Choosing between an Elkay filtered vs non filtered system should be based on the project’s water-quality strategy, maintenance plan and facility requirements—not simply on which product has more features.
A filtered Elkay system adds point-of-use filtration before water is dispensed. A non-filtered system relies on the building’s incoming water supply without an integrated Elkay filter.
Both configurations can be appropriate.
Choose a filtered Elkay system when point-of-use filtration is required at the drinking-water fixture. Consider a non-filtered system when the building already has an appropriate water-treatment strategy and additional fixture-level filtration is unnecessary. Filtered systems require compatible replacement filters and ongoing maintenance.
Elkay Filtered vs Non-Filtered: Quick Comparison
| Factor | Filtered | Non-Filtered |
| Integrated filtration | Yes | No |
| Replacement filter | Required | Not required |
| Filter-related maintenance | Yes | No |
| Point-of-use contaminant reduction | Depends on filter | No integrated treatment |
| Filter monitoring | Available on selected products | Not applicable |
| Lifecycle consumables | Higher | Lower |
| Best application | Projects requiring fixture-level filtration | Projects with suitable upstream water strategy |
What Is an Elkay Filtered System?
Selected Elkay bottle filling stations, coolers and dispensers use WaterSentry filtration.
Elkay currently offers multiple filter configurations rather than one universal cartridge.
The 51300C, for example, has a rated capacity of 3,000 gallons and Elkay specifies replacement at 3,000 gallons or one year after installation. Manufacturer documentation lists NSF/ANSI certifications for specified contaminant reductions.
Filter compatibility should always be confirmed against the exact equipment model.
What Is a Non-Filtered Elkay System?
A non-filtered Elkay system does not include the point-of-use filter found in filtered configurations.
That does not automatically mean the building water is untreated.
The property may already use centralized treatment, filtration or another potable-water strategy.
The distinction is simply that the Elkay fixture itself does not provide that additional filtration stage.
Filtered Does Not Mean Refrigerated
These specifications are independent.
An Elkay product can be:
Filtered + refrigerated
Filtered + non-refrigerated
Non-filtered + refrigerated
Non-filtered + non-refrigerated
For example, Elkay currently lists LZS8WSS2K as filtered and refrigerated, while LZSDWSS2K is filtered but non-refrigerated.
Always check both requirements separately.
When Should You Choose Filtered?
Filtered equipment may be appropriate when the project requires point-of-use filtration, specific filter performance, managed hydration stations or an additional treatment stage at the fixture.
The facility must also be prepared to maintain it.
Consider:
Filter capacity → replacement frequency → replacement stock → maintenance access → FM responsibility
When Can Non-Filtered Make Sense?
Non-filtered equipment can make sense when the project already has an appropriate centralized treatment strategy, point-of-use filtration is not specified, or the client wants to avoid maintaining individual filter cartridges at multiple hydration points.
The decision should come from the project’s water strategy.
Elkay Filter Capacities
Current Elkay information includes:
51300C — 3,000 gallons
51600C — 6,000 gallons
71300C — 2,250 gallons
Elkay recommends checking compatibility and states that actual filter life depends on usage. Manufacturer guidance recommends replacement at least annually. Exact performance claims should be taken from the applicable filter documentation.
Which Is Better for Qatar?
Neither configuration is universally better.
For Qatar projects, evaluate:
Incoming water strategy + consultant specification + user volume + FM capability + lifecycle cost + exact Elkay model
Do not specify filtration solely because it sounds like the premium option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are all Elkay bottle filling stations filtered?
No. Elkay offers filtered and non-filtered configurations.
Does a filtered Elkay system require maintenance?
Yes. The compatible filter requires replacement according to capacity, usage, water conditions and manufacturer guidance.
Can a non-filtered system still provide chilled water?
Yes. Filtration and refrigeration are separate specifications.
Are all Elkay filters interchangeable?
No. Verify compatibility with the exact equipment model.
Which system should an MEP contractor specify?
The configuration that satisfies the project specification and water-quality strategy.
