A water cooler gives you convenient access to drinking water at home or at work. Before choosing one, compare the space available, the number of users, the cooling system and the features you actually need.
Tabletop, floor-standing or mains-fed?
- Tabletop coolers sit on a table or another suitable surface. They are worth considering when floor space is limited. Check the dimensions of the cooler and the space required above it for a bottle.
- Floor-standing coolers are installed on the floor. Depending on the model, they may include a storage cupboard or a refrigerated compartment. Check the product specifications: a storage cupboard does not provide refrigeration.
- Mains-fed water dispensers connect to the water supply and use filters instead of a replaceable water bottle. Before buying, check the connection requirements and the filter maintenance schedule for the particular model.
Electronic or compressor cooling?
Electronic cooling uses a thermoelectric system. It is an option to consider for a small number of users. Compare the stated cooling capacity with your expected demand.
Compressor cooling is suited to situations where more chilled water is needed. Compare the capacity of individual models rather than choosing by cabinet size alone.
Which features matter?
- Bottle loading. Compare top-loading and bottom-loading models. Check how the bottle is installed and how much space is needed to replace it.
- Water temperatures. Decide whether you need hot and cold water, room-temperature water, or a dispenser without heating or cooling. The available modes depend on the model.
- Controls. Check whether the taps use levers, buttons or cup-operated paddles, and whether the hot-water control has a child safety lock.
- Storage or refrigeration. If you need a cupboard or refrigerator, look for that feature in the specifications. It is not included in every floor-standing model.
How to compare the price
The price depends on the cooling system, construction and additional functions. Use the current prices in the catalogue when comparing models: old price ranges in articles may no longer reflect the available offers.
A short checklist before buying
- Measure the installation space and check the dimensions and installation instructions of the model.
- Estimate how many people will use the cooler and compare its stated cooling capacity.
- Choose the required water temperatures and a convenient bottle-loading arrangement.
- Check the controls, hot-water safety lock and any storage or refrigerator compartment.
- Compare the current price, warranty information and maintenance requirements.
A suitable cooler should match your daily water use and the space available. Start with these practical requirements, then compare the design and optional features.
