Plumbed-In water cooler rental

Small offices, medical and dental practices, gyms, trade depots, schools and community centres.

A monthly rental fee per cooler that includes servicing, plus extra for installation, filter upgrades or sparkling and chilled options. Each new contract adds recurring income.

• Selling to small businesses
• Basic hands-on and technical skills
• Organising service schedules
• Reliable customer service

• Public liability and product liability insurance, check cover for installed equipment
• Whether connecting to the mains needs a licensed plumber in your state or territory, and whether electrical safety checks apply
• Keeping to your filter and sanitising schedule, since drinking water quality is your responsibility
• Contract terms such as length, early exit fees and who owns the equipment
• ABN registration, and GST once you reach the turnover threshold

Startup costs are typically around $3,000 to $15,000, depending on how many coolers you buy or lease, plus installation tools, filters and sanitising supplies.

Monthly revenue is typically around $800 to $4,000, depending on how many coolers you place, your contract terms and pricing. These are estimates of revenue, not profit. Allow at least about 10 hours a week.

Check whether connecting to the mains needs a licensed plumber in your state or territory, and whether electrical safety checks apply. Also check insurance for installed equipment, your filter and sanitising schedule, and contract terms such as early exit fees.