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When you’re thirsty, there are few things that hit the spot like the reassurance of clean, safe drinking water, and for many businesses, schools, healthcare facilities, and hospitality environments, water dispensers are a mainstay, providing unlimited, fresh water throughout the day. But did you ever stop to think about the silent intruder that’s lurking, often going unnoticed around your water cooler? We’re talking about mould.
Whether you have a bottled water cooler, or a mains fed model, mould can form inside these machines if they’re not properly cleaned and maintained. So, what can you do if there’s mould in your water cooler, and is it dangerous?
Let’s investigate…
Mould’s best friend is a damp, humid environment! It is a type of fungus which will spread when the conditions are right, and water dispensers by their very nature involve moisture, create condensation, and if neglected, can collect organic debris from touch points like buttons, taps, and cup holders. The perfect breeding ground!
The perfect storm for mould is when it begins to form in areas that are hard to see – inside drip trays, spouts, or in the internal plumbing inside the machine. If left, mould spores can multiply, and then make their way into the water you drink.
Regular cleaning and professional maintenance can quickly put an end to bacteria, mould, and other microorganisms that form a ‘slimy’ layer on internal surfaces. After all, these wouldn’t just be unpleasant – they could be harmful.
While not every type of mould is toxic, there can be health risks if mould spores are ingested or inhaled over long periods of time. These risks are greater for people who suffer with asthma or compromised or weakened immune systems.
Some common symptoms linked to exposure to mould include
In more severe cases, where mould may have been ingested through contaminated water, a person could suffer with gastrointestinal issues. It’s important to note that this is rare, but risks are increased in hospitals, care homes, and childcare settings where there are vulnerable people present.
It’s also important to note that mould can grow alongside bacteria. You may not see visible signs of mould, but a musty smell or strange taste in your water could be an indication of microbial growth.
Mould in water coolers is almost always because of poor or irregular cleaning. Even relatively new machines can develop contaminants if they’re not maintained properly.
Common reasons for mould growth can also be from:
Most people assume the water in a cooler is always clean, especially when it comes from a sealed bottle or plumbed in machine. But the inside of the machine still needs routine hygiene maintenance. The water may be clean at source, but could be contaminated during delivery.
Regular maintenance is always the best way to prevent mould from forming in your water cooler, but it’s still important to recognise the early signs. Look out for:
If one or more of these signs is present, arrange a professional inspection immediately.
It really depends on the amount of people using the machine. More use means more potential contamination, but recommendations say water coolers and dispensers should be sanitised at least twice a year minimum. It’s not just about wiping down the machine with a damp cloth and some anti-bac spray though - thorough maintenance should include:
Professional maintenance services can become essential, which takes the pressure off your team while making sure your water cooler never becomes a breeding ground for mould or bacteria. It’s better for your water cooler (and your health) to be proactive rather than reactive!
