The Truth About 5-Gallon Water Coolers

Have you ever paused to consider the water your employees drink at work? It might seem like a minor detail, but the source of drinking water in your office can significantly impact your team's health and happiness. Many businesses in Milwaukee, WI, choose 5-gallon water coolers, thinking they’re a cost-effective and safe solution. However, these coolers can actually pose several risks to your employees. Below, Office H2O explores the downsides of using 5-gallon water coolers and introduces you to a better, cleaner, and healthier alternative.

Why 5-Gallon Coolers Seem to Be the Norm

Businesses tend to lean towards 5-gallon water coolers primarily because of their perceived convenience. These large jugs can be delivered straight to the office, saving time and effort that would otherwise go into buying individual bottles. The dispenser also serves as a central hydration station, keeping foot traffic low and avoiding the clutter that comes with multiple personal bottles.

In addition, the 5-gallon jug system has been the norm for so long because it gives off an air of workplace wellness. As employee health and hydration have become more important for productivity, these coolers act as a visible commitment from employers to their employees' well-being. This solution has stuck around simply because it’s simple and most employers aren’t fully aware of the potential risks or alternatives.

The Big Problems with 5-Gallon Jugs

Although they’re seen as a reliable source of high-quality drinking water in the workplace, 5-gallon water coolers have quite a few issues that every business should know about:

1. Bacterial Growth

One major concern with 5-gallon water coolers is the risk of bacterial contamination. Bacteria can easily multiply in the warm, dark interior of the cooler, especially if the water is left untouched for long periods. Employers don’t always clean and sanitize the cooler regularly, meaning bacteria could accumulate in the water. This could result in illnesses like gastrointestinal issues. The risk of a bacterial outbreak increases when multiple people handle the cooler throughout the day.

2. Risk of Injury

These water coolers can also pose a physical danger to employees. At around 40 pounds each, the jugs are heavy and awkward to move, making it easy for employees to strain themselves or get injured while refilling the cooler. If placed in a high-traffic area, there’s also a chance someone could trip over it, leading to accidents.

3. Environmental Impact

5-gallon water coolers have a significant environmental impact due to the carbon footprint from frequent deliveries and the plastic waste generated by the jugs. Once empty, these jugs need to be discarded and replaced, contributing to pollution and waste.

4. Cost

Many businesses see 5-gallon water coolers as a budget-friendly solution. However, when you factor in the costs of purchasing, delivering, and disposing of the jugs, these expenses can quickly add up. Moreover, regular cleaning and maintenance are necessary to keep the coolers in good condition, which only increases their overall cost.

5. Aesthetic Concerns

Finally, let’s talk about aesthetics. 5-gallon water coolers can look out of place in a well-designed office space. Their bulky design and utilitarian appearance can disrupt the visual flow and professionalism of the workplace. This can affect employee morale and the impression made on clients and visitors.

Bottleless Water Coolers: A Safer, Cleaner, Healthier Option

Bottleless water coolers from Office H2O offer a safer, cleaner, and healthier alternative to the traditional 5-gallon jugs. By connecting to your office’s water supply, they provide fresh, clean, and healthy water without the risks of bacterial growth in stagnant water. They also reduce environmental waste by eliminating the need for plastic jugs and frequent deliveries, which means fewer emissions and less pollution. For businesses seeking a consistent supply of high-quality water without the risks of bacteria, bottleless water coolers are the perfect solution.

The Superiority of Multi-Stage Filtration

For businesses serious about ensuring the best possible drinking water for their staff, understanding the filtration process is key. Unlike the basic or single-stage filtration found in traditional jug coolers, bottleless water coolers from Office H2O use a sophisticated multi-stage filtration system. This process goes beyond mere sediment and chlorine removal, guaranteeing every drop of water is not just clean but pure and healthy.

The first stage usually involves a sediment filter, which removes particles like dust and rust that may come from the building’s plumbing. Next, a pre-carbon filter eliminates chlorine, chemicals, and odors that affect taste and quality. Then comes the Reverse Osmosis stage, which further purifies the water by removing dissolved solids, arsenic, and even pharmaceuticals. Finally, the water passes through our Elevate Mineral Enhancement, which balances the pH, adds essential minerals to increase alkalinity, and enhances the taste for a crisp, refreshing finish.

With each stage targeting specific contaminants, businesses can trust that the water from their bottleless cooler is consistently superior to what a single-stage filter could achieve. This level of attention to quality reflects a strong commitment to workplace health and contributes to the overall well-being of both employees and the planet.

Upgrade Your Office Today!

Choosing between 5-gallon water coolers and bottleless water coolers is a no-brainer. The latter offers a smarter and more responsible choice for Milwaukee, WI, businesses and their employees. Our bottleless water coolers provide a cleaner, safer, healthier, and more eco-friendly way to supply drinking water. Plus, they're more cost-effective, as they eliminate the need for frequent deliveries, heavy storage, and recycling of large jugs. So, why wait?

Upgrade your workplace’s water source today and enjoy the many benefits of a bottleless water cooler! Start your free 7-day trial with Office H2O and discover what 600K others are enjoying every day.

At Office H2O, we believe in creating a healthier and more sustainable workspace. Whether you're looking to improve employee health, enhance office aesthetics, or reduce your environmental footprint, our bottleless water coolers are the answer. Don't settle for outdated and potentially harmful 5-gallon jugs—take the next step towards a better, cleaner future today.