Water Cooler Servicing

Have you ever wondered about the quality and safety of the water in your bottled water cooler? Is contamination a risk? Periodic water cooler servicing is recommended to keep your water cooler functioning optimally.

Different countries are free to establish their own guidelines about acceptable levels of contaminants present in bottled water. When tested, levels of bacteria are often found to be within acceptable limits and would not pose a health risk unless consumed over an extended period of time. Levels of acceptable contaminants are established by local government agencies. If you are concerned about the quality of your drinking water, inquire as to existing regulations and guidelines.

Consumers can take precautions to reduce the risk of contamination from their water cooler. This can be achieved with regular maintenance by the consumer and by booking an appointment with a water cooler servicing agent. Refilling of bottles by the consumer is not recommended due to potential contamination. A few simple hygiene measures can reduce the incidence of contamination and avoid the need for additional water cooler servicing. When replacing empty bottles on your water cooler, begin by washing your hands. Remove the protective cap, avoiding touching where it comes into contact with the unit. Wipe the neck of the new bottle with a paper towel soaked in a weak mixture of bleach and water, followed by rinsing well with clean water before placing the new bottle on the water cooler.

To clean the reservoir, a mixture of one part vinegar to three parts water or a mild solution of one teaspoon bleach in 4 liters of water, can be used to remove a build-up of minerals and scale. Pour the solution into the reservoir, allowing it to stand for between two to five minutes. Allowing the bleach solution to sit for more than 5 minutes can cause internal corrosion and adversely affect the unit. Drain the bleach solution by opening the spigot.

Rinse thoroughly by running clean water through the system to ensure all traces of bleach have been removed. Failure to adhere to these guidelines can necessitate a visit from your water cooler servicing specialist. It is also recommended to periodically clean the drip tray below the spigot with a mild disinfecting solution. The drip tray is designed only to catch spills, not to function as a drain. Water that does not immediately evaporate can promote the growth of mildew and bacteria or cause a build-up of minerals on the tray.

With periodic cleaning and simple maintenance, your water cooler will provide refreshing water to quench your thirst for years to come. Call your local water cooler servicing agent for any questions or concerns you may have.