Water bottle filling stations have become common sights in places like gyms, offices, schools, and parks – essentially anywhere people refill water bottles regularly. These stations encourage hydration and reduce plastic waste, keeping potentially tens of thousands of disposable bottles out of landfills each year. Just as importantly, most modern bottle fillers include high-quality water filters. A good filter ensures the tap water dispensed is clean, great-tasting, and safe by removing chlorine, lead, and other contaminants.
This mix of convenience and health protection is why Elkay, a leading brand in drinking fountains and ezH2O bottle fillers, offers top-notch replacement filters for their units. Below is an overview of three Elkay filters featured on Drinking Well Co.’s website – who they’re for, what they do, and how they keep your water crisp and worry-free. Whether you’re a homeowner with a bottle filler or you manage hydration stations in a school, office, or gym, knowing about these filters will help you choose the right one for your needs.
Elkay 51299C WaterSentry Filter (Lead & Microplastics, 1500 Gallons)
Elkay’s 51299C WaterSentry filter cartridge is a compact workhorse designed to ensure clean, crisp water from your faucet or fountain. This filter uses an activated carbon core to remove lead, microplastics, chlorine, and unpleasant tastes or odors from tap water – common issues in many municipal water supplies or older building pipes.
It’s rated for up to 1,500 gallons or 12 months of use, which roughly equates to a year of typical hydration for a family or small office. The filter features a quick-disconnect, 1/4-turn design with an automatic shut-off valve, so replacing it is easy and mess-free.
Best for: Home bottle fillers, classroom fountains, or office breakroom units with moderate use.
Elkay 51300C WaterSentry Plus Filter (Lead & Microplastics, 3000 Gallons)
For busier hydration stations, the Elkay 51300C WaterSentry Plus filter offers double the capacity of the 51299C. It’s rated for 3,000 gallons or up to one year of service and is commonly used in Elkay ezH2O bottle filling stations.
This filter effectively reduces lead, microplastics, chlorine, cysts, and particulates from the water. It installs with a quick quarter-turn and features an automatic shut-off, making filter changes a breeze.
Best for: High-traffic areas like gyms, offices, or schools with heavy daily use.
Elkay 71300C WaterSentry Filter (PFAS, Lead & Microplastics, 2250 Gallons)
The Elkay 71300C WaterSentry filter is designed for the next level of water purity. It not only tackles common contaminants like lead and chlorine but also addresses PFAS (including PFOA and PFOS), often referred to as “forever chemicals.”
With a capacity of 2,250 gallons and a similar quick-turn, no-mess installation, this filter is ideal for those who want advanced protection and peace of mind when it comes to drinking water.
Best for: Schools, childcare centers, or any home or facility where water quality is a top priority.
Why Quality Filters Matter for Bottle Fillers
No matter which Elkay filter you choose, using a quality filter ensures that your bottle filler delivers safe, clean, and great-tasting water. In public settings, it builds trust and encourages people to refill their bottles instead of buying disposable ones. Filters certified for lead removal are especially important in older buildings or schools, where even small amounts of lead can pose health risks over time.
Swapping out filters regularly prevents contaminants from building up and helps keep your Elkay unit running efficiently by protecting internal components from sediment and buildup.
In summary, bottle fillers are a smart, sustainable choice in today’s hydration-conscious world. Equipping them with the right Elkay filter ensures everyone – from kids to athletes – enjoys clean, cold water with confidence. It’s an investment in better health, better taste, and a cleaner planet.
