How to Choose a Sparkling Water Tap

Sparkling water taps are becoming increasingly popular across UK workplaces. Ideal for providing chilled sparkling water instantly whenever employees or visitors require it, sparkling water taps offer a refreshing alternative to regular still water and sugary drinks.

But with lots of different options on the market, how do you know which sparkling water tap is right for your workplace? There are several things to consider before making your purchase, from capacity levels and installation requirements through to ongoing maintenance and energy efficiency.

Below, we'll outline everything you need to know about choosing a sparkling water tap for your business.

Why Get a Sparkling Water Tap?

Installing a sparkling water tap means filtered, chilled and carbonated water is available straight from the tap. There’s never any need to worry about running out, as you are not limited to your suppliers stock of bottled water. Plus, you can skip deliveries and avoid plastic waste by offering fizzy water from the mains.

Installing a sparkling water tap can:

• Help you cut down on single-use plastic bottles
• Save you money when compared to buying sparkling water bottles
• Give your employees access to premium hydration
• Help you become more sustainable at work
• Save space on storage

From office kitchens and staff breakout areas to hospitality venues and commercial workspaces, fizzy taps are a great addition.

How Do Fizzy Water Taps Work?

A common question we get is how does a fizzy water tap work?

Essentially, carbon dioxide (CO2) gas is injected into filtered water under pressure. First, the water enters the filter to remove any impurities before going into the chilling process. Once cooled, carbon dioxide from a separate gas cylinder is injected into the machine, adding the bubbles that make sparkling water what it is.

Pressure is constantly maintained inside the appliance so the carbon dioxide doesn’t escape. Meaning your users can get instant sparkling water whenever they need it throughout the day, without waiting for the machine to carbonate each serving.

Some machines also allow users to dispense chilled still water and ambient water all from the same tap.

Think About Your Workplace Requirements

Before you start looking for a sparkling water tap to purchase, you should consider your workplace’s specific needs.

Consider:

• How many people will need access to sparkling water through the tap per day?
• Will the sparkling water tap be used sporadically throughout the day, or by numerous people continuously?
• Do you need access to both still and sparkling water from the same tap?
• Is chilled water a necessity?
• How much room do you have?

Smaller offices with lower usage may only need a compact unit with lower outputs. However, bigger workplaces, hospitality venues and commercial kitchens will likely require larger-capacity systems that can cater for high numbers of users throughout the day.

Check the Filtration System

Water quality plays a significant role in the taste and performance of any sparkling water tap.

Good filtration systems clear water of impurities such as chlorine, sediment and other particles that can affect the flavour. Better filtration also benefits your system by helping to keep the inner components clean which can prolong the lifespan of your sparkling water tap.

When looking to buy a sparkling water tap, look for products that include advanced filtration systems as well as easy-to-follow filter change procedures.

Consider Installation Requirements

Most sparkling water taps require more than just swapping out a regular kitchen tap.

Typically, you’ll need to fit:

• The tap unit itself
• Chilling unit
• Water filtration system
• CO2 Cylinder
• All required pipework

Fizzy water taps are normally fitted under a work surface or inside a cabinet so ensure you have enough room to accommodate a sparkling water tap and that you have access to all necessary connections. 

Working with an experienced supplier can help ensure a smooth installation process and allow you to choose a solution that fits your available space.

Think Long-Term Sustainability

Many businesses are actively looking for ways to improve their environmental credentials.

By providing employees and visitors with sparkling water from the mains, you can drastically cut down on the number of plastic bottles your office uses. This will help you reduce packaging waste, transportation emissions and office storage.

If your business has specific sustainability goals or you’re looking to work towards an environmental accreditation, a sparkling water tap can be a simple way to make a big difference.

Look Into How They’re Maintained

All water dispensers will need maintenance to ensure they’re performing as they should.

Questions you should ask your supplier include:

• How often do you need to change filters?
• Do you provide CO2 cylinder replacements?
• Do you offer a preventative maintenance programme?
• How long will it take you to respond to a service request?

Choose Your Supplier Carefully

When deciding which sparkling water tap to buy you want to consider your workplace requirements, space available, your anticipated usage and the maintenance needed.

Installing a sparkling water tap is a great way for offices to offer their employees (and visitors) an effective hydration solution, and cut down on single-use plastic all whilst hitting their sustainability targets.

Thirsty Work offers a variety of hydration solutions for the workplace. Our range of instant water taps offer great quality, convenience and reliability. Speak to our team about your workplace needs and we can help you decide whether a sparkling water tap could be right for your workplace.