Sparkling Water Dispenser – Install Guide, CO₂ Tips & More

Sparkling water dispensers are changing how workplaces, hotels, and commercial spaces serve water. Once considered a luxury, they’re now an essential feature for organizations that value sustainability, thoughtful design, and employee wellbeing.

These systems deliver filtered chilled, and carbonated water on demand, cutting out the need for single-use bottles and offering a cleaner, more efficient way to stay hydrated.

The benefits reach across every department:

• Facility managers appreciate how they simplify operations and reduce storage needs.
• Procurement teams see long-term cost savings and better control over resources.
• Sustainability leaders view them as a meaningful way to lower environmental impact and meet corporate goals.

At Vivreau, we’ve seen this shift across a wide range of industries — from boutique hotels and coworking offices to healthcare facilities and corporate campuses. Every installation reflects a commitment to quality, convenience, and environmental responsibility, helping people stay hydrated in a way that aligns with modern business values.

In this guide, our experts answer the 10 most common questions about sparkling water dispensers. You’ll learn how these systems work, what installation involves, how to manage CO₂ tanks, and why they’re a smart long-term investment for your business.

1. What is a sparkling water dispenser?

A sparkling water dispenser carbonates tap water from your main water supply to create a refreshing, bubbly drink on demand. It uses a small CO₂ tank to infuse chilled water with carbonation, delivering a consistent, high-quality result without relying on bottled sparkling water.

These systems are designed to match the taste and texture of premium bottled water but with none of the waste or storage hassles. Most also offer a range of temperature settings, so you can enjoy chilled, ambient, or even hot water from the same tap.

Key features include:

• Instant carbonation for sparkling water at the touch of a button
• Temperature control for hot, cold, or ambient water
• Flexible installation options for any environment

By switching from bottled water to an integrated system, you’ll reduce costs, save space, and promote better hydration throughout the day.

2. What types of sparkling water dispensers can I choose from?

Sparkling water dispensers come in a few different styles, each suited to different spaces and usage needs. The most common are built-in, countertop, and floorstanding models.

Built-in dispensers

These are installed within cabinetry or kitchen millwork for a seamless, modern look. They’re ideal for offices, lounges, and hospitality spaces where design matters just as much as functionality.

Countertop dispensers

Compact and easy to install, countertop units are perfect for smaller offices or shared workspaces. They require minimal plumbing and give quick access to both still and sparkling water.

Floorstanding dispensers

Floorstanding units are built for high-volume use in cafeterias, healthcare facilities, and other busy environments. They’re durable, reliable, and efficient throughout the day.

Choosing the right dispenser depends on your available space, number of users, and design goals. Vivreau’s team can help you evaluate flow rates, cooling capacity, and CO₂ usage to find the perfect fit.

3. How does a sparkling water dispenser work?

A sparkling water dispenser connects to your water supply, filters and chills the water, and then infuses it with carbon dioxide from a CO₂ tank to create perfectly balanced carbonation.

Here’s what happens behind the scenes:

1. Water connection: The dispenser connects to your building’s water line for a steady supply.
2. Cooling system: Water is chilled internally so carbonation holds better and the taste stays crisp.
3. CO₂ infusion: The pressurized CO₂ tank releases carbon dioxide into the chilled water, creating fine, consistent bubbles.
4. Dispense tap: With a single touch, you can pour chilled still or sparkling water instantly.

This process removes the need for bottled deliveries and saves valuable storage space while ensuring every glass poured is fresh and perfectly carbonated.

Smart systems like Vivreau’s iQ Solution take this a step further with remote monitoring that detects and resolves performance issues before they cause downtime.

4. What features and options are available?

Today’s sparkling water dispensers are designed to fit a variety of preferences and spaces. Whether you want hot, cold, still, or sparkling water, these systems bring performance, versatility, and elegant design together in one unit.

Hot water capability

Many dispensers include a built-in hot water function, great for making tea or french press coffee. It reduces the need for extra appliances and keeps kitchen counters clutter-free.

Cold and sparkling water options

Chilled still and sparkling water are the most popular features in both workplaces and hospitality settings. Offering both encourages hydration and supports wellness initiatives while cutting down on bottled drinks.

Adjustable carbonation levels

Some systems let users choose their level of fizz — from a light sparkle to a strong effervescence — for a more customized experience.

Common features include:

• Temperature control for hot, cold, and ambient water
• Adjustable carbonation levels
• Compact, space-saving design

Case Study Spotlight: Werqwise Coworking

At Werqwise in San Francisco, modern workspace design meets sustainability. Vivreau sparkling water dispensers replaced bottled water, creating a cleaner, more convenient, and eco-conscious amenity that elevates the member experience.

🔗 Read the full case study: Werqwise x Vivreau

5. Why switch to a sparkling water dispenser instead of bottled water?

Switching from bottled sparkling water to an on-tap system brings clear benefits across sustainability, cost, and convenience.

Sustainability
Removing single-use plastic bottles significantly cuts waste and carbon emissions. It’s an easy, visible way to support your organization’s sustainability goals.

Cost savings
Ongoing bottled water deliveries can get expensive. With a dispenser, your only recurring costs are filtration, CO₂ refills, and routine maintenance, which are far less over time.

Convenience
There’s no more managing deliveries, storing bottles, or scheduling recycling. Sparkling water is always available, freshly carbonated, and ready to pour.

Customization
With adjustable carbonation and multiple temperature settings, everyone can enjoy water just the way they like it.

At a glance:

• Less plastic waste and carbon impact
• Lower long-term costs
• More storage space
• Happier, more hydrated teams

6. How do sparkling water dispensers support sustainability goals?

Sparkling water dispensers make sustainability simple. By replacing bottled water with on-tap systems, companies can significantly reduce plastic use and carbon emissions.

Environmental impact
Every dispenser removes thousands of plastic bottles from circulation each year, contributing directly to lower waste and a smaller carbon footprint.

Energy efficiency
Vivreau systems are designed with energy-efficient refrigeration and automatic standby modes to conserve power while maintaining consistent performance.

Resource efficiency
Because water is dispensed on demand, only what’s needed is used. There’s no leftover stock or packaging waste.

In short:

• Fewer single-use plastics
• Lower carbon footprint
• Energy-efficient operation
• Alignment with CSR goals

Client Spotlight: Hotel Bardo Savannah

At Hotel Bardo Savannah, sustainability is woven into the guest experience through design, not signage. Each guest floor features a discreet Vivreau sparkling water station, replacing single-use plastic bottles with refillable glass bottles in each hotel room. The result is an elegant amenity that feels more like part of the hotel’s atmosphere than a utility. Effortless, refined, and sustainable by design.

🔗 Read the full case study: Hotel Bardo Savannah x Vivreau

7. How much does a commercial sparkling water dispenser cost?

The cost of a sparkling water dispenser depends on the model, capacity, and features. Countertop models for small offices typically cost less than built-in or floorstanding systems designed for large commercial spaces.

But it’s important to think beyond the upfront price. The long-term savings from eliminating bottled water deliveries, storage, and waste management often make a dispenser more affordable within the first year.

Cost factors include:

• Initial purchase price
• Regular maintenance (filters and CO₂ refills)
• Energy efficiency and usage
• Long-term savings from reduced bottled water

Beyond cost, these systems also enhance workplace experience, reduce clutter, and demonstrate your organization’s commitment to sustainability.

8. How do I plan for installation and space?

Planning ahead ensures your dispenser fits seamlessly into your space and runs at its best.

Built-in and under-counter dispensers
These options offer a sleek, integrated appearance. They’re installed within cabinetry or under counters, keeping the space clean and cohesive.

Countertop dispensers
These models are simple to set up and ideal for smaller spaces. They just need access to a water line and an electrical outlet.

When planning, consider:

• A nearby water connection
• A dedicated power outlet
• Ventilation to allow proper airflow
• Easy access for maintenance and refills

Professional installation ensures everything is set up correctly for reliable performance and longevity. At Vivreau, we help our clients every step of the way, including installation guidance. We also offer technical downloads to help with planning in our Design Center.

9. How does CO₂ management work?

The CO₂ tank is what gives sparkling water its signature fizz. Managing it properly ensures consistent carbonation and safe operation.

Pressure settings
For the perfect sparkle, set the CO₂ regulator between 65 and 70 PSI. This range provides fine bubbles and steady carbonation.

Tank size and replacement
Systems like the Extra I-Tap often use between 5-20 lbs tanks depending on your undercounter space. Safety and handling
Keep CO₂ tanks upright in a cool, dry place. Check fittings regularly to make sure there are no leaks, and replace tanks before they’re completely empty to maintain consistency.

Tips for easy CO₂ management:

• Check pressure regularly
• Refill or replace tanks proactively
• Partner with a local CO₂ supplier for convenience

10. How should I maintain my dispenser for long-term performance?

Routine maintenance keeps your dispenser working efficiently and your water tasting great. Regular cleaning and timely filter changes prevent mineral buildup and ensure consistent quality.

Maintenance tips:

• Wipe down the exterior and dispense areas regularly
• Replace filters as recommended by the manufacturer
• Monitor CO₂ levels to maintain carbonation
• Schedule periodic servicing for inspection and cleaning

Vivreau’s iQ Solution adds smart monitoring that tracks performance in real time. The system can alert service teams before small issues become larger ones, ensuring you enjoy a seamless experience every day.