottle filler before coming out of the bottle dispenser. If fitted, it will pass through an integrated filter or water cooler first.
As part of the installation process, the bottle filling station will be connected to the building’s water supply, drainage and electrical services by a qualified professional.
How is the water filtered?
Filtered water stations contain a replaceable filter which removes certain contaminants from the mains water before it reaches the user’s bottle.
The filter will also improve the taste and smell of the water whilst reducing any contaminants in the water supply. Exactly how well will depend on the model and filter you choose.
Elkay bottle fillers with filters often come with a visual filter monitor too. These allow teams to easily see how much life is left in the filter before it needs replacing.
How are bottle filling stations cleaned?
Filling stations are connected to the mains water supply. This, along with regular maintenance from your facilities team, ensures bottles are filled with safe, clean drinking water.
Many models use Elkay’s antibacterial coatings which is a proprietary coating that inhibits the growth of bacteria on frequently touched surfaces.
How do bottle filling stations reduce splashing?
Elkay’s bottle filling stations use laminar flow which creates a consistent stream of controlled water which is gently directed into the user’s bottle.
That means there’s far less splashing around the station itself. Users can simply hold their bottle underneath the dispenser.
How quickly does a refill station work?
Some Elkay bottle filling stations have flow rates of up to 1.5 gallons per minute. Naturally, the exact speed will vary between models.
A faster flow rate helps refills keep happening in seconds. Particularly beneficial in high-traffic environments like schools, universities, workplaces and fitness centres. Which also makes bottles more convenient than single-use plastic alternatives.
What does the bottle counter do?
Elkay bottle filling stations can come equipped with a Green Ticker™. This built-in counter estimates how many single-use plastic bottles have been avoided by using the refill station.
Displayed on the bottle filler for all to see, the counter provides a visual representation of an organisation’s positive impact. Helping employees, students and visitors understand the difference their reusable bottles are making.
Can I add a bottle filler to an existing drinking fountain?
Yes, some Elkay bottle fillers can convert existing drinking fountains or water coolers. These specialised models combine drinking water and bottle filling functions in one unit.
It’s a simple way to upgrade existing hydration stations without having to replace the whole unit. Of course, standalone, wall-mounted, in-wall and combined bottle filler/drink fountain models are also available.
Which option is right for you will depend on the space, demand and accessibility needs of your project.
Are Elkay water bottle filling stations easy to maintain?
Basic maintenance will include cleaning the filling area and ensuring water flows freely through the unit. Bottle filling stations with filters should also have the filter replaced when it reaches the end of its life.
Having a visual indicator as part of your bottle filler can make planning maintenance even easier. Your Elkay refill station will also come with guidelines for servicing recommended by the manufacturer.
Although quick and simple, regular maintenance plays an important role. Particularly in high-volume environments, helping your team keep the station clean and the water hygienic.
Choose the right Elkay refill station for your project
Now that you know how bottle filling stations work. You can start to think about which model is right for your project. Some of the main factors to consider include;
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Filtered or unfiltered water
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Chilled or ambient
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Touch free or manual activation
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Outdoor or indoor installation
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Wall mounted, in-wall, standalone or retrofit
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Expected demand
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Accessibility needs
Water Refill Group is Elkay’s official distributor for UK and European markets. Get in touch today and see how we can help you provide hydration points that suit your organisation’s needs.
