Depending on your water subscription, you probably see a delivery truck at your job at least once a month, hauling in five to ten of those heavy blue water jugs and extracting the used ones. Then you or someone within your company may need to help replace the empty water bottle on the unit with one of the new ones.
This ritual is up for debate, and many companies are transitioning to bottleless water coolers.
Beyond reducing plastic waste, they can save time, reduce hassle, and offer a more convenient way to keep employees hydrated.
Let’s see how these two water options stack up against each other.
Traditional Water Coolers vs. Bottleless Water Coolers
To understand which type of water delivery is right for you, it’s best to start by understanding the differences between the two.
Traditional Water Coolers
This type of water cooler is a standalone unit that requires replacement water jugs, typically 5-gallon jugs. When the water runs out of these, the jug must be replaced to get more water. A water service replaces water jugs at regular intervals to ensure that the water doesn’t run out.
When arranging this type of water delivery, there must be room for the unit itself and for both the empty and full water jugs. This could be a huge setback in a small office. Also, having to flip the 5-gallon water jugs onto the unit once the water in the other one runs out could put someone at risk for injury within the workplace.
With this type of water delivery service, you’re at the mercy of the water delivery company to provide water on the schedule you’ve arranged. If the delivery is late or usage is unusually high, you risk running out of water.
Bottleless Water Coolers
This type of water cooler connects to the building’s existing water supply line. The water that comes through the line is filtered and cooled or heated through the water cooler itself. Since there are no bulky water bottles, this type of cooler is a prime choice for offices short on space.
The filter for this type of bottleless cooler is changed by a technician every 6 to 12 months. Additionally, this option provides an unlimited supply of water, as long as the building’s pipes are functioning properly.
Overall, bottleless water coolers come out on top based on space, convenience, and ease of use.
The Environmental Factor
Another reason bottled water is a less attractive option is its environmental impact. Although the jugs used for delivery are cleaned, washed, and reused extensively, they eventually become unusable.
When a water delivery company can no longer use the jugs, they end up in landfills. For companies that pride themselves on reducing their carbon footprint and improving sustainability goals, having a bottled water delivery system isn’t an eco-friendly option.
Opting for bottleless water can help reduce a company’s environmental impact by purifying water that flows through existing underground infrastructure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does bottleless water taste as good as bottled water?
Yes, and better. The multi-filtration system in bottleless water removes most impurities, ensuring the water tastes much fresher than water that has been sitting in plastic jugs.
Would I save if I switched to a bottleless water service?
Yes. You could probably save between 30 and 50 percent compared to your current water delivery service because you wouldn’t have to pay for bottle delivery fees, fuel surcharges, and other hidden fees.
Is the bottleless water installation disruptive and complicated?
No. Usually, a technician can complete the installation in about one hour. There is no drilling involved. Instead, they use a microscopic water line to connect the unit to the existing water line. So, you won’t have to worry about workflow disruptions or a messy break room during the installation process.
Better Water Starts with Bottleless
Are you ready to make the switch? There’s a lot to explore with Michigan Clear Water’s advanced water cooler systems. Choose from hot and cold water, touchless dispensing, sparkling water, and ice-on-demand options tailored to your office’s needs.
Contact our Wixom or Brighton location today to schedule a consultation and experience the bottleless difference.