We all need to get plenty of water – there’s no question. But what if your tap water doesn’t taste great? And who wants to deal with the hassle of constantly filling pitcher-style water filters?
Wouldn’t it be great if you could have chilled, delicious drinking water on demand?
Whether it’s for your office or your home, the best water coolers will transform your water drinking experience for the better. You won’t be able to turn back!
We do warn you, however, not to be too hasty when you’re buying. There are a lot more options out there than you might think! So take a second, look at the water coolers available to you, and make sure find the right one for your needs.
13 Best Water Coolers – Our Top Choices
| Rank | The Cooler | Best For | Our Vote |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Whirlpool Self Cleaning Bottom Load View on Amazon | Self Cleaning | 9.9 |
| 2 | Aquverse Bottleless View on Amazon | Easy Installation | 9.6 |
| 3 | Hamilton Beach Bottom Loading/strong> View on Amazon | Bottom Loading Technology | 9.3 |
| 4 | Brio Essential Series Bottom Load View on Amazon | Quality Materials | 9.1 |
| 5 | Avalon Limited Edition View on Amazon | Modern Features | 8.9 |
| 6 | Avalon Bottom Loading View on Amazon | Child Safety Lock | 8.6 |
| 7 | Farberware Freestanding View on Amazon | Bottom Storage Cabinet | 8.5 |
| 8 | Brio Commercial Grade View on Amazon | Stainless Steel Reservoirs | 8.3 |
| 9 | Avalon Top Loading View on Amazon | Quick Dispensing | 8.2 |
| 10 | Nutrichef Countertop View on Amazon | Countertop Design | 8.0 |
| 11 | KUPPET 5 Gallon View on Amazon | Minimal Design | 7.9 |
| 12 | Primo Stainless Steel Top Load View on Amazon | Modern, Sophisticated Look | 7.6 |
| 13 | Giantex Top Loading View on Amazon | Energy Saving Feature | 7.4 |
Water Cooler Buying Guide
Water plays an essential role in health, fitness, and wellbeing. People who fail to drink enough water daily risk subjecting themselves to dehydration. Additionally, inadequate water intake can cause you to feel lethargic. Drinking enough water can also help you manage your weight.
Why Buy a Water Cooler?
Tap water from faucets often tastes bad, creating a formidable barrier between you and good health. Other common problems may seem familiar to you:
- Logistics: How do you keep clean, clear, cool water nearby at all times?
- Environment: Discarded plastic water bottles take years to decompose and contribute to issues such as landfill capacity and litter.
- Health: Reusable water bottles and containers can cause conditions that threaten your health.
- Temperature: Sometimes a cool glass of water is what you need right now. However, sometimes you need clean hot water for hot drinks and cooking.
- Convenience: Sometimes, the nearest source for clean water is too far away, discouraging you from staying hydrated.
A water cooler can solve practically every barrier that stands between you and a healthy, hydrated lifestyle. It can be great for promoting collaboration in the office, too.You can install a water cooler almost anywhere. Furthermore, you can choose from many different styles and features, so you can always have clean nearby without disrupting your space.
What to Look for in a Water Cooler
Begin shopping for your water cooler by deciding your preferences on some primary specifications.
Cooler or Dispenser?
First, decide if you want a water cooler or simply a dispenser. A water cooler offers you hot and cold water, so it requires access to an electrical outlet. A dispenser simply supplies water at room temperature.
In-line or Bottled Water?
Next, you will need to decide whether you want to acquire a water cooler that connects to your water line or if you want one that dispenses water from large containers. A “point of use” water cooler saves you from the hassle of buying and managing bottles.
If you choose a water cooler that requires bottled water, you have even more options. For example, you can choose between the types of water you use. You could choose between filtered, purified or spring water. Also, you can choose what brand of water to buy.
Top or Bottom Loader?
Instinctively, you may think of a water cooler as a floor-standing unit with a large water bottle on top. To load this, you open a water bottle and place its neck into the cooler. So, the bottle itself while in use appears to be upside down. Gravity loads the water into the cooler.
A bottom loader lets you store the water bottle in a cabinet below your water cooler. This type of unit pumps water into the cooler from below. This option gives you the compact look of a bottle-less cooler along with the flexibility of choosing the type of water dispensed.
Floor or Countertop?
Many people think of water coolers as a freestanding unit. These can be placed almost anywhere in a home, office, break area or meeting space. However, your space may have space or design constraints that make this type of cooler seem impractical.
Countertop water coolers offer you most of the same features available in a floor-standing unit. However, these units can sit on a counter or table, minimizing the extra space needed for their use. However, these units may have less capacity for storing cooled water. You can also choose from countertop water dispensers.
Other Considerations
In addition to how a water cooler dispenses water and whether it stands on the floor or on a tabletop, you will also have some other considerations to make. These considerations will help you narrow your search to consider only products that will meet your needs.
Intended Use
If you expect to use a large volume of water, you may want to consider water coolers that connect to an existing water line. However, if you insist on the highest quality of water and don’t mind changing bottles, you can choose between two, three, four, and five-gallon versions.
Space
Carefully evaluate your space requirements. If you lack floor space, you may want to choose a countertop model.
Power
If you lack a convenient power outlet for your water cooler because of other needs, consider buying a dispenser. These operate without electricity. Just remember that, when you choose this option, your water will be at ambient temperature.
Price
Water coolers range from basic, austere models to models with sophisticated design. Additionally, you can choose which features matter the most to you. Also, be sure to assess your budget and account for recurring costs such as water delivery, filters and maintenance.
Features
In addition to general appearance and functionality, you will have a chance to choose from several optional features as you shop:
- Temperature Selection: Some water coolers come with up to three valves for dispensing water: (1) Hot – for cooking or for making instant coffee or soup. (2) Cold – for a refreshing and invigorating drink either plain or with a drink mix. (3) Room temperature – for those who want to maximize hydration without a major temperature shock.
- Filtration: If you choose a point-of-use system, you probably will want to choose a model that comes with a purification system. This usually involves a filter to remove particles from your water. Some filters may also remove other substances such as lead, chlorine and gasses.
- Cups: Have you ever needed a drink, but had nothing to put it in? If you think people may not have their own cups or bottles to fill, consider getting a watercolor that has a cup holder or dispenser.
- Collection Tray: Water cooler valves may drip during normal use. If the water cooler you choose doesn’t have a collection mechanism, look for a third party solution that will safely absorb any waste.
- Safety: If young children may come into contact with your water cooler, look for a unit that has safety valves that prevent unintentional dispensing. This feature is almost essential for units that provide hot water and for countertop units located near work areas.
- Warranty and Service: Be sure to check on the warranty that comes with each unit that you consider buying. Also, find out if you can get a service plan that will ensure long-term continuity for your water cooler. Finally, in you choose a bottled-water cooler, be sure to get and compare quotes from multiple services for delivery and self-service replenishment.
Now that you’ve reviewed this buying guide, start shopping. Remember, if you have any questions, you can always come back here to review what you’ve learned.
Water Cooler Reviews
1. Whirlpool Self Cleaning Stainless Bottom Load Water Cooler
The Whirlpool Self Cleaning Stainless Bottom Load Water Cooler is one of the leading water coolers on the market for its ability to break down bacteria and viruses in the water with the use of oxygen. You can have peace of mind knowing you’re drinking clean water with each sip due to the advanced technology that is integrated into the product. The LED lights indicate when the device is cleaning, which can limit how much it needs to be maintained compared to similar units available to consumers.
One of the main advantages of the product is its ability to provide both cold and hot water at any time, whether you’re looking to make iced tea or hot chocolate. The spouts and controls are also difficult for children to access for added safety.
The aesthetics of the water cooler are an additional perk, which allows it to look upscale when it’s placed in the kitchen in the home or the break room at the office. Its stainless steel exterior will match most appliances and also looks sleek.
Unlike other rivaling products on the market, the cooler isn’t noisy and will maintain a quiet setting while it’s on each day. You may hear a low hum when the bottle is empty and needs a replacement. The product is also easy to transport due to its lightweight design because it’s bottom loaded.
LED indicator lights and alert sounds offer additional convenience. There’s even a feature included that will alert you when the bottle is empty or when the hot or cold water reaches a specific temperature.
VIEW ON AMAZON →2. Aquverse Hot/Cold Bottleless Water Cooler
The Aquaverse Hot/Cold Bottleless Water Cooler offers convenience for those who want to avoid having to pick up and transport heavy bottles of water to the home or office every few weeks. The product never runs out of water and always has hot or cold water available at any time of the day.
Although some water coolers need to be installed by professionals, the Aquaverse can be installed by the consumer without plumbing experience required. You’ll need a plastic water hose to connect it to the cold water supply, but the installation is simple and can be performed in less than 30 minutes. Because the product does not have a water tank, it offers a compact design that makes it easier to fit in tight corners or sections of the room, making it save space.
The dispenser area is smaller in design, which can limit the type of cups or mugs are used to fill, but the dispenser buttons are lightweight and easy to use. A child-resistant spout is also included.
The convenience of not having to replace the five-gallon bottles saves a significant amount of time, energy, and money compared to other models, making the Aquaverse one of the top water coolers available to consumers. It can also reduce your carbon footprint and will save extra trips to the store for extra bottles of water that are needed with other units.
The design of the cooler is well-thought out, making it simple and easy to use multiple times each day. The filter is also easy to access in the front of the product behind a panel, which takes seconds to remove.
VIEW ON AMAZON →3. Hamilton Beach Bottom Loading Water Cooler
Perhaps one of the most notable features on the Hamilton Beach Bottom Loading Water Cooler is its ability to offer three different temperatures of water to users. You can take advantage of cold, hot, or room temperature water, which will accommodate everyone in the home or office.
It uses three to five-gallon water bottles with food-grade stainless steel water tanks included, which guarantee that you’ll be drinking clean water throughout the day. The bottom loading technology that is built into the product prevents spills and will allow you to maintain a clean and tidy setting. The spouts also don’t leak after water is dispensed to minimize messes. Low location also makes it easy to move the product without putting yourself at risk of an injury while lifting.
One of the benefits of the cooler is it doesn’t require filters, which can allow you to save time and money. It’s even built with a spill tray that is easy to remove and is safe to put in the dishwasher. A child-safety lock is also included to prevent kids from having access to the hot water feature without adult supervision. The hot water can also be turned off if it’s not used as frequently throughout the week until you’re ready to make a cup of tea or soup.
The unit is easy to operate and has a panel that is simple and minimal, which offers convenience to all ages.
VIEW ON AMAZON →4. Brio Essential Series Bottom Load Water Cooler
The Brio Essential Series Bottom Load Water Cooler stands out for its innovative bottom-loading design, which will prevent you from having to lift the water jug each time and put yourself at risk of a back injury. You can save time and energy without worrying about spills occurring, which is common with other types of models that include a top-loading design.
There’s also a significant amount of longevity that comes with the water cooler due to the quality materials that are included. Built in the U.S., the Brio Essential Series is extremely durable and won’t wear down with frequent use. An anti-rust BPA-Free drip tray comes standard with the product, which is easy to remove and sanitize.
The freestanding unit is compact and has an upscale design that will blend in seamlessly with your setting. The stainless steel looks luxe and will add a touch of elegance to any home or office. The bottle is also hidden in the bottom compartment, which prevents the unit from becoming an eyesore in the room.
The energy-efficient compressor also offers consistent performance each time the unit is used, making it more reliable than other models. Although the screen is easy to read, the illumination is dim at night and can be challenging to use.
You won’t have to wait long to make your favorite beverage with the cooler, which allows you to have instant access to hot, cold, or ambient water temperatures. The water flow is also consistent and fast when you’re in a rush or are on the go.
VIEW ON AMAZON →5. Avalon Limited Edition Self Cleaning Water Cooler
The Avalon Limited Edition Self Cleaning Water Cooler combines all of the best features of modern water coolers into one unit. Three temperature settings are included to ensure that your beverage is at the perfect temperature, whether you want to enjoy a hot cup of coffee or want to hydrate with cold water. The hot, cold, and lukewarm water is readily available, which can allow you to save more time throughout the day. Although the water is piping hot, a child-safety lock is included to prevent injuries.
The bottom loading feature is an additional perk that makes the unit more compact and also blends in easily with the surroundings. The bottle is discrete after it’s installed and is kept hidden behind a stainless steel panel. Both three- and five-gallon water jugs can be used on the product.
A built-in nightlight makes it easy to get a cup of water at night without having to turn on the lights in the kitchen. The nightlight can be turned on or off at any time. The spouts are also illuminated for ease of use and to avoid spills. A built-in indicator will even alert you when the bottle is empty and needs to be replaced to avoid guessing how much water is left.
For those who are conscious about their carbon footprint, the unit is Energy-Star Approved. You can reduce your energy usage with the cooler and also increase your savings throughout the year.
The buttons are also simple and easy to find, which contributes to the modern design of the unit.
VIEW ON AMAZON →6. Avalon Bottom Loading Water Cooler
With the Avalon Bottom Loading Water Cooler, you won’t have to worry about lifting heavy bottles or spending time cleaning the unit. The bottom loading unit allows water jugs to sit underneath the spouts and remain concealed in a discrete compartment. The cabinet has a stainless steel panel, which is contemporary and sleek compared to older models of water coolers in the industry. The elimination of the visible water bottle also allows the product to complement the kitchen, whether it’s used at home or in the office.
A light is also available at night to make it convenient for filling up your cup of water in the dark without fumbling with the buttons or spouts. Everything is illuminated for ease of use.
This model is an example of how much water coolers have evolved with their style and design. You no longer have to worry about the product looking out of place or outdated in the setting but can enjoy having it contribute to the style of the room. Its stainless steel and black body make it look like an advanced device that is impressive and eye-catching.
You won’t have to worry about drinking lukewarm tea or coffee each day. The hot water reaches 180 degrees to ensure that your beverage can be enjoyed. For families, a child safety lock is included to prevent contact with the hot water.
The unit also complies with Energy Star standards and is UL listed.
VIEW ON AMAZON →7. Farberware Freestanding Hot and Cold Water Dispenser
When you’re looking for a traditional water cooler that isn’t overly fussy or complicated, the Faberware Freestanding Hot and Cold Water Dispenser can make for the perfect addition to your home or office. The product can hold a three- to a five-gallon water tank and can chill or boil water within seconds. The water is heated to 185 degrees, and the cold water settles at 59 degrees. Additionally, the heater can be turned off if you don’t plan on using hot water frequently.
One of the main benefits of the Faberware unit is the bottom storage cabinet that is included. You can easily store your favorite drinks in a storage compartment that is built into the product, making it easy to stay organized and keep the unit in a place where a fridge isn’t present. Whether you’re in the mood for a cold soda or water bottle, the cabinet can store multiple beverages and also has a removable shelf.
The low noise of the device means that it can be placed anywhere without interrupting the environment. You’ll also enjoy the compact size of the water dispenser, which allows the unit to be easy to transport and can also save space.
Low power consumption can also lead to increased savings throughout the year without worrying about how much it costs in electricity.
Although the water flow may be slower than more advanced models, the value and durability of the product allow it to have a high value.
VIEW ON AMAZON →8. Brio Commercial Grade Hot and Cold Top Load Water Dispenser Cooler
When you’re in need of a reliable and durable water cooler, the Brio Commercial Grade Hot and Cold Top Load Water Dispenser Cooler is an ideal model to purchase to stay hydrated and enjoy your favorite beverages throughout the day. You can select cold or hot water that is readily available when you need to prepare a drink quickly.
One of the top benefits of the Brio water cooler is its 100 percent stainless steel reservoirs, which are effective at protecting water purity. The material also allows increases cooler longevity.
Due to the top-loading design of the unit, you won’t have to wonder if you’re running low on water and need to replace the bottle. The water will be easy to monitor and is one of the top units to use in the workplace. You also won’t have to worry about the noise level of the unit because the compressor is on the lowest cycle rate and will still allow you to hear a pin drop in the setting, which prevents it from becoming a distraction.
VIEW ON AMAZON →9. Avalon Top Loading Water Cooler
You can fill your glass with one hand when using this top-loading water cooler from Avalon. Such a practical deviation from the status quo provides only one example of the unit’s user-friendly design.
In addition to dispensing water more quickly than some competing units, this one provides a child-safe hot water spout that prevents accidental burns. The unique safety lock provides a worry-free ownership experience without compromising convenience.
Another compelling feature of this Avalon water cooler is its space-saving design. Compared to other, more bulky models, this one will fit surprisingly well in practically any room. As a matter of fact, you may find it remarkable that such a compact unit can offer both cold and hot water.
Perhaps what makes this unit stand out, aside from its small footprint, is its modern, elegant design. Besides its appealing aesthetics, this cooler has inviting design elements that seem to invite people to use it.
You can use either 3 or 5-gallon bottles with this unit, which allows you to easily monitor water levels. This clear visibility makes it easy to know when you should acquire a new bottle to ensure continuous service.
Other things you’ll like about this product:
Silent operation.
Anchor bracket for added stability.
Solid workmanship.
Great for home or office.
Perhaps as a result of its minimalist design, this water cooler lacks any internal storage capacity for cups and other supplies. Still, it’s appealing design, safety features and convenient dispensers make this a fantastic choice for practically any setting.
VIEW ON AMAZON →10. Nutrichef Countertop Water Cooler
If you’re tight on space, a countertop water cooler may appeal to you. Additionally, the Nutrichef Countertop model adds a touch of style and sophistication to almost any decor. Even better, this product has the same look and feel as a floor-standing unit, so you don’t lose out on nice features such as hot water.
Of course, you wouldn’t want children or anyone else to accidentally dispense hot water. Fortunately, Nutrichef added a safety feature to the hot water nozzle, so everyone can enjoy the perks of this unit regardless of whether it’s used at home or the office.
Despite this unit’s space-saving design, you’ll be pleasantly surprised to discover a cup-storage door on the front. This makes water convenient, even for people who don’t have their own container.
If you’re looking for a dispenser that works by pressing your glass against a tab behind the spigots, this unit may not work for you. Still, the push-button functionality provides a refreshing change of pace from the traditional levers that accompany many other units.
Otherwise, users of this unit have a choice of standard water bottle sizes (three or five-gallon). According to the manufacturer, you can expect your water to chill at a temperature between 40 and 45°F. The hot water is rated at between 170 and 175°F.
VIEW ON AMAZON →11. KUPPET 5 Gallon Water Cooler
When you see this Kuppet water cooler, you’ll probably first notice its generous built-in storage cabinet. This feature makes it easy for you to always have supplies available, such as drink mixes and cups. Despite that added luxury, you’ll discover that the unit has a remarkably small footprint.
In addition to its functional and minimal design, the Kuppet 5 Gallon Water Cooler has all the standard features. For example, it has separate spouts for hot and cold water and easy to use paddle levers on the spouts.
Engineers designed this cooler with remarkable precision that allows it to run at an almost noise-free level. Also, the top-mounted design for the bottle makes it easy for everyone to know when to get another bottle ready for use.
This Kuppet product has few moving parts, making it a prime candidate for extended life. Additionally, features such as a removable drip tray reduce the messes associated with heavy use.
To be sure, after experiencing this unit, you might discover that its reservoir of hot and cold water seems a tad smaller than those of other units. Additionally, although the storage cabinet offers an innovative feature, it’s compact size might not hold the number of supplies that you might need.
Generally speaking, this Kuppet product provides an incredible balance of quality, value and features that promises to win your heart. You simply can’t go wrong by choosing this unit as your source for convenient, great tasting source for hot and cold water.
VIEW ON AMAZON →12. Primo Stainless Steel Top Load Water Cooler
If you’re tired of getting by with bottled water and pitchers of water in the fridge, you need to take a look at Primo’s exciting stainless steel water cooler. This handsome appliance will free valuable refrigerator space while making healthy water more accessible and convenient than ever before.
When you choose Primo, kids and adults alike will have new reasons to adopt healthy hydration habits. Meanwhile adults will love this cooler for its modern, sophisticated look. They also will love the low energy bills produced by Primo’s high-efficiency compressor.
Although the stainless steel appearance may fit well with your kitchen appliance, it nicely adapts as a standalone addition to any decor. Meanwhile, you can feel good about this product’s BPA-Free construction that protects your health and prevents bacteria.
With this cooler in your office or home, you’ll instantly have water chilled to 39°F. Drink it alone or use it to mix your favorite powdered drink. When you need hot water, you’ll have it ready to go at around 208°F. You can use it to make everything from hot chocolate to soup.
Best of all, you can locate the Primo water cooler anywhere that has access to an electrical outlet. Meanwhile, you can always check the status of your water supply by glancing at the top-loaded bottle. This helps you always know when to order more water.
VIEW ON AMAZON →13. Giantex Top Loading Water Cooler
Giantex provides a compelling offering with an exciting top-loading water cooler that has some rare features. Perhaps most notable is the anti-dust-mite technology that creates a healthy seal between your water bottle and its seat. This cooler also has a locking hot water valve that can help provide accidental injuries.
This cooler has an innovative energy saving feature that lets you turn cooling and heating off on demand. This means that you can stop the endless cycles that maintain your water reservoirs at a constant temperature.
If you want to store disposable cups near your cooler, you’ll love the built-in storage compartment. You will also have space there to store supplies such as instant drink mixes.
Unlike some free-standing coolers, this one has feet on the bottom that raise it up from the floor. This design feature can help minimize the impact of your cooler on your home or office flooring. Additionally, the ultra-rugged construction of this product lets you feel safe while loading water bottles.
Although this cooler provides exceptional quality and value, you may find that the water valves are located lower than other freestanding units. Also, the surprisingly light weight of the unit may make it seem top-heavy while loaded with a full 5-gallon bottle.
Under normal conditions, this cooler chills water to as low as 6°C (43°F). The top range for hot water is about 95°C (203°F).
VIEW ON AMAZON →