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How to pick the perfect water dispenser for your workplace

Alex | November 25, 2024

Choosing the right water dispenser for your office

Installing the right water dispenser might seem like a small decision. In reality, it can have a big impact on your team’s wellbeing and productivity. It’s not just about aesthetics in your kitchen or breakout space. It’s about making hydration easy and accessible for everyone.

If you’re an office or facilities manager looking after workplace hydration, we’ve got you covered. Here are our top tips for choosing and installing the perfect water dispenser, plus why hydration matters more than you might think.

Why hydration matters

Hydration isn’t just a health and safety tick-box. It supports concentration, energy levels and cognitive function, all of which are essential for a productive day. Research shows almost 80% of UK office workers don’t drink enough water during the day. According to the NHS, adults should aim for six to eight glasses of fluid daily, which is roughly two litres. This includes water, low-fat milk and sugar-free drinks like tea and coffee. Do you and your team hit that target?

Even a small drop in hydration can lead to fatigue, headaches and reduced focus. These all negatively affect productivity and morale. By installing a high-quality water dispenser, you make it easy for your team to pour a glass whenever they need it. This simple change can have a big impact on workplace wellbeing.

1. Understand your office needs

Every office is different, so there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Before you choose a water dispenser, consider:

  • Larger teams need higher capacity and faster flow rates. Smaller teams can opt for a lower-capacity model.
  • Think about water preferences. Sparkling, chilled or boiling? Modern dispensers can offer all three.
  • Choose locations that make access easy, such as kitchens, breakout spaces or meeting rooms.

If your office hosts frequent meetings or has lots of staff, a dispenser with quick dispense times and multiple water options will save time and keep everyone happy.

2. Location matters

Where you install your dispenser is just as important as the model you choose. Think about:

  • Pick a spot close to existing plumbing to avoid costly pipework.
  • A central location like the main kitchen or a shared breakout area works best for accessibility.
  • Check there’s enough space and ventilation for under-counter chillers or boilers if your system includes them.

3. Choosing the right system

Not all water dispensers are created equal. The most popular choice for modern offices is a dispenser that offers:

  • Boiling water for quick teas and hot drinks.
  • Chilled and sparkling water for refreshing hydration and to reduce single-use plastic bottles.
  • Filtered water for clean, great-tasting drinks without any nasties.

Look for energy-saving features to support your sustainability goals. Budget is important too, so choose a dispenser that’s easy to clean and maintain. At FreshGround, our water dispensers start from just £5 per day, making them an affordable option for any office.

4. Installation process

DIY might seem tempting, but professional installation is essential for safety and performance. A trained technician will ensure:

  • Your dispenser 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

Regular maintenance is key to keeping water quality high. Most modern systems have indicators for filter changes, but partnering with a reputable supplier makes life easier. At FreshGround, we offer two service plans: Essential Care and Complete Care. These include scheduled filter replacements, system checks and proactive support to keep everything running smoothly.

How hydration boosts productivity

Hydration directly affects brain function, mood and energy levels. In fact, studies show hydrated employees are up to 14% more productive than their dehydrated colleagues. Providing easy access to water shows your team that their wellbeing matters. It helps create a positive workplace culture and can even improve staff retention. In a competitive job market, a premium water dispenser is a simple way to stand out.

Ready to upgrade your office hydration?

Our friendly team is here to help you choose the perfect water dispenser. Get in touch today and give your team the freshest filtered water every day.