Let’s evaluate the types of water dispensers available here in Australia, their pros and cons and what the best water dispenser is.
In this blog, we’ll also share an alternative to a water dispenser that you may not have heard of – an Atmospheric Water Generator (AWG) which offers some similarities to a traditional water dispenser but gives you the highest quality drinking water with a much lower environmental footprint, no plumbing and no storage of the replacement bottles.
What is a Water Dispenser?
A water dispenser, also known as a water cooler, is a device that cools in some cases and dispenses drinking water.
They are commonly found in schools, offices and other public places.
Whether you’re looking for a simple way to get access to clean drinking water or you want to upgrade your kitchen with a stylish and convenient appliance, a water dispenser could be a practical and cost-effective option. But how do you know which one will be best for you?
Different Types of Water Dispensers
There are many different types of water dispensers. The thing to remember is not all types will provide a continuous supply of water, some are purely storage/dispensing units that you will need to refill regularly.
Here are 4 most widely known types of water dispensers:
- Wall-mounted water dispensers – These are larger and require plumbing hookups. Because of the plumbing connection, there is an ongoing risk of leaks.
- Floor-standing water dispensers – These units are the largest type of water dispenser; they typically have multiple taps for different temperatures of water and can accommodate large bottles or tanks. You will still need a bulk water delivery service and store these bottles. Someone then needs to remove the empty bottle and lift the “new” 15-20 litre bottle into the machine.
- Water dispenser ceramic – A decorative way to dispense your water, but usually only holds a small amount of water and commonly sits on a benchtop.
- Water dispenser glass – Glass water dispensers are often used at parties, functions, cafes and restaurants – sizes can range from less than 1 litre up to 10 litres.
Did you know there is another option?
An Atmospheric Water Generator is a standalone unit that provides a continuous supply of the best drinking water without needing to be connected to plumbing or refilled. Keep reading to learn more about this alternative!
Water Dispensers with a Filter
Water dispensers come in a variety of shapes and sizes. The most common type is the tabletop model, which is small enough to fit on a desk or countertop. These models usually have a built-in filter and use bottled water.
If high-quality, filtered drinking water is a priority for you and your family, check out this article which explores the best drinking water.
Do Water Dispensers Distribute Hot and Cold Water?
Depending on the model, yes, water dispensers can provide both hot and cold drinking water. This way you can choose the type that best suits your needs.
Water Dispenser Pros and Cons
A water dispenser is a great way to have access to clean, good-tasting H20. However, there are some things to consider before purchasing one. Here are some of the pros and cons of owning a water dispenser.
Traditional Water Dispenser PROS
1. Can usually hold/store a volume of water which ensures you have easy access to drinking water
2. Cost-effective – water dispensers are typically very affordable and can offer cost savings over time!
Traditional Water Dispenser CONS:
- Can be a breeding ground for mould and bacteria – It’s estimated that 28 per cent of water dispensers carry some type of contaminant that can lead to illness.
- You will need to regularly clean the water dispenser to prevent bacteria from growing.
- Water is limited by the size of the dispenser or the number of bottles you have ready to reload.
- Depending on the type you have, you may need to refill the water once empty.
- If you have a ‘water cooler’ you will still need a bulk water delivery service which can be costly.
Water Dispenser Alternative
Did you know Water from Air’s Atmospheric Water Generators are considered a much better alternative to a traditional water dispenser or water cooler?
Unlike some traditional water dispensers, Water from the Air Machines do not require installation (they are plug and play) and can be used for a range of applications.
The multiple filtrations and purification stages in a Water from the Air machine ensure that bad contaminants are filtered out, but the good minerals are kept in – leaving the best-tasting water.
As opposed to water dispensers, Water from the Air machines regularly recirculate the stored water past the UV lights to keep the stored water fresh and bacteria-free.
Plus, unlike some water dispenser plastic bottles, Water from Air Water Generators do not use plastic bottles, so there’s no risk of harmful BPA’s.
Our systems are low maintenance with the primary filters only needing replacing every 4-6 months and the RO filter, once every 2 years. To ensure you get the best, cleanest tasting water a final Total Contaminant Removal (TCR) filter is installed.
Choosing a Water dispenser
In our view, any dispenser that provides easy access to drinking water – and is visible to you throughout the day – means that there’s less likelihood of becoming dehydrated.
If you have been considering purchasing a water dispenser, a Water from the Air Machine needs to be on your shortlist given it produces the cleanest, freshest, healthiest and best-tasting water.