Installation tips for water tap systems in modern offices

Choosing to install the right water tap system for the office can seem like a small decision, but you may be surprised to know that it actually has a big impact. Not only does it affect the aesthetics of your office kitchen or breakout area, but it also plays a crucial role in keeping your team happy and hydrated.

If you’re an office or facilities manager responsible for your team’s hydration in the workplace, we’ve got you covered. We share our top water tap installation tips from our expert team and dive into why hydration can be a game-changer for productivity and morale.

Why does hydration matter?

Keeping your team hydrated isn’t just about ticking a health and safety box. Proper hydration improves concentration, boosts energy levels, and can even enhance cognitive function. In a recent survey, nearly 80% of UK office workers admit they don’t drink enough water during the day. According to the NHS, adults in the UK are recommended to drink six to eight glasses of fluid per day, which works out to almost two litres. This includes water, low-fat milk, and sugar-free drinks like tea and coffee. Do you and your team drink that amount daily?

Unfortunately, just a tiny drop in hydration can lead to fatigue, reduced focus, and pesky headaches, all of which negatively affect productivity and your team’s happiness.

By installing a high-quality water tap system, you’ll make it easy and convenient for your employees to pour a glass of water whenever they need it. This simple change can have a big impact on workplace well-being.

Discover More: What’s a water dispenser, and do I need one for my office?

1. Understand your office needs

Every office is different, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Before making any decisions about the installation of your office water tap system, take a moment to assess your office’s specific needs.

You’ll want to consider the following factors before signing up with a water tap supplier:

Size of your team:

A larger team will require a premium tap system with higher capacity and flow rates, whereas, for a small team, you can probably get away with a lower-capacity model.

Water preferences:

Do your employees prefer sparkling, chilled, or boiling water to make hot drinks? Modern water tap systems, like the ones we offer, can accommodate all three options.

Foot traffic areas:

Think about where your tap will be most accessible for ease and convenience for your team. Most of our customers opt for kitchens, breakout spaces, or meeting rooms, which are all good options.

For instance, if your office has lots of staff or hosts frequent meetings, a tap system with a quick dispense time and multiple water options will save time and cater to the needs of your diverse team.

2. Location, location, location

Location really is everything when it comes to installing a water tap system. Here are a few things to consider before installation:

Proximity to a water supply:

Ensure your chosen spot is close to existing plumbing to avoid costly pipework extensions.

Accessibility:

A centralised location, like the main kitchen or a shared breakout area, makes it easy for everyone to have access to fresh, filtered water.

Space:

Some tap systems come with under-counter chillers or boilers, so make sure there’s enough ventilation and enough space available for your equipment.

3. Choosing the right system

Not all water taps are created equal, so it’s worth doing your homework before you make your decision. The most popular choice for modern offices is to opt for a tap that offers all of the following functionality.

Boiling water:

An asset in any office, you’ll want to make sure you have quick and easy access to boiling water so you and your team can make teas and other hot drinks in a flash.

Chilled and sparkling water:

Giving people the option to have chilled water and sparkling water will provide your team with refreshing hydration. This will also help reduce the reliance on single-use plastic water bottles which are damaging to the environment.

Filtered water:

Of course, any tap you choose should have a filtration system to ensure your team is drinking clean, great-tasting water without any nasties.

Remember to look for systems with energy-saving features to help your office meet its sustainability goals. Of course, budget will be a driving factor, too, and you’ll want a water tap system that’s easy to clean and maintain.

An office water system from FreshGround can cost from just £5 per day, making it a highly affordable option – plus, all our taps are easy to keep clean and maintain to ensure the water keeps flowing.

4. Water tap installation process

While it might be tempting for some to DIY the installation, especially if you’re balancing budgets and trying to keep costs low, professional fitting is vital. You’ll want a fully trained technician to do the job, which will ensure:

*Your water tap is installed correctly and safely.

*Plumbing and electrical connections are handled properly.

*The system is tested and ready to go from day one.

5. Maintenance

Once your water tap system is installed, regular maintenance is crucial. A poorly maintained system can lead to a drop in water quality, which defeats the purpose of having it in the first place.

Most modern systems have indicators that let you know when maintenance is required. However, if you partner with a reputable water tap supplier, your water tap system should come with a level of cover or a service plan. Our team offers two levels of service plans: Essentials and Complete Care.

These offer reactive and proactive support and will include things like scheduled filter replacements and system checks to keep everything running smoothly. Our service plans will ensure that your water tap system is covered just in case something goes wrong.

How hydration affects productivity

Let’s not forget exactly why hydration in the office is so important. Hydration directly affects brain function, mood, and energy levels—all of which are essential for a productive day at work. In fact, a report found that employees who stay hydrated are 14% more productive than their dehydrated colleagues.

What’s more, providing easy access to water taps shows your employees that their wellbeing matters. This helps create a positive workplace culture and can even help with staff retention. In an era where workplace perks are a key factor in attracting and retaining top talent, an innovative and premium-quality water system is an easy win.

Get in touch

Our friendly team is on hand to help you with any queries, so please get in touch with us and give your team the freshest filtered water to keep them hydrated every day.