What To Look For When Buying A Water Dispenser
Considering an investment in a water dispenser? Well, we think that’s a great idea. Whether you’re buying for an office, home, or a busy waiting room, having fresh, cool water is always a great idea.
But with so many different options out there, it’s no wonder that you’re feeling a little lost. You may be wondering what to look for when buying a water dispenser to make sure it suits your needs.
Do you need something small and simple or a unit that can handle an entire team? Is filtration important? And who’s actually going to keep it clean?
Before making a decision, consider the key factors to look for to ensure you get a dispenser that meets all your requirements.
What to look for when buying a water dispenser
What is the purpose of the water dispenser?
The first question you need to ask yourself when you need to know what to look for when buying a water dispenser is: why do you need a dispenser in the first place? Are you looking to encourage your staff to drink more water at work? Do you need a convenient way to drink fresh water at home? Maybe you need it for customers in environments like a salon, gym or waiting room? The purpose of your water cooler will help you make a decision about the type, size, and features you should look for.
How many people will be drinking from the water cooler?
The number of users makes a huge difference. A small household or office with a few people can get by with a compact model, but if you’ve got dozens of employees or visitors each day, you’ll want a water dispenser that is more heavy-duty.
If you’ve got a big business with lots of people vying for use of the cooler, investing in multiple units could be the answer. That means you can avoid queues and help people to stay hydrated easily throughout the day.
Who will be cleaning the water dispenser?
It’s not exactly a glamorous topic, but the fact is, someone has to clean it. Some models are easier to maintain than others, featuring self-cleaning functions or easily removable drip trays and nozzles.
If maintaining a cleaning schedule for your water cooler is going to be challenging, then a low-maintenance model is the best option.
Where will you place the dispenser?
Location matters more than you think. If you opt for a bottled water dispenser, then it’ll need to be placed close to a main supply in order to function. What’s more, you need to make sure there’s enough space for the unit itself, and it’s easily accessible for users. If space is tight, it could be worth considering a slimline or countertop model.
Does it make lots of noise?
Some water dispensers are whisper-quiet, while others can hum away as they cool or heat the water. If you’re placing it in a quiet office or reception area, the noise level could be a deal-breaker. Check the product specs or read reviews to get a sense of what to expect from your model.
Types of water dispensers
Do you know that there are two main types of water coolers to choose from? These are your options:
Bottled water dispensers: These use large water bottles that are delivered and replaced when empty. These are a great choice if you don’t have easy access to plumbing, but you’ll need to find a place to store the spare bottles and remember to arrange regular deliveries.
Mains-fed water coolers: These connect directly to your water supply and filter the water as it’s dispensed. Not only are they great for the environment, as they cut down on plastic, but you’ll also save money in the long run, since you won’t need to pay for replacement water bottles.
Do you need temperature options?
Not all dispensers are created equal when it comes to temperature. Some models offer only chilled water, while others provide both hot and cold water. There are even more complex designs that give you the choice of ambient temperature or sparkling water. But let’s be honest, hot and cold water should be sufficient for most environments.
Filtration quality
If you’re investing in a mains-fed water cooler, make sure the filter is well-designed to effectively remove impurities, chlorine, and reduce limescale if you live in a hard water area. Having a good-working filter means you get better-tasting water, which is great for encouraging people to drink more of it.
Energy efficiency
It’s not just about how much water your cooler can provide, but also worth considering how much energy it consumes. Some models are designed to be highly energy-efficient, utilising advanced insulation and eco-friendly cooling systems that help keep running costs low.
Size and design
What to look for when buying a water dispenser? The size and shape of the water dispenser are important. You want a model that fits comfortably in the space you have available while blending with your decor. Larger, freestanding models are ideal for communal areas or spacious kitchens, but if you’re short on floor space, a compact countertop unit might be the best option.
Don’t forget to check the height too, especially if people of different ages and abilities will be using it.
Safety features
Safety features are important to consider, especially when choosing a water dispenser that provides hot water. Modern models will typically come with child safety locks to prevent accidental burns. Plus, there are often anti-spill mechanisms to help keep the area around the cooler clean and mess-free.
Choose a model that’s stable and sturdy to reduce the chance of tipping, and sealed systems will reduce the risk of contamination.
Service and maintenance support
Even the best water dispensers will require some maintenance from time to time. Before you buy, check if any after-sales support is available. You may be able to secure maintenance plans, filter replacement schedules, and repair services if anything goes wrong. Knowing you have access to professional support can help give you peace of mind and save you a lot of hassle in the long run.
Cost and long-term value
It can be easy to focus on the upfront cost of your water dispenser, but really, you should consider the bigger picture. Cheaper models may seem like a tempting bargain, but they could end up costing you more in maintenance, filter replacements, or energy bills over time.
If you spend a little more upfront, you’ll invest in a quality unit that is energy-efficient, has a strong filtration system, and has reliable support.
Choosing what to look for when buying a water dispenser doesn’t have to be complicated, but it certainly pays to do your homework first. Think carefully about what you need, your space, and your budget. From this, you’ll find the ideal water dispenser that keeps everyone happy and hydrated for years to come.
Still not sure what to look for when buying a water dispenser?
At Cool Water Company, we make the whole process simple. Whether you need a simple bottled cooler or a fully installed mains-fed system, our friendly team is here to help.
Get in touch today for expert advice, competitive prices, and hassle-free installation.