Why Your Office Needs A Hot Water Dispenser

The office tea round is a thing of legend. Who’s in, who’s out, and who doesn’t do it enough? But there’s certainly one kitchen essential that can speed the whole process up, and that’s a hot water dispenser. Often overlooked, this formidable appliance gives everyone immediate access to near-boiling hot water, giving you benefits that can boost team productivity, promote health, and build environmental sustainability. So, let’s look at some of the biggest reasons why your office should install a hot water dispenser.

What exactly is a hot water dispenser?

While many businesses are more than familiar with water coolers standing proudly in their offices, many have yet to make the transition from kettle to hot water dispenser. But what exactly is a hot water dispenser?

As a more efficient way to deliver hot water for your team, a hot water dispenser is designed to give instant access to near-boiling water of up to 98ºC at the push of a button or the pull of a tap. Unlike kettles, which need more time and use more energy to heat the water, hot water dispensers produce a constant supply ready for use.

And there are different styles and sizes to choose from, including countertop and wall-mounted models, to suit large or small teams. Alongside slim, space-saving designs, each model has features that can include adjustable temperature settings, programmable timers, and safety features, making them the perfect kit for busy offices, staff rooms, and break rooms.

Why does your office need a hot water dispenser?

A hot water dispenser delivers more than just convenience – it can be an essential addition to your workplace, and installing one can give you and your team plenty of benefits. And with more businesses concerned about rising energy costs and efficiency, a hot water dispenser can make a big difference. Here are some key points on why your office needs one:

Improving workplace efficiency

Business owners should always keep their eye on workplace efficiency. Using a standard kettle to boil enough water to make a dozen cups of tea for your team can take a while, so it’s not exactly efficient in any respect. But with the right hot water dispenser in your office kitchen or canteen, it can definitely streamline the process. Here’s how:

• Instant hot water: Hot water dispensers can produce an uninterrupted supply of hot water to 98ºC on demand. With models catering for up to 20 people and holding up to 28 litres per serving, no one has to go without. 
• Energy efficiency: With total energy efficiency in mind, a hot water dispenser will heat the amount of water needed and keep it hot. This cost-effective heating reduces energy use compared to repeatedly boiling a full kettle of cold water.
• Time saving: Instant hot water means your team can cut out all the time waiting for the kettle to boil. With some models producing up to 156 cups per hour, employees can prepare hot drinks or snacks quicker than ever.

Boosting employee well-being

Maintaining employee health and well-being is crucial to keeping a happy and productive workforce, no matter how big or small your team. Hot water dispensers can be a positive addition to your office, boosting staff health and well-being in different ways:

• Encouraging hydration: With easy and convenient access to hot water, your team members are more likely to have hot drinks more regularly, which can boost their daily hydration habits for better concentration and overall health.
• Promoting healthy options: Hot water on tap means your team can have the choice of healthier food options. Rather than junk food, they can indulge in healthier instant soups, grain pots, or oatmeal for better daily nutrition.
• Reducing stress: Everyone loves a cuppa, and the simplicity of taking a short break and enjoying a hot drink and a natter can have a real calming effect, giving a few minutes of stress relief during a busy day.

Growing your green credentials

Sustainability is a hot topic, and it's a growing concern for many businesses. Hot water dispensers really are an environmentally friendly option for heating your water. They’re an excellent way to help reduce the carbon footprint of your office from day 1 and become one of the most environmentally friendly appliances you own. Here’s how:

• Reduced water waste: The kettles we use often boil more water than we need, ending in waste. Whatever mug or cup size, hot water dispensers deliver the exact amount you need, saving you water.
• Reducing single-use plastics: By letting your team prepare their own hot drinks and snacks in the office, it’s less likely they’ll buy takeaway options that will come in single-use plastic containers and end up in landfills or oceans.
• Reducing emissions: Energy-efficient hot water dispensers use less energy. A model like the space-saving MT4 hot water dispenser can keep your water hot for longer while using far less electricity over the course of a day.

Is a hot water dispenser good for workplace culture?

Beyond the efficiency, well-being, and green benefits we’ve covered, hot water dispensers can also create a better workplace culture for your employees. Let’s face it, employees spend many hours at work, so a well-equipped break room or canteen can make a big difference in an employee's job satisfaction, making them feel more appreciated in their role.

Having an office or department tea break is a great opportunity for your team to chat, bond, share ideas, and build relationships. Installing a hot water dispenser means that these can happen regularly, giving you a more connected team.

And, of course, with hybrid and flexible working models becoming more common, having easy access to hot water in the office 24/7 means employees who come in at different times have a better, more convenient environment to work in. 

By having something as simple and effective as a slick hot water dispenser, it shows your company values employee comfort and convenience and helps support a culture of inclusivity and flexibility.

Choosing the right hot water dispenser

Making sure you choose the right hot water dispenser for your office is an important decision that should have a lot of thought and consideration behind it. With various models available, it’s essential to find one that watches the needs of your office and those who’ll be using it. Among others, consider these four things:

• Capacity: Check the number of employees and their usage patterns to find out which size and capacity will be the best dispenser for you.
• Energy efficiency: Most dispensers are energy-efficient, but check for insulated tanks and eco or standby modes to maximise cost savings.
• Safety features: Check the dispenser has safety features like over-boil, boil dry protection, or other features to prevent issues.
• Maintenance & service: Choose a supplier that provides regular service and maintenance checks, including cleansing, sanitising, and advanced water filter changes.

To learn more about what to consider to make the right choice, read a previous blog about how to choose the right hot water dispenser for your office.

Get steaming with Thirsty Work

Installing a dispenser that delivers steaming hot water to your office brings plenty of benefits with it. From boosting employee efficiency and well-being to impriving your green credentials, with a dispenser that works for your office's needs, you’ll get a happier, more productive, and healthier workplace.

Whatever you’re thinking, why not speak with a member of our Thirsty Work customer service team today to help you make the right choice of hot water dispenser for you? Call us today on 01392 877 172 or email us at hello@thirstywork.com for your free quote and to get started with your 10-day free trial.