The Borg & Overström B4.2: an honest review

If you’re interested in the Borg & Overström B4.2 or are curious about the benefits a water dispenser could provide you, there’s a strong possibility that you’re unsure on whether or not the B4 is a perfect match for you. Full disclosure – there’s a chance it might not be.

The key to finding the best water system is matching the right system for your specific environment.

Borg & Overström have been developing design-led innovative water systems for 20 years. Delivering a remarkable experience globally through selected partners, we know that successfully matching the best possible water system can only be achieved by reviewing the strengths and limitations in relation to your needs – but only you know your needs.

In this article, we’ll take a critical look at the Borg & Overström B4.2 water dispenser. From the benefits to the limitations, our aim is to best inform you on all things B4 so that you’re in the best possible position to know which water system suits your needs.

By the end of this review, you will know all the featured benefits, specifications, and the limitations that distinguish the Borg & Overström B4.2 water dispenser.

Customisation: what water dispense options do I need?

The first thing you’ll need to consider when looking for that perfect water dispenser is “What dispense options do I need?”

From tap systems to water dispensers, there are a variety of dispense options available on today’s market. Though multiple dispense options are available, it is best to decide on what is necessary first. Remember, each dispense option is purposed to help customise your water system to your needs – you might not need every available dispense option.

The Borg & Overström B4.2 is designed with 4 available dispense options:

• Chilled & Ambient
• Chilled, Hot & Ambient
• Chilled, Ambient & Sparkling
• Chilled, Hot & Sparkling

Although 4 dispense options are available, the B4.2 integrated technology limits you to 3 dispense options at any one time.

Each dispense option (shown above) correlates to a specification. These include your water system and max power consumption. Below is a table that lists these specifications:

As the table shows, when opting for a hot dispense option, it is inevitable that your dispenser will consume more energy to reach the desired temperature and volume specifications. With a peak energy consumption being 650W and a minimal output of 100W, the Borg & Overström B4.2 stands as the energy efficient choice for those who are environmentally conscious.

The B4.2 does not, however, feature the eco-mode software that you will find on the Borg & Overström B6.

Using the integrated Direct Chill™ system, the B4.2 dispenses water at the following temperatures:

• Chilled/sparkling temperature – 2°C / 35L/h
• Hot temperature – 92°C – 6L/h

Note: all dispense options follow our Direct Chill™ water system.

What is a Direct Chill™ water system?

As the name would suggest, Direct Chill™ takes water from a supply source and directly chills it using a seven-metre chilling coil on its way to the dispenser faucet. This process of cooling ensures that the water dispensed is both fresh and chilled.

See how Direct Chill™ works:

What is commonly used in many other dispense systems is a gradual chilled process. In this process, water is cooled gradually over time and is stored in containers. In contrast, the Direct Chill™ process immediately chills water directly from the source. This provides a fresher taste to the water while also drastically reducing the risk of any contamination or impurity.

This entirely sealed cooling system also contains an environmentally friendly coolant coil that reaches sub-zero temperatures to ensure the water dispensed is ice cool and refreshing.

Key features of the Borg & Overström B4.2

So, “what is at the heart of the B4.2?”

Well, there are 3 main features that have made B4.2 very popular over the recent years.

First, from a financial viewpoint, the Borg & Overstrom B4.2 has really left its mark on the marketplace – and it’s not finished.

Holding a strong position in today’s market, one of the best features of the B4.2 is the fact that its time tested. The importance of reliability speaks for itself. Being a product that has lasting value provides more than a quick fix, but a solution with longevity assured.

Second, the modern look. The B4.2 is a lasting favourite for facilities managers who need lasting solutions that are aesthetically pleasing. Sleek and prestigious, the B4.2 follows the Borg & Overström style and can fit into any reputable environment.

Third, as part of the Borg & Overström technological transition, the B4.2 received a makeover in 2018 which focused on updating all the integrated technology. Now, the B4.2, will rival the most modern and innovative of designs, with the specifications (found above) to demonstrate.

Limitations of the Borg & Overström B4.2

As outlined in the introduction, the Borg & Overström B4.2 might not be for you.

Let’s take a look at the three main limitations that you’ll need to consider when deciding on the water system for you.

First, the B4.2 stands as a ‘Jack of all trades’ figure. True, the B4.2 has proven its worth in the market as a time-tested solution to some. However, it’s equally true that other products on the market today can offer a variety of more options. For example, if you need a water dispenser that has a chilled dispense capacity of 40-50L/h, then the Borg & Overström B6 would be a better choice. From specifications to featured benefits, if you know you need a specific capability – make certain you get the functionality you need.

Second, the B4.2 does not feature the eco mode software. Although the design itself is environmentally friendly (maximum power consumption can be viewed in the table above), more modern water systems can have more advanced technological systems that allow for better energy efficiency.

Third, let’s be honest… you just might want the latest, most up-to-date, innovations. After receiving a makeover in 2018, the B4 was upgraded to the B4.2. This upgrade focused on updating all the integrated technology, but there have since been innovative designs that can outperform the specs of the B4.2. For a detailed exploration of how the specs match up to a more modern design, read about the main differences between B4.2 vs B6 watercoolers. This will provide you with a more in-depth analysis at how capabilities can change with updated technology.

Is the B4.2 water dispenser a match for you?

As designers and manufacturers of the B4.2 water dispenser, we are in the best possible position to provide you with all the information. From the key features to the limitations, we can tell you everything you need to know about the B4 – but only you know if the Borg & Overström B4 is a match for you.

If you’ve decided that the features and benefits of the B4.2 make it the right choice for you, then your next step is to find out where to buy a B4.2.

However, we understand the importance of finding the right solution. By manufacturing a range of design-led innovative water systems – we know that the B4 is not your only option.

If you’re curious about a more modern water cooler design by Borg & Overström, visit our review on the B6 water dispenser. In this in-depth review, you will find information on all the key features, benefits, and possible limitations of the B6.

For any further help or recommendations – contact us – our expert staff are ready and waiting to help you.