How to Choose the Right Commercial Drinking Fountain

Choosing the right drinking fountain depends on where it’s going, who will use it, and what features are important to you. Use the guide below to help you pick the best option.

Will the drinking fountain be in a high-traffic or low-traffic area?

For places with heavy use like schools, gyms, or airports, look for a refrigerated model that can chill at least 8 gallons of water per hour. That ensures a steady supply of cold water even with frequent use.

In public or unsupervised areas, consider a vandal-resistant unit. These models are made with tougher materials and tamper-resistant parts to handle wear and potential damage.

For low-traffic areas such as small offices or private spaces, a lower-capacity model without special protection may be enough.

Does the fountain need to meet ADA requirements?

If the fountain will be used by both able-bodied and disabled individuals, it should meet ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) standards.

In many public settings, a bi-level fountain is required. These are also called high-low units and feature one side at wheelchair-accessible height and the other at standard height.

All ADA-compliant models are clearly marked in our store to make it easy for you to choose.

ADA Drinking Fountain Height & Dimension Requirements

If you need to confirm exact ADA measurements before you buy, here are the key numbers from the 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design (Section 602 - Drinking Fountains):

• Spout height (wheelchair-accessible side): maximum 36 inches above the finish floor.
• Spout height (standing-height side, bi-level units): typically 38-43 inches, matched to standard adult use.
• Knee clearance: at least 27 inches high, 30 inches wide, and 17-19 inches deep underneath the unit for a forward approach.
• Clear floor space: a minimum 30 x 48 inch clear space must be provided in front of or alongside the fountain.
• Spout location: at the front of the unit, with the water flow at least 15 inches high, angled or arced so a cup or bottle can be filled easily.
• Controls: operable with one hand, no tight grasping or twisting required, and mounted within reach range.

A bi-level (high-low) fountain is the most common way to satisfy both the wheelchair-accessible and standard-height requirements in a single unit, which is why they are standard in schools, parks, and public buildings. All ADA-compliant fountains in our store list these measurements on the product page so you can confirm fit before ordering.

Will the unit be installed indoors or outdoors?

Indoor models are standard for most buildings and are not designed for harsh weather.

If the fountain will be outdoors, make sure it’s built with corrosion-resistant finishes and materials that can handle sun, rain, and temperature swings.

If the area experiences freezing temperatures, a freeze-resistant valve system is highly recommended. Otherwise, you’ll need to shut off and winterize the unit during cold months to prevent damage.

Do you need filtered water?

Filtered drinking fountains help reduce chlorine, lead, and other impurities. These are most commonly used indoors in places like schools, offices, and healthcare buildings.

Some fountains include a built-in filter, while others may rely on a filter installed separately in the water line. If filtered water is important to you, double-check if the unit includes a filter or if you’ll need to add one.

Do you need it to be refrigerated?

Refrigerated fountains cool the water before dispensing it. They require electricity and are ideal for indoor environments where cold water is expected.

Non-refrigerated units do not chill the water. They’re better suited for outdoor areas or locations where power isn’t available.

Should it be wall-mounted or floor-mounted?

This depends on your current plumbing.

Wall-mounted models are popular in hallways, schools, and tight spaces because they save room.

Floor-mounted models are often easier to install where plumbing is already in the floor, or when replacing an existing floor unit.

If you’re replacing a current fountain, try to match the new one’s mounting style to avoid complications with plumbing connections.

Do I have to stick with the same brand?

No, you can switch brands. However, staying with the same brand might make installation easier since plumbing and mounting points often line up.

Still, if you prefer a different manufacturer, you can usually find a good match by checking the specifications and measurements.

Need help?

We carry the top brands in the industry. If you’re not sure which model is right for your space, reach out however you prefer, we’re here to help.

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