Hydration is a key part of performance, recovery, and overall well being, which is why choosing the right water dispenser for your gym is more important than ever. In the UK, gym water stations have evolved significantly over the past decade, with modern bottle-filling systems now replacing traditional drinking fountains almost entirely.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best types of water dispensers for gyms, what features to look for, and the leading options used in commercial fitness facilities across the UK.
Why Water Dispensers Are Becoming The New Standard For Gyms
“Bubbler-only” water fountains are quickly being phased out of gyms due to hygiene concerns and changing consumer behaviour. Gym goers now want to fill up their reusable bottles as quickly and in the most hygienic way possible, without having to touch any shared surfaces.
This demand of better hydration options has forced gyms to better support member hydration, sustainability objectives and dramatically reduce plastic waste.
Features of Gym Water Dispensers
Not all water dispensers are created equal. Before you select a brand or model, it’s important to understand what key features make a dispenser suitable for a gym environment.
Ability to Chill High Volume Water
Commercial gyms need water dispensers that can keep up with high traffic. Look for dispensers with a high number of litres cooled per hour that can handle even the busiest times at the gym.
Touch-free / Sensor Activated
Sensor or hands-free dispensing is now an important feature for reducing the spread of germs.
Built to Withstand Rigorous Use
Gym hydration stations see a lot of use. Ensure the construction is durable, stainless steel and vandal-proof if required. Filter access should also be easy for maintenance.
Highlight Sustainability Impact
Some water stations display how many single-use plastic bottles have been avoided by using the dispenser. This can be a great way for gyms to show their members their sustainability efforts.
The Best Water Dispensers for Gyms in the UK
After researching and testing a range of different hydration stations, here are our top picks for the best gym water dispensers available.
1. Elkay ezH2O Hands Free Bottle Filling Station
Very common in big-box gyms and leisure centres around the UK, Elkay make some of the best-selling water bottle-filling stations available.
Best Suited For:
- High-volume gyms
- Leisure centres
- Gyms inside Sports Clubs
What Gym’s Love About The Elkay ezH2O:
- Touchless bottle filling activated by sensor
- Large cooling output for demanding environments
- Water bottle counter showing how much plastic has been saved from waste
Elkay’s line of ezH2O bottle filling stations are perfect for high-traffic facilities that need reliable, fast hydration solutions that prioritise hygiene.
2. Elkay ezH2O® Surface Mount Refrigerated Drinking Fountain 8GPH
If you have limited wall depth at your gym or are looking for a streamlined unit, this Elkay wall-mount bottle filler is ideal. Providing up to 8 gallons per hour of filtered chilled water, this water dispenser will keep members coming back for refills.
Features:
- Reduced chlorine, taste and odor in your water for ultimate hydration.
- Refrigerated, filtered water keeps bottles full of fresh cold water.
- Helps minimise the spread of germs with touch-free sensor activation.
- Built with commercial-grade stainless steel for easy cleaning and maintenance.
- Features Green Ticker™ monitoring system that tracks how many plastic bottles have been saved.
Perfect for when your customers want filtered, chilled drinking water without the bulk of countertop models. This unit is great for keeping your members hydrated throughout their workouts.
3. Elkay EZH2O Liv® Pro In-Wall Commercial Filtered Water Dispenser
The Elkay Liv Pro in-wall dispenser is a stylish and practical filtered water option that installs flush with your wall, creating a streamlined look for high-end facilities. It delivers hands-free, filtered drinking water and supports hydration with hygienic sensor operation.
Features:
- Slim design mounts inside the wall and takes up minimal space, perfect for lobbies or workout areas.
- Filtered water for better tasting and healthier water.
- Hands-free sensor to improve hygiene and minimise contact.
- Exclusive Green Ticker & Filter Monitor feature allows users to track plastic bottles saved and alerts users when a filter change is due.
This filtered water dispenser is ideal for boutique fitness studios or any gym that desires a clean, built-in water dispenser.
Which Gym Water Dispenser Should You Choose?
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution to gym water dispensers. The right hydration station for your gym will depend on footfall, budget and available space.
Big box gyms: High-volume dispensers with lots of chilling capacity
Local or budget gyms: Robust dispensers that are easy to maintain
Personal training studios: Premium filtered or sparkling water solutions
As with any piece of fitness equipment, water dispensers are an investment that can help improve member satisfaction, keep your guests hydrated and even help the planet by reducing plastic waste.
Need a Gym Water Dispenser? We Can Help.
At Water Refill Group we supply, install and service water dispensers which have been designed with gyms and fitness studios in mind. No matter your needs, we can recommend the right hydration solution and get it installed quickly and professionally. Get in touch today to learn more.
