Maintaining clean drinking fountains is crucial for both health and aesthetic reasons. Not only does a clean fountain ensure the water tastes fresh and is safe to drink, but it also prevents the spread of germs and maintains the fountain’s appearance. In this blog, we will cover everything you need to know about how to clean drinking fountains, from the tools required to step-by-step instructions and maintenance tips.

Understanding the Importance of Clean Drinking Fountains

Clean drinking fountains are essential for several reasons. Health implications are a primary concern; dirty drinking fountains can harbor bacteria and viruses, posing a health risk to users. Moreover, contaminants can affect the taste and smell of the water, making it unappealing to drink. Additionally, public and institutional fountains must meet health and safety standards to ensure user safety.

Tools and Materials Needed

Before you begin cleaning, gather the necessary supplies. For a regular maintenance cleaning, supplies would include mild detergent or soap, a non-toxic disinfectant, stainless steel cleaner/polish, soft brushes and cloths, a spray bottle, gloves, and safety goggles. 

For deeper remedial cleaning, particularly hard water stains and even rust (which can occur on outside fountains), you’ll want a bathroom cleaner containing phosphoric acid or acetic acid (i.e. vinegar), CLR (Calcium Lime Rust remover), baking soda, a 3M Scotchbrite pad, and a toothbrush.

Important Note: Never use cleaners with chemicals ending in -ine (chlorine, bromine, bleach, etc), as they will strip the natural protective coating on stainless steel, and begin the oxidation process resulting in rust. Some manufacturers also recommend against cleaners with ammonia.

Step-by-Step Drinking Fountain Cleaning Guide

1. Preparation

Start by gathering all your supplies. Ensure you are wearing gloves and safety goggles to protect yourself from any cleaning agents. If possible, turn off the water supply to the fountain.

2. Initial Cleaning

Begin by removing any visible debris from the fountain. Use a damp cloth to wipe down the exterior surfaces, ensuring you remove dust and dirt. Some fountains have a steel cabinet with a vinyl coating. These panels, along with any plastic parts (like buttons) are designed to be mostly maintenance free and you should avoid using harsh or abrasive cleaners and brushes which may damage or scratch the coating. For the stainless steel parts of your fountain, the basin, and potentially the cabinet, you can be more aggressive. More detailed guidelines are listed below by material type.

3. Cleaning the Basin and Spout

For periodic, regular maintenance, apply mild detergent to the basin and scrub with a soft brush. For hard-to-reach areas around the spout, use a toothbrush. Rinse thoroughly with clean water to ensure all soap residues are removed. Always finish by applying a stainless steel cleaner/polish to any stainless steel surfaces.

When addressing more stubborn issues like rust and/or discoloration, it’s always best to start with the least harsh methods and build up to the more abrasive ones only when necessary. Remember to give the chemicals time to work before scrubbing and rinsing. If the stainless steel has a “brushed” finish (which most do), work with the grain to avoid introducing noticeable scratches. Sometimes this is unavoidable, in which case, the 3M ScotchBrite pad can be used to buff the area (again going in the direction of the grain) to minimize the visibility. Again, always finish with a stainless steel polish.

4. Disinfecting

Periodically, as part of a scheduled maintenance, spray a non-toxic disinfectant on all surfaces of the fountain. Allow the disinfectant to sit for the recommended time indicated on the product label. Afterward, rinse the surfaces again to remove any remaining residue.

5. Cleaning the Water Lines (if accessible)

If you notice a persistent odor, or taste to the water coming out of the fountain, a cleaning and flushing of the water lines may be necessary. On outdoor fountains this will be part of the “winterizing” process. In general, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning or purging the water lines. This will usually involve disconnecting the fountain from the water supply and using a compressor to push water out of the waterway. If necessary, use vinegar or a specialized cleaner to ensure the lines are free of buildup. Unless you are experienced with this type of maintenance, using a plumber for this job is recommended. 

6. Final Rinse and Dry

Rinse all surfaces with clean water one last time. Use a clean, soft cloth to dry the fountain, which helps prevent water spots and streaks.

Care Instructions by Material

Different materials require different care instructions Here are guidelines for cleaning some common materials found in drinking fountains:

1. Stainless Steel

• Cleaning: Use a soft cloth or sponge with mild soap and water to clean stainless steel surfaces. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scrubbers that can scratch the surface.
• Disinfecting: For disinfecting, a solution of diluted bleach (1 part bleach to 9 parts water) can be used. Be sure to rinse the surfaces with clean water afterward to prevent corrosion.
• Polishing: For fingerprints and smudges, glass cleaner or a stainless steel cleaner can be used to polish the surface and restore its shine.

2. Plastic and Composite Materials

• Cleaning: Plastic components can be cleaned with a soft cloth dampened with a mild detergent solution. Harsh chemicals should be avoided as they can degrade the plastic over time.
• Disinfecting: A mild bleach solution can also be used to disinfect plastic surfaces. Ensure that the solution is thoroughly rinsed off to prevent any residue.
• Care: Avoid using abrasive pads, as they can leave scratches where bacteria can accumulate.

3. Porcelain and Enamel

• Cleaning: Non-abrasive cleaners and a soft cloth can effectively clean porcelain surfaces without causing damage.
• Disinfecting: Hydrogen peroxide is a gentle option for disinfecting porcelain, avoiding the harsh effects of chlorine bleach.
• Stain Removal: For tougher stains, create a paste of baking soda and water, apply it to the stain, and let it sit before scrubbing gently with a non-abrasive tool.

4. Chrome

• Cleaning: Chrome finishes can be cleaned with soapy water and a soft rag. Dry the surface immediately to prevent water spots.
• Polishing: For extra shine, a chrome polish can be applied following the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Precaution: Avoid acidic cleaners or bleach, which can damage the chrome finish.

5. Copper and Brass

• Cleaning: Regular cleaning with soapy water is sufficient for copper and brass surfaces. These materials should be dried thoroughly to prevent tarnish.
• Polishing: Commercial polishes specific to copper or brass can be used to maintain a bright finish.
• Natural Solutions: A mixture of lemon juice and baking soda can be used for natural polishing.

Maintenance Tips

To keep your drinking fountain in top condition, establish a regular cleaning schedule with daily, weekly, and monthly tasks. Perform periodic deep cleaning to address any accumulated dirt and grime. Regularly monitor the fountain for any signs of damage or malfunction, and encourage users to report any issues immediately to ensure prompt attention.

How to winterize a drinking fountain

Winterizing a drinking fountain is essential to prevent damage caused by freezing temperatures. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to properly winterize a drinking fountain:

1. Shut Off the Water Supply: Locate the main water supply valve for the drinking fountain and turn it off. This prevents any additional water from entering the fountain.

2. Drain the Water Lines: Open the drain valves or use a compressed air system to blow out any remaining water from the supply lines. This step is crucial to prevent water from freezing and expanding inside the pipes, which can cause cracks or bursts.

3. Disconnect and Empty the Fountain: If possible, disconnect the fountain from the water supply line and drain any remaining water from the fountain itself. Remove and drain any internal components, such as filters or chillers, to ensure they are completely empty.

4. Remove and Store Removable Parts: Remove any removable parts, such as nozzles, push buttons, or other small components, and store them in a dry, safe place. This helps prevent these parts from becoming damaged or lost during the winter months.

5. Insulate Exposed Pipes: Wrap any exposed pipes with insulation material or heat tape. This provides an extra layer of protection against freezing temperatures.

6. Cover the Fountain: Use a waterproof cover to protect the drinking fountain from snow, ice, and debris. Ensure the cover is securely fastened and provides adequate protection throughout the winter.

7. Check for Leaks: Inspect the fountain and surrounding area for any signs of leaks or water damage. Address any issues before winter sets in to prevent further damage.

8. Schedule Regular Inspections: Periodically check the covered and winterized fountain throughout the winter to ensure the cover remains secure and no water has infiltrated the protected areas.

9. Prepare for Spring: As winter ends and temperatures begin to rise, start planning for the reactivation of the drinking fountain. This includes checking for any damage, reconnecting the water supply, and testing the fountain to ensure it is working correctly.

Seasonal Maintenance for Drinking Fountains

Seasonal maintenance of drinking fountains is essential for ensuring their optimal performance and longevity. In spring, reactivate the fountain by reconnecting the water supply, inspecting for winter damage, cleaning, sanitizing, and replacing filters as necessary. During summer, perform regular cleanings, monitor water quality, and check drainage systems due to higher usage. In fall, conduct a thorough inspection and deep cleaning, replace filters, and prepare for winterization. Winterize the fountain by shutting off the water supply, draining all water, insulating exposed pipes, and covering the fountain securely. Regular checks throughout winter will help prevent damage. This comprehensive approach ensures the fountain remains functional and provides safe, clean water year-round.

Special Considerations

When cleaning outdoor versus indoor drinking fountains, there are specific considerations to keep in mind. Outdoor fountains may require more frequent cleaning due to exposure to elements such as dust, leaves, and insects. Indoor fountains, while less exposed, still need regular maintenance to ensure cleanliness and functionality.

Eco-friendly cleaning options are available for those looking to reduce their environmental impact. Natural cleaners like vinegar and baking soda can effectively clean and disinfect without harsh chemicals. Avoiding harsh chemicals is not only better for the environment but also safer for users.

For stubborn stains or mineral deposits, vinegar or a descaling solution can be highly effective. A paste made from baking soda and water can also help remove stubborn stains.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter low water pressure or flow, check for blockages in the spout or water lines. Ensure that the water supply valve is fully open. Persistent bad odors may indicate mold or mildew, which can be addressed by thoroughly cleaning the fountain and regularly flushing the water lines.

Visible mold or mildew requires prompt action. Use a disinfectant to kill mold and mildew and ensure the fountain is kept dry when not in use. If the water tastes metallic or off, flushing the water lines to remove any buildup and checking for issues with the water supply can resolve the problem.

Conclusion

Maintaining clean drinking fountains is essential for health, safety, and aesthetic reasons. By following a regular cleaning routine and addressing any issues promptly, you can ensure your drinking fountains remain in excellent condition. Implement these tips and encourage others to do the same to promote a healthy environment.