Split / Bi-Level

The terms are often used interchangeably. Both refer to fountains with two drinking heads at different heights serving ADA and adult users from a single fixture.

Typically, one head is mounted higher and the other lower, making these units accessible and comfortable for adults, children, and wheelchair users alike. You’ll commonly find split or bi-level drinking fountains, also called hi-lo or multi-station fountains, installed in schools, offices, healthcare facilities, parks, and other public spaces where accessibility is a priority.

Yes, properly specified bi-level units position one head at ADA-compliant height (typically ~36") and meet 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design.

This ensures that the lower fountain is accessible to wheelchair users, while the higher head serves standing adults or older children.

Yes, combo units with two drinking heads plus a sensor-activated bottle filler are widely available and popular in schools and gyms.

Yes, refrigerated bi-level units share a single chilling element that cools water for both drinking heads simultaneously.

Non-refrigerated versions are also available for locations where chilled water isn’t necessary, and combo units with integrated bottle filling stations come in both refrigerated and non-refrigerated models. Many leading brands also offer bi-level fountains with built-in filtration and vandal-resistant designs, ideal for public spaces and high-use environments.

Tri-level models with three accessibility heights are available from Elkay and other manufacturers for mixed-grade school use. These tri-level, split-level, hi-lo, and multi-station drinking fountains are offered by leading brands such as Elkay, Haws, Oasis, and Halsey Taylor, making it easy to find reliable options tailored for K-12 environments and other settings where multiple user heights are needed.

Yes, outdoor-rated bi-level pedestals include freeze-resistant valves and self-draining configurations for cold-climate park installations.

Look for models designed specifically for outdoor use, with weather-resistant finishes and push-button operation.

Integrated bottle filling stations provide a convenient way to refill reusable water bottles, helping to minimize single-use plastic waste. These features are appreciated in high-traffic places like schools, gyms, and public facilities because they encourage hydration on the go and promote eco-friendly habits. Plus, sensor-activated fillers make for a touch-free, hygienic experience, an added bonus in today’s health-conscious environments.

Bi-level drinking fountains come in a surprisingly wide range of finishes and styles to match the look and demands of nearly any environment. Whether you’re outfitting a modern school corridor or a busy community park, there’s a finish to fit your project (and probably a few you hadn’t considered yet).

Popular finishes and materials include:

• Stainless steel: The go-to for durability, vandal resistance, and easy cleaning. Most manufacturers, including Elkay, Haws, Oasis, and Halsey Taylor, offer satin, brushed, or powder-coated stainless options.
• Granite or simulated stone: Some units include concrete or granite-look finishes, especially for outdoor pedestals.

Design variations to consider:

• Wall-mounted vs. pedestal: Choose between sleek wall-hung coolers for indoors, or robust pedestal fountains meant for playgrounds, campuses, or greenways.
• Rounded or contoured shapes: Soft corner designs minimize injury risk and create a more approachable look, while square/rectangular profiles add a modern feel.
• Bottle filler integration: Many fountains now come with integrated (or add-on) bottle filling stations, sometimes recessed for a streamlined look or with touchless operation for better hygiene.
• Back panels and accent trim: Stainless backsplash panels, color accents, and protective trim add both visual appeal and durability in high-use areas.

No matter your setting, you’ll find an array of bi-level fountain designs ranging from classic to contemporary, and built to withstand everything from rowdy recesses to routine public use.