Quench Your Thirst with These 9 Refreshing Water Coolers

The medical consensus is that drinking eight glasses of water a day is beneficial for overall health. To achieve this, a water cooler may be a wise investment. Water coolers, also known as water dispensers, offer cold or hot water in large quantities on demand. Although frequently seen as an office hangout spot for juicy gossip, they have now become a popular feature in homes as people strive to decrease their plastic use by reducing bottled water consumption.

We consulted Brian Campbell, founder of WaterFilterGuru.com, a self-proclaimed water enthusiast, to gain more insight into selecting a water cooler for home use.

"Water coolers are typically bulky and large and require a lot of space. It is important to ensure that there is enough room to install the system before proceeding with the purchase," he advised. Campbell also stressed the importance of undertaking additional maintenance tasks associated with water coolers, including regular replacement of filters and jugs, as well as cleaning the internal components, such as the water lines, reservoir, and spigots, to combat bacteria growth.

Using Campbell's expertise and our own research, we assessed the best water coolers available, taking into consideration their capacity, temperature options, load type, and appearance. Our top choices, certified by Energy Star, are the Glacier Bay Bottom Load Water Dispenser and Primo Top Load Water Dispenser, both capable of holding 5 gallons.

These are the best water coolers that can promote hydration, save money, and reduce waste.

What We Like

- Sleek design suitable for most spaces

- Eliminates the need for lifting heavy jugs

- 5-gallon dispenser with child-safety catch

- UV sterilization system maintains cleanliness

What We Don't Like

- Initial use may result in a metallic taste to the water

The Glacier Bay Bottom Load Water Dispenser is a bottom-loading device that negates the need to lift and maneuver a heavy water jug. Along with the dispenser's elegant matte black and stainless steel detailing, it is at the top of our picks.

This model offers hot, room temperature, and cold water in an expansive fill space that accommodates most glasses and pitchers. With the touch of a button, one can access instant soup or a cup of hot cocoa without making a mess. Although there may be a slight metallic taste in the water for first-time use, this will typically disappear shortly.

This water dispenser is Energy Star certified and features a UV sterilization system that ensures both the dispenser and the water are kept clean. Additionally, the dispenser boasts a built-in night light, making it ideal for nighttime thirst-quenching.

At the time of writing, the price is $209.

Dimensions: 41.3 x 12.2 x 13.8 inches | Capacity: 5 gallons | Number of Temperatures: 3 | Loading Type: Bottom | Energy Star Certified: Yes | Self-Cleaning: Yes

Positive Features

Quickly dispenses cold water with compressor cooling system

Stainless steel build for durability

Easy to assemble

Leak guard collar prevents water from spilling

Negative Features

Dispenser is installed low on cooler

Our top choice for a top-loading water dispenser is the Primo Top Load Water Dispenser. Its top-loading dispenser allows for rapid dispensing of cold water, and it also dispenses ice-cold and piping-hot water at the push of a button.

In addition, this stainless steel dispenser provides room temperature and hot water. The specially designed collar offers leak guard technology preventing spills and supporting water flow. However, the tray is lower than on other models, so you may want to elevate the unit slightly.

At the time of writing, the price is $156.

Dimensions: 36.6 x 10.8 x 11.8 inches | Capacity: 5 gallons | Number of Temperatures: 3 | Loading Type: Top | Energy Star Certified: Yes | Self-Cleaning: No

Positive Features

Holds 3- or 5-gallon water jugs

Child safety lock

Sleek design ideal for small spaces

Drip tray is easily removed

Negative Features

Could be noisy when hot water function is in use

Introducing the Igloo Hot & Cold Top Load Water Dispenser—an economically sound alternative to pricier models. This top-loading water cooler accommodates 3- or 5-gallon water jugs and comprises two push buttons that supply water from separate spigots for hot and cold water. With its child safety lock feature on the hot water dispenser, parents can rest easy knowing their curious kiddos won't accidentally pour hot water.

While the cooler can sometimes get noisy when dispensing hot water, it's still relatively quiet, fitting well in any room. The machine's slim, free-standing design chiefly lends itself to smaller kitchens.

Published Price: $173

Dimensions: 38.75 x 12.5 x 13 inches | Capacity: 5 gallons | Available Temperatures: 2 | Loading Type: Top | Energy Star Certification: No | Self-Cleaning: No

Our Favorite Features

• Adjustable water temperature

• Advanced filtration system provides contaminant-free water

• Self-cleaning

Some Disadvantages

• Pricey

• Must be situated near a water line for proper function

Introducing the Brio Moderna stainless steel water dispenser. Although this dispenser has a higher-than-average price tag, it has many features that make it a worthwhile investment. For one, it permits you to modify the water temperature to your specific taste—cold water can range from 39 to 59 degrees Fahrenheit and hot water can be set anywhere between 174 and 194 degrees Fahrenheit. The cooler is self-cleaning, features a clear digital display, and has a bright night light to make those late-night water runs seamless.

What sets this cooler apart is the fact that it taps directly into your home or office’s waterline, eliminating the need for heavy, plastic jugs. Although this feature makes it difficult to relocate the cooler once it’s installed, it ultimately reduces waste. An additional benefit of the Brio Moderna water cooler is that it's eco-friendly and safe for the user. By employing reverse osmosis filtration, this Energy Star-certified machine filters out major contaminants to ensure that your water looks and tastes great.

Published Price: $500

Dimensions: 44 x 14 x 17.5 inches | Capacity: N/a | Available Temperatures: 40 (ranging from 39-59 degrees and 174-194 degrees Fahrenheit) | Loading Type: Bottleless | Energy Star Certification: Yes | Self-Cleaning: Yes

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Our Favorite Features

Nearly instantaneous water temperature adjustment

Child safety lock

Compact base perfect for kitchens or offices

Room for Improvement

Height increases with use of water jug

Avalon's strong, top-loading dispenser provides hot or cold water on demand with a heating power of 420 watts and cooling power of 100 watts, ensuring the perfect temperature is reached in seconds. The child safety lock prevents unintended dispensing since water gets scorching hot rapidly. 

The compact base of this water cooler is perfect for tight spaces in offices and kitchens. However, a water jug addition is possible and it increases the height of the dispenser by 19 inches. Ensure that you have a height allowance of at least 38 inches. 

Price at time of publishing: $180

Dimensions: 19 x 12 x 14.75 inches | Capacity: 5 gallons | Number of Temperatures: 2 | Loading Type: Top | Energy Star Certified: Yes | Self-Cleaning: No

Our Favorite Features

Unlimited access to water

Straightforward installation and maintenance

Water temperature adjuster

Room for Improvement

ISPRING's bottleless dispenser saves you from relying on water bottles by linking to a water line and giving you unrestricted access to pure water by filtering it through a four-stage filtration system for optimum taste. With its temperature setting, you can choose the temperature of hot water between 194 and 201 degrees Fahrenheit, cold water between 39 and 46 degrees Fahrenheit or room temperature. 

The self-cleaning function eliminates the need for frequent maintenance and with uncomplicated installation. This dispenser is ideal for larger families, although it entails a higher price tag.

Price at time of publishing: $439

Dimensions: 41.7 x 11.8 x 14.1 inches | Capacity: Not applicable | Number of Temperatures: 16 (39-46 degrees; 194-201 degrees Fahrenheit) | Loading Type: Bottleless | Energy Star Certified: No | Self-Cleaning: Yes

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Our Favorite Features

Long-lasting temperature control for water

Effortless transport with Bearfoot non-slip feet and Lipgrip handles

Comes with a five-year warranty

What We Find Disappointing

Cold water may not be as cold as competitor products

If you need a durable and reliable water cooler for your camping trips, Yeti’s Silo 6 Gallon Water Cooler is your best bet. Made of excellent quality polyethylene, the Silo cooler can withstand all types of weather conditions. It features permafrost insulation and a ColdLock gasket that guarantees that your six gallons of water remain chill for extended periods. This water cooler can also keep hot liquids at the temperature of your choice.

Transporting this cooler is hassle-free, thanks to Yeti's specially designed Bearfoot non-slip feet that prevent slipping, even on rocky terrain. Tie-down slots provide additional security during transportation, and the Lipgrip handles make it easy to carry. At 17 pounds, the cooler can be a bit heavy, but it is still manageable.

Here are a few technical details you might need to know before purchasing:

• - Price at time of publish: $300

- Dimensions: 17.9 x 15.8 x 15.6 inches

- Capacity: 6 gallons

- Number of Temperatures: N/A

- Loading Type: N/A

- Energy Star Certified: N/A

- Self-Cleaning: N/A

If you're looking for an all-round water dispenser that’s great for pets and kids, try Primo’s Deluxe Top Loading Dispenser with Pet Station. Installing the removable pet bowl is easy; place it in front or at the side of the Primo dispenser to give your furry friends fresh and clean drinking water.

With added safety features like a child safety lock, this dispenser is not only practical but also safe for your family. The unit is designed for convenience, as seen in its spill-proof and washable drip tray, LED night lights, and indicators. Hot and cold water is available at the touch of a button but please note that the cold water may not be ice-cold.

The following are some additional technical details you should know about:

• - Price at time of publish: $179

- Dimensions: 41.1 x 11.8 x 11.8 inches

- Capacity: 5 gallons

- Number of Temperatures: Two

- Loading Type: Top

- Energy Star Certified: No

- Self-Cleaning: No

For more fantastic information on water-based products, check out our review on The 8 Best Water Bottle Cleaning Brushes of 2023.

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Here are some features we love about the Primo Htrio Multipurpose Beverage Dispenser:

• - Convenient built-in coffee pod storage
• - Cabinet conceals bulky water jug, creating modern look
• - Quiet heating and cooling systems that deliver hot and cold water almost instantaneously
• On the downside, the coffee temperature may vary.

The Primo Htrio Multipurpose Beverage Dispenser is the perfect space-saving device you never knew you needed. Its efficient heating feature ensures that you can brew 6-, 8- or 10-ounce cups of coffee with ease. Additionally, its sleek-looking exterior is achieved by hiding the large water jug within a lower cabinet, which is typically only seen in more expensive models.

Price at time of publish: $250

Product specifications:

- Dimensions: 43.5 x 12.2 x 14.2 inches

- Capacity: 5 gallons

- Number of Temperatures: Two

- Loading Type: Bottom

- Energy Star Certified: No

- Self-Cleaning: No

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When it comes to water coolers, our top two picks are the durable and well-designed Glacier Bay Bottom Load Water Dispenser and Primo Top Load Water Dispenser, both with a 5-gallon capacity, ideal for multi-person households. These coolers deliver either ice-cold or hot water with the push of a button, making it a breeze to stay refreshed. The Glacier Bay dispenser boasts an Energy Star certification and a self-cleaning function, while the Primo option is equally Energy Star certified, but without the self-cleaning function. If you're searching for a more budget-friendly option, check out the child-safe Igloo Hot & Cold Top-Loading Water Cooler.

Rachel Kourey, the expert Home Depot’s Merchant of Pumps and Water, tells The Spruce that you should assess your hydration needs before considering a water cooler. Ask yourself how frequently you or others will be using the machine. Based on your responses, Kourey says you will likely choose from three models.

When it comes to selecting a water dispenser, there are a few key factors to consider. First, decide what type of dispenser you need for your home. Traditional freestanding bottled water dispensers are ideal for large families, as they can hold up to 5-gallon water jugs. Countertop models are well-suited to single- or two-person households, as they usually hold 1- to 2-gallon jugs. Bottleless water dispensers provide unlimited filtered water on demand and connect to a water line, but they require filter replacements and are typically seen in offices. Measuring space is also important, as coolers with larger capacities will need more room.

Water dispensers come in two loading types: top-loading and bottom-loading. Top-loading coolers make it easy to monitor the water level and come at a lower price point. However, bottom-loading coolers have a more stylish design and are easier to load and operate, especially for those with physical limitations. Our choice is the Glacier Bay Matte Black and Stainless Steel Bottom Load Water Dispenser, which dispenses hot, cold, and room temperature water.

Most water coolers have hot and cold water spouts with preset temperatures. Some models allow the user to adjust the temperature, which is great for households with different preferences. Safety features like a spout latch or digital lock are helpful to prevent children from accidentally dispensing hot water. Indicator lights alert users when water needs replacing or filters need changing. Pet stations are also available, and our top pick is the Primo Deluxe Top Loading Dispenser with a Pet Station.

Maintaining a water dispenser is important for longevity and cleanliness. Self-cleaning coolers use UV light to disinfect and sanitize. Cleaning a dispenser every six weeks, at minimum, with a solution of liquid bleach and water (or vinegar and water for a greener option) is necessary. Water jugs should be replaced every 30 days to prevent algae growth. Ultimately, whether a water cooler is worth the investment depends on personal preference and lifestyle.