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Best Water Cooler Dispensers

Jennifer Hansen
Last Updated on
by Jennifer Hansen

Whether you work in an office environment or a factory floor, you and your team need the best water cooler to help you refresh during the day. 

If you are in a hurry to find a water dispenser from top brands like Whirlpool, Avalon, or Clover, you have come to the right place. We’ve done our homework to find you a shortlist of the best water cooler and best water dispenser units that money can buy.

Water Coolers Comparison
Crystal Quest Water Cooler
  • Type: Bottom loading
  • Dimensions (inches): 13 x 13 x 37
  • Weight (lbs): 45
Costway water cooler dispenser
  • Type: Top loading
  • Dimensions (inches): 12 x 14 x 39
  • Weight (lbs): 40
Homelabs water dispenser
  • Type: Bottom loading
  • Dimensions (inches): 12.2 x 14.2 x 40.9
  • Weight (lbs): 35.3
  • Type: Bottom loading
  • Dimensions (inches): 13 x 12 x 41
  • Weight (lbs): 42.5
avalaon-premium-hot-cold
  • Type: Top loading
  • Dimensions (inches): 13 x 12 x 19
  • Weight (lbs): 30

Best Water Cooler Reviews (Water Dispensers)

1. Crystal Quest TURBO Water Filter Cooler

Crystal Quest Water Cooler

The Crystal Quest TURBO Water Filter Cooler is a next-level upgrade for those who are ready to ditch the jugs. This water filter cooler hooks in with your water line, making it easy to use and better for the environment, as you’re not throwing away or recycling plastic jugs. It provides both hot and cold water, so you can have filtered water to suit all of your needs.

The Crystal Quest TURBO uses an Ultra Filtration (UF) system in which a membrane removes particles as small as 0.2 microns. You’ll be amazed at the taste of your water, not to mention you won’t have to worry about most solids getting into your cup.

Not only does this filter cooler help the environment by reducing plastic use, but it’s also highly efficient. The water heater automatically shuts off when it reaches the desired temperature. Plus, the cooling system is run by a high-efficiency compressor.

The system is aesthetically pleasing as well. It’s trim and modern in black and stainless steel. It’ll fit in well in a minimalist home or workspace. You won’t have to look at unsightly water jugs either.

Pros
  • Stainless steel water tanks aid in keeping water sanitary
  • It’s not self-cleaning, but the cleaning process is simple
  • There is a switch for both hot and cold, so you’ll never accidentally get the wrong type of water
  • Easy to use and maintain
  • Produces great-tasting water
Cons
  • No child safety mechanism for the hot water spout
  • The UF system is powerful, but if you want to get rid of all suspended solids, you’ll need to upgrade to the reverse osmosis (RO) model

2. Costway Water Cooler Dispenser With Ice Maker

This Costway Water Cooler Dispenser With Ice Maker is the perfect addition to any home or office that wants a few bells and whistles at a great price. It comes in three colors: black, silver, or white, so it’ll easily fit in with your home or office decor. This cooler also has a small footprint, so you can put it almost anywhere.

If you like your water ice-cold, then this dispenser will save you a trip to the freezer. It has a four-pound ice maker that can produce nine cubes of ice in six to 14 minutes. In addition to hot and cold water dispensers, there’s also a room temperature dispenser. You can have your water at virtually any temperature you want.

This water cooler is ideal for office settings since it’s so versatile. The hot water temperature is almost boiling, so you can use it for hot beverages or instant meals.

Pros
  • LED control panel allows you to know what type of water is dispensed and if the machine is making ice
  • A child-safety lock protects your child from hot water
  • The drip tray doesn’t rust and is easy to remove for cleaning
  • It has an easy-to-clean barrel seat to keep the water sanitary
  • The top-load feature makes it easy to see if you’re running low on water
Cons
  • Top-loading, so a little harder to switch out jugs
  • It can be a little noisy

3. Homelabs Bottom Loading Water Dispenser

Homelabs water dispenser

The Homelabs Bottom Loading Water Dispenser is a functional, well-designed water dispenser that is a great addition to any home or office. The best features of this water dispenser are its simple design and user-friendly interface. It has a sleek, modern appearance with black and stainless steel.

Several features make the Homelabs dispenser easy to use. It’s bottom-loading, so it won’t put unnecessary stress on your back when putting in a new bottle. Selecting the type of water you want is easy. Three buttons on the top let you choose from cold, room temperature, and hot. An LED light comes on to indicate which one you’ve chosen, so you don’t have to worry about getting the wrong temperature. 

The dispenser is also versatile and can hold either three or five-gallon jugs, so you can have as little or as much as you need. The water is super cold when you want it cold, and hot enough to make hot beverages when you need it hot.

Pros
  • A refill bottle alert prevents you from having to open the panel and check the water level
  • Bottles are easy to install. Simply slide in and connect
  • A child lock on the hot water button keeps kids from getting burned
  • It comes with a two-year warranty and a money-back guarantee
  • An LED nightlight makes it easy to get water without having to turn on all the lights
Cons
  • It isn’t self-cleaning
  • The buttons are high, making it difficult for smaller kids to get water

4. Avalon Water Cooler – Best Water Dispenser For Home

avalon-a4blwtrclr

If you want the best water dispenser for a home or office environment, the Avalon A4BLWTRCLR will offer you unbeatable value. An Energy Star approved appliance; this austere and ultra-modern water dispenser is a low-maintenance bottom loader that blends in well in any space.

Whether you have recently remodeled your kitchen or simply keep maintaining an image of professionalism and cleanliness in your work space, investing in an Avalon bottom-loader is a great call. This is because Avalon has a strong reputation for premium-looking appliances that can improve the presentation of your space at industry-leading price points.

With this product , you can choose from three different temperature settings: room, hot, and cold. The hot water is hot enough to mix a steaming beverage like instant coffee or tea, and the cold setting is chilled to the point where it is refreshing while also not inducing brain freezes or toothaches.

Since it is a bottom loader, this Avalon cooler features a no-jug design that hides the water supply in a cabinet underneath the dispenser. To make a good design even better, the cabinet is secured by a childproof lock, so you do not have to worry about tampering or damage by small children.

Plus, one of the added benefits of a low cabinet is that you do not have to strain your back by lifting the jug on top of the machine.

Pros
  • Built-in night light for easy nighttime usage
  • Childproof cabinet lock and secure hot water dispenser
  • An efficient, Energy Star-approved design
  • Sleek, minimalist stainless steel finish
  • Excellent value for your money
Cons
  • No self-cleaning mechanism to prevent unwanted gunk buildup
  • Waterspouts can clog if left unused or un-maintained

Conclusion

When it comes to this Avalon bottom-loading water cooler, there are far more perks than drawbacks. Although some may complain about how often it needs to be cleaned, most users will find that the simple clean up process is well worth the benefit of using a premium-quality product that can bring the whole team or family together.


5. Culligan US-600A Drinking Water Filtration System

avalaon-premium-hot-cold

The Avalon A1CT is a lightweight and affordable water cooler contained within a compact and easy-loading form factor. Boasting a minimalist design, the Avalon A1CT is one the best water dispenser designs from a space efficiency standpoint. An Energy Star compliant device, you can rest assured that you will not rack up your utility bill by investing in this water cooler.

With this device, worrying about children getting their hands on anything dangerous is a non-issue. This is because the Avalon is equipped with childproof locks to keep them out of the cabinet and away from the heater or motor. Plus, the Avalon is significantly faster than most competitor models due to its speedy heater and thick water stream.

Overall, we find that the Avalon A1CT makes for an excellent home and office hydration solution for both cold and hot water beverages. If your office needs an extra refreshment station that does not take up too much space or cost a fortune, the Avalon A1CT is the perfect mini-dispenser for you.

Pros
  • The ultra-minimalist design saves space
  • Counter top form factor makes it ideal for kitchenettes
  • Produces hot and cold water for a variety of beverages
  • Quiet motor with Child Safe locking mechanisms
Cons
  • Can take a longer time than usual to fully cool or heat up
  • Grate on the back makes it stands out 5-6 inches from the wall
  • Temperature range is not as impressive as other models

Conclusion

As one of the smallest freestanding water coolers on the market, the Avalon A1CT features several perks as well as bugs. Like any innovative product, there are some aspects of its design that can be refined in future iterations.

Regardless, the A1CT stands out for its unique take on the standard office or kitchen water cooler and for that it receives our full endorsement.


6. Giantex EP22276 Water Dispenser

giantex-top-loading-water-cooler

One of the leading compact water coolers on the market today, the Giantex EP22276 is an excellent choice if you want an affordable solution for your business’s hydration needs. Unlike most other models on the market, which are either jet black or finished with stainless steel, this Giantex unit features a chic all-white design.

A top-loading water cooler, this device is built to hold five-gallon jugs of water and dispense their contents at high, low, or room temperatures. Loaded with all the standard perks of a regular water cooler, this device is sold at a price point that is a fraction of what most of its competitors offer.

Standing out from the crowd, this water cooler features anti-dust mite technology. To help ensure your health and safety, the water barrel mechanism is fully detachable and can be cleaned and sanitized regularly. Consequently, the Giantex EP series of water coolers offer top-notch quality and safety perks at an affordable cost.

Pros
  • Modern, elegant all-white product design
  • Large storage cabinet housed underneath the drip tray
  • Hot and cold water heating switches can be easily accessed
  • Easy to clean and take apart for sterilization
Cons
  • Tends to leak after prolonged usage
  • Shallow drip tray can overflow is left unchanged

Conclusion

The premium value of the Giantex EP series water cooler is matched by several unfortunate drawbacks in its design. Nonetheless, this water dispenser remains one of the best water cooler models in the sub $100 price range.

For those looking to get by with a budget-friendly solution, we suggest looking into the Giantex EP.


7. Clover B14A Water Dispenser

clover-b14a

The ultimate water cooler for professional offices and boardrooms, the Clover B14A provides maximum value for your money. This device is outfitted with stainless steel tanks for storage both hot and cold water in a sterile and hygienic holding environment to protect your health and safety.

Featuring precision temperature control technology, the newest Clover water coolers range from 35.6 degrees to 185 degrees Fahrenheit. At just below boiling and over the freezing mark, the Clover B14A boasts one of the most impressive temperature ranges you will find in commercial water dispensers.

One of the best aspects of the Clover B14A is the easy clean-up process. An excellent addition for any household hydration system, this Clover water cooler requires the removal of only one component to do a full and thorough cleaning of the unit. Plus, this machine is compliant with strict energy efficiency guidelines set forth by the EPA and the US Department of Energy.

Pros
  • Best-in-class temperature range from 33.6 to 185 degrees Fahrenheit
  • Energy Star rated and EPA compliant
  • Easy to clean and disassemble
  • Hygienic and sterile stainless steel tank environment
Cons
  • Slow water release due to a thin stream
  • The motor can run a little louder than normal

Conclusion

You would be hard-pressed to find a better water cooler at this price point. Despite some of the criticisms floating around online, the temperature range and sterility of this water cooler make it a fantastic choice for those who need a safe and efficient water cooler at an affordable cost.


8. Primo Water Cooler

primo-easy-top-loading

The Primo 601087 takes a classic design approach and renders it modern by introducing stainless steel, deep drip trays, and durable wall bracketing for added durability and support. This water cooler is a top-loading device that stands out from the competition due to its streamlined single-spout build design and lightweight form factor.

Made by the experts at Primo Water Corporation, this water dispenser has an overall front-to-back depth of 12.5 inches, making it one of the thinnest models on the market. A 2.0 compression system gives the Primo 601087 one of the fastest and most efficient cooling and heating systems on the market, too.

Although this unit features a top-loading design, which may seem inconvenient or needlessly burdensome to some, this form factor makes for faster water jug exchanges. Without having to fiddle with cabinets or locks, the top load design is a superior structure for quick jug offloading and replacements.

An Energy Star compliant water cooler, the Primo 601087 is one of the bestselling freestanding water dispensers—and for a good reason. This water cooler provides hot, cold, and room temperature water streams at a highly affordable price point that most competitors do not. In other words, this is one of the best water coolers when it comes to overall value and quality.

Pros
  • Efficient top-loading product design
  • Slim form factor measuring only 12.5 inches deep
  • Lightweight design, weighing only 30 pounds
  • Dispenses water at various temperatures
  • Color-coded LED indicator lights
  • Quiet, low-vibration electric motor
Cons
  • Top-loading design means jug needs to be hoisted into place
  • Waterspout tends to dispense water slowly
  • Hot water tends to be too cool for coffee or tea

Like most water coolers on the market, this product is marked by several drawbacks and praiseworthy design features. Nonetheless, this cooler’s slim form factor and LED display make it a sleek addition to any home or office setting.

If you are looking for an aesthetic and reliable water cooler, we suggest considering this Primo Water Corporation product.


9. Whirlpool Stainless Water Dispenser

whirlpool-self-cleaning-hot

This Whirlpool water dispenser ranks among the finest products on the market today. Backed by the credible Whirlpool brand that has earned shoppers’ trust for decades, this water cooler is made with quality stainless steel parts and a premium manufacturer warranty.

For those who have always dreamed of having a fully self-cleaning water dispenser, this is the model for you. Whereas other water coolers tend to quickly accumulate gunk and other unwanted particles in the dispenser and basin, this cooler kill harmful bacteria before it has a chance to enter its water supply.

Made with refined stainless steel, this water dispenser makes for a chic, modern-looking appliance in an office or production floor. Boasting a nickel plate on its sides and front-facing panel, this cooler is both elegant and highly utilitarian in its design. If you want to maintain a professional appearance in your workplace, we highly recommend this product.

The Whirlpool 218LIECH is the result of five generations’ worth of successive engineering. A highly refined product, this Whirlpool dispenser has been tried and tested for years to provide you with the best bottom-loading water dispensation available.

Plus, this is the ideal choice on a hot summer day as the water supply can be chilled to as low as 9 degrees Celsius.

Pros
  • An LED light indicates the mode of use, including self-cleaning mode and hot or cold-water modes
  • Fantastic temperature range, from near-boiling to below freezing
  • Highly durable and resistant to puncturing or tipping over
  • Customizable; can use several different sizes of water jugs
  • Peace of mind provided by an extended one-year manufacturer’s warranty
Cons
  • Like all steel appliances, this Whirlpool product leaves fingerprints and smudges if left uncleaned
  • Insufficient insulation keeping the stored hot water separate from the cold
  • The water dispensation space is not tall enough for some larger sport bottles

Conclusion

When it comes to Whirlpool cooler products, you know you are getting one of the best water cooler units on the market.

If you put a premium on ease of use and set-up, then investing in this product might be the best decision possible.


10. New Air Pure Spring Dispenser

newair-water-dispenser

For a water cooler that can effortlessly blend into any home or workplace environment, trust the NewAir WAT40B. Boasting an easy-access bottom loading design, the WAT40B is one of the best water cooler dispensers for those who want to find the perfect balance between form and function.

Loading the water jug in the cabinet underneath the dispenser is a breeze with this device, plus it features childproof locking to prevent little hands from breaking into it and hurting themselves. As a bottom-loading device, you do not have to worry about the jug being an eyesore on top of the cooler. Instead, it is inconspicuously concealed in the opaque cabinet under the machine.

Whereas many other devices can crank up your monthly energy bill, the NewAir WAT40B is certified by Energy Star to help maximize efficiency and keep your bill payments low. Plus, this device is 100% free of harmful BPA contamination and seepage, as is also certified by the National Science Foundation (NSF) for its safety testing and anti-contamination tests.

At an affordable price point, this product provides scorching-hot water or a freshly chilled stream to suit your everyday needs. Featuring an all-black design, this water cooler combines aesthetics and performance to give you one of the products available on the market.

Plus, coffee and tea lovers will rejoice at learning that the built-in heater can heat water up to 185 degrees.

  • Energy Star approved and 100% BPA free (NSF-backed)
  • Comes with a comprehensive one-year manufacturer’s warranty
  • LED indicator lights inform users of various setting modes
  • Hot water reaches temperatures as high as 185 degrees Fahrenheit
  • Stands at only 41 inches, making it suitable for children and adults
  • Plastic build lacks the flare of stainless steel units
  • Noisy heater motor can be distracting or annoying
  • Shallow water catcher can sometimes overflow if it is left unemptied

Conclusion

Although one of the best water dispenser machines to be released recently, the NewAir WAT40B is held back by a couple of unfortunate drawbacks.

However, overall this cooler provides an affordable, sleek, and highly efficient solution for home or office hydration needs. If safety and energy efficiency is your main concern the WAT40B is the choice for you.


Difference Between a Water Cooler and a Dispenser

Water coolers and dispensers are similar in that they both either connect to a large water bottle or water system and dispense water for drinking. A water cooler dispenses chilled water immediately, while a water dispenser only produces room temperature water. It’s essentially the same as getting water from the tap.

Water coolers are more versatile than dispensers since you can get the type of water you need with one-stop. However, if you dispense your water and put it in the refrigerator anyway, you may want to save money and buy a room temperature model.

Types of Water Cooler Dispensers

There are several types of water cooler dispensers to fit a variety of needs and budgets. While most dispensers are free-standing, there are some countertop models if you’re short on space.

Bottle Dispensers

Bottle dispensers are the traditional water cooler you think of seeing in office settings, but they’re also a good option for home use. These coolers use a large, typically three- or five-gallon bottle to supply water.

Bottle dispensers can be either top-loading or bottom-loading. There are advantages to each. A top-loading is harder to refill but tends to be more budget-friendly and allows you to monitor the water level. Bottom-loading is easier to refill but can be more costly. Many of them have an indicator to monitor the water level.

Bottle dispensers typically don’t have a filtration system since you’re loading fresh, filtered water into them. Since most bottle dispensers have minimal features, they tend to be more budget-friendly than fancier models.

Waterline Dispensers

Waterline dispensers hook up directly to your home or office’s main waterline. The main draw of these dispensers is that you don’t have to change out water bottles. You always have water when you need it.

Many waterline dispensers also have a filtration process, so if you don’t like your tap water, you can get a dispenser with a filter for cleaner, better-tasting water. Filters range from simple membranes to high-tech dispensers that use a reverse osmosis process to ensure the highest quality water. Dispensers with these features are among the most expensive,

Hot/Cold Dispensers and Room Temperature Dispensers

Some water dispensers will heat and chill the water, allowing them to serve many purposes. They may also have a room temperature feature. Other dispensers only dispense room temperature water. These dispensers are among the most affordable.

Self-Cleaning

Cleaning a water cooler can be a pain, but it’s a necessity. Bacteria, mildew, and more can gather on your cooler, rendering the water unsafe to drink. Some companies have responded to this need by developing self-cleaning systems, which may be even more effective than cleaning the cooler yourself.

Self-cleaning systems employ UV light, hot water, or a combination of the two to kill bacteria and fungi. Most of them let you program a cleaning cycle based on how frequently you use your water cooler. These systems are particularly beneficial for workplaces, as the cooler is used frequently, and no one wants the task of cleaning the water cooler.

As expected, self-cleaning models are among the most expensive. But if you have issues with mildew, it may be worth the cost to keep your drinking water safe.

Pre-Purchase Considerations

Who knew that there were so many considerations that go into buying a water cooler?

Although they all share the same functions, there are many key differences that need to be factored into your purchase decision before you check out. Here are a few pointers to keep in mind as you shop for a good water dispenser for your home or office:

  • Top-loading coolers require some heavy lifting compared to bottom-loading dispensers
  • Cabinet storage units keep coolers away from children and prevent dust buildup
  • Stainless steel makes for a sleek look but can leave fingerprints
  • Test out the cooler first to see if the motor is too loud for your work environment
  • A good temperature range should be between 35- and 185-degrees Fahrenheit

Ultimately, finding the best water dispenser for your office or household needs come down to many personal and environmental factors.

If you are comfortable with heavy lifting (including a 42 lbs. five-gallon jug), then a top-loading cooler might be the right call. However, if you plan on putting a dispenser in the kitchen where young kids will be running around, then you might want to keep away from stainless steel.

Regardless, the best water cooler will be the one that suits your personal space better than others.

Other Water Related Articles:

Do have a look at other articles such as reviews of water ionizers , and distillers. Also see our compilation of water filters.

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About Jennifer Hansen
Jennifer Hansen
Jennifer is a clean water enthusiast and the lead editor of Water Filter Spot and created this website several years ago to share information that she's been researching in this industry for over 20 years.Jennifer studied environmental resource science in college and studied Western US water issues, including water policy, water rights, water pollution and environmental concerns.
Jennifer Hansen