Consumer concerns about drinking water contaminants and aesthetics partially explains the increased demands for alternatives to tap water such as bottled water or water from a vending machine. Media hype about contaminants and aggressive marketing by some bottled water companies also plays a role.
Today, there are three basic types of water vending machines. The majority are self-contained, freestanding floor models located either inside or in front of a grocery store, convenience store or other retail outlet. The second type are water vending machines installed on counter tops, usually adjacent to soft drink, coffee and other beverage dispensing equipment. The last type are water vending machines designed so that the treatment components are located in a remote area of a facility (often a storeroom), while a smaller dispensing unit is located on a counter top or free standing in the sales area of the store.