Hot and Cold Water Dispensers

Water cooler dispensers at Staples are available in a variety of sizes, models and styles. Some will require a water connection for use, while others feature a top or bottom-load jug and may be freestanding or designed for countertop placement. Popular brands of water coolers include Avanti, Oasis, and Mind Reader.

Point-Of-Use

Point-of-use water cooler dispensers require a connection directly to a water and power source in order to function. They offer water filtration and a cheaper cost per gallon compared to packs of bottled water. With features such as ozone injection and a UV light also available, their upfront costs can be a bit higher than bottled dispensers (which don’t require a water line connection). Expect to change filters approximately every six months, depending on the particular make and model.

Bottled

A bottled water cooler dispenses water from a bottom-loading or top-loading jug. Both types are easier to use and install than point-of-use units since they don’t need to be hooked up to a water line, though they will still need a connection to a standard electrical outlet. They don’t usually incorporate a filtration device, as the bottles will already contain some type of purified or spring water.

Top-loading water dispensers are generally the cheapest and most efficient type of water coolers. Look for a hot and cold water dispenser option, as well as tri-temperature models which can also offer room temperature water. Most models at Staples will accommodate three, four and five gallon bottles and feature stainless steel reservoirs for guaranteed water purity. Many are also Energy Star rated for efficiency, helping you keep costs low on energy bills.

A bottom-loading water dispenser functions similarly to its top-loading counterpart, with the multi-gallon bottle being housed underneath the unit in a compartment. This makes for a sleeker look and ease of reloading jugs since no heavy lifting is required. Because of the pumping mechanism necessary for water flow, bottom-loading water coolers tend to be a little more expensive.

Countertop

Countertop water coolers are smaller versions of any of the above types of dispenser water coolers, and take up less space by sitting on a countertop or other flat surface. For a point-of-use countertop dispenser, connection to a water source is still required. Position these near a kitchen sink water line to draw straight from your plumbing.

A countertop hot and cold water dispenser won’t have as much storage space as larger floor models, though they are more accommodating for home use in addition to working in a standard office, breakroom, lounge or other shared space setting.

Things to consider when browsing water coolers at Staples include determining the location where the unit will go, desired water capacity, water temperature options, size, ease of use, cost and any other features such as storage capabilities and child safety locks. Whether you’re looking for hot water dispensers, cold water dispensers or a combination of both, pick a model right for your space.

People use water dispensers in a variety of settings, often in common areas with multi-person access. Cold water refreshes on warm days, while hot water lets you make teas, cocoas and other heated beverages conveniently with minimal wait time.

Care for your water cooler dispenser according to the manufacturer’s instructions in order to prevent any buildup of bacteria and to keep water tasting fresh. Routinely replace water filters for point-of-use dispensers and clean off drip trays, spigot levers and other high-touch surfaces as needed.