When drinking water is bottled it meets strict safety standards. However, incorrect use and sanitization of bottle-fed water coolers can result in contaminated water and a potentially serious health threat.

Bottle-fed water coolers use what is called reservoir technology. This is where water is stored inside a bottle rather than fed directly from the main water supply to the dispensing tap. As water is dispensed it is displaced by air from the room.

Over time, the volume of potentially contaminated air increases. By the time a bottle is ready to be changed, there could be up to 19 liters of air. When a water cooler hasn’t been correctly maintained it’s not uncommon to see visible bacteria inside the bottle in the form of algae.

Contaminants can also enter the system via the bottle feed when a bottle is changed. Think about how a bottle is handled and changed. Think about the surface that is set into the cooler where all water passes between the bottle and the cooler.

Sanitization guidelines

With any water cooler, it’s important that you follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for sanitization and maintenance. Educating customers on the correct way to use a bottle-fed water cooler can also help reduce the potential for contamination.

Stored water systems should be internally sanitized every three months. The outside of the appliance, including taps and drip tray, should also be cleaned and sanitized every week. Replacement bottled water must be stored in a cool, clean and dark environment.

When hygiene really matters, we recommend choosing a bottleless water cooler.

Rent a Bottless Water Cooler: $23.00 per month. With RO system : $32.00 per month.