Commercial Drinking Water Fountains
Commercial drinking fountains are user-friendly hydration solutions for foodservice operations, healthcare facilities, schools, gyms, and offices. These commercial faucets & plumbing units provide an accessible, point-of-use potable water source that reduces reliance on bottled water and minimizes plastic waste. Consider the main 4 key points when buying a water fountain to ensure the best experience for your guests and staff.
Key Buying Considerations for Commercial Drinking Fountains
Key buying considerations for commercial drinking fountains include mounting styles, refrigerated and non-refrigerated options, durability, and accessibility. Consider these points to ensure reliable, efficient, and compliant operation.
- Type and Mounting Options: Wall-mounted commercial water fountains are common in schools and offices and are available in recessed or surface-mount designs. Freestanding units offer placement flexibility, while countertop and deck-mounted options accommodate tighter spaces. Split-level units help ensure accessibility for both adults and wheelchair users.
- Refrigerated vs. Non-Refrigerated: Refrigerated commercial drinking fountains provide cold water instantly, making them ideal for gyms, schools, and outdoor areas. Some units include a built-in storage tank to handle higher demand. Non-refrigerated models dispense water at ambient temperature and are more suitable for indoor spaces.
- Durability and Material: Most commercial water fountains are made of stainless steel, which resists rust, damage, and vandalism. Vandal-resistant and freeze-resistant models are available for high-risk or outdoor environments.
- Specific Applications and Accessibility: Choose between indoor and outdoor-rated units, depending on placement. Lower-profile fountains ensure accessibility for schools or child-focused settings. Some outdoor models even include pet hydration bowls. Many units meet ADA compliance standards, offering dual-access designs and ensuring inclusive, barrier-free water access for all users.
What are The ADA Requirements For Drinking Fountains?
The ADA requirements for drinking fountains specify spout location, knee and toe clearance, and water flow.
- ADA-compliant drinking fountains must be accessible to both standing individuals and wheelchair users. This often requires either a dual-unit setup or a bi-level design to meet accessibility standards on each floor, on the exterior site, or in secure areas.
- The spout height must be 36 in (91.44 cm) for wheelchair users and 38 in (96.52 cm) to 43 in (109.22 cm) for standing people.
- The required knee and toe space is between 17 in (43.18 cm) and 23 in (58.42 cm) from the leading edge.
- The water flow must be at least 4 in (10.16 cm) high.
Explore Chef’s Deal’s complete range of commercial drinking fountains designed to deliver safe, reliable hydration for every commercial space. Browse more commercial faucets from elite brands like Alpine Industries, T&S Brass, Fisher, FMP, and Krowne.