Staying hydrated throughout the day is essential for maintaining good health and well-being. However, many people do not drink enough water each day. A water dispenser can make it incredibly convenient to access clean and refreshing water, whether you're at home or the office.
In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of having a water dispenser, the different types available, and how to choose the right one for your needs.
Benefits of a water dispenser.
1. Convenience
One of the primary advantages of a water dispenser is the convenience it provides. With a dispenser at your fingertips, you can easily access water whenever you need it, without having to go through the hassle of filling up bottles or jugs. This can save you time and effort, especially if you have a large family or a busy workplace.
2. Encourages hydration
Having a water dispenser readily available can encourage you and your family or coworkers to drink more water throughout the day. Staying hydrated is crucial for maintaining good health, as it helps regulate body temperature, supports digestion, and aids in the absorption of nutrients. A water dispenser serves as a constant reminder to drink water and helps build healthy hydration habits.
3. Reduces plastic waste
By using a water dispenser, you can significantly reduce the amount of plastic waste generated from single-use water bottles. This eco-friendly solution helps you save money on bottled water and contributes to a cleaner environment by minimizing plastic pollution.
4. Improves water quality
Many water dispensers come with built-in filtration systems that can remove impurities, such as chlorine, lead, and bacteria, from tap water. By providing access to clean and safe drinking water, a water dispenser can help improve your overall health and well-being.
Types of water dispensers
There are several types of water dispensers available in the market, each with its unique set of features and benefits. Some of the most common types include:
1. Top-loading dispensers
These water dispensers are the most traditional and widely used type. They require a large water bottle, usually 3 or 5 gallons, to be placed upside down on top of the unit. As you dispense water, gravity pulls it from the bottle into the reservoir. Top-loading dispensers are generally more affordable but may require more effort to replace the heavy water bottles.
2. Bottom-loading dispensers
These water dispensers are similar to top-loading models but come with a significant advantage: the water bottle is stored at the bottom of the unit in a concealed cabinet. This design not only makes it easier to replace water bottles but also gives the dispenser a cleaner and sleeker appearance. However, bottom-loading dispensers tend to be more expensive than top-loading models.
3. Countertop Dispensers
Countertop water dispensers are compact units designed to sit on a countertop or table. They are perfect for small spaces or those who do not want a floor-standing unit. Countertop dispensers can either use a water bottle as their source or connect directly to your tap, depending on the model.
4. Bottleless Dispensers
Bottleless water dispensers, also known as point-of-use dispensers, connect directly to your water supply and filter the water as it is dispensed. These units eliminate the need for water bottles, making them an environmentally friendly and cost-effective option. However, they typically require professional installation and may have higher upfront costs.
How to choose the right water dispenser?
When selecting a water dispenser, consider the following factors to ensure you find the perfect fit for your needs:
Space: Evaluate the available space in your home or office and choose a dispenser that fits comfortably without obstructing walkways or countertops.
Capacity: Consider the number of people who will be using the water dispenser and choose a model with a suitable water capacity to meet your needs.
Features: Look for additional features, such as hot and cold water options, built-in filtration systems, and energy-efficient designs, that can enhance your water dispenser experience.
Budget: Water dispensers are available at various price points, so consider your budget when making your decision. Keep in mind that while some models may have a higher upfront cost, they may offer long-term savings through reduced water bottle purchases or lower energy consumption.
Maintenance: Consider the maintenance requirements of the water dispenser, such as filter replacements and cleaning, and ensure you're comfortable with the level of upkeep needed.
Conclusion
A water dispenser is an excellent investment for both homes and offices, providing easy access to clean and refreshing water while promoting healthy hydration habits. By considering your space, capacity needs, desired features, budget, and maintenance requirements, you can find the perfect water dispenser to meet your needs and enjoy the convenience and benefits it offers.
Need help? We've researched and found the Best Water Dispenser on Amazon. Every day, we read hundreds of reviews and try the highest-rated products we have on our list.
Best Water Dispenser - Reviews
The Best
Product information
Experience Customized Hydration with Three Temperature Settings - Discover the ultimate drinking experience with this versatile water dispenser, offering three temperature settings to suit your preferences. Choose from crisp cold water, cool, or piping hot output to enjoy beverages tailored to your liking. This innovative water dispenser is perfect for enhancing your home kitchen or office environment.
Stylish and Innovative Design for Modern Living - Featuring a sleek stainless steel cabinet, this water dispenser is designed to fit seamlessly into your home or office space. Its stylish appearance complements any décor, while its practical design ensures easy access to your preferred beverage temperature. Experience convenience and sophistication with this cutting-edge water dispenser.
Smart Features for Effortless Use and Enhanced Visibility - Equipped with a built-in nightlight, this water dispenser makes the spouts visible at night, ensuring you never miss a pour. The empty-bottle indicator lights up when it's time to replace the bottle, taking the guesswork out of maintaining your dispenser. With a cooling capacity of 2.5 L/H, this bottom-loading cooler is designed for use with 3-5 gallon water bottles (not included), reducing strain from lifting and minimizing spills.
Safety and Efficiency: UL/Energy Star Approved and Child Safe - Prioritizing safety and efficiency, this water cooler is UL/Energy Star approved, guaranteeing reliable performance. Additionally, the child safety lock on the hot water spout ensures worry-free use for the entire family. Enjoy peace of mind and a customized drinking experience with this exceptional water dispenser.
From a happy customer: "We like this bottom-loading water dispenser so much we went ahead and purchased the same one again." Optimizing your workspace with a ground-level water dispenser is a game-changing solution. Eliminate the struggle of lifting and aligning the bottle on a top loader, just simply popping it in for instant use. This ingenious design is ideal for small offices or workspaces, enhancing convenience and efficiency.
Some users said that the water started to taste moldy after two months. A few mentioned that the water dispenser works well but the water tank freezes up and the unit will not dispense water.
Our Thoughts - Avalon recommends cleaning "Doing a manual cleaning with the unit is part of the standard maintenance of all of our units. The non-self-cleaning units are recommended to be manually cleaned every 3 months and the
self-cleaning units are recommended to be manually cleaned every 6 months." Also, the bad taste can be from the sanitizer remaining in the tank. The solution is to plug it in, let it fill, and then unplug and drain the internal tank. Repeat several times to dilute and remove most of that sanitizer. After cleaning the tank we used a full 5-gallon water bottle and the water coming out tasted the same as if it was poured directly from the bottle.
Very Good
Product information
Experience Convenience with a Bottom-Load Water Cooler - Say goodbye to the struggle of lifting heavy bottles and simplify your life with a bottom-load water cooler. This innovative dispenser is designed to accommodate both 3- and 5-gallon jugs, ensuring a perfect fit and making your hydration experience effortless.
Customize Your Drinking Experience with Three Temperature Settings - Enjoy the luxury of choice with the Brio Essential dispenser's three temperature settings - cold, room temperature, and hot. Whether you desire refreshing and satisfying hydration or a soothing hot beverage, this versatile water cooler caters to your every need, enhancing your overall drinking experience.
Safety First: Child-Safety Lock for Worry-Free Use - Never worry about accidental hot water spills again, thanks to the two-step dispensing on the hot-water spout. Release the lock located above the dispensing button and enjoy soothing hot water at your fingertips. With the safety of you and your loved ones in the hands of Brio Water Engineers, you can rest assured that you're protected.
Smart Technology and Innovative Design for Easy Maintenance and Style - Maintaining your water cooler has never been easier with smart technology that alerts you when it's time to replace the bottle. Eliminate the guesswork from refills and upkeep with this convenient feature. The stylish design, featuring a stainless-steel accent, adds a touch of class to your home, office, or any public space, delivering refreshingly cool or soothing hot water while elevating your surroundings.
It's an excellent water dispenser and the price is very fair and reasonable.
From happy customers: "This is my third water dispenser and the best one by far. I love the look and how easy to use. I love the 3 temperature settings. It is great looking too!" "Adore the seamless integration of this water dispenser into my dining area, appearing as a stylish furniture piece. With limited kitchen space, its placement garners admiration from guests. Featuring a concealed jug and simple installation process, it's an ideal choice for seniors seeking a back-friendly solution."
Similar situation with this brand. Some users said that after three months the water tasted moldy. Went through the process of emptying the water dispenser and routing vinegar through it. The process takes about an hour or so and it’s messy. But after tasting the water it was still moldy. A few users mentioned that after 3 months of use, the water dispenser started to make a loud rattling noise. Brio Customer Service was difficult to reach.
Our Thoughts - Read the information about moldy-smelling water on the water dispenser above.
Good Value
Product information
Efficient Compressor Refrigeration for Instant Hot and Cold Water - Experience the convenience of a top-loading water dispenser equipped with a high-quality, energy-efficient compressor. Designed to accommodate 3 to 5-gallon water bottles, this dispenser provides instant access to ice-cold or piping-hot water with easy push-button controls.
Energy-Saving and Low Noise Operation for a Greener Lifestyle - The water cooler features two switches at the back - red for stopping heating and green for stopping cooling - ensuring water isn't heated repeatedly and helping you develop healthy water-drinking habits while saving energy. This low-noise dispenser is easy to set up and operates quietly, making it perfect for any environment.
Child Safety Lock for Worry-Free Use - The 5-gallon water dispenser comes with a user-friendly safety lock on the hot water tap, preventing accidental burns and ensuring the safety of your children. Enjoy peace of mind knowing that this water dispenser poses no risk to your loved ones.
Innovative Design and High-Quality Materials for Style and Durability - Featuring a stylish and innovative design, this top-loading water machine allows you to easily monitor water levels. Measuring just 11W11.4D36.4H inches, it fits perfectly in any home, office, or gym space. Constructed with an ABS food-grade plastic body and a stainless steel water tank, this high-quality dispenser meets strict safety standards and is ETL-certified, guaranteeing reliability and durability.
While the $150 price tag may seem steep, this water dispenser has proven to be a reliable investment. Make sure to consult the manual and perform the recommended drain cycle test before use. Enjoy consistently cold water and hot water, ultimately providing greater value than recurring Ready Refresh expenses.
Adhering to the provided user manual ensures optimal performance: complete an initial cycle with regular water, drain, and then introduce bottled water. The whisper-quiet operation blends seamlessly into any environment. Exercise caution when using the hot water feature, as it delivers high temperatures. The inclusion of a child safety lock adds extra security.
After about a month, the GFCI (ground-fault circuit interrupter) switch was triggered in the kitchen. Tracked it down to this water cooler. It must have developed a short somewhere in the electric system. A few mentioned that upon plugging in the unit it began to make popping noise and also began to smoke. After contacting the seller they sent a new unit, and an email blaming the customer for improper use which caused the defect.
Our Thoughts - It took about 3 gallons to get rid of the plastic taste from a new drum but since then, the cold water is ice cold out of the dispenser, and using the hot dispenser several times for cooking the water comes out close to boiling.
Good
Product information
Enjoy Hot and Cold Water at Your Fingertips - Experience the convenience of a water dispenser that offers both crisp cold and piping hot outputs, making it perfect for refreshing beverages or warm drinks. With our versatile water cooler, you can easily cater to your preferences and enjoy the ideal temperature for your beverage of choice.
Child Safe Design for Worry-Free Use - Our UL/Energy Star-approved water cooler dispenser prioritizes safety with a child safety lock on the hot water spout, ensuring worry-free use for the entire family. Enjoy peace of mind knowing that your loved ones are protected while using this dispenser.
Innovative and Stylish Design for Modern Spaces - Avalon's top-loading water cooler dispenser boasts a slim design that won't appear bulky, even in smaller spaces. Its sleek appearance fits seamlessly into any corner of your home, enhancing your living space without taking up valuable room.
Time-Saving Convenience for Instant Beverages - Save time and enjoy instant access to hot water with our top-loading water cooler dispenser. Perfect for making a quick cup of tea, hot cocoa, or instant soup, you'll never have to wait for a pot or kettle to boil again. Plus, the top-loading design allows you to easily monitor water levels, making it an excellent feature for office settings.
From a happy business owner: Securing a reliable hot and cold water dispenser is essential for our office environment. After thorough research, we selected the highly-rated Avalon model. The setup process was remarkably simple, and since then, it has withstood daily heavy usage, consistently delivering excellent performance. It works very well, gives me cold water, saves room, and is very easy to use.
After adhering to the set up guidelines, placing the water jug initiated an immediate flow of water from the base of the cooling tank. A few customers said that two days after installation this water dispenser started to leak from the hot water spout, and couldn't stop the leak. Customer service seems non-existent.
We like the overall look and ease of use but doesn't keep the water as cold as we like.
Our Thoughts - Works great and we love how easy it was to use. We’ve been buying bottles of water and this is going to save us a bunch of money in the long run. We like the safety of the hot water.
Good
Product information
Customizable Drinking Experience with Three Temperature Settings - Enhance your hydration experience with a water dispenser offering three temperature settings, allowing you to tailor your beverage to your preferences. Choose from crisp cold, cool, or piping hot output to enjoy the perfect drink, whether it's a refreshing glass of water or a soothing hot beverage.
Innovative Design with Built-in Nightlight and Empty-Bottle Indicator - This dispenser, originating from China, features a built-in nightlight that makes the water spouts visible at night, ensuring ease of use in any lighting condition. The empty-bottle indicator lights up when it's time to replace the bottle, providing added convenience and taking the guesswork out of maintaining your dispenser.
Bottom Loading for Easy Use and Self-Cleaning Ozone Function - Our water cooler is designed for bottom loading, eliminating the strain of lifting and reducing spills. Suitable for 3-5 gallon water bottles (not included), this water dispenser provides an easier way to stay hydrated. Additionally, the self-cleaning ozone function ensures your water remains pure and fresh for longer, enhancing the overall quality of your drinking experience.
The room temp water is much colder than room temp. We think it is because the reservoir is next to the cold water reservoir. This result is colder than room temp but not so cold it hurts the teeth. We find it to be the perfect temperature so we enjoy it. Good clean water is available at the push of a button.
Some customers said that they received a second water dispenser and that also failed after a few months. The compressor motor is fairly loud. It's so noisy it will keep you up at night, and it is noticeably louder than the refrigerator.
Our Thoughts - The water tastes so fresh and clean. The dispenser has hot, cool, and cold water separate spouts. The hot comes out hot enough that it's ready for a teabag.
Good
Product information
Sophisticated Modern Design for Home and Office Spaces - The Brio water dispenser, designed for 5-gallon bottles, features a premium-grade stainless steel cabinet that adds sophistication to both homes and offices. This space-saving freestanding water station is equipped with high-quality internal components, including food-grade 304 stainless reservoirs, delivering consistently great-tasting water. With hassle-free installation requiring no tools, plumbing hookup, or landlord approval, this bottom-load water cooler dispenser is perfect for renters and non-plumbed spaces such as home offices, guest suites, and waiting rooms. It is UL Listed and certified NSF/ANSI 372 for lead-free material.
Bottom Load for Easy and Safe Bottle Changing - This bottom-loading water dispenser is designed for 3- or 5-gallon bottles, making bottle changes easy and safe without heavy lifting, awkward flipping, or accidental spills. The dispenser is ideal for those with physical limitations that make lifting a full 3- or 5-gallon bottle difficult. The bottle remains concealed behind the stainless steel door, maintaining the sleek, elegant look of your bottom-load cooler. Standard 3- or 5-gallon bottles are used (bottle not included).
Three Dispensing Temperatures for Versatile Beverage Options - Choose from three dispensing temperatures: piping hot, comfortably room temperature, and crisply cold for everything from nourishing soups to refreshing beverages. The Brio water dispenser features three separate temperature spigots, each with a 9.61" dispense height, ensuring no awkward angles when filling up. Hot and cold buttons can also be turned off if not desired, saving energy costs.
LED Display and Safety Lock for Enhanced Functionality - Bright LED lights indicate when the self-cleaning water cooler's bottle needs refilling or replacing, when the self-cleaning ozone process is underway, and when hot and cold water is heating and chilling. Late-night refills are hassle-free with the night light that illuminates the drip tray even in the darkest environments. The child safety lock requires two steps to dispense hot water, ensuring your family's safety from accidental hot water dispensing.
Self-Cleaning Ozone for Reliable Cleanliness - Initiate a 90-minute internal self-cleaning process with just a quick press of a button. The self-cleaning ozone reduces biofilm buildup and other impurities in the dispenser’s reservoirs and tubing, resulting in reliably clean and delicious water. Ozone dissipates once cleaning is complete and leaves no chemical taste or residue. Lasting for the life of the Brio water cooler, the ozone system never needs replacement and is produced by electricity alone. Included components: Bottom-load water dispenser and user manual.
We love this Brio water cooler. It is on the higher priced side of water dispensers but not by a lot, if the self-clean feature works it is 100% worth the extra money to continue using for many years because the water will taste good. Setting it up was a breeze and the self-cleaning option works very well. The hot water is acceptably hot.
The water dispenser aspect of the unit runs forever and emits an audible buzz that can be heard in every area of the home. The noise is loud enough to make it unpleasant and possibly even harmful to listen to for long durations of time. A few users mentioned that short of two years the water dispenser stopped working.
Our Thoughts - Overall, we are extremely happy with this purchase. You do get what you pay for, so make sure you buy a decent (not cheap!) water dispenser.
FAQs
Are water dispensers worth it?
Water dispensers have become increasingly popular in homes and offices, offering a convenient and efficient way to access clean, filtered water. However, many people wonder if these dispensers are worth the investment. When considering the benefits and advantages of water dispensers, it's clear that they provide significant value for users.
One of the main reasons water dispensers are worth it is the convenience they offer. With a water dispenser, you can enjoy instant access to cold, hot, or
room-temperature water, making it easy to stay hydrated or prepare beverages like tea and coffee. This convenience saves time and effort, eliminating the need for constant refilling pitchers or waiting for water to heat up or cool down.
Water dispensers often come with built-in filtration systems that remove impurities and contaminants, ensuring you and your family have access to clean, safe drinking water. This improved water quality contributes to better health and overall well-being, making water dispensers a valuable addition to any home or office.
While there may be an initial investment for a water dispenser, the long-term cost savings can make it a worthwhile purchase. By using a water dispenser, you can reduce your reliance on single-use plastic water bottles, which are not only expensive but also harmful to the environment. Additionally, water dispensers encourage regular water consumption, promoting healthier habits and reducing the need for sugary, high-calorie beverages.
Is a bottom water dispenser good?
Bottom water dispensers have gained popularity in recent years, offering an alternative to traditional top-loading dispensers. When deciding whether a bottom water dispenser is a good choice, it's essential to consider the key benefits and features they provide.
One of the main advantages of bottom water dispensers is their ease of use. These dispensers eliminate the need for lifting and flipping heavy water bottles, reducing the risk of strain or injury. This feature makes bottom water dispensers particularly suitable for individuals with physical limitations or those who simply prefer a more convenient option.
Bottom water dispensers often feature a sleek, modern design that conceals the water bottle within the unit, creating a more visually appealing look. This hidden design also saves space, making these dispensers an excellent choice for small homes, offices, or other areas with limited room.
Many bottom water dispensers are equipped with advanced technology, such as self-cleaning ozone systems, that help maintain the cleanliness and freshness of the water. They also typically offer multiple temperature options, allowing users to enjoy hot, cold, or room-temperature water at the push of a button. These features contribute to the overall reliability and functionality of bottom water dispensers.
Is a water dispenser cheaper to run than a kettle?
When it comes to choosing between a water dispenser and a kettle for heating water, many people wonder which option is more cost-effective. To determine if a water dispenser is cheaper to run than a kettle, it's essential to consider the energy efficiency, usage frequency, and convenience factors of both appliances.
Water dispensers are typically designed with energy-saving features, such as insulated tanks and adjustable temperature controls, which help reduce energy consumption. In contrast, kettles tend to use a substantial amount of energy each time they're used, especially when boiling a full kettle for just one or two cups of water. Therefore, water dispensers may prove to be more energy-efficient in the long run, leading to lower electricity costs.
The cost-effectiveness of a water dispenser compared to a kettle largely depends on how frequently you use hot water. If you only need hot water occasionally, a kettle may be a more economical option. However, if you find yourself constantly boiling water throughout the day for tea, coffee, or other hot beverages, a water dispenser could be a more cost-effective solution due to its energy-saving features and continuous supply of hot water.
While not directly related to running costs, the convenience and time-saving benefits of water dispensers should not be overlooked. Water dispensers provide instant access to hot water, eliminating the waiting time associated with boiling a kettle. This added convenience can save you time and effort, making a water dispenser a valuable addition to your home or office.
Do instant hot water dispensers save money?
Instant hot water dispensers have become an increasingly popular choice for homeowners and businesses seeking a convenient and efficient way to access hot water. One of the key questions surrounding these appliances is whether they can save money in comparison to traditional methods of heating water. To determine the cost-saving potential of instant hot water dispensers, it's essential to consider their energy efficiency, water wastage reduction, and time-saving benefits.
One of the primary advantages of instant hot water dispensers is their energy efficiency. These appliances are designed to heat water on demand, meaning they only use energy when hot water is needed. In contrast, traditional water heaters often require continuous energy consumption to maintain a tank of hot water, even when not in use. As a result, instant hot water dispensers can lead to lower energy bills, offering significant cost savings over time.
Instant hot water dispensers can also help reduce water wastage, contributing to additional cost savings. With traditional methods, such as running a tap until hot water arrives, a considerable amount of water can be wasted while waiting for the desired temperature. Instant hot water dispensers provide hot water immediately, eliminating the need to wait and reducing the amount of water wasted, which can lead to lower water bills.
While not directly related to financial savings, the time-saving benefits of instant hot water dispensers should not be overlooked. By providing immediate access to hot water, these appliances can save valuable time in busy households or work environments, leading to increased productivity and convenience.
