How To Choose The Best Bottle Filler

If you’ve been considering upgrading the drinking water access in your facility, you’ve likely come across the concept of a bottle filler. But what is a bottle filler?

In short, a bottle filler (or bottle filling station) is an appliance designed to rapidly fill reusable bottles with fresh, filtered water. They’re hygienic, convenient and more sustainable than traditional water fountains, which is why they're becoming more and more popular in schools, gyms, offices and public spaces up and down the UK.

Choosing the best option for your facility isn’t always as simple as it sounds. Each building has its own requirements, and features can differ between models. In this guide, we’ll explain what to look for, what makes Elkay bottle fillers such a popular choice, and which solutions are ideal for schools, gyms and other high footfall areas.

Why Elkay Bottle Filling Stations Are Such a Popular Choice

Elkay is one of the biggest names in the bottle filler industry and for a number of good reasons. Their units are reliable, easy to use and built to withstand intense, daily use.

Here’s what users love about them:

• Fresh, filtered water every time
• Hands-free activation sensors for a more hygienic refill experience
• Fast flow rates designed for high-traffic areas
• Eco counters to show exactly how many plastic bottles you’re saving
• Options for both indoor and outdoor models to fit any environment

Hydration for busy areas is our speciality, and we stock, install and service Elkay products. This means you get comprehensive, ongoing support and advice throughout the lifetime of your unit.

Indoor vs Outdoor Bottle Fillers

The first decision to make is whether your bottle filler is going to be used indoors or outdoors.

Indoor Bottle Fillers

These are best suited to:

• Schools
• Offices
• Gyms
• Hospitals and clinics
• Leisure centres

As well as being durable and hygienic, indoor models often feature integrated filtration, touch-free sensors and optional chilled water.

Outdoor Bottle Fillers

For hydration when you’re outdoors, you need something that can handle the elements. Outdoor units are weatherproof, durable and often include:

• Protection against freezing temperatures
• Outdoor-grade filters to keep contaminants at bay
• Push-button or sensor activation

Outdoor bottle fillers are ideal for communities or organisations looking to make it easier for people to keep hydrated while they’re out and about.

Branding Options

One of the great benefits of working with a supplier like Thirsty Work is the opportunity to brand your bottle filler. This can help you reinforce your sustainability messaging and provide your school or workplace with a consistent look and feel.

Branded panels are long-lasting and can be applied to many of our indoor and outdoor Elkay units.

The Best Bottle Filler for Schools

Schools need something safe and simple for all ages to use, as well as durable. Elkay’s indoor, wall-mounted models tick every single box.

The main features schools will benefit from include:

• Hands-free operation, to improve hygiene
• Vandal-resistant components
• Fast filling to keep everyone hydrated during busy break times
• Excellent filtration for great tasting water

In most schools, a standard indoor Elkay bottle filler with integrated filtration is ideal. It’s hard-wearing, reliable and perfectly designed to encourage students to refill reusable bottles throughout the day.

The Best Bottle Filler for Gyms

Gyms have slightly different requirements as members expect fast refills, chilled water and as few touch points as possible.

The features that work best include:

• Fast-flow models
• Chilled water options for a refreshing refill
• Touch-free sensors, for hygiene and ease of use
• High-capacity filtration for the best water quality and taste

In gyms, a chilled Elkay indoor model is the go-to choice for most people. It offers all the power and performance you need to keep up with members during peak workout sessions.

Other Things to Consider

Filtration

Better filters means better taste and fewer contaminants. Elkay filters are easy to change and have a long lifespan.

Footfall

If you’ve got a high-traffic location, you may want to factor in a higher flow rate or more durable build into your decision.

Installation requirements

Your water supply, drainage and electrical access will all play a role in the decision. Thirsty Work can help you determine the best setup.

Accessibility

Need something accessible for wheelchair users or smaller children? Make sure to find models designed with lower reach points.

Find the Best Bottle Filler for Your Space

From schools and workplaces to gyms and public areas, Thirsty Work can help you source the best Elkay bottle filler for your needs. Complete with expert installation, reliable servicing and custom branding options, you get a turn-key hydration solution that underpins your sustainability goals.

Contact Thirsty Work today and we’ll help you find the best bottle filler for your space.