Why Install Drinking Fountain Covers? Improve Hygiene and Appearance

Why You Should Consider Drinking Fountain Covers

Providing clean and accessible drinking water is important for any commercial establishment. Drinking fountains allow customers and employees to easily quench their thirst without needing to purchase bottled beverages. However, without proper maintenance, drinking fountains can become dirty and contaminated with bacteria.

That's where drinking fountain covers come in. These simple accessories offer a variety of benefits that make them worth considering for your business, school, gym or other facility.

Prevent Dirt and Debris Buildup

Uncovered drinking fountains are exposed to all sorts of airborne contaminants. Dirt, dust and other debris can easily get into the stream of water or settle on fountain surfaces. Drinking fountain covers act as protective barriers that keep the spout and nozzle clean.

Covers are especially useful in high-traffic locations and outdoor areas where fountains are more likely to accumulate unwanted particles. If dirt and debris aren't regularly cleaned out, they provide the ideal environment for the growth of bacteria, mold and other microorganisms.

Improve Hygiene

Uncovered drinking fountains are also prime targets for individuals looking to pull pranks or otherwise contaminate the water supply. Some people may spit gum or other objects into an open fountain.

Drinking fountain covers prevent direct hands-on access to fountain spouts. This reduces the risk of pranks while also discouraging thirsty individuals from touching spouts with dirty hands. Overall, covers promote better hygienic practices.

Reduce Risk of Vandalism

Unfortunately, drinking fountains are sometimes the victims of vandalism. Individuals may damage the fountains themselves or add dangerous contaminants to fountain water supplies. Covers provide an added layer of protection from potential vandalism attempts.

Tamper-resistant covers with lockable hinges make it much more difficult for pranksters to access internal components. Cutting down on vandalism saves money on repairs and replacements over time.

Conserve Water

Leaks are another common drinking fountain issue. Fountains may develop leaks around tubing, pipe fittings or the nozzle. Dripping water ends up getting wasted.

Covers allow leaks to be identified and addressed early before they become major problems. Properly covering fountains when not in use also reduces inadvertent water discharge from people accidentally pressing fountain buttons.

Improve Appearances

Over time, drinking fountains can start to appear grimy and dirty, even with regular cleanings. Stains, mineral deposits and corrosion can build up on fountain bowls and surfaces. Drinking fountain covers provide quick cosmetic facelifts.

New covers revive old fountains, hiding unsightly damage. Made from stainless steel or solid plastics, covers maintain their attractive appearances for years. Fountain areas stay looking cleaner, which is something customers and visitors will appreciate.

Key Factors to Consider When Buying Covers

Drinking fountain covers are available in a range of styles, sizes and materials to accommodate different needs. Here are some key considerations when selecting covers for your facility:

Fountain Design

Make sure to choose a cover made specifically for your existing drinking fountain model. Measure fountain dimensions and spout positions. Covers should completely shield fountain nozzles and bowls without interfering with normal water streams.

Ease of Cleaning

Covers simplify fountain maintenance, but the covers themselves will still need periodic cleanings. Select covers made from non-porous materials that are easy to wipe down and sanitize. Removable covers allow convenient cleaning access to fountain bowls.

Durability

Given their exposure to hands and spills, drinking fountain covers should be able to withstand bumps, scrapes and cleaning chemicals. Look for heavy-duty covers made from stainless steel, solid plastics or similarly durable materials.

Tamper Resistance

For high-risk public spaces, considercovers with locking mechanisms. While not completely tamper-proof, lockable covers deter opportunistic vandals.

Style Coordination

Drinking fountain covers are available in different colors and finishes. Opt for neutral metallic and solid color covers that will match any decor. Or choose bolder colored covers to make functional fountains into unique design statements.

Costs

Basic plastic fountain covers start around $50, while the most heavy-duty stainless steel covers run $100 and up. Consider costs along with durability and ease of installation when choosing covers.

Installing Drinking Fountain Covers

Putting on new drinking fountain covers is a simple process. Here are some installation tips:

Prepare the Fountain

Give the drinking fountain a thorough cleaning before putting on the new cover. Remove any standing water, dirt, debris or mineral deposits. This allows for proper cover fitting and performance.

Follow Instructions

Covers usually come with manufacturer instructions detailing the installation process. Always follow directions carefully to ensure correct cover placement.

Use Proper Tools

Covers typically attach via set screws, bolts or other hardware. Have the necessary screwdrivers, wrenches and other tools on hand before starting.

Check Alignment

After securing the cover, test it out. Activate the fountain and observe water flow. Make any adjustments needed if the cover is misaligned or obstructing water streams.

Consider Professional Help

For newer fountain models with complex designs, professional installation may be the best option. Experienced tradespeople have the skills to properly fit covers on intricate drinking fountains.

Keep Your Fountain Covered

Clean drinking water is something people expect when entering any public building. Make a good impression while maintaining sanitary water systems by installing drinking fountain covers. Protecting your investment in drinking fountains also saves on repair and replacement costs down the road.

With options for nearly any fountain, affordable pricing and easy installation, there's no reason to leave fountains exposed. Drinking fountain covers provide hygienic protection, visual appeal and reliable performance for years of refreshed, contamination-free water.

FAQs

What are the benefits of drinking fountain covers?

Drinking fountain covers provide several important benefits:

• Prevent contamination from dirt, debris and hands
• Improve fountain hygiene and sanitation
• Deter vandalism and tampering
• Conserve water by preventing leaks
• Hide stains and damage for better appearance

What materials are drinking fountain covers made from?

Common drinking fountain cover materials include:

• Stainless steel - durable and easy to clean
• Solid plastic - affordable and customizable colors
• Aluminum - corrosion-resistant for outdoor use

How do you install a drinking fountain cover?

Installing covers involves these basic steps:

• Clean and prepare the drinking fountain
• Follow the cover manufacturer's instructions
• Use proper tools to attach cover hardware
• Test water flow and adjust cover if needed

How much do drinking fountain covers cost?

Cover costs range from:

• Basic plastic - $50 to $75
• High-end stainless steel - $100 to $250

Where can I buy covers for my drinking fountain model?

Major online retailers offer a selection of standard drinking fountain covers. For specialized or custom covers, check with manufacturers like Halsey Taylor, Elkay, Murdock or Oasis for covers suited to your existing fountains.