Activation Methods: Manual vs. Contactless

One key feature of these indoor hydration station combos is the activation method for dispensing water. OASIS offers models with both manual controls and touch-free controls:

• Manual Activation (Push-Button): Many units use simple mechanical push-buttons or push-pads. For example, some combo models have a bottle filler that requires pressing a touch-button, and the fountain bubblers activate via push pads or push-buttons. This classic design is intuitive and reliable, delivering water on demand as long as the button is pressed. It does require physical contact, but key components are often treated with antimicrobial materials to mitigate germ spread.
• Contactless Activation (Sensor-Activated): To maximize hygiene, newer hydration stations feature hands-free, sensor-based activation. In these models, an electronic infrared sensor detects a user or bottle in place and automatically dispenses water without any physical touch. For instance, the OASIS VersaFiller P8EBFTY combo uses a sensor for the bottle filler and even infrared sensors for the fountain spouts, making the entire station 100% touch-free. Sensor-activated bottle fillers typically include an automatic shut-off (e.g. 30-second timer) to prevent continuous running. The result is a highly hygienic, contactless water dispenser ideal for settings where preventing germ spread is a priority (such as hospitals and schools during flu season).

Both activation styles have their use cases. Manual push-buttons are simple and don’t require a power source for operation, while contactless models enhance cleanliness and user confidence in the water station’s hygiene. In many cases, combo units even incorporate both methods: for example, a common configuration is a sensor-activated bottle filler paired with a manually activated fountain, offering a touch-free bottle refill along with a push-button drinking fountain. This dual-activation approach covers user preferences and conserves water with automatic shut-offs on the bottle filler.

Mounting Styles and Installation Options

Indoor bottle filler + fountain combos come in a range of mounting and installation styles to suit different building layouts:

• Wall-Mounted (Surface Mount): These units attach directly to a wall’s surface. Surface-mount combos are often seen in hallways or break rooms; they protrude from the wall and provide a fountain basin (or two basins in a bi-level design) with a bottle filler typically above the top basin. Surface-mounted combos are relatively easy to install on any sturdy wall and make for a visible, accessible hydration point. For example, the VersaFiller PEBFSLY model is a surface-mount combo with a bottle filler above and two side-by-side fountains (high and low), anchored to the wall.
• Recessed (Built-In): Recessed combos are designed to integrate into the wall, with the unit’s body set flush or partially flush with the wall surface. This built-in style (often called an architectural or built-in fountain) offers a clean look and saves space in narrow corridors. An example is the OASIS M8WRSBFY model, which is a recessed “hydration station” combo: it has an integrated bottle filler and fountain set into a wall panel, creating a sleek profile. Recessed units typically have a drain and chiller cabinet hidden behind the wall, with locking panels for maintenance.
• Free-Standing: Less common for indoor settings but available, free-standing combo units are self-contained fixtures that bolt to the floor. These are useful when wall installation is not practical. A free-standing indoor combo might feature a pedestal design with one or two drinking fountains at different heights and a bottle filling spout integrated into the structure. Free-standing units make sense for large indoor atriums or areas where walls are not available or are glass. They provide flexibility in placement similar to a traditional drinking fountain pedestal.

Each mounting style supports ADA accessibility compliance when installed at the proper heights. For instance, many wall-mounted and recessed OASIS combos are designed as split-level (bi-level) fountains, meaning they have two drinking fountain basins at different heights – a higher one for standing adults and a lower one for children or wheelchair users. This ensures compliance with accessibility standards (such as ADA in the U.S. and similar EU regulations) by providing an option that can be comfortably used by persons with disabilities. The bottle filler portion is usually positioned in the middle, within reach range for wheelchair users. In general, these products are certified to meet accessibility guidelines when installed correctly, offering inclusive hydration for all users.

Ambient vs. Chilled Water

Another consideration is whether the unit provides chilled water or room-temperature water. Indoor hydration station combos come in ambient (non-refrigerated) and refrigerated models:

• Ambient Water (Non-Refrigerated): Ambient models dispense room-temperature water, using only the building’s supply without active cooling. These units have no compressor or refrigeration system, which means they consume little to no electricity (aside from any sensor activation power) and require less maintenance. They are often favored for retrofits or where providing cooled water is not critical. For example, a model like the M8WRSBFY can be configured to deliver ambient drinking water. Ambient units still typically include filtration options and all other features, just minus the chilling. They are energy-efficient and simpler internally.
• Chilled Water (Refrigerated): Refrigerated combos include an internal chiller that cools the water before dispensing, usually to around 10°C. These units provide a refreshing cold drink, which can be a big advantage in warm indoor environments or schools where students appreciate cold water. Chilled models are often indicated by codes like “M8” (meaning an 8 GPH chilling capacity) in OASIS product names. The OASIS VersaFiller P8EBFTY is an example of a refrigerated hydration station combo, capable of cooling and dispensing up to 60 liters per hour of chilled water. Refrigerated units require a power supply to run the compressor and have slightly more complex installation (for electrical hookup and ventilation for the chiller). Many models use efficient refrigeration systems that only run when needed or have eco-friendly refrigerants (like R-600a) to minimize energy use. When chilled water isn’t a priority, facility managers may opt for ambient versions to save on electricity and maintenance, but offering chilled water can encourage more water consumption and reduce reliance on bottled cold drinks.

Advanced Hygiene Features

Indoor bottle filler/fountain combos put a strong emphasis on hygiene and user safety. Since these stations are used by many people throughout the day, OASIS has incorporated several technologies to keep the water and surfaces clean:

• Freshield™ Antimicrobial Protection: Freshield is OASIS’s proprietary antimicrobial treatment applied to key plastic components of the fountains and bottle fillers. This silver-based additive inhibits the growth of mold and mildew and reduces bacteria on surfaces. For example, the bottle filler spout, push buttons, and drain pans often contain Freshield, creating a built-in barrier against germs. This helps protect the unit’s surfaces from discoloration, odors, and degradation due to microbial growth. Importantly, it keeps the high-touch areas (like the push pads and nozzle area) more sanitary between cleanings. Freshield doesn’t replace routine cleaning, but it provides continuous antimicrobial action in the background.
• QUASAR UV-C LED Disinfection: Some hydration station combos can be equipped with UV-C LED disinfection technology to purify the water. OASIS’s Quasar system uses UV-C light to eliminate pathogens in the water stream without chemicals. In certain models, a UV-C LED module is available as an optional add-on for the bottle filler spout. For instance, the contactless VersaFiller P8EBQ series integrates a QUASAR UV-C LED at the point of dispense, which inactivates bacteria and viruses in the water as it flows out. This provides extra assurance of water purity – an important feature for hospitals or healthcare facilities. The UV-C option runs on low power and activates only during dispensing, making it efficient. While optional, having built-in UV disinfection is a cutting-edge feature that differentiates premium hydration stations focused on health and safety.
• Filtered Water: Most indoor combos can accommodate water filters to improve taste and quality. OASIS units often support an in-line filter (like the Oasis Green Filter) to reduce contaminants like chlorine, lead, or particulates. Filters are usually optional but recommended in areas where water quality is a concern. Some models include a built-in 100 micron strainer on the incoming water line to catch particles and sediment before they enter the internal waterway. This protects the valves and also contributes to cleaner water.
• Hands-Free Bottle Filling: Even on units that have manual fountains, the bottle filler portion is frequently touch-free (activated by sensor). This significantly reduces the need to touch the unit, especially given that many people now prefer not to put their mouth on a bubbler. Users can bring their reusable bottle and refill it without contact. Additionally, the water outlet is designed for hygiene – many OASIS bottle fillers use a laminar flow spout which minimizes splash and prevents airborne contaminants from entering the water stream.
• Drainage and Maintenance: Hygiene also extends to how the unit handles excess water. Combo stations typically include either an integrated drain or a drain pan. Oasis designs feature a built-in drain system so that excess water from the bottle filler goes directly into a drain, rather than pooling in a tray. This means there’s no drip tray to empty, which not only is convenient but also more sanitary (standing water can harbor bacteria). The heavy-duty steel frames and panels on these units often have locking access panels, making it easier for maintenance staff to periodically sanitize internal components or change filters.

By combining these features – antimicrobial surfaces, optional UV-C purification, effective filtration, and contactless operation – indoor bottle filler combos ensure optimal hygiene for users. This is crucial in high-traffic areas like schools, where dozens of students might use the fountain in an hour. The goal is to provide water that is not just convenient, but also clean and safe to drink, encouraging people to choose refillable water over sugary drinks or disposable bottles.

Sustainability and Bottle Counter Features

One of the driving forces behind the popularity of bottle filling stations is sustainability. These combo units actively promote the use of reusable water bottles, helping reduce plastic waste. OASIS hydration stations incorporate features to highlight and enhance their environmental impact:

• Bottle Refill Counter: Most modern OASIS bottle fillers include a digital or analog counter that tracks the number of bottles refilled. For example, the VersaFiller units have an integrated bottle counter display that shows the number of times the unit has been used. This serves as a visual reminder of how many disposable bottles were potentially kept out of landfills by refilling instead of buying new bottles. It’s a powerful motivator – users often take pride in seeing the count go up. A school or office can thus quantify their contribution to reducing plastic waste. The counter resets when needed (like during maintenance), but generally provides an accumulating tally of sustainable refills.
• Reduction of Plastic Waste: By making refilling easy, a single hydration station can displace thousands of single-use plastic bottles over its lifetime. Studies cited by OASIS note that installing these stations in high-traffic areas significantly cuts down on the number of disposable bottles consumed. For environmentally conscious organizations, this is a major benefit. It aligns with green building initiatives and sustainability goals. Many schools have adopted bottle filling stations as part of their eco-friendly programs, often tying it into educational campaigns about reducing waste.
• Energy Efficiency: The design of these units also considers energy use. Ambient models use virtually no energy, and even refrigerated models often have energy-saving features (like sleep modes or on-demand cooling). The use of LED lighting for bottle counters and sensors keeps electricity usage low. In essence, these stations provide a sustainable hydration solution – not only do they reduce plastic, but they are also designed to minimize power and water wastage.
• Supporting Wellness Initiatives: Sustainability is also about human health. By providing free, accessible water, these stations encourage people to drink water instead of sugary beverages. Over time, this can contribute to better health outcomes (fewer sugary drink bottles sold also means less plastic waste). Many offices install hydration stations as part of wellness programs, promoting hydration for employees’ health and productivity. The ease of filling a bottle encourages people to carry reusable bottles and stay hydrated throughout the day.

In summary, indoor bottle filler and drinking fountain combos are a sustainable choice on multiple levels: reducing plastic waste, saving energy (especially compared to vending machines or coolers that constantly chill water), and fostering healthy hydration habits. The inclusion of a bottle counter is a smart touch that visibly connects users to the positive environmental impact of their actions.

Ideal Environments and Use Cases

Indoor combined bottle fillers with fountains are versatile and find use in many settings. Here are some typical environments and why these hydration stations make sense there:

• Schools and Universities: Perhaps the most common location for these combos is in education facilities. Hallways in schools now feature hydration stations so students can quickly sip from the fountain or refill their water bottles between classes. The bi-level fountain design is perfect for accommodating students of all ages (taller high-schoolers and smaller children) and those in wheelchairs. Contactless bottle fillers are popular in schools to minimize germ spread among students. The high usage in schools also makes the robust construction (stainless steel frame, heavy-duty push pads) important to withstand daily wear and tear. With many schools aiming to eliminate single-use plastic bottles, these stations reinforce sustainability education.
• Offices and Corporate Campuses: Businesses install bottle filler + fountain units in break rooms, cafeterias, and corridors to provide employees and visitors easy access to water. In an office, the hygienic aspect is a big plus – sensor-activated fillers and antimicrobial surfaces align with corporate health protocols (especially after recent public health concerns). They also reduce the need to purchase bottled water for meetings or use water delivery services, thereby cutting costs and waste. The sleek, modern appearance of stainless steel units fits well in corporate environments. Additionally, providing such amenities supports employee wellness initiatives, keeping everyone hydrated and productive.
• Hospitals and Healthcare Facilities: In hospitals, cleanliness and accessibility are paramount. Hydration stations in waiting areas or hallways allow patients, staff, and visitors to fill up bottles without needing to find a cafeteria. The touchless operation and ability to have UV-C disinfection are crucial in healthcare settings to prevent any risk of cross-contamination. These units also meet healthcare regulations for drinking water provision and disability access. Because hospitals run 24/7, the stations are built to be reliable under constant use, and the Freshield antimicrobial surfaces add an extra layer of protection in a sensitive environment.
• Gyms and Sports Complexes: Indoor sports facilities and fitness centers benefit from combo water stations by giving athletes a quick way to hydrate. Many people at gyms carry their own water bottles; a bottle filler accommodates this perfectly. At the same time, a fountain allows a quick sip if someone forgot their bottle. These units often appear in gym corridors or near locker rooms. A sturdy design handles the occasional bumps from sports equipment, and the high capacity ensures cold water is available even during peak gym hours. The bottle counter might even be used as a fun metric to challenge gym members to save more bottles over time.
• Airports and Transit Hubs: Though semi-outdoor, many airports and train stations have indoor hydration stations for travelers. Reducing plastic waste is a goal for many transit hubs, and offering bottle fillers after security checkpoints encourages passengers to refill reusable bottles instead of buying new plastic bottles. Here, heavy-duty construction and reliable performance are non-negotiable, given the huge foot traffic. Units must be ADA-compliant and multilingual in any instructions or signage. OASIS combos, with their visual cues (universal symbols for bottle filling) and robust build, are well-suited for such demanding environments.

In all these use cases, a few common themes stand out: hygiene, accessibility, durability, and sustainability. Indoor bottle filler + fountain combos address all these, making them an ideal hydration solution for modern facilities. They ensure everyone – from a child in a school to an adult in a wheelchair, from a busy employee to a patient in a hospital – can conveniently get a drink of water or refill a bottle. By emphasizing hands-free technology and cleanliness, they maintain a sanitary environment. By being built tough and accessible, they serve all users for years. And by promoting refills over single-use plastics, they contribute to greener, more sustainable operations.