Should You Buy or Rent Your Water Dispenser?
A happy, productive team is a hydrated team. Research shows that just a 1-2% drop in water loss can impair cognitive performance. A study from 2013 found that increasing water intake resulted in a 14% increase in productivity.
The decision to add a water dispenser to your workplace is a no-brainer. The question is – should you buy or rent one? The answer isn’t as simple as you might think.
It’s important to weigh the pros and cons of each option to see which one is right for your business and needs.
The Pros and Cons of Buying a Water Dispenser
If you want to keep your employees hydrated, there’s no shortage of water coolers for sale. But some pros and cons need to be considered.
The Benefits
Owning a water dispenser does have its benefits. The most obvious advantage is that you own the water dispenser outright. There’s no need to worry about monthly payments, and you’re free to do what you wish with your dispenser.
When you own your water dispenser, you don’t have to sign a contract with a water cooler company.
The Drawbacks
While there are some benefits to owning a water dispenser, there are also significant drawbacks to consider.
One of the biggest drawbacks is the cost. Buying a water cooler is an investment – most cost hundreds of dollars. Depending on your budget and needs, buying may not be a feasible or practical option.
Sure, you can find cheaper water coolers, but the lower price typically comes at the cost of quality and durability. Cheap water dispensers often cost more in the long-run because they require additional repairs and replacement parts.
As the owner of a water cooler, you’re responsible for maintaining it, making repairs, or replacing parts. You’ll be the one who has to find and purchase all replacement parts and water filters. You can hire a professional to handle these tasks, but that will come at a cost.
The installation will also be your responsibility, or you can pay to have a professional handle this for you.
Eventually, all water coolers need to be replaced. If you own your water dispenser, you’ll be responsible for disposing of your old cooler and buying a new one.
Ultimately, owning a water cooler comes at a high cost both in time and money.
The Pros and Cons of Water Dispenser Rentals
Initially, renting a water cooler may seem like it would cost more in the long-run. But renting does have its advantages and can even save you money.
The Benefits
Renting a water dispenser has many advantages because you’re shifting the burden of ownership onto the company from whom you rent.
Upfront costs are much lower when you rent your water cooler. Installation comes at a discounted rate, and you pay a low quarterly or monthly rate for using the equipment.
Companies that offer cooler rentals use high-quality equipment because it’s not in their best interest to constantly be repairing and replacing coolers. Typically, rented water coolers are long-lasting and require minimal maintenance.
Another great advantage of renting a water cooler is that filter changes and preventative maintenance will be performed by a professional, certified technician. In most cases, servicing is free.
If your cooler needs to be repaired, the company you’re renting from will cover the cost, and the repairs will be carried out by a professionally certified technician.
When your water dispenser eventually reaches the end of its lifespan, you can have it replaced at no additional cost. And if your business needs change, you can upgrade or downgrade without having to invest in a new cooler or pay for disposing of the old one.
The Drawbacks
There are many benefits to renting a water cooler, but there are some drawbacks, too. The most obvious disadvantage is that you won’t own the water cooler. Some business owners prefer to own all of their equipment, including water coolers.
Another potential drawback is that you have to sign a rental contract with a water cooler service company. It’s important to understand the terms and conditions of the agreement before you sign on the dotted line.
The Takeaway
Buying and renting both have advantages and disadvantages. Some businesses may find that it’s more beneficial to own the cooler outright, but most businesses prefer the ease and convenience of renting. You may not own the water dispenser, but you also don’t have to worry about the costs and hassle of repairing the equipment yourself.
It’s important to weigh each option carefully before making your decision. Even if you’re leaning towards buying a water cooler, it may not be a bad idea to rent one until you better understand its care and maintenance routine.
Regardless of which route you choose, your employees will thank you for supplying them with fresh, clean drinking water to keep them hydrated and productive.
