How to Design & Operate a Water-Filling Station

With more than 5 billion pounds of plastic bottles in circulation, re-use and recycling are critical to keep waste out of landfills. While some users will pitch empties into recycling bins, many stores and public places have started to offer water filling stations. These dispensers can filter water and distribute it at the press of a button. Stations are intended to conserve resources and encourage people to extend the life of plastic or aluminum water bottles.

Instructions

Design

• 1

  Check with local government authorities about any ordinances addressing the size and shape of water-filling stations. A specific appearance may be mandated if you intend to install dispensers in public places, such as along bike trails or at playgrounds. Inquire with public health officials about any regulations concerning the method of water delivery, and whether regular water-quality testing is necessary.

• 2

  Diagram your station on paper or hire a professional designer or engineer. The unit can be freestanding or attached to a wall, tall or short, and given modern flair with curves or colors or kept utilitarian to blend into the surroundings. Keep in mind the dispenser must meet the main objective of filling bottles, so design the unit with enough space between both the back and front and spout and basin so at least bottles of regular height and circumference can be inserted. Be mindful of regulations established by the Americans with Disabilities Act so the dispenser can be used by all individuals; the height of the dispenser and controls are two key aspects of ADA compliance.

• 3

  Determine the method of water storage or delivery for your dispensing unit. Some stations located away from public water lines make use of tanks, whether underground or as part of the station. Such designs will need to include a pump and pressure regulator to ensure the water can be delivered up and through the unit. Otherwise, connection to a pressurized municipal water line can be controlled through the size of tubing used within the unit.

• 4

  Consult with a manufacturer to ensure your design will work. Determine whether the dispenser will be made of plastic or metal and work with a company specializing in that type of material. Find out whether you will need to hire a separate contractor to hook up the internal plumbing and, if necessary, electricity.

Operation

• 5

  Install your completed water-filling station after securing all necessary government permits and any needed access to water and electrical utilities. Attach the unit according to your design by bolting it to the wall or ground.

• 6

  Connect any necessary power supplies to control the unit. Lighted displays and an internal pump will need to be powered by an electrical source, either a battery, converted energy from a solar panel, or an AC outlet. Ensure the simple on-off switch is powered to control water flow.

• 7

  Install plumbing connections by connecting the supply lines to the source. Use only materials approved for drinking water; the local building code sets the standard.

• 8

  Test your water station. Place an empty water bottle into the opening between the spout and basin. The basin will have a drain to collect unused or spilled water and return it for sanitary treatment. Press a clearly marked button to dispense water from the spout. Fill the bottle to the desired level. Disengage the control and stop the water flow by letting go of the button. Remove your bottle from underneath the spout.

• 9

  Confirm the water quality meets local standards by having a sample tested by a laboratory. Seek professional assistance to correct any issues and bring your provided water into compliance with public health guidelines.