How to Install a Drinking Water Fountain

Installing a drinking water fountain provides convenient access to clean, fresh water in homes, offices, schools, or public areas. This guide walks you through every phase, from planning your location to final testing, ensuring a professional-grade setup that meets safety standards and delivers reliable performance.

Why Add a Drinking Water Fountain?

Modern drinking fountains go beyond basic hydration. Many models include bottle fillers, filtration systems, and touchless activation to promote health and sustainability. They reduce reliance on single-use plastics and comply with accessibility guidelines like those from the U.S. Access Board, which specify spout positioning for wheelchair users—15 inches minimum from vertical supports and 5 inches maximum from the front edge. Choosing the right unit enhances convenience while supporting eco-friendly habits.

Selecting the Perfect Drinking Fountain Model

Begin by assessing your needs. Consider factors like space, user height (standard or bi-level for kids and adults), refrigeration (chilled vs. non-chilled), and features such as EZH2O bottle filling stations. Popular brands like Elkay offer versatile options with easy integration.

• Wall-Mounted Units: Ideal for tight spaces; require sturdy backing.
• Freestanding Models: Self-contained but need floor space.
• Bi-Level Designs: Serve diverse heights, as shown in Murdock installations.
• Filtered Variants: Include cartridges for purified water.

Check rough-in dimensions: water supply at 3/8-inch O.D. copper tube, 1-1/2 inches out from wall, and 1-1/4-inch waste outlet. Verify electrical needs—most require a standard 110V outlet.

Gathering Essential Tools and Materials

Preparation prevents delays. Assemble these items before starting:

Budget $200–$800 for the fountain, plus $50–$100 for extras. Always prioritize NSF-certified filters for water quality.

Planning the Installation Site

Location matters for accessibility and plumbing ease. Opt for walls with accessible studs, avoiding electrical hazards. ADA guidelines recommend hi-lo pairs: one at 36 inches max rim height for standard users, another at 30 inches for wheelchairs.

1. Measure wall opening: Typically 23 inches tall by 13-1/2 inches wide for recessed units.
2. Locate supply (A) and waste (B) points per manufacturer specs.
3. Ensure 110V GFCI outlet nearby.
4. Reinforce wall with 2×6 blocking between studs if needed.

Turn off water and power to the area. Confirm local codes—some require permits for plumbing alterations.

Step-by-Step Mounting Process

Secure foundation first. Remove any existing bracket from the fountain.

1. Position and Install Mounting Bracket

Use a level to align the bracket horizontally. Mark six 7/16-inch obround holes (for Elkay-style units). Drill pilot holes into studs or insert anchors for masonry/drywall. Secure with lag screws or bolts—plate must be rock-solid.

2. Prepare Wall Rough-Ins

Cut basin hole if supply doesn’t align. Install plastic bushing to protect cords and lines from sharp edges. Place drain mat at unit bottom.

3. Hang the Fountain

Lift onto bracket tabs. Secure lower section with wall screw—do not overtighten to avoid cracks. For bi-level, align both units precisely.

Plumbing Connections: Water Supply and Drain

Precision here prevents leaks.

Water Line Setup

Connect 3/8-inch unplated copper stub to shutoff valve (not furnished). For bottle fillers, reduce to 1/4-inch, strip insulation even with unit bottom, and fish through basin hole. Insulate remaining tube. Attach filter cartridge by rotating clockwise—tight fit is normal if drain is correct.

Drain Assembly

Factory P-trap often pre-installed. Slip nut and gasket onto waste line, tighten securely. Connect to 1-1/4-inch IPS drain. Place drain cover over mat with four screws.

Turn on supply, check for leaks. Caulk gaps between unit and wall.

Electrical Wiring and Power-Up

Safety first—use GFCI protection.

• Thread power cord (and purple wire for fillers) through basin.
• Connect wires: Match colors, use nuts for bottle filler purple wire. Yellow may be unused.
• Plug into outlet after leak checks.
• Reset fuses or breakers.

For chilled models, allow 24 hours for cooling.

Integrating Bottle Filling Stations

Enhance with EZH2O or similar.

1. Remove top cover screws (5/32-inch Allen).
2. Detach wall plate, mark over basin, secure six holes.
3. Fish lines/cords through, seat on tabs, reinstall cover.
4. Connect waterline inside cooler, attach filter.

Support plate securely—add carrier if wall is weak.

Testing and Final Adjustments

Flush lines for 5 minutes. Test bubbler push-button or sensor. Verify bottle filler flow. Inspect all connections. Install stainless cover plate over access.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

Ongoing Maintenance for Longevity

Weekly: Wipe surfaces, check for leaks. Monthly: Replace filter per schedule (e.g., 6 months). Annually: Sanitize per manual, inspect hoses. Drain mats prevent bacterial growth—clean under cover.

ADA Compliance and Accessibility Features

Ensure spouts project correctly. Pair hi-lo units for inclusivity. Non-refrigerated sides suit bi-level setups.

Cost Breakdown and Time Estimate

• Time: 2–4 hours for experienced DIYers.
• Costs: Fountain $300 avg., tools/plumbing $100.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I install on drywall without studs?

Yes, with heavy-duty anchors or add blocking.

Do I need a plumber?

Basic installs are DIY; complex plumbing may require pros.

How often to change filters?

Every 3–6 months, based on usage.

Is electrical work necessary?

For powered models yes; use licensed electrician if unsure.

What if rough-ins don’t match?

Adapt with extensions or cut basin.