FAQs / All
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What are the safety precautions when handling cleaning agents?
Operators should:
- Wear protective gloves and eye protection when handling chemicals
- Follow all manufacturer safety data sheet (SDS) instructions
- Store chemicals in clearly labelled containers, away from food and drink
- Ensure proper ventilation during use
- Thoroughly rinse internal components after use, if required by the chemical
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Can sanitisation be carried out by the end user, or should it be performed by trained service personnel?
While external cleaning can be managed by the end user, internal cleaning and sanitisation should only be carried out by trained technicians. This ensures that approved chemicals are used correctly, that all internal pathways are properly flushed, and that no damage is caused to sensitive components.
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Are there visual signs that indicate a unit may need cleaning or maintenance?
Yes. Indications include:
- Discolouration or staining on external surfaces
- Build-up in the drip tray or nozzle area
- Changes in water taste or odour
- Reduced water flow or dispensing performance
These signs should prompt immediate cleaning or further inspection to prevent service issues.
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What is the correct cleaning procedure for external components (e.g., drip trays, nozzles, panels)?
External components should be cleaned regularly using a soft cloth with warm water and a mild detergent. Drip trays, dispensing nozzles, and touch panels are high-contact surfaces and should be disinfected more frequently, particularly in shared or high-use environments. Avoid abrasive materials or aggressive chemicals that could damage surfaces or labels.
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Does the use of non-recommended chemicals affect the product warranty?
Yes. The use of non-approved cleaning agents will invalidate the manufacturer’s warranty. It is essential that only recommended chemicals and processes are used to maintain warranty coverage and to safeguard equipment performance.
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What are the risks of using non-recommended cleaning agents?
Using unsuitable chemicals can negatively impact both the function and longevity of the unit. Potential risks include:
- Damage to internal components (especially plastic or silicone parts)
- Adverse effects on water taste or odour
- Potential health risks due to chemical residues
- Overall product failure
These risks are influenced by several factors including chemical composition, concentration, exposure time, and environmental conditions.
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Why doesn’t Borg & Overström supply sanitising chemicals directly?
Borg & Overström focuses on the manufacture and distribution of premium water dispensers. As a trade supplier, we do not maintain an extensive range of cleaning chemicals because:
- Most of our distributors already source cleaning materials from specialist providers.
- The sale and distribution of chemical-based products are increasingly regulated, limiting our ability to supply such products outside of the UK in a viable or compliant way.
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Where can the recommended sanitising chemical be obtained?
Hydrogen peroxide and other appropriate cleaning agents are widely available from suppliers of commercial and industrial cleaning products. Distributors often already have relationships with such suppliers, making sourcing straightforward.
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What sanitising agents are recommended and why?
The preferred sanitising chemical is food grade hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂ 3%). This agent is effective against a broad range of bacteria, leaves no harmful residues, and is safe to use at low concentrations. It is also relatively stable when stored correctly, making it a reliable option for regular use.
Other chemicals, such as diluted bleach solutions (e.g., sodium hypochlorite), are sometimes used but carry higher risks. Chlorine-based cleaners can degrade plastics and internal components, especially in complex systems. Additionally, they require meticulous rinsing to prevent harmful residue, making them less suitable for modern dispenser systems.
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What is the recommended frequency for cleaning or sanitisation, and why?
Cleaning frequency should be determined by the operator based on the environment, usage, and a general risk assessment. A good practice is to carry out internal cleaning at the same time the filter is replaced. Filter life is set by the filter manufacturer and is usually based on total water volume processed.
The industry norm for POU dispensers is a 6-month interval. This recommendation is based on guidelines established by trade associations in the absence of specific regulatory standards. However, in high-usage or high-risk environments, more frequent cleaning may be necessary.
For bottled water dispensers, the standard cleaning frequency is every 3 months.
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Why do water dispensers need to be sanitised?
In most cases, the correct term for what is required is cleaning, not sanitisation. Mains-fed (point-of-use) water dispensers do not typically require full disinfection or sanitisation, provided they are used in environments where the water supply is already potable. Regular cleaning—particularly of external surfaces and key user contact points—is essential for maintaining hygiene and optimal performance.
The term “sanitisation” originated in the United States and is generally associated with disinfection protocols for bottled water coolers, where bottled water is classified as a food product. As such, these systems are expected to follow stricter cleaning regimes.
Point-of-use (POU) water dispensers were developed as a cost-effective and environmentally sound alternative to bottled dispensers in regions with safe, reliable mains water. Modern dispensers, like those manufactured by Borg & Overström, are designed as sealed systems, making internal cleaning impractical. Instead, periodic flushing with an appropriate cleaning solution is recommended to help maintain internal cleanliness.
Our products are not designed for use with non-potable water. If a customer chooses to use water from an untreated or marginal source, a suitable upstream water treatment system—such as reverse osmosis—must be in place. These systems are commonly found in areas without access to regulated potable water and may require separate maintenance protocols.
It is important to note that regulated drinking water can degrade over time, especially in low-use scenarios. However, when potable water is used in conjunction with equipment made from certified, hygienic materials, the risk of contamination is significantly minimised.
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How to remove the adapter from a Twin Gauge Co2 Regulator
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How to find a part in 3 clicks
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Are Deep Sparkle® CO2 cylinders recyclable?
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I have some CO² cylinders but am not sure if they are spent. How can I check if they are still pressurised?
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I have some CO² cylinders but am not sure if they are still usable. How can I check?
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Is there a refillable option for your tap systems’ CO2 cylinders?
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The item I want says Out of Stock. When can I expect an update?
Out of stock items can be ordered as normal. Once submitted, a member of our team will be in touch within 1 working day to provide an expected delivery date.
Can’t find what you need? Please submit a question: [email protected]
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Access our blog
Discover the latest news, expert insight and exclusive business advice for the water industry.
Can’t find what you need? please submit a question: [email protected]
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Access our distributor resources
Full sales and marketing support to satisfy and grow your customer base – downloadable brand assets, white papers, CAD files, legal help, and a multimedia library.
Can’t find what you need? please submit a question: [email protected]
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Access our exploded diagrams
Innovation illustrated – essential resources for technicians.
Can’t find what you need? please submit a question: [email protected]
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Access our how-to videos
Master your water dispenser with this complete archive covering all matters of installation, maintenance and upgrades.
Can’t find what you need? please submit a question: [email protected]
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Access our parts and part numbers
What you need, where you need it, when you need it. Equip yourself today.
Can’t find what you need? please submit a question: [email protected]
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When can I expect delivery of my order?
Standard parts are next-day despatch. For bulk orders, machines 1-100 are dispatched within six days. Orders of 100+ machines will be dispatched within 21 days. This also applies to non-standard parts – such as B2 parts, or those belonging to any other discontinued item.
Can’t find what you need? Please submit a question: [email protected]
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How is the carriage cost calculated?
Parts orders in the UK and Northern Ireland are calculated on the value and weight of the goods. EU delivery prices are based on their value, weight and final destination.
Please remember that there is an extra Dangerous Goods surcharge for CO2. This charge differs depending on the quantity of canisters purchased.
All appliance orders now go out on pallets. In the UK this costs £54.50 per pallet. EU-based appliance orders will be determined by destination and weight.
Can’t find what you need? Please submit a question: [email protected]
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Can I order parts separately?
Borg & Overström distributors can order parts separately.
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How do I dispose of empty CO2 canisters?
CO2 canisters are fully recyclable and can be disposed of in general waste.
Can’t find what you need? Please submit a question: [email protected]
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I’ve forgotten my password or login details for the resource centre. Can you help me?
Click here to reset your password. You’ll receive an email which includes instructions to update your personal details. Occasionally, these emails end up in spam folders so please make sure you check all folders if the email doesn’t arrive promptly.
Can’t find what you need? Please submit a question: [email protected]
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Where can I get pictures of your appliances?
Images and marketing support material for all appliances can be found within the ‘resource’ areas of the website under your account login. If you have any special requirements then please email [email protected]
Can’t find what you need? Please submit a question: [email protected]
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Why is my appliance making a bleeping noise?
Your appliance is fitted with a level sensor. Please empty the level sensor tank and the bleeping will cease.
Can’t find what you need? Please submit a question: [email protected]
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Why is my B5 appliance not dispensing any water, even though the blue LED light is on at the base of the tap?
This is not a fault but a safety mechanism. Turn off the appliance and locate the probes in the base at the back, which should be dry. If you identify any moisture, dry the probes with a soft cloth. Next, locate the red lever halfway up inside the appliance. This should be in a horizontal position. If it is not, return to horizontal, and then turn the appliance back on. The appliance will dispense water again.
Can’t find what you need? Please submit a question: [email protected]
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How can I optimise the quality of sparkling water?
Our appliances are designed to deliver premium carbonated water. If you are currently experiencing poor quality sparkling water, the cause could be due to the following (depending on appliance type):
- Incorrect CO2 pressure: Check your CO2 bottle, regulator and non-return valve and replace as necessary. Supply pressure should be 58 psi (4bar) – adjust or replace as necessary.
- Air in the carbonator tank: Isolate the power supply and operate the sparkling water tap until gas is expelled. Allow gas to expel for 5 seconds. Switch on the power supply and allow the tank to refill.
- Residue in carbonator tank: After prolonged use, a surface film can develop within the carbonator tank. Refer to the cleaning and sanitising instructions that came with your appliance.
- Carbonator tank: If the pump runs continuously, contact your distributor who will be happy to help you resolve the issue.
Can’t find what you need? Please submit a question: [email protected]
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How many cups of sparkling water can I get from one 600g CO2 cylinder?
400 7oz cups or 80 litres
Can’t find what you need? Please submit a question: [email protected]
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What pressure does the CO2 need to be set at?
We recommend between 3.5 – 5 bar. Do not exceed 5 bar pressure.
Can’t find what you need? Please submit a question: [email protected]
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Why is there water pooling within the bottom of the appliance?
This could be caused by a leak in the pipework and/or filter. Please contact your distributor who will be pleased to help you resolve this issue.
Can’t find what you need? Please submit a question: [email protected]
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Why is there water pooling on the top edge of the lower door panel and/or the bottom of the cabinet?
If applicable, you may have an overflowing drip tray or waste container. This is easily resolved by emptying the waste container and/or checking that the drainpipe is not blocked.
Can’t find what you need? Please submit a question: [email protected]
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Why would a water cooler not dispense hot water?
Assuming your model is designed to dispense hot water, some simple trouble shooting will identify the cause – the most common of which is insufficient cooling air flowing through the fridge. Please contact your distributor who will be pleased to get your appliance operating properly again.
Can’t find what you need? Please submit a question: [email protected]
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I have just installed one of your coolers but I can’t get any water to come through – what’s causing this?
The most common cause of this issue is that the water supply is turned off. Please check that your power supply, taps, valves and filters on the incoming water supply are fitted and switched on. Alternatively, your leak detector (if applicable) could have tripped off during installation. Disconnect the power and water supply and check for leaks. To reset your appliance, or if this hasn’t helped, please contact your distributor who will be pleased to get your appliance operating correctly again.
Can’t find what you need? Please submit a question: [email protected]
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