Water coolers have successfully made the transition from being a common appliance of the office to a household item. They have become an efficient and popular item to encourage consuming more water. Coolers come with the added feature of including an in-built filter to remove any harmful chemicals or bacteria often found in tap water. They are also handing for drinking refreshing cool water on those hot summer days.
When deciding on purchasing a water cooler, you will want one that is easy to use and maintain. With so many to choose from, each model comes with advantages and disadvantages, it is not easy to find one that is right for you. Here are some tips to consider when deciding on a water cooler:
Style
Water coolers come in two sizes, freestanding and countertop. First, you need to decide where in your home you wish to place the water cooler. Would you want it freestanding and out of the way? Is it going on a counter?
Freestanding coolers are much higher than a countertop cooler and can be easily positioned out of way, but you still need to consider how much space it may take up. A countertop cooler is capable of fitting into a cupboard and therefore easily stowed away.
Both styles require electricity, being able to reach a power outlet is important.
Faucets and Features
Coolers can come with several features such as cold or hot water, still or sparkling. It is worth considering which feature is worth investing in and how much it is going to be used. While hot water would be an advantage to have hot drinks on cold winter nights, you need to bear small children in mind. They may burn themselves on the hot water mistaking the faucet for cold water. Some do colour code the faucets, so this can be prevented. If you wish to have a change from still water, having sparkling water would be an excellent attribute.
Some coolers included an added lock feature that can prevent accidental spills with small children.
Bottle or Bottle-less
As with the size, there are two options of water dispensing available. Bottle-less coolers are also called ‘Point of use’ coolers and are connected to the water mains, meaning you do not need to replace the water supply.
Bottle dispensers are as the name suggests. The water is dispensed straight from a bottle, which come in various sizes from 2 to 5 gallons with the latter meaning you will have to change it less. A disadvantage of the bottle dispensers is that the water can become stale if left unchanged.
A Point of use dispensers is considered more expensive to install, but as you do not need to purchase or store bottles can be cost effective in the long run.
In conclusion, it is advised to shop around before purchasing a cooler. Get an idea of the price range, how much you wish to spend and how much it will get used. Water coolers are a good investment and if properly maintained too, can last a good while.
Harry Price is a truly manly man. He enjoys researching and contributing to the latest technology research and going to the gym.
