How To Clean Drinking Fountain

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

Maintaining a clean drinking fountain is crucial for public health and hygiene. A dirty drinking fountain can harbor harmful bacteria and viruses, leading to illness. This comprehensive guide provides a step-by-step process to effectively clean and sanitize your drinking fountain, ensuring safe and refreshing water for everyone.

Before You Begin: Safety First!

Before starting any cleaning process, prioritize safety:

• Turn off the power: Always disconnect the power supply to the drinking fountain before beginning any cleaning or maintenance. This prevents electrical shock and ensures your safety.
• Gather your supplies: You'll need a few essential items: a bucket, warm water, a non-abrasive cleaning solution (avoid harsh chemicals!), a scrub brush or sponge, clean cloths or paper towels, and a disinfectant solution (check the fountain's manufacturer instructions for recommendations).
• Protective gear: Consider wearing rubber gloves to protect your hands from harsh cleaning solutions.

Step-by-Step Cleaning Process:

This cleaning process is designed for most drinking fountains; however, always consult the manufacturer's instructions for specific recommendations.

1. Pre-Cleaning:

• Remove loose debris: Carefully remove any visible debris such as leaves, insects, or dust from around the fountain and its components. Use a brush or cloth to reach hard-to-access areas.

2. Cleaning the Exterior:

• Wipe down surfaces: Use a damp cloth or sponge with a mild cleaning solution to wipe down the exterior surfaces of the fountain. Pay special attention to areas prone to smudges and fingerprints. Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
• Disinfecting: Once the surface is clean, apply a disinfectant solution (following product instructions) to the exterior and allow it to dwell for the recommended time. Then rinse thoroughly.

3. Cleaning the Interior:

• Water reservoir (if accessible): If your fountain has a removable water reservoir, carefully take it out and clean it thoroughly. Wash it with warm water and a non-abrasive cleaning solution. Rinse completely. Allow it to air dry completely before replacing.
• Nozzle and spout: Use a scrub brush or sponge to clean the nozzle and spout, removing any build-up of mineral deposits, grime, or mold. Rinse thoroughly.
• Disinfecting the interior: Use a disinfectant solution appropriate for drinking water contact surfaces (again, check manufacturer guidelines) and follow the instructions for dwell time. Thoroughly rinse after the specified time.

4. Final Steps:

• Drying: Ensure all parts are completely dry before reassembling the fountain.
• Reassembly: Carefully reassemble the drinking fountain.
• Power on: Reconnect the power supply and test the functionality of the fountain.

Frequency of Cleaning:

The frequency of cleaning will depend on the usage and environment of your drinking fountain. However, it is generally recommended to clean it at least weekly, or more frequently if needed. Regular cleaning will help prevent the build-up of bacteria and keep your drinking fountain functioning optimally.

Maintaining a Clean Drinking Fountain: Best Practices

• Regular inspection: Regularly inspect the fountain for any signs of damage, leaks, or build-up.
• Proper water filtration: Using a high-quality water filter can significantly reduce mineral build-up and improve the quality of the water.
• Professional maintenance: Consider scheduling professional maintenance for your drinking fountain periodically.

By following these steps and employing these best practices, you can ensure your drinking fountain remains clean, hygienic, and provides safe, refreshing water for everyone to enjoy. Remember, a clean drinking fountain contributes significantly to a healthier environment.