Elkay vs Oasis: Full Comparison of Filters, Fountains, and Bottle Filling Stations
Posted by The ProDrinkingFountains Team on Nov 5th 2025
Comparing Elkay and Oasis
Elkay and Oasis are two of the most trusted names in commercial bottle filling stations and drinking fountains. Both have long histories of reliability and service support, but their systems differ in design, filtration, and maintenance features. This comparison outlines the real-world differences so you can choose the best fit for your building and link back to our Ultimate Guide to Commercial Bottle Filling Stations and Drinking Fountains for deeper reference.
If your facility is comparing Elkay and Oasis, focus first on installation type, filtration needs, service access, and traffic level. The best choice is usually the model that fits your application best, not just the brand name.
Elkay vs Oasis at a Glance
| Feature | Elkay | Oasis |
|---|---|---|
| Typical chilled output | 8.0 gallons per hour at 50°F drinking water based on 80°F inlet and 90°F ambient air | 8.0 gallons per hour at 50°F drinking water under the same conditions |
| Filter certification | Filters certified to NSF/ANSI 42, 53, and 401 for lead, chlorine, and particulate reduction | VersaFilter III certified to NSF/ANSI 42, 53, and 401 for lead, chlorine, and microplastics |
| Activation | Hands-free bottle filler sensor and mechanical bubbler push bar | Contactless bottle filler activation with manual bubbler push pads |
| Accessibility | ADA compliant when mounted per manufacturer specifications | ADA compliant when mounted per manufacturer specifications |
Top Model Comparison: Bottle Fillers and Coolers
| Use Case | Elkay Example | Oasis Example | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chilled filtered combo with bubbler | LZS8WSLK ezH2O | PG8EBF VersaCooler II | Both are top-selling chilled, filtered units widely used in schools and offices |
| Wall-mounted bottle filler only | ezH2O wall or recessed format | PGN8EBF refrigerated bottle filler | Wall models save space and suit corridors or high-traffic areas |
| Retrofit bottle filler kit | LZWS-RF ezH2O Retrofit Kit | PWEBF or PWSMEBQ VersaFiller Retrofit Kits | Ideal for upgrading existing fountains without full replacement |
Retrofit kits can be one of the smartest options for schools and offices that want to add bottle filling without replacing the entire drinking fountain. They can reduce project cost and installation time while still upgrading user experience.
Filtration Comparison
| Feature | Elkay WaterSentry Filters | Oasis VersaFilter III |
|---|---|---|
| Certifications | NSF/ANSI 42, 53, and 401 | NSF/ANSI 42, 53, and 401 |
| Capacity | About 3,000 gallons or one year | Up to 4,750 gallons or one year depending on use |
| Filter change indicator | LED visual monitor | Smart monitor with bottle counter |
| Access | Front-accessible quick-twist cartridge | Front service door for easy filter change |
Both brands use activated carbon and particulate media to remove lead, chlorine, taste, and odor. Filter life depends on local water quality and usage volume, but both are designed for simple, tool-free replacement.
ADA, Safety, and Compliance Considerations
All current Elkay and Oasis drinking fountains and bottle filling stations use lead-free materials that comply with federal Safe Drinking Water Act requirements. Both meet ADA and ANSI accessibility standards when installed correctly. For green-building projects, many chilled units contribute toward LEED points or Energy Star efficiency benchmarks.
Maintenance and Serviceability
Elkay’s front-access filter door and LED status light make filter changes straightforward for maintenance teams. Oasis offers similar ease of service with tool-free access on VersaFilter III systems. Both manufacturers provide wide distribution of replacement filters and components, ensuring quick parts availability. Standard refrigeration warranties generally cover five years on the sealed cooling system and one year on other components.
Best Bottle Filling Station Models by Use Case
| Use Case | Elkay Model | Oasis Model | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Schools and Universities | LZS8WSLK ezH2O | PG8EBF VersaCooler II with VersaFiller | Chilled, filtered combination units; ADA compliant; LED filter status light; 8 GPH chilling; reliable for high-traffic use |
| Corporate and Office Buildings | LZ8WSSP ezH2O Surface-Mount | PWEBF VersaFiller Retrofit Kit | Compact wall-mount or retrofit design; filtered and touchless; ideal for offices and staff lounges |
| Healthcare and Hospitals | LZS8WSLP ezH2O | PGN8EBF VersaCooler II | Filtered, ADA compliant, antimicrobial surfaces; low-noise refrigeration suitable for healthcare environments |
| Outdoor and Parks | LK4400BF1UDB Outdoor Bottle Filler | P8AC or P8ACSV Outdoor Cooler | Heavy-duty, weather-resistant design; non-refrigerated or chilled options; lead-free materials; optional pet station and freeze-resistant valves |
| Retrofit and Renovation Projects | LZWS-RF ezH2O Retrofit Kit | PWSMEBQ Retrofit Kit | Converts existing fountains to bottle fillers; filtered options; quick installation for schools or offices upgrading older models |
| Childcare and Early Education | EMABF8 Combination Unit | P8EBFT VersaCooler II | Dual-height, ADA, filtered and child-accessible; durable, tamper-resistant design |
Choosing the Right Model for Your Facility
Use the chart below to quickly compare top Elkay and Oasis bottle filling stations by key features like chilling capacity, filtration, ADA compliance, and touchless operation. Whether you’re upgrading an older fountain, outfitting a new school, or planning for outdoor hydration, this selector makes it easy to find the best match for your environment and maintenance needs.
Bottle Filling Station Model Selector
| Model | Brand | Chilled | Filtered | ADA Compliant | Touchless | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LZS8WSLK ezH2O | Elkay | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes (sensor filler) | Schools, universities, public buildings |
| LZS8WSLP ezH2O | Elkay | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes (sensor filler) | Healthcare, high-traffic indoor areas |
| LZ8WSSP ezH2O Surface Mount | Elkay | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Offices, corporate campuses |
| LZWS-RF Retrofit Kit | Elkay | Non-chilled | Yes (optional) | Yes | Yes | Retrofit upgrades, limited-space installs |
| LK4400BF1UDB Outdoor | Elkay | Optional (add-on) | Yes (optional) | Yes | Yes | Parks, outdoor schools, recreation sites |
| PG8EBF VersaCooler II + VersaFiller | Oasis | Yes | Yes (VersaFilter III) | Yes | Yes (contactless filler) | Schools, office buildings, gyms |
| PGN8EBF VersaCooler II | Oasis | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Healthcare, libraries, quiet indoor areas |
| PWEBF VersaFiller Retrofit Kit | Oasis | Non-chilled | Yes (optional) | Yes | Yes | Retrofit projects, existing fountains |
| PWSMEBQ Retrofit Kit (QUASAR UV) | Oasis | Non-chilled | Yes (optional) | Yes | Yes | Sanitary retrofits, high-sensitivity areas |
| P8AC Outdoor Cooler | Oasis | Yes | Optional | Yes | No | Outdoor installations, playgrounds, sports fields |
Feature Key
Yes = Included or standard
No / Non-chilled = Not applicable or optional depending on model
Summary
Chilled units such as the Elkay LZS8WSLK and Oasis PG8EBF are ideal for high-traffic environments that require continuous cold water availability. Filtered systems across both brands use NSF/ANSI 42, 53, and 401 certified filters, ensuring clean, great-tasting water. Touchless operation is standard on most modern models, and all units listed meet ADA accessibility standards when installed per manufacturer specifications. Both manufacturers comply with lead-free construction standards under NSF/ANSI 372.
For most school and office projects, the decision often comes down to whether you want the exact Elkay ezH2O configuration you already know or an Oasis model with the specific retrofit or service features your facility prefers. Both brands are strong choices when matched to the right application.
Find the Right Bottle Filling Station Today
Every facility has unique needs, and both Elkay and Oasis offer proven, high-quality solutions for schools, offices, hospitals, and public spaces. If you’re planning a new installation or upgrading older drinking fountains, our team can help you choose the best combination of performance, filtration, and compliance for your project. Explore our full selection of Elkay, Oasis, Haws, Halsey Taylor, and Murdock bottle filling stations at ProDrinkingFountains.com or contact us for expert guidance and fast quotes.
FAQs
Are Elkay or Oasis bottle filling stations better?
Both are reliable commercial brands. Elkay is known for documented filtration performance and easy maintenance access, while Oasis emphasizes retrofit flexibility and service-friendly design. The better choice depends on your facility layout, maintenance preferences, and filtration needs.
Do both Elkay and Oasis filters remove lead?
Yes. Both Elkay WaterSentry and Oasis VersaFilter III filters are certified to NSF/ANSI standards for lead reduction along with chlorine, taste, odor, and particulate reduction on applicable models.
How often should filters be replaced?
Filters on both Elkay and Oasis systems should generally be replaced every 3,000 to 4,750 gallons of use or about every 12 months, depending on the specific filter model, water quality, and traffic level.
Are Elkay and Oasis bottle filling stations ADA compliant?
Yes, many Elkay and Oasis bottle filling stations and drinking fountains are ADA compliant when installed according to manufacturer specifications. Mounting height and installation details matter.
Which brand is better for retrofit projects?
Both brands offer strong retrofit options. Elkay ezH2O retrofit kits and Oasis VersaFiller retrofit kits are both popular choices for upgrading existing fountains without full replacement.