Prosecco & Pinot Noir at the Water Cooler

Prosecco & Pinot Noir at the Water Cooler

August is shaping up to be a rather refined month, having recently brought us two excellent reasons to raise a glass – National Prosecco Day and National Pinot Noir Day. Whether you’re a fan of sparkling celebrations or prefer a silky red, there’s no denying that wine lovers have had plenty to toast to. But before you get too carried away with the cork-popping and swirling, let’s take a moment to appreciate the unsung hero behind every great glass: water.

Yes, that humble H₂O from your water cooler plays a bigger role than you might think. Grapes, after all, need a good drink too – as do you. From vineyard to bottle, water is essential in the winemaking process, nurturing the vines and keeping those precious grapes plump and juicy. Without it, there’d be no Pinot, no Prosecco … and frankly, no fun.

Now, while we admire the idea of having a glass of fizz on tap, we strongly advise against repurposing your water cooler as a wine dispenser. It’s not that we haven’t thought about it – we have – but it turns out wine and water coolers just aren’t a great match (something about internal mechanics, hygiene and common sense).

What role does a water cooler play with wine?

What is a good idea, though, is keeping hydrated if you’re partaking in any wine-themed festivities. With the UK recently doing its best Mediterranean impression, alternating each glass of Prosecco or Pinot Noir with a glass of chilled water isn’t just sensible – it’s practically celebratory. Your head (and possibly those you work with) will thank you the next day.

So, whether you’re sipping something sparkling or savouring a smooth red, don’t forget to also replenish your water from your trusty water cooler. It might not be as glamorous as a vineyard in Veneto or Burgundy, but it’ll help you stay balanced, bright-eyed and ready for whatever tomorrow brings – even if that’s just another Monday.

Heatwave Hydration at the Water Cooler

Heatwave Hydration at the Water Cooler

 

When the mercury rises, staying cool and hydrated becomes essential – whether you’re at home, at work, or out and about. Here’s how to keep your water intake up and your body temperature down.

Workplace Water Cooler Hydration Tips

A water cooler or water dispenser in the office is your best ally during a heatwave.

Visit it regularly to top up your drinking water – setting a reminder can help.

Choose cool (but not icy) drinks to lower your body temperature gradually.

Wear lightweight, breathable clothing and keep a reusable water bottle at your desk for easy refills.

Home Cooling and Hydration from the Water Cooler

Hydration matters as much indoors as it does outdoors.

Keep chilled water ready in the fridge or fill bottles from your water dispenser before freezing for later use.

Encourage children to drink regularly – even if they don’t feel thirsty.

Close curtains or blinds to block heat and ventilate during cooler parts of the day.

Avoid heat-generating activities like cooking or running appliances in peak temperatures.

Opt for light meals such as salads and fruit, which also help maintain hydration.

Staying Hydrated Beyond the Water Cooler

If you’re on the move, plan ahead to beat the heat.

Carry bottled water wherever you go.

Avoid direct sunlight between 11am and 3pm, especially if you’re vulnerable to heat-related illnesses.

Wear loose, light-coloured clothing and a hat for shade.

Seek out cool spaces and take regular breaks from activity.

Replenish lost minerals as well as water – fruit juice or electrolyte drinks can help after excessive sweating.

Remember: Whether you’re at your desk, relaxing at home, or enjoying the outdoors, keeping water nearby is the simplest way to stay healthy, hydrated, and cool during a heatwave. For a reliable water cooler or water dispenser to help make that happen, contact AquAid – we’re always here to keep you refreshed.

International Youth Day: Supporting Young People Starts at Source

International Youth Day: Supporting Young People Starts at Source

International Youth Day is all about recognising the vital role young people play in shaping a better, fairer future. This year’s theme: Local Youth Actions for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Beyond – puts a spotlight on the power of youth to turn big global ideas into real, local change.*

With over half the world’s population under thirty and youth set to make up the majority of the workforce by 2050, there’s no doubt: young people are the future. They bring fresh ideas, energy and strong community connections – all key to making progress on everything from climate action to gender equality.

But to build this better future, young people need the basics. And that starts with something as simple – and essential – as clean water.

Why Clean Water Matters for Youth

It might not sound revolutionary, but access to a safe, reliable water source can transform young lives, especially in low- and middle-income countries.

Health & Well-being: Clean water means fewer diseases and better overall health, so young people can grow, learn and thrive.

Time for Education: In many communities, young people (especially girls) spend hours every day fetching water. A local water source gives them that time back – time they can spend in school, building their future.

Growing Futures: Access to water lets youth tend to crops or small gardens. These can be sold or used to feed their families, helping them develop trade skills and even start small businesses.

Skills for Life: Whether it’s farming, selling produce, or managing water systems, these experiences help young people gain practical, sustainable skills that benefit their families and wider communities.

Local Action, Global Impact

When we invest in basic needs like water, we’re not just meeting today’s challenges – we’re empowering tomorrow’s leaders. Youth aren’t just the face of the future; they’re the hands shaping it now.

It may seem that something as simple as installing a water cooler has little connection to empowering young people – but that couldn’t be further from the truth.

This International Youth Day let’s remember tremendous change often starts with something small: like a tap that works, a school that’s accessible, or a child who no longer must walk miles for water.

These are just a few of the reasons that, here at AquAid, we continue to support vital work that brings clean, safe drinking water to communities where it’s most needed. By partnering with dedicated charities and helping fund sustainable water projects, the impact goes well beyond the workplace – helping to create the foundations for healthier, more resilient futures.

Because when water flows, so does opportunity.

*source: United Nations – International Youth Day

Pedal Power & Water Breaks

Pedal Power & Water Breaks

Cycle to Work Day is here and across the UK, many people are choosing to cycle instead of relying on their usual commute. Whether you’re a daily cyclist or a one-off rider giving it a go, there’s no denying the perks – fresher air, better fitness and a happier headspace.

But cycling can be thirsty work. So, before you hop on your bike, make sure you have your hydration plan sorted. A quick sip from your bottled water isn’t always enough – especially if your route is longer or the weather’s warm.

If your workplace has a water cooler, you’re in luck. That post-ride refresh is just a few steps away. Even better if there are chilled options – because nothing quite hits like cool water after a morning pedal.

Cycling + hydration benefits:

  • Boosts energy and focus post-ride
  • Helps with muscle recovery
  • Keeps your body temperature regulated

Don’t forget to replenish water levels regularly – not just once you arrive but throughout the day. It’s the secret to feeling energised and staying productive.

So, gear up, grab your water bottle and start pedalling. Your body, mind (and the planet) will thank you – and your post-ride energy might just rub off on all your workmates too.

Cool Kids, Cooler Water – Playday in the UK

Cool Kids, Cooler Water – Playday in the UK

Celebrated on the first Wednesday of August every year, Playday is all about giving children the chance to get outside, explore and just be children. From park parties to woodland adventures, it’s a brilliant reminder of how important play is for development and fun. But with all that running, climbing and jumping around, staying refreshed is just as important as the play itself.

One thing often overlooked during active days like this? Drinking water.

Parents, organisers & carers – here’s your checklist:

Sunscreen? ✅

Snacks? ✅

Enough water for the day? ✅ Hopefully.

If you’re organising a community event, don’t forget to ensure there is access to a central water dispenser or a watercooler station. It’s a small setup with a big impact. When the little ones are dashing about, it’s crucial they’re stopping now and then to replenish water levels. A couple of easy-to-spot water fountains dotted around the space can also make a real difference, giving children quick access to a refreshing drink without having to stray too far from the fun.

Top tip:

Make it fun! Label their water cooler bottle with names, use colourful cups, or even set up a ‘hydration station’ with a playful theme. You’ll be surprised how much more water children will drink when it’s part of the game.

Play hard. Drink water. Repeat.