How To Clean A Drinking Fountain

How to Clean a Drinking Fountain: A Step-by-Step Guide

Maintaining a clean drinking fountain is crucial for ensuring the health and safety of everyone who uses it. A dirty drinking fountain can harbor harmful bacteria and germs, leading to illness. This comprehensive guide will provide you with a step-by-step process for effectively cleaning your drinking fountain, regardless of its type. We'll cover everything from basic cleaning to tackling more stubborn stains and issues.

Preparing for the Cleaning Process

Before you begin, gather your cleaning supplies. You'll need:

• Cleaning solution: A mild, non-toxic cleaner is best. Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the fountain or leave behind a residue. A solution of warm water and a small amount of dish soap is usually sufficient. You can also consider using a commercial cleaner specifically designed for drinking fountains.
• Scrub brushes: You'll need different sized brushes to reach various areas of the fountain. A bottle brush is great for cleaning narrow pipes and spouts.
• Sponges: Soft sponges are ideal for wiping down surfaces.
• Clean cloths or paper towels: These are essential for drying the fountain after cleaning.
• Gloves: Protecting your hands with gloves is always a good idea.
• Bucket: A bucket is helpful for holding your cleaning solution.

Step-by-Step Cleaning Instructions

1. Turn Off the Power: This is the most crucial step. Always disconnect the power supply before beginning any cleaning process to prevent electric shock.

2. Pre-Rinse: Use warm water to pre-rinse the fountain's surfaces, removing loose dirt and debris.

3. Apply Cleaning Solution: Apply your chosen cleaning solution to the surfaces of the fountain. Pay close attention to areas where water frequently collects, such as the spout and the basin.

4. Scrub and Clean: Using your brushes and sponges, thoroughly scrub all surfaces of the fountain. Focus on crevices and hard-to-reach areas where bacteria can easily accumulate. For stubborn stains, allow the cleaning solution to sit for a few minutes before scrubbing.

5. Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the entire fountain with clean water, ensuring that all traces of the cleaning solution are removed.

6. Dry Completely: Use clean cloths or paper towels to dry all surfaces of the fountain. Make sure to dry the inside of the spout and any other areas where water may collect to prevent mold growth.

7. Reassemble and Inspect: If you disassembled any parts of the fountain for cleaning, carefully reassemble them. Inspect the fountain to ensure that everything is working properly and there are no leaks.

8. Regularly Scheduled Cleaning: For optimal hygiene, aim to clean your drinking fountain at least once a week, or more frequently depending on usage.

Dealing with Stubborn Stains and Mineral Buildup

For stubborn mineral buildup or stains, you may need to use a stronger cleaning solution, such as a solution of vinegar and water. Always test any new cleaning solution in an inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn't damage the fountain's finish. You might also consider using a commercial descaling solution designed for removing mineral deposits.

Maintaining Your Drinking Fountain

Regular cleaning is key to maintaining a clean and hygienic drinking fountain. But beyond regular cleaning, consider these additional tips:

• Regularly inspect: Check your drinking fountain regularly for any signs of damage, leaks, or unusual odors.
• Filter Replacement: If your fountain has a filter, replace it according to the manufacturer's instructions.
• Preventative Measures: Encourage users to avoid touching the spout with their mouths to prevent the spread of germs.

By following these steps and tips, you can keep your drinking fountain clean, functional, and safe for everyone to use. Remember, a clean drinking fountain is a healthy drinking fountain!