FREQUENTLY ASKED
QUESTIONS
Century Springs is your home for the best local bottled water distribution in Wisconsin and Illinois. We are committed to providing our customers with the highest quality bottled spring water and professional customer service in the industry. Whether you’re interested in Century Springs drinking water services, filtered water systems, coffee services, or custom label bottled water cases. We provide fast and friendly service directly to your home and business.
Service Details
What are your service hours?
Monday – Friday from 8am – 4:30pm
What are your delivery areas?
Century Springs is proud to deliver top-quality drinking water all across Wisconsin and Northern Illinois. We service the following areas.
Wisconsin
• Dane
• Jefferson
• Waukesha
• Milwaukee
• Walworth
• Racine
• Kenosha
• Rock
• Columbia
• Dodge
• Washington
• Ozaukee
• Marquette
• Adams
• Sauk
Illinois
• Lake
• Mchenry
• Boone
• Winnebago
• Kane
• Dekalb
• Cook
• Rockford
• Dupage
How frequent is water delivery?
Century Springs delivers every four weeks. Deliveries are typically around the same day of the week, holidays may affect the delivery schedule.
What will I receive on the initial delivery?
As ordered we will deliver your water dispenser and 3 bottles of pure, fresh Century Springs water. We also deliver 1 additional bottle at no charge to you. This additional bottle allows you to keep a full bottle on your water cooler while exchanging all of your subscription bottles. You may receive as many additional bottles as you would like with each delivery. Simply call 800-825-7873 and request your additional bottles for $6.00 each.
What is included in my water subscription package?
Every four weeks you will receive 3 bottles of water and use water dispenser unit. There are no bottle deposit charges, long-term contracts or additional service fees.
Is there any way for me to request a custom delivery due to vacation or quantity?
Yes. We will replace all empty bottles for full bottles, unless you instruct us otherwise. Our Customer Service Coordinator and Route Delivery Person will work with you for specific delivery instructions or quantities. Simply call us to set up your custom delivery.
What size or sizes is your bottled water available in?
Century Springs carries portable bottled water in cases of 10 oz, 16.9 oz, 20 oz or 1 gallon bottles. We also have convenient 3 or 5 gallon jugs for water dispensing systems for home or office.
How do I sign up for Paperless Billing?
Contact Century Springs Service team here: 1-800-825-7873
What is the proper way to store bottled water?
Click here to learn how to sign up for Paperless Online BillingBottled water should be stored in a cool (i.e., room temperature), dry environment, away from chemicals such as household cleaning products, and away from solvents such as gasoline, paint thinners, and other toxic materials.
How Should I clean my Water Cooler?
For the highest quality and best tasting water, follow this simple process every 1 to 3 months when you change your bottle:
Step 1: Unplug your cooler, then remove empty bottle and drain any remaining water.
Step 2: Dilute 1 teaspoon of non-perfumed bleach in 1 gallon of water. Dampen a clean cloth (not paper towel) in the mixture and wipe down the inside of the cooler reservoir. Wipe the spigots and rinse the reservoir with at least 1 gallon of clean water.
Step 3: Drain this water through the cold-water spigot and discard the bleach solution.
Step 4: Place a new bottle of water on your cooler. Plug your cooler into the outlet. Also remember, the drip tray should be emptied periodically because it isn’t a drain, but a tray to catch the occasional spill.
How do I cancel my subscription?
For the highest quality and best tasting water, follow this simple process every 1 to 3 months when you change your bottle:
Step 1: Unplug your cooler, then remove empty bottle and drain any remaining water.
Step 2: Dilute 1 teaspoon of non-perfumed bleach in 1 gallon of water. Dampen a clean cloth (not paper towel) in the mixture and wipe down the inside of the cooler reservoir. Wipe the spigots and rinse the reservoir with at least 1 gallon of clean water.
Step 3: Drain this water through the cold-water spigot and discard the bleach solution.
Step 4: Place a new bottle of water on your cooler. Plug your cooler into the outlet. Also remember, the drip tray should be emptied periodically because it isn’t a drain, but a tray to catch the occasional spill.
Water Consumption
Is using or reusing plastic water bottles harmful to humans or can it cause cancer?
No, A rumor, started through an email chain, claims people are unaware that reusing water bottles is poisonous to humans. The email claimed plastic water bottles contain diethylhexyl adipate (DEHA) which was labeled as a carcinogen in the correspondence. A later version of the same email quotes an anonymous doctor as stating women should not use bottles left in hot cars because those bottles have certain chemicals linked to breast cancer. The reality is, the information is false. Those emails were based upon an unnamed student’s college thesis. Scientists have concluded DEHA is not inherently in plastic bottles used for water. Even if DEHA were present, the EPA, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) and the American Cancer Society (ACS) have all stated there is no link between DEHA and cancer or any other health issues in humans. Using (and reusing) water bottles is completely safe.
What is BPA?
BPA is Bisphenol A, which is an organic compound in many plastics. Recently there have been concerns regarding the safety of BPA. Century Spring’s water bottles contain no BPA or any other type of contaminant or chemicals.
What is distilled water?
Distilled water is a type of purified water which has gone through a rigorous filtration process. All contaminants and natural minerals are removed.
What is fluoride?
Fluoride is a naturally occurring element. It can be added to water to promote healthy tooth and gum development.
Does avoiding bottled water with fluoride lead to more cavities?
Oral health is dependent upon many factors, one of which is the amount of fluoride you receive – whether it’s from the dentist, food, water or personal oral hygiene products. Drinking bottled water without fluoride as a stand-alone factor will likely not result in more cavities. You may have a higher risk of cavities if you drink bottled water with little or no fluoride and you aren’t getting enough fluoride from other sources.
Will the fluoride content of bottled water change over time?
No, fluoride does not react with other minerals in bottled water. Fluoride also will not react with the glass or plastic container.
I've read about the parasite Cryptosporidium being found in tap water. What is it?
Cryptosporidium is a waterborne parasite that lives in animals and can be passed into the water through their waste. Cryptosporidium oocysts from animal wastes have been found in rivers, streams, lakes, reservoirs and many other types of surface water.
How long can I store bottled water?
The Food and Drug Administration has not established a shelf life for bottled water. Bottled water can be used indefinitely if stored properly.
Can bottled water be used for mixing baby formula?
Yes, according to the CDC, you can safely mix powdered or liquid concentrate baby formula with bottled water. However, be aware mixing baby formula with bottled water containing fluoride can lead to an infant developing dental fluorosis (tooth enamel mottling). Check the bottled water label to see if it contains fluoride, and how much. Low-fluoride bottled water (if water without fluoride isn’t available) is recommended for infants. Please note Century Springs bottled water contains no fluoride or any other chemical additives.
How much water should be stored/on hand for an emergency situation?
The CDC recommends having at least one gallon of water per person per day for a minimum of three days. Also be sure to have water on hand for pets – dogs and cats each usually need about a gallon of water per day. Remember to keep water for emergencies stored a cool, dark place, and remember to replace that water every six months. Keep in mind, the above numbers are for bare minimum survival. You should also include water in your emergency supply for hygiene and washing dishes. The Red Cross suggests three gallons are needed to cover these two tasks for two weeks’ time.
How much water should I be drinking per day?
The amount of water you should be drinking depends on multiple factors, such as your current health, bodyweight and activity level. Typically, men should drink about 3 liters per day and women should have at least 2.2 liters. If you ever feel thirsty, you should drink water as soon as possible, since thirst is a sign you’re already dehydrated.
Bottled Water Regulation
Is bottled water regulated?
The bottled water industry is regulated on four levels: federal, state, industry association and individual company. Federal regulations by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) coupled with state and industry standards, offer consumers assurance that the bottled water they purchase is stringently regulated, tested, and of the highest quality. The International Bottled Water Association (IBWA) has been a long-standing proponent of additional federal regulations for bottled water and has been very active at all levels of local, state and federal government assisting in the development of such regulations.
Federal Regulations:
Bottled water is regulated as a food product by the FDA. Bottled water companies must adhere to the FDA’s Good Manufacturing Practices, Quality Standards, and Standards of Identity.
Bottled water is regulated as a food product by the FDA. Bottled water companies must adhere to the FDA’s Good Manufacturing Practices, Quality Standards, and Standards of Identity.
Quality Standards:
All bottled water products must comply with the FDA’s Quality Standards in Section 103.35(d)(2) of Title 21 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR). These standards, along with the FDA’s Good Manufacturing Practices, ensure the safety of all bottled water products from production to packaging to consumption.
All bottled water products must comply with the FDA’s Quality Standards in Section 103.35(d)(2) of Title 21 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR). These standards, along with the FDA’s Good Manufacturing Practices, ensure the safety of all bottled water products from production to packaging to consumption.
Labeling Regulations:
FDA’s labeling rules for bottled water establish standards of identity and standardized definitions for terms found on bottled water labels such as “spring,” “artesian,” “well,” “mineral,” “purified,” and “distilled.” Seltzer, soda water, and tonic water are considered soft drinks; they are excluded from these regulations.
FDA’s labeling rules for bottled water establish standards of identity and standardized definitions for terms found on bottled water labels such as “spring,” “artesian,” “well,” “mineral,” “purified,” and “distilled.” Seltzer, soda water, and tonic water are considered soft drinks; they are excluded from these regulations.
Good Manufacturing Practices:
Bottled water is subject to both General Food Good manufacturing practices (GMPs) and GMPs specific to bottled water processing and bottling. General food GMPs govern such areas as plant and ground maintenance, sanitary maintenance of buildings and fixtures, and sanitary facilities, including water supply, plumbing and sewage disposal. Bottled water GMPs provide detailed regulations governing plant construction and design, sanitary facilities and operations, equipment design and construction, production and process controls specific to the production and processing of bottled drinking water, and record keeping.
Bottled water is subject to both General Food Good manufacturing practices (GMPs) and GMPs specific to bottled water processing and bottling. General food GMPs govern such areas as plant and ground maintenance, sanitary maintenance of buildings and fixtures, and sanitary facilities, including water supply, plumbing and sewage disposal. Bottled water GMPs provide detailed regulations governing plant construction and design, sanitary facilities and operations, equipment design and construction, production and process controls specific to the production and processing of bottled drinking water, and record keeping.
European Union:
All European exporters must meet the federal and state standards as applicable. They must also meet strict standards set by the European Union. International bottler members that sell products in the U.S must submit a certificate of inspection to IBWA.
State Standards:
In addition to FDA’s extensive regulatory requirements, the bottled water industry is subject to state regulatory requirements. A significant responsibility of the state is inspecting, sampling, analyzing and approving sources of water. Under the federal GMP’s, only approved sources of water can be used to supply a bottling plant. Another area in which some states have important responsibilities that complement federal regulation is the certification of testing laboratories. As with any food establishment, the states perform unannounced spot inspections, and some states perform annual inspections.
In addition to FDA’s extensive regulatory requirements, the bottled water industry is subject to state regulatory requirements. A significant responsibility of the state is inspecting, sampling, analyzing and approving sources of water. Under the federal GMP’s, only approved sources of water can be used to supply a bottling plant. Another area in which some states have important responsibilities that complement federal regulation is the certification of testing laboratories. As with any food establishment, the states perform unannounced spot inspections, and some states perform annual inspections.
IBWA Standards & Third-Party Inspections:
In addition to the state and federal standards for bottled water, IBWA bottler members are subject to another level of oversight. As a condition of membership, bottlers must submit to an annual, unannounced plant inspection administered by an independent, internationally recognized third-party inspection organization. This inspection audits quality and testing records, reviews all areas of plant operation from source through finished product, and checks compliance with FDA Quality Standards and Good Manufacturing Practices and any state regulations.
In addition to the state and federal standards for bottled water, IBWA bottler members are subject to another level of oversight. As a condition of membership, bottlers must submit to an annual, unannounced plant inspection administered by an independent, internationally recognized third-party inspection organization. This inspection audits quality and testing records, reviews all areas of plant operation from source through finished product, and checks compliance with FDA Quality Standards and Good Manufacturing Practices and any state regulations.
IBWA Model Code:
IBWA has established a quality assurance program: a strict set of standards called the Model Code. The Model Code establishes tougher requirements than federal and state authorities.
IBWA has established a quality assurance program: a strict set of standards called the Model Code. The Model Code establishes tougher requirements than federal and state authorities.
Is bottled water regulated differently from tap water?
Yes, bottled water is regulated by FDA as a food product and must meet all applicable food packaging regulations. Tap water is regulated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and is regarded as a utility.
What are the different types of bottled water?
There are several different varieties of bottled water. The product may be labeled as bottled water, drinking water or any of the following terms. The Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) product definitions for bottled water are:
Artesian Water/Artesian Well Water:
Bottled water from a well that taps a confined aquifer (a water-bearing underground layer of rock or sand) in which the water level stands at some height above the top of the aquifer.
Mineral Water:
Bottled water containing not less than 250 parts per million total dissolved solids may be labeled as mineral water. Mineral water is distinguished from other types of bottled water by its constant level and relative proportions of mineral and trace elements at the point of emergence from the source. No minerals can be added to this product.
Purified Water:
Water that has been produced by distillation, deionization, reverse osmosis or other suitable processes and that meets the definition of purified water in the United States. Pharmacopia may be labeled as purified bottled water. Other suitable product names for bottled water treated by one of the above processes may include “distilled water” if it is produced by distillation, “deionized water” if the water is produced by deionization, or “reverse osmosis water” if the process used is reverse osmosis. Alternatively “__________ drinking water” can be used with the blank being filled in with one of the terms defined in this paragraph (e.g. “purified drinking water” or “distilled drinking water”).
Sparkling Bottled Water:
Water that after treatment and possible replacement with carbon dioxide, contains the same amount of carbon dioxide that it had at emergence from the source. (An important note: soda water, seltzer water and tonic water are not considered bottled water. They are regulated separately, may contain sugar and calories, and are considered soft drinks.)
Spring Water:
Bottled water derived from an underground formation from which water flows naturally to the surface of the earth. Bottled spring water must be collected only at the spring or through a borehole tapping the underground formation finding the spring. There must be a natural force causing the water to flow to the surface through a natural orifice. Spring water collected with the use of an external force must be from the same underground stratum as the spring and must have all the physical properties, before treatment, and be of the same composition and quality as the water that flows naturally to the surface of the earth.
Well Water:
Bottled water from a hole drilled or otherwise constructed in the ground, which taps the water of an aquifer.
What is IBWA?
The International Bottled Water Association (IBWA) is the trade association representing the bottled water industry. Founded in 1958, IBWA’s member companies produce and distribute 85 percent of the bottled water sold in the United States. Our membership includes U.S. and international bottlers, distributors and suppliers.
How do I know that Cryptosporidium is not in my bottled water?
For starters, bottled water companies are required to use approved sources. There are two types of sources from which bottled water can be drawn; the first type are natural sources (i.e., springs and wells). By law, these sources must be protected from surface intrusion and other enviornmental influences. This requirement ensures that surface water contaminants such as Cryptosporidium and Giardia are not present.
The second source water type is approved potable municipal supplies. Bottled water companies that use these sources reprocess this water using methods such as distillation, reverse osmosis, deionization and filtration. This ensures that the finished product is very different – in composition and taste – from the original source water.
The second source water type is approved potable municipal supplies. Bottled water companies that use these sources reprocess this water using methods such as distillation, reverse osmosis, deionization and filtration. This ensures that the finished product is very different – in composition and taste – from the original source water.
All IBWA member companies that use municipal supplies are encouraged to employ at least one of the three processing methods recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for effective removal of microbial (surface water) contaminants, including Cryptosporidium. These processing methods are reverse osmosis, one micron absolute filtration, and distillation.
How can I find out if the bottled water that I drink is a member of IBWA?
The easiest way to find out if your favorite bottled water brand is a member of IBWA is to call 1-800-WATER-11 (1-800-928-3711). You can then receive a list of all IBWA-member brands. You can also contact this number if you have any other questions or if you would like to receive more information about bottled water.
Water Quality
What types of water do you offer?
Century Springs offers bottled spring water, distilled water, fluoridated water, and purified water.
What is Bottled Water?
Water is classified as “bottled water” if it meets all applicable federal and state standards, is sealed in a sanitary container and is sold for human consumption. Bottled water cannot contain sweeteners or chemical additives (other than flavors, extracts or essences) and must be calorie-free and sugar-free. Flavor extracts and essences – derived from spice or fruit – can be added to bottled water, but these additions must comprise less than one percent by weight of the final product. Beverages containing more than the one-percent-by-weight flavor limit are classified as soft drinks, not bottled water. In addition, bottled water may be sodium-free or contain “very low” amounts of sodium. Some bottled waters contain natural or added carbonation.
How do I know my bottled water isn’t just plain tap water?
Century Springs delivers only the highest quality, pure, natural spring water. If you ever order water from another bottler or buy a bottle of water from a vending machine, carefully check the label. If it mentions a “community water system” or “municipal source” then it’s just tap water. In Century Springs water you can taste the purity and freshness.
How is bottled water different from tap water?
Bottled water is different from tap water in many different ways. The big difference between the two is the source of the water. While municipalities generally draw their water supply from surface water which may be subject to contamination, most bottled water (more than 75%) comes from protected, underground sources.
Another noticeable difference is the fact that bottled water does not contain any chlorine. In place of chlorine, some bottlers use ozone, a form of oxygen or ultraviolet light as the final disinfecting agent. Chlorinated water sometimes contains an off taste, and many consumers prefer the taste of bottled water where no trace of chlorine is found.
Another noticeable difference is the fact that bottled water does not contain any chlorine. In place of chlorine, some bottlers use ozone, a form of oxygen or ultraviolet light as the final disinfecting agent. Chlorinated water sometimes contains an off taste, and many consumers prefer the taste of bottled water where no trace of chlorine is found.
How do I know my bottled water is safe?
Level by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and on the state level by state officials. This ensures that all bottled water sold in the United States meets these stringent standards. In addition, members of the International Bottled Water Association (IBWA), who produce about 85% of the bottled water sold in the United States, must meet strict industry standards established by the association. These standards, contained in the IBWA “Model Code,” exceed the FDA regulations currently in place for bottled water. To ensure that all their bottled Water is as safe as possible and of the highest quality, all IBWA members use one or more of the following multi-barrier practices: source protection and monitoring, reverse osmosis, distillation, filtration, ozonation, and disinfection. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), bottled water has never been responsible for an outbreak of waterborne illness.
Does your water contain fluoride or other chemicals?
Century Springs offers bottled spring water that is fluoride-free. In fact, bottled water from Century Springs is free of any chemical additives, making it some of the finest water available.
Do imported waters have to meet the same federal, state, and industry regulations as bottled water?
Yes, any imported bottled water sold in the United States must meet all of the same regulations as domestically produced bottled water.
Water Filtration
What are the benefits?
- Unlimited clean water in your facility.
- No more bottle storage
- Eliminate refilling the 5 Gallon Jugs
- Reduce or end bottle delivery
- Advanced filtration or UV Technology
What is Filtration System?
The Point of Use System (POU) or Filtration water system is a completely bottleless coolers system that offers an easy and convenient way for your team to get fresh, cold, clean water in the office.
Why should I switch?
When you switch to a POU System you will start saving money compared to a Bottle Delivery Service.
Is there a large investment to get the coolers for water filtration?
Nope. Just start paying the monthly rental fees based on what cooler and filter you choose.
What comes with the Rental Fee?
You get your coolers, filters and annual maintenance. A service technician will come to your location every 6 months to replace your filters or coolers.
Private Label Bottles
What are the benefits?Why should I purchase Century Springs Private Label water rather than other Private label bottled waters?
Century Springs Water is a genuine “Spring” water. It contains natural electrolytes which enhance your health. Simply put: Century Springs water just tastes better. We use heavier gram bottles along with a larger beautiful glossy label. Another added benefit is that by utilizing local companies in our area, you continue to strengthen the local economy.
Why should I purchase Labels from Century Springs vs. a “normal” print shop and put on the bottles myself?
The labels we use are specifically “Spec’d” for our bottling equipment. Other labels might tear or not apply properly thus causing water bottles to have a terrible appearance.
What type and size bottles do you bottle?
- 12 oz. Bullet
- 16.9 oz. Ribbed or Bullet
- 20 oz. Ribbed or Bullet
- 24 oz. Ribbed
- 1L (33.8oz) Ribbed
Are the labels waterproof?
Pallet size orders utilize waterproof labels. Truckload order quantity labels are paper labels with a laminate glossy finish which makes them semi-waterproof.
How many bottles come in a case?
| Bottle Type | Bottles per Case |
| 12 oz. Bullet | 24 Bottles |
| 16.9 oz. Ribbed or Bullet | 24 Bottles |
| 20 oz. Ribbed or Bullet | 24 Bottles |
| 24 oz. Ribbed | 12 Bottles |
| 1L Ribbed | 12 Bottles |
What is your delivery time for my water bottles?
Once final label proof is approved, your order should be delivered to your location within 2 weeks
How will I know when my order has shipped?
Century Springs will notify you once your order has been shipped via email.
What is the minimum number of water bottles I need to purchase?
| Bottle Size |
Minimum Case Order
|
| 12 oz Ribbed | 30 |
| 16.9oz Ribbed | 10 |
| 16.9oz Bullet | 60 |
| 20oz Ribbed | 10 |
| 20oz Bullet | 50 |
| 24oz Ribbed | 90 |
| 1L (33.8oz) Ribbed | 60 |
What is the maximum order from the website?
| Bottle Size | Max Case Order |
| 12oz Ribbed | 160 |
| 16.9oz Ribbed | 120 |
| 16.9oz Bullet | 120 |
| 20oz Ribbed | 120 |
| 20oz Bullet | 100 |
| 24oz Ribbed | 180 |
| 1L (33.8oz) Ribbed | 120 |
Do I have to design my own label?
No, our expert label designers will guide you thru the label design process. When you choose Century Springs, you receive 30 minutes of artist time and we design the label. You can also save money by designing your own label. We’ll provide design templates and submission requirements.
Do you offer other cap colors?
Yes! What color do you want?
What order quantities am I allowed to order?
Water must be ordered in quantities of 10 cases. Once you get to a full pallet, it’s more economical to order in full pallets to save on shipping. It’s the best bang for your buck.
How many cases are in a pallet?
| Bottle Size | 1 Pallet Order | 2 Pallet Order |
| 12oz Ribbed | 40-80 Cases | 90-160 Cases |
| 16.9oz Ribbed | 20-60 Cases | 70-120 Cases |
| 16.9oz Bullet | 60 Cases | 70-120 Cases |
| 20oz Ribbed | 20-60 Cases | 70-120 Cases |
| 20oz Bullet | 50 Cases | 60-100 Cases |
| 1L (33.8oz) Ribbed | 60 Cases | 70-120 Cases |
What is the delivery cost?
Delivery cost on orders outside of the delivery zone will be defined at time of sale.
How can I get my order delivered?
We deliver direct in our delivery area of 1 pallet or less. Larger orders will be delivered LTL Carrier. We do need to know if delivery location has a loading dock. If not, a forklift to unload pallet from trailer. If not, we can order delivery with lift gate. We also offer inside and residential delivery. Please advise when you place order.
How do I pay for my order?
You can pay with check, wire transfer, debit or credit card. Orders are pre-pay and must be paid once order is accepted. We offer terms on truckload orders and multiple repeat orders once payment history is established.
What is the shelf life of bottled water?
FDA governs bottled water and has established a shelf life of 2 years.
