by Fern Shaw | Aug 19, 2026 | instant tap, water boiler, water cooler, Water Coolers
Let’s fact check here for a moment. This is a blog page. The running (aha) theme is about all things water.
There are heaps of information about the supply of water and how we deliver said water to you, dear, valued customer, through the provision of our spankingly smart range of:
Bottled Water Coolers
Mains Fed Water Coolers
Water Boilers
Hotel and Catering Solutions
Water for Schools
Water Fountains
Instant Taps
It also helps to keep ourselves informed about the importance of drinking water, how to avoid becoming dehydrated (which occurs more often and easily than one might think), what to drink and how often to drink it. In general, it’s all about keeping yourself healthily hydrated.
But the one question we may not have yet asked is: What makes you thirsty?
Is it the popcorn?
You may belong to the heavily salted popcorn clan. When you go to the pictures, it’s not officially an occasion unless you have a bucket of very over-salted popcorn. Then your tongue swells up and you feel like you’ve been eating dry desert sand. At which point, you may wonder why on earth you’re so thirsty.
Hmm. Mystery solved.
Is it the fizzy stuff?
Perhaps you’re more of a spend all day in warm weather, keep active, run from place to place, perspire like mad and wait until the last possible moment before having a drink sort of person.
By the time you’re absolutely parched, you reach for a fizzy drink and guzzle it down. Unfortunately, a sugary drink isn’t necessarily the answer to your thirst and you may soon find yourself reaching for another one.
Is it the takeaway?
Or maybe fast food is the culprit. Chips, kebabs, sausage rolls (to name a few) leading to the inevitable:
“Why am I so thirsty?”
It turns out that might not be quite the mystery you thought it was.
So, what’s your thirst tipping point?
Whatever yours is, it’s worth remembering that some of our thirst can be self-imposed.
Us humanoids. We can be rather silly beings, can’t we?
Perhaps the answer is simply to drink water regularly throughout the day rather than waiting until your mouth feels like the Sahara. Your mind, body and soul will thank you for it.
by Fern Shaw | Mar 9, 2026 | water boiler, Water Boilers, water cooler, Water Coolers, water dispenser
Building on a previous instalment from 2016, we leap forward to 2024 to find out how the British appetite has evolved over the last eight years. While the original 1970s data gave us a baseline, the recent shift from 2016 to today reveals a nation rapidly refining its palate and its priorities.
According to the latest Family Food data released by Defra, our plates tell a story of convenience, health-consciousness and a complete reimagining of the British staple.
Beyond the Pint of White
In our 2016 update skimmed milk had overtaken whole-fat. Fast forward to 2024 and the traditional dairy pint is in a steeper decline than ever. It’s no longer just about the fat content; we are now a nation of dairy alternatives. Oat, almond and soy variants have moved from niche health shop finds to fridge essentials, reflecting a broader shift toward plant-based living.
The Air Fryer Revolution
In 2016, we were buying three times more chips than in the seventies. Today, that trend continues but the cooking method has been disrupted. The meteoric rise of the air fryer since our last blog means we are still enjoying our chips, but they are increasingly prepared in a way that is healthier and quicker. The deep-fat fryer is being banished in favour of modern tech.
The Great Hydration Shift
One of the most telling changes since 2016 isn’t just what we eat, but what we choose to wash it down with. While many still swear by a proper brew, tea purchases have continued their steady slide as coffee – particularly filter coffee – is on the increase. Overall, however, there has been a significant move away from constant heavy caffeine hits in favour of pure, refreshing water.
Whether it is the ubiquity of the office water cooler or the rise of the reusable bottle, drinking water has become the ultimate lifestyle choice. The water dispenser has become the new social hub of the workplace, as we have realised that staying hydrated is the simplest productivity hack available.
A Globalised Pantry
The ‘Italianisation’ we noted previously has expanded into a truly global pantry. While tinned peas and meat paste are firmly relics of the past, our baskets are now filled with avocados, sweet potatoes and haloumi. Since 2016, these items have moved from trendy extras to weekly necessities.
So, where does that leave us? We are eating less beef, more chicken, more fresh fruit and significantly more ready-to-eat salads. The British public is striking a balance: the convenience of a quick meal accompanied by a water bottle refill from the water cooler and a side of fresh greens.
Of course, I’m still dispensing piping hot water from the office hot water boiler to make my endless mugs of tea. However, in an effort to keep up with these more health-conscious habits, I might just try to cut back on how many biscuits I dunk.
by Fern Shaw | Jan 19, 2026 | water boiler, Water Boilers, water cooler, Water Coolers
Every January, the third Monday rolls around with a gloomy reputation. Dubbed Blue Monday, it was once claimed to be the most depressing day of the year – a rather sad mix of dark mornings, cold weather and festive cheer well and truly packed away. No wonder so many of us wake up humming “I don’t like Mondays” (thanks, Boomtown Rats).
But what if we flipped the script?
From Blue to Brew
In recent years, Blue Monday has been reimagined as Brew Monday – a much warmer, kinder idea. Instead of dwelling on the blues, it encourages us to pause, make a cup of tea, coffee (or indeed, any hot water drink you like) and check in with the people we care about. A quick phone call, a message, or even a virtual cuppa can make a real difference. Sometimes, it’s the smallest gestures that lift the heaviest moods.
The Comfort of a Cuppa
There’s something deeply reassuring about a hot drink. The ritual of boiling water, choosing a mug and taking that first sip feels grounding – especially on a chilly January day. It’s a reminder to slow down, breathe and be present. And let’s be honest, many of life’s problems feel at least a little more manageable with a hot drink in hand and warming us up on the inside.
Keeping the Good Stuff Flowing
Of course, any good hot drink starts with hot water. If you’re the sort of person who finds comfort in frequent cuppas – at home or at work – having a reliable supply of piping hot water can make those moments even easier. A hot water boiler or hot & cold water cooler quietly does the job in the background, ready whenever you are. No fuss, no waiting, just instant warmth when you need it most.
Chase the Blues Away
So, whether you call it Blue Monday or Brew Monday, perhaps the answer is the same: connect, be kind to yourself and make good use of your hot water boiler. One cup, a quick chat with a workmate – in person or remotely – that’s how we turn a gloomy Monday into something a little brighter.
by Fern Shaw | Oct 1, 2025 | water boiler, water cooler, Water Coolers, water dispenser
Is International Coffee Day cause for celebration? We think so. (Though it’s possible your jittery enthusiasm is less ‘cheer’ and more ‘over-caffeinated’.)
Do we rank in the global coffee consumption lists?
No, we do not. Not even close. Luxembourg does. Finland does. As do Norway, Denmark and Sweden.
Okay, but if we are drinking coffee, is it good for us?
Coffee probably makes the modern world go round – and it’s been doing so since it hit the West in the 1600s. But as with all good things, the golden rule applies: everything in moderation.
That morning coffee (ideally after breakfast) is a great way to get going. But if your day is fuelled solely by creamy lattes and sugar-laden cappuccinos, the benefits of coffee can quickly get buried under the calories.
Pro tip: Pair every coffee with a drink of water to stay hydrated. Not only is it great for your body, but your skin and energy levels will thank you too.
A pre-workout coffee? Yes, really.
Many avoid coffee before exercising, thinking it’s too dehydrating. Actually, a cup of coffee before a workout can help boost fat burning, improve endurance, and reduce fatigue – just hold the honey and whipped cream.
It’s what’s inside that counts.
Coffee is packed with flavonoids, powerful antioxidants that help stop LDL cholesterol from oxidising—great news for your heart health. And if you keep it simple (read: black coffee, no sugar), your daily brew clocks in at just 2 calories. Diet-friendly and delicious.
But first … hot water.
No coffee without hot water – which is where we come in. With an AquAid water dispenser, instant hot water boilers, or boiling water taps, getting your perfect cup is effortlessly easy, whether you’re in the office, at home, or anywhere in between.
Even better? Every cup you brew helps support Christian Aid and The Africa Trust, who bring clean drinking water to communities across Africa. So, while you’re sipping your hot coffee, someone else is getting access to safe, life-changing water.
by Fern Shaw | May 20, 2025 | water boiler, water cooler, Water Coolers, water dispenser
In the words from 90s popular culture, tea is all that!
And with International Tea Day upon us – one of our very favourite days here at AquAid – we thought it a suitable time to refresh (aha) our memories about what it is that makes tea so great.
A few reasons surface:
- Tea contains oxidants called polyphenols. It can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases. *
- It has also been found that people who drink green tea or black tea have lower chances of heart issues.
- Herbal teas such as chamomile help maintain the health of your digestive system.
- Tea is extremely beneficial for your teeth because high amounts fluoride, catechins and tannins are present. These help to prevent plague, builds resistance to acid and sugar and strengthens teeth.
- The amount of caffeine present in tea is less than coffee. It is said that traditional tea contains 50 percent less caffeine than coffee!
- Herbal teas such as Chamomile and Ginger tea are quite good for the digestive system as they are antispasmodic.
Fancy more than a cuppa a day but don’t have access to a consistent supply of piping hot water? Never fear, AquAid are here! Whether it’s a hot & cold water dispenser, boiling & chilled water taps or a hot water boiler, we have the hot water dispenser solution for you. Contact us today!
*source: article at Calendarr United Kingdom
by Fern Shaw | Apr 8, 2025 | water boiler, water cooler, Water Coolers
As we move into the (hopefully) warmer months of spring, it’s important to remember how essential staying hydrated is, particularly at events, concerts, festivals and conferences. As temperatures rise and people spend long hours outdoors or in crowded spaces, access to fresh drinking water should be a top priority. It’s something that we may often overlook when attending such events. Sadly, this has the potential to negatively impact both your health and experience of the event.
Furthermore, spring is the season when outdoor events really start to ramp up, with many people taking advantage of the milder weather. Whether you’re attending an open-air concert, a local festival, outdoor markets or a conference with long sessions, it’s easy to forget how much water your body needs when you’re caught up in the excitement. But dehydration can creep up on you, leaving you feeling sluggish, irritated, or even more prone to headaches. By staying hydrated, you can keep your energy levels up and make the most of the experience.
Proper hydration supports mood, energy, and overall enjoyment, contributing to the success of any event. Having easy access to drinking water can make a huge difference in this regard. By providing convenient water stations, organisers demonstrate a commitment to attendee well-being, creating a positive and refreshing atmosphere that aligns with the season’s spirit of renewal.
Carrying your own reusable water bottle is one way to make sure you’re never without, so it’s always worth checking ahead to see what your event offers in terms of water accessibility – and if you’re attending something like a festival or concert, ensure you’re aware of where the water cooler stations are located.
Ultimately, making sure you stay hydrated at events this spring is all about looking after yourself and ensuring that your experience is enjoyable from start to finish. So, when you’re out and about, keep your water bottle topped up and drink often – it’s one simple step to make your spring events even better.
