10Best.Guide

Water Cooler

Top Picks

Last Updated: May, 2023
Pros
  • Keeps drinks cold for a long time.
  • Sturdy material.
  • Easy to clean.
  • Good for outdoor activities.
  • Large capacity.
Cons
  • Lid tether can be difficult to deal with.
  • Inaccurate ice retention claims.
Bottom Line
The Igloo beverage cooler is a good investment for outdoor activities and keeping drinks cold for a long time. However, buyers should be aware of quality control issues and inaccurate ice retention claims. The lid tether can be difficult to deal with, and the nozzle button can get stuck.
Pros
  • Well made and durable
  • Spigot works great and doesn't leak
  • Lid is lashed to the dispenser
  • Holds ice for over 24 hours
  • Large and easy to move
Cons
  • Spigot can get stuck and spill out
  • Some leakage through the spout when full
Bottom Line
This 5-gallon cooler with push button dispenser, cup holder, and push on, sit on lid is a great option for outdoor activities and camping. It is well made, durable, and can hold ice for over 24 hours. However, some units may have issues with spigot and leakage.
Pros
  • Hot water is steamy and hot at 166 degrees.
  • Cold water is nice and frosty at 44 degrees.
  • Easy to load bottles from the bottom.
  • Quiet machine.
  • Fits standard size delivery jugs.
Cons
  • Moldy smell after a few months of use.
  • Dispenses water slower than expected.
Bottom Line
The water dispenser is a good option for those looking for a machine that is easy to load, quiet, and lasts for years. However, some customers have experienced moldy smells and slower water dispensing, and there are some design and manufacturing issues to be aware of.
Pros
  • Provides hot, cold, and room temperature water.
  • Hot water is at a perfect temperature for tea, hot chocolate, etc.
  • Cold water is ice-cold.
  • Compact and good-looking design.
  • Easy to set up and use.
Cons
  • Some buttons get stuck in the down position.
  • The red switch doesn't slide easily.
Bottom Line
The Brio Self Cleaning Bottom Loading Water Cooler provides hot, cold, and room temperature water with a compact and good-looking design. However, some buttons may get stuck, the door may not close correctly, and the product may feel flimsy for its price.
Pros
  • Has all the features including Ozone cleaning.
  • Great customer service from Avalon.
  • Provides clean water even with well water.
  • Easy to use and set up.
  • Hot water is hot enough for tea.
Cons
  • Inconsistent hot water function.
  • Cold water tank freezes and company has no solution.
Bottom Line
The Avalon A3 water cooler has all the features you need for clean water, but it has some issues with consistency, noise, and taste. The company provides great customer service, but the design could be improved.

The Ultimate Buying Guide for Water Coolers: Types, Features, Prices, and More

Overview

Water coolers are a great way to provide clean and refreshing water to your home or office. Whether you're looking for a bottled water cooler, a point of use water cooler, or a countertop water cooler, there are plenty of options available to suit your needs. In this buying guide, we'll explore the different types of water coolers, key considerations to keep in mind when choosing one, features to look for, prices, tips, and FAQs.

Types

1. Bottled water cooler: These coolers use bottles of water that need to be replaced when empty. They come in top-loading and bottom-loading models and can be used with either 3-gallon or 5-gallon bottles.

2. Point of use water cooler: These coolers are connected to a water source and use a filtration system to provide clean and refreshing water. They're more convenient than bottled water coolers since they don't require bottle replacements.

3. Countertop water cooler: These compact coolers can be placed on a countertop and are ideal for small spaces. They come in both bottled and point of use models.

4. Floor-standing water cooler: These coolers are larger and are designed to be placed on the floor. They come in both bottled and point of use models and are ideal for larger spaces.

Key Considerations

1. Capacity: Consider the number of people who will be using the water cooler and choose a model that can accommodate your needs.

2. Space: Think about where you'll be placing the water cooler and choose a model that fits the space available.

3. Filtration: If you're opting for a point of use water cooler, consider the type of filtration system it uses to ensure the water is clean and safe to drink.

4. Cost: Determine your budget and choose a water cooler that fits within it.

Features

1. Hot and cold water: Many water coolers offer both hot and cold water options, which is great for making tea or coffee, or for refreshing drinks.

2. Child safety lock: This feature prevents children from accidentally dispensing hot water.

3. LED display: Some water coolers have an LED display that shows the water temperature and other information.

4. Energy-saving mode: This feature helps reduce energy consumption when the water cooler is not in use.

Prices

Water coolers can range in price from around $100 to $500 or more, depending on the type and features. Bottled water coolers tend to be less expensive, while point of use water coolers are more expensive but offer long-term cost savings.

Tips

1. Regularly clean and sanitize your water cooler to keep it in good condition.

2. Consider renting a water cooler if you're not sure which model is right for you.

3. Look for a water cooler with a good warranty to protect your investment.

FAQs

Q: How often should I replace the water bottle in a bottled water cooler?

A: - It's recommended to replace the bottle every 2-3 weeks, depending on usage.

Q: Can I use a point of use water cooler with well water?

A: - Yes, but you may need to install additional filtration systems to ensure the water is safe to drink.

Q: How much does it cost to rent a water cooler?

A: - Rental prices vary depending on the model and supplier, but typically range from $20 to $50 per month.

Conclusion:

Choosing the right water cooler can be a daunting task, but with the information provided in this buying guide, you should be able to make an informed decision. Consider your needs, budget, and space, and choose a water cooler that meets your requirements. Don't forget to look for a model with the features you need and regularly maintain it to ensure it lasts for years to come.

Runner-Ups

Pros
  • Bottom loading feature is convenient.
  • Dispenses cold, room temperature, and hot water.
  • Easy to set up and use.
  • Quiet operation.
  • Sleek design.
Cons
  • Some units break down easily.
  • Cooling feature runs constantly.
Bottom Line
The water dispenser has a lot of great features, including bottom loading, multiple temperature options, and a self-cleaning feature. However, some units have quality issues and the cooling feature runs constantly. Overall, it is a good option for those looking for a convenient and affordable water dispenser.
Pros
  • Boils hot and serves icy cold water.
  • Can serve up to 10 people in 10 minutes.
  • Regular cool temperature water servings are unlimited.
  • Works great with Zero Water filters.
  • Chills water very well.
Cons
  • Not designed for standard 5-gallon bottles.
  • Last cup of hot water may not be as hot.
Bottom Line
The Brio Limited Edition Top Loading Countertop Water Cooler Dispenser is a convenient and easy-to-use gadget that serves boiling hot and icy cold water. It is perfect for households with up to 10 people and can chill water very well. However, it is not designed for standard 5-gallon bottles and may have some minor issues such as slower water flow and occasional leaks.
Pros
  • Provides cold and hot water at desired temperatures.
  • Easy to load water from the bottom.
  • Saves money compared to water delivery services.
  • Nice design and looks great.
  • Quieter than some other models.
Cons
  • Some units arrived with dents or damage.
  • Some units are noisy.
Bottom Line
The Brio bottom load water cooler provides cold and hot water at desired temperatures, is easy to load water from the bottom, and saves money compared to water delivery services. However, some units may arrive with dents or damage, be noisy, have flimsy build quality, and have issues with buttons and the cooling cycle.
Pros
  • Gravity-fed, works even when power is out.
  • Quiet and fast dispensing compared to pump dispensers.
  • Room temperature option is great for cooking and other times you don't want hot or cold water.
  • Large fill point allows for filling large jugs or bottles.
  • Easy to operate with buttons on top.
Cons
  • Prone to leaking depending on the bottle used.
  • Lack of LED for use in dark environments.
Bottom Line
The Brio Top Loading Water Cooler Dispenser is a good option for those looking for a gravity-fed dispenser that works even when the power is out. It is quiet and fast, with a room temperature option that is great for cooking. However, it can be prone to leaking and can be loud at times.
Pros
  • No plastic taste
  • Cools and heats water to ideal temperatures
  • Dispenses hot and cold water
  • Lightweight and versatile
  • Nice taste to the water
Cons
  • No option for all three temperatures
  • Leaking issues
Bottom Line
This water cooler is a great addition to any home or office, providing cool and hot water with a nice taste. However, it has some issues with leaking and limited temperature options. Buyers should be aware of the potential for defective products and difficult customer service.
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