The Rise of Touchless Hydration: Why Elkay Stations Are Leading the Way
Introduction: A New Era of Hydration
In a post-pandemic world, public health has changed — and so have expectations. Hygiene is now front of mind in everything from education to travel, and businesses of all sizes are adapting to meet new safety standards.
One change that’s quietly transforming public and commercial spaces? Touchless bottle filling stations.
Why Traditional Water Fountains Are Falling Out of Favour
Old-style fountains require users to press buttons or push levers — surfaces that see hundreds of hands per day. These high-touch areas are proven hotspots for bacteria and virus transmission, especially in shared environments like:
- Schools and universities
- Fitness centres and leisure facilities
- Offices and corporate headquarters
- Public transport hubs
The solution? Modern bottle filling systems that eliminate touchpoints and boost hygiene without sacrificing convenience.
What Makes a Station ‘Touchless’?
Touchless stations use infrared sensor technology to detect when a bottle is placed beneath the nozzle. Water is dispensed automatically, and stops once the bottle is removed — no need for physical contact, buttons, or timers.
This not only reduces germ transmission but also improves water efficiency by delivering only what’s needed.
Elkay: The Gold Standard in Contact-Free Hydration
Elkay’s range of touchless bottle filling stations is designed to meet the demands of modern facilities — combining hygiene, durability, and sleek design.
✓ Sensor-Activated Dispensing
Models like the HTHB-HAC8SS-WF are equipped with hands-free technology for safe, effortless refilling.
✓ Built-In Filters
Elkay’s filter systems remove chlorine, odour, and sediment — ensuring clean, great-tasting water every time.
✓ Fast Fill Rates
Reduce queuing with rapid dispensing times — ideal for high-traffic locations like schools and leisure centres.
✓ Optional Digital Bottle Counter
Some models include a digital screen showing how many plastic bottles have been saved — a visible win for your sustainability targets.
Where Touchless Stations Make the Biggest Impact
- Schools: Encourage healthy habits while minimising germ spread. The LZO8WSS2KN and HTHB-HAC8SS-WF are both popular among UK schools.
- Gyms & Sports Facilities: High-sweat environments need low-contact solutions. Models like the LZWSSMJ0 are a great fit.
- Corporate Offices: Show staff you prioritise their health with sleek options like the LBWD2C00WHC LIV Pro.
- Public Buildings: Transport stations, government offices, and museums all benefit from accessible, hygienic hydration.
Sustainability Wins, Too
Touchless hydration doesn’t just improve health — it also supports your green goals.
Each refill eliminates a single-use plastic bottle. Over a year, even a moderately used station can prevent thousands of bottles from going to landfill. Pair that with smart usage counters and digital displays, and you’ve got a powerful tool for tracking and sharing your sustainability progress.
Top Touchless Elkay Models
- HTHB-HAC8SS-WF: Hands-free, wall-mounted bottle filler with built-in water fountain.
- LBWD2C00WHC LIV Pro: High-end, sensor-activated unit perfect for offices and public spaces.
- LZWSSMJ0: Waste-contained and durable for gyms and schools.
Installation & Aftercare
All Elkay units are designed for quick install and easy maintenance. Whether retrofitting an old fountain or installing in a new facility, our team can help you select the right solution for your needs — and keep it running smoothly for years to come.
Conclusion: The Future is Touchless
In a world more focused than ever on health and hygiene, switching to touchless hydration is a smart, future-proof decision.
Elkay’s range of contact-free water refill stations gives you peace of mind, environmental impact, and long-term cost savings — all in one stylish unit.
→ Interested in touchless hydration for your space? Speak to our team about the best Elkay solution for your building.