What is Filter First?
The Michigan Filter First initiative is a statewide education program aimed at promoting and improving drinking water quality in elementary and secondary education by deploying filtered hydration solutions to schools and academic facilities. Filter First is a new law (HB 4341 and 4342) that ensures Michigan K-12 schools and childcare centers have continuous access to filtered drinking water. Elkay supports Michigan schools with advanced filtered bottle filling stations and ADA-compliant water coolers that enhance safety, reduce contaminants like lead, and promote reusable bottle use in high-traffic learning environments.
For Filter First requirements and guidance materials, visit the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) website.
Zurn Elkay Helps Michigan Schools With Filter First
We know there’s a lot of work needed to bring schools up to compliance. Get prepared for Filter First by requesting a free site walkthrough from Zurn Elkay. Let our drinking water consultants help make customized product recommendations, just like we’ve done for Ypsilanti Public Schools.
Get a Quote
Elkay will connect you with certified distributors to obtain a quote for Filter First compliant solutions.
What is the Michigan Filter First Program?
The Michigan Filter First Program is a statewide initiative to upgrade school drinking water systems with filtered water solutions, improving water quality, and reducing exposure to contaminants.
Why are Michigan schools implementing filtered water stations?
Schools install filtered water stations to provide safer drinking water, support healthier hydration habits, reduce plastic waste, and meet evolving public health and facility standards.
How do bottled water and filtered water stations support Michigan’s water quality goals?
Filtered water stations provide point-of-use contaminant reduction that helps schools meet water quality standards, reduces reliance on single-use bottles, and encourages healthier hydration habits. These solutions align with Safe Drinking Water Act objectives focused on safe drinking water delivery.
Are Michigan water quality initiatives mandatory for all schools?
While specific testing and remediation requirements vary by local district policies and state guidance, many Michigan school districts proactively adopt filtered water solutions and lead testing programs to protect student health and meet best practices in water quality management.
Do Michigan schools need water quality upgrades?
Many Michigan schools evaluate their plumbing systems and drinking outlets to ensure water safety and compliance with current guidelines. Upgrades such as filtered bottle filling stations can improve water quality at the point of use, especially in older buildings with legacy plumbing.
How can schools get support for filtered water solutions?
Schools can work with water solution providers, plumbing engineers, and local health departments to plan, select, and maintain filtered hydration systems such as bottle filling stations and coolers that align with Michigan’s water quality goals and building requirements.
What drinking water solutions does Elkay provide for schools?
Elkay offers filtered bottle filling stations, water coolers, ADA-compliant hydration systems, replacement filters, and installation support designed for educational environments.
What role do Elkay filtered bottle filling stations play in school water safety?
Filtered bottle filling stations provide real-time filtration at the point of use, reducing contaminants like lead and chlorine taste and odor. They enhance water quality for drinking and refillable bottle use,
Can Elkay water stations help schools reduce plastic waste?
Yes — by providing filtered water with easy refill options, Elkay bottle filling stations encourage reusable bottle use, significantly reducing single-use plastic bottle consumption.
What support does Elkay offer for installation and maintenance in schools?
Elkay provides specification resources, installation guides, replacement parts, and customer support to assist schools with setup and ongoing maintenance of their drinking water systems.
Are Elkay hydration stations suitable for all school buildings?
Elkay systems are engineered for a wide range of educational facilities, from elementary schools to university campuses, with options for high-traffic areas and ADA compliance.
Do Elkay water stations meet drinking water quality standards?
Elkay drinking water solutions, including filtered bottle filling stations, are designed to support compliance with applicable water quality guidelines and may use certified filtration technology to reduce specific contaminants when installed and maintained according to manufacturer instructions.