Imagine stepping into an office and asking for a drink of water. It's likely that someone would point you towards the office water dispenser—a device we often take for granted but one that has played a significant role in our daily hydration. Let's explore the origins and development of this unassuming yet indispensable office fixture.
The Genesis of an Idea
The story begins in 1906 when Luther Haws, a plumber, observed children at a public school in Berkeley, California, drinking from a communal tin cup. At the time, typhoid fever was a widespread disease, often caused by contaminated water. Concerned about the health risks, Haws used his expertise in plumbing to invent the first drinking fountain, which he installed in the Berkeley School District.
In 1909, Haws established the Haws Sanitary Drinking Faucet company, and by 1911, he had patented his innovative water dispenser. These early models featured a sealed glass container filled with water and cooled by large ice blocks, making for a rather cumbersome setup.
The Advent of Electricity
As electricity became more prevalent in the 1930s and 1940s, the world saw the birth of the first 'self-contained electric water dispenser' in 1938. This new model embraced the technological advancements of the era, offering a more convenient way to dispense water, although the combination of water and electrical components might not have been the safest at the time.
Modernization and Accessibility
In 1972, The Haws Corporation responded to the growing need for accessibility and ease of use by inventing the 'Barrier-free' electric water dispenser. This wall-mounted model eliminated the base unit, allowing for easier access to the faucet.
The 1980s witnessed a surge in the use of plastic bottles, which revolutionized the water dispenser industry. Water dispensers began to be fed by plastic bottles, reducing costs and simplifying installation and maintenance. This innovation allowed the water dispenser to cross oceans, and a robust market emerged in the UK.
The Rise of Filtered Water
The 1990s saw a growing preference for filtered water, and water dispensers increasingly incorporated filters to provide cleaner and better-tasting water. With the rise of computer use in offices, the demand for office refreshments increased, further fueling the growth of the water dispenser market in the UK.
Contemporary Developments
Throughout the 2000s, water dispensers continued to evolve, with plumbed-in models becoming the pinnacle of workplace hydration. The traditional blue bottle with a white base began to seem outdated as design and innovation transformed water dispensers into a must-have feature in any modern office. Technological advancements have enabled manufacturers to offer a variety of water options, including sparkling, hot, chilled, and room temperature, at the touch of a button.
The water dispenser has indeed come a long way from its Victorian-era beginnings, now offering not only hydration but also style and choice in the modern office environment.
