Water coolers are definitely worth it if you prioritize on-demand chilled water, want to cut down on single-use plastics, or need to cool a high-performance computer. Their value depends entirely on which type you are looking for.
Depending on the model you have, your water cooler can dispense water at room temperature, cold and even hot! The best reason to invest in a water cooler is for yourself and your family. When water is more accessible and easy to drink, we are likely to drink more of it.
Pros and Cons of Water Dispensers
It's easy to set up, doesn't always require plumbing, and delivers hot or cold water instantly. However, it has clear disadvantages too: it does not filter the water, depends on bottled refills, and can become expensive and environmentally unfriendly due to plastic use.
Common Reasons Why Your Water Dispenser Is Not Working
Cons of a Water Dispenser in Your Fridge
It's not a cheap addition; you can expect a significant price hike if you're looking for refrigerators with dispensers. This high cost is especially true if you opt for a fridge with hot and sparkling water options. Operating costs are also high.
The Amish keep food cold using a variety of off-grid methods, tailored to the strictness of their local church district. Common practices include:
Although no disease outbreaks were reported, the presence of opportunistic bacteria indicates potential health risk from poor dispenser hygiene. Routine maintenance and strict hygienic control of water vending machines are recommended to limit bacterial growth and ensure adequate water quality.
Most commercial water coolers last 5 to 10 years, with 7 years being a common midpoint. This range depends heavily on usage intensity, build quality, water conditions, installation standards, and maintenance consistency.
The Top 8 Features to Look for When Buying a Water Dispenser
Yes, water dispensers easily get moldy. Because they provide a dark, moist environment, nozzles, rubber gaskets, and drip trays are highly susceptible to mold, mildew, and bacterial slime.
Whether an internal or external water dispenser is better depends on your priorities. External dispensers offer maximum convenience and energy efficiency, while internal dispensers provide a sleeker look, more usable door storage, and fewer maintenance issues.
Water coolers don't have any in-built filtration. The water quality depends on the source or the quality of the bottled water used. In contrast, most water dispensers come with advanced filtration systems to remove impurities and microplastics and improve the taste and odour of the water.
There is no single state with universally the "worst" tap water, as quality varies by utility. However, based on high contaminant counts, EPA violations, and population exposure, Texas and New Jersey consistently rank at the bottom.
1) 5-gallon jugs are unsanitary.
This spot is often forgotten about and never gets sanitized, promoting the growth of algae and mold. The result is usually a green, slimy fungus that ends up being ingested. Consuming mold or algae in your drinking water can have detrimental effects on your health.
Water dispenser rental usually makes sense when you want a lower upfront cost, simpler budgeting, and a lighter service burden. Ownership tends to be the better option when your space is stable, your usage is predictable, and you want long-term control over the asset.
There is no single “#1” healthiest water, as the ideal choice depends on your specific health and hydration needs. However, experts generally agree that naturally mineralized spring water and carbon-filtered tap water (especially when remineralized) are the best daily options.
The best overall water cooler dispenser brands are Avalon and Brio. Both are highly rated for their durability, stainless steel construction, and excellent temperature control.
Most problems are down to clogs, loose connections, or temperature malfunctions. But don't panic! With a little troubleshooting, you can get things flowing smoothly again—without having to call in a professional.
Top Loading: Ideal for spaces where the dispenser is not obstructed and can easily accommodate the bottle on top. Bottom Loading: Perfect for kitchens and offices where a sleek, space-saving design is preferred.
Researchers found that water coolers and other dispensers often contained bacterial counts above recommended levels. So, if you thought it was safe to drink straight from the blue jug, guess again. Blame it, at least partially, on biofilms. These are communities of bacteria living on surfaces.
Clean and sanitize your water dispenser every 3 to 6 months, but wipe down the drip tray and dispensing spouts weekly. If you use a bottled water cooler, it is highly recommended to perform a thorough cleaning every time you replace an empty water bottle.
Cardiologists warn against drinking from plastic bottled water primarily due to microplastics, nanoplastics, and chemical additives. These contaminants are shed from the bottles themselves and can directly impact your cardiovascular health.
Filtered water is not inherently "healthier" than tap water if your municipal supply already meets safety standards. However, it is often preferred because it removes aesthetic impurities and provides a safety net against heavy metals (like lead from old pipes) and industrial chemicals.
Legionella bacteria is commonly found in water. The bacteria multiply where temperatures are between 20-45°C and nutrients are available. The bacteria are dormant below 20°C and do not survive above 60°C.
Yes, water dispensers can easily get mold. Because they provide constant moisture and are frequently exposed to airborne dust and organic particles, mold and bacteria can build up in the internal reservoirs, tubing, and spouts if they are not routinely cleaned.