1. How are the water coolers installed?

A: Every cooler installation is slightly different, but a typical installation involves putting the water filtration system inside or on the back of the cooler, depending on model, or under a sink if the cooler is next to it. In addition, we’ll install a “T” in the filtered water line and run it to coffee machines and ice makers. In cases where the water coolers are not located in the kitchen, we’ll run the water lines over the dropped ceilings and down inside the wall. We’ll then cut a small hole in the wall behind the cooler, cover it with a wall plate, install a shut-off valve and connect the water line to the back of the cooler. We use highly reliable copper tubing (not plastic) and pressure regulators as required. Our installations are similar to how your phone, or computer, lines have been run throughout your office.

2. How do you know when the filters need to be changed? How often should the coolers be serviced?

A: We recommend that each cooler service a maximum of 40 employees. This will allow the filter to normally last for a full 12-months, while also filtering the water for your coffee and ice machines. Our standard service procedure is to have the coolers serviced (cleaned and sanitized, all operating parts checked and the water quality and temperature checked) every 6 months. We also tailor service contracts and filter replacements to suit many of our clients’ specific needs.

3. What kind of filters do you use?

A: We use a broad range of filter types and manufacturers (See our section on Filtration Systems). Our standard filtration unit uses a Pre-Filter at 1-micron and an Extruded Carbon/Heavy Metals Filter at 0.5 micron to filter out chlorine, lead, cysts, parasites and other contaminant larger than 0.5 micron in size. Our enhanced optional upgrades include: Bacteria, Ultraviolet and Reverse Osmosis.

4. What is a Reverse Osmosis (RO) Filter?

A: Reverse Osmosis filters use “Semi-Permeable Membrane” technology. In this technology water is pushed against a membrane with microscopic pores that only allow H₂O molecules to pass through. All other contaminants are flushed away leaving only extremely pure water for drinking.

5. Where does bottled water come from?

A: Bottled water is frequently filtered tap water or it comes from other sources such as wells or springs. Almost all bottled water is filtered at the bottling plant and sealed into bottles. Bottled water is not necessarily safer than tap water, as it sits unrefridgerated in bottles for indefinite periods, resulting in bacteria growth over time. Leaching of the chemicals that make up the plastic bottles can also be a problem as the bottles are reused over a number of years.

6. What's the problem with bottled water?

A: The most obvious problem with bottled water, and the water that is dispensed from bottled coolers, is shelf life that results in bacteria growth over time. After bottled water has been filtered it sits in the bottles unrefridgerated, which allows the growth of bacteria. Also, dirt, dust, and airborne germs can easily enter the bottled water coolers through the large opening in the top of the cooler. When the bottles are changed the neck of the bottled is rarely sanitized, nor are the person’s hands changing the bottle, therefore whatever is on the neck or on the bottle changer’s hands is now in your water storage tank. And finally, when was the last time you saw the bottled water company come and clean, or sanitize, a bottled water cooler?

7. What is BPA?

A: BPA short for Bisphenol A is a chemical compound found in some hard, clear, lightweight plastics and resins. It's used in the production of various types of food and drink containers, compact discs, electronics and automobile parts, and as a liner in some metal cans. Animal studies suggest that, once ingested, BPA may imitate estrogen and other hormones, according to the National Institutes of Health.

8. What makes CLASSWATER P.O.U. (Point-of-Use) Water Coolers different from other companies that supply filtered coolers?

A: Click Here

9. How do I know if my container contains bisphenol A?

A: Some polycarbonate containers — especially water bottles — are marked with the code number 7 on the bottom. If unsure, call the manufacturer and ask about the BPA content in the product. Polycarbonate plastics are the hard, see-through plastics used to make products such as baby bottles, reuseable water bottles. Classwater Coolers are all BPA free.