How to Choose the Right Bottle Filling Station for Your Space

Introduction: Not All Water Stations Are Created Equal

Choosing the right bottle filling station might seem simple — but make the wrong decision and you could end up with constant maintenance issues, limited usability, or poor fit for your space.

From small offices to busy schools and public areas, your hydration needs vary. This guide will help you understand exactly what to look for when selecting an Elkay water station that’s reliable, hygienic, and perfectly suited to your environment.

1. Understand Your Usage Levels

One of the biggest factors to consider is foot traffic. How many people will use the station daily?

• Low usage: A small office with 10–20 staff may only need a compact, wall-mounted unit like the EMASMB.
• Medium usage: Schools, shared offices or co-working spaces typically benefit from built-in units like the LZO8WSS2KN — which combine a fountain and bottle filler.
• High usage: For transport hubs, gyms, or sports centres, go for heavy-duty models like the EZWSSMJO or waste-contained LZWSSMJ0, built to withstand constant refills.

2. Indoor or Outdoor?

Where you’re installing the station makes a massive difference:

• Indoors: Most models are designed for interior use — like the LIV Pro LBWD2C00WHC, perfect for modern offices or reception areas.
• Outdoors: If you’re planning an outdoor install (e.g. school playground or public park), opt for vandal-resistant, weatherproof units like the LK4400BFEVGWR.

3. Drainage Requirements

There are two common setup types:

• Waste-contained units (e.g. LZWSSMJ0) store wastewater in an internal container. Ideal where plumbing access is limited.
• Plumbed drainage models (e.g. EZWSSMJO) connect directly to your waste system and are better for high-volume environments.

Not sure what’s best? Our team can advise based on your building layout.

4. Filtration and Water Quality

All Elkay bottle filling stations come with built-in filtration systems that reduce chlorine, sediment and odour. This helps provide cleaner, better-tasting water — a key factor if your building has older pipework or hard water issues.

High-traffic sites should consider upgrading to high-capacity filters for improved longevity and performance.

5. Do You Need Touchless Operation?

Post-COVID, many public and private organisations have moved toward contactless hydration.

Touchless models like the HTHB-HAC8SS-WF and the LIV Pro series use infrared sensors to dispense water without buttons or levers — perfect for schools, gyms, or healthcare settings where hygiene is paramount.

6. Style, Branding and Space

Design matters — especially in customer-facing areas. If you're installing in a reception, showroom or premium space, you'll want a sleek model like the LBWD2C00WHC LIV Pro, which blends clean lines and chrome or matte finishes with practical performance.

Also consider available space: wall-mounted options save floorspace, while recessed models sit flush against the wall for minimal intrusion.

Popular Elkay Models by Environment

• Schools: LZO8WSS2KN, LZWSSMJ0, EZWSSMJO
• Offices: EMASMB, LBWD2C00WHC
• Gyms & Leisure: HTHB-HAC8SS-WF, LZWSSMJ0
• Outdoors: LK4400BFEVGWR

Installation & Maintenance

Elkay stations are designed for ease of install and long-term reliability. Our team handles all aspects of setup — from assessing drainage and access points to installing units out-of-hours where needed.

Plus, we offer replacement filters, maintenance plans, and full aftercare to keep your system running smoothly.

Conclusion: Get It Right, First Time

Choosing the right bottle filling station means fewer breakdowns, happier users, and better long-term value. Elkay’s range covers everything from compact wall units to high-traffic, touchless systems — and we’re here to help you make the right call.

→ Not sure which model fits your space? Contact us today and we’ll guide you through your options.