With the first bell around the corner, now is the best time to inspect drinking fountains and bottle filling stations across your campus. Elkay remains a top choice for schools thanks to proven reliability, ADA-friendly designs, and easy serviceability. Below is a quick readiness guide and a list of in-stock units and retrofit options available from City Supply.
Quick Start Checklist
- Replace filters and reset the filter monitor (most Elkay filters are rated for ~3,000 gallons).
- Verify LED filter status indicators and ensure bottle filler counters reset properly.
- Test flow rate and temperature; confirm chillers start and cycle normally.
- Sanitize nozzles, bottle filler dispense points, and drain grates; replace worn splash guards.
- Confirm ADA clearances and fix loose anchors, escutcheons, or trim before students return.
Filters: What To Check and When To Replace
Most Elkay and compatible Halsey Taylor bottle filling systems use high-capacity carbon block cartridges designed to reduce chlorine taste/odor and particulates. A typical service interval is either when the filter light turns red, the 3,000-gallon capacity is reached, or every 6–12 months—whichever comes first.
- Identify the cartridge: Open the access panel and note the filter label/model printed on the cartridge.
- Replace like-for-like: Use the exact cartridge model specified for your unit to maintain flow and performance.
- Flush after install: Run water for the manufacturer-recommended time to clear air and carbon fines.
- Reset the indicator: Press and hold the filter reset button per the unit’s instructions so the LED reflects the new cartridge.
Need filters now? City Supply stocks common Elkay/Halsey Taylor 3,000-gallon cartridges and compatible options for popular EZH2O™ bottle fillers. Contact our team for fast picks and local availability.
Upgrade & Retrofit Options
If your existing fountains are older, a retrofit can bring them up to current standards without replacing the entire station.
- Convert standalone coolers into bottle filling stations to reduce plastic waste and lines between classes.
- Add filtration to improve taste, odor, and student adoption of refillable bottles.
- Choose vandal-resistant fronts and heavy-duty components for busy hallways and gym areas.
In-Stock Units at City Supply
These models are stocked for fast turnaround (subject to change):
- ELK VRC8S — Vandal-resistant stainless-steel water cooler
- HAL HAC8BLSS-NF — Bi-level ADA stainless-steel water cooler
- HAL HAC8SS-NF — 8-GPH ADA stainless-steel cooler
Pair any of the above with replacement filter cartridges and service parts so your team can complete installs in a single visit.
Why Act Before Students Return?
- Minimize downtime and service calls during the first weeks of school
- Improve water quality and encourage bottle refills over single-use plastics
- Support sustainability goals and potential LEED credits