Whether you’re running around with the kids or studying in your room, staying hydrated is essential to your wellbeing. The best countertop water dispenser means having refreshing water accessible at your fingertips.
The form and features of countertop water dispensers vary in many ways. Choosing the best countertop water dispenser for your needs and budget can sometimes be an exercise bogged down with a myriad of choices.
Why Invest in a Countertop Water Dispenser?
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How Do I Know I’m Choosing the Best One?
Countertop water dispensers come in various sizes, with a diverse assortment of features. To help you narrow the field, here’s a checklist of some of the most common details to take into consideration when choosing the right water dispenser for your needs.
Filtration
Regularly ingesting small particles of heavy metals, such as lead, is not healthy. Anything you take into your body should be free from harmful substances, and this includes water. When you drink unfiltered water, the likelihood of ingesting something you shouldn’t is much higher.
Your countertop water dispenser should have a reliable filtration system to reduce the number of foreign particles and substances in your water. The benefits of having filtered water readily available can be a game-changer to your overall wellbeing.
Durability
You may be thinking, “Why should I bother buying a water dispenser when I can stick with ordering jugs of filtered water?” The beauty behind countertop water dispensers is how long it lasts with proper care.
I used to spend a fortune buying purified drinking water. I was purchasing jugs every week to satisfy the needs of our household. But a countertop water dispenser is a practical option. Whether you choose a plumbed-in water dispenser or opt for a refillable one – you’re good to go!
Temperature Adjustment
It’s a scorching hot day. You want to come home to a tall glass of refreshingly cold water. Unfortunately, all you have is water from the fridge that tastes like – well, refrigerator. Perhaps you’re in the mood for a nice cup of warm cocoa, but the time it takes to boil water just discourages you.
If this sounds familiar, worry no more. With a countertop water dispenser that dispenses hot and cold water, you can enjoy an icy cold beverage or piping hot coffee with the press of a button. This feature works perfectly for my tea – now I don’t have to wait for my water to boil!
Design
Whether you have a knack for all things elegant and modern or simplistic and sleek, there’s one suited for your taste.
I used to think countertop water dispensers would only be an eyesore at home. With its bulky silhouette, I refused to have one in my kitchen and preferred to use a refillable filtered jug in my fridge. Later on, I discovered they come in various designs that fit in and compliment any home decor.
Storage Capacity
Storing giant jugs of drinking water may still be something you do at home. The thing with buying them is you either have to buy small ones in bulk or bigger, heavier ones that last longer. Getting a countertop water dispenser is an excellent solution to this dilemma.
Best Countertop Water Dispenser Reviews
Below is our round-up for the best countertop water dispensers. Take note that each one is distinct from the rest. Read through the descriptions and see which one fits your family’s needs:
AvalonSelf-Cleaning Bottleless Water Dispenser
The Avalon Countertop Hot/Cold Water Cooler features easy-to-use paddle spouts which make this water cooler convenient to use.
To dispense water, press your cup against the paddle of your choice. A high-efficient compressor keeps your cold water ice cold – no need for ice cubes.
The hot faucet dispenses water suitable for brewing a perfect cup of tea, coffee, or other hot beverage.
The temperature is adjustable up to approximately 185° F.
This water cooler’s bottleless design connects directly to your existing sink water line. And the inline activated carbon and a sediment filter can eliminate chlorine, lead, rust, and bacteria.
The Avalon has a built-in self-cleaning feature to save you time. With the flip of a switch, the ozone injection function instantly sanitizes the water tank to keep your water fresh and clean.
Finer details exclusive to the Avalon include child safety locks on the hot water spout and a built-in nightlight.
Pros
- Child safety lock on hot water
- Integrated filtration
- Automatic cleaning feature
- Built-in leak detector
- UL listed and Energy Star rated
- All parts necessary for installation included
Cons
- Reported to have a slow water flow
- Filtration system and self-cleaning function can be noisy
- Slightly difficult to install
VitaFilta Countertop Water Filter and Cooler
The VitaFilta is an exceptional, mini countertop water filter and cooler. The filtration system features advanced NASA technology.
Unlike other countertop water coolers, it doesn’t rely on a compressor to keep your water cold, meaning this cooler operates silently.
The refillable tank holds up to 3 gallons of water and the tank has a wide-mouth top which makes it easy to clean and replace the filter.
The filter is suitable for approximately 130 gallons and should last for 3-4 months before needing replacement.
The sleek, modern design is suited for homes with limited space. And the temperature adjustment feature doesn’t require electricity so you can put this water cooler anywhere.
Pros
- Temperature adjustment to 40ºF
- BPA free and FDA approved
- Removes small contaminants, lead, heavy metals, and chlorine
- A long-lasting filter capable of filtering up to 130 gallons of water
- No compressor means zero noise
- Compact size suitable for the smallest spaces
Cons
- Chills water at a slower pace than usual
- Only chills water 6 oz at a time, anything more results in longer chilling time
Nutrichef Countertop Water Cooler Dispenser
The Nutrichef countertop water dispenser provides both hot and cold water.
However, unlike the Avalon countertop dispenser, it relies on replaceable water jugs instead of attaching to your water line.
The built-in compressor quickly cools your water down to 40-45 degrees.
The hot water temperature is customizable to between 170-175 degrees.
Additionally, the hot water spigot is equipped with a child safety lock to prevent burns.
The innovative countertop design makes it perfect for home or office. And its top-loading design is compatible with three and 5-gallon water jugs.
Pros
- Child safety lock on hot water
- Dispenses hot and cold water
- Accommodates 3 or 5 gallon water bottles/jugs
- Tabletop design perfect for home or office
- Ultra quiet operation
Cons
- Durability issues reported after about a half year of use
- May be slow to chill your water to the desired temperature
- Some users reported occasional leaking
Bluewave Striped Water Dispenser Crock
The Bluewave water dispenser is a classic porcelain crock-type water dispenser.
Made from heavy-weight porcelain and features a simple stripe design. It’s durable and made from high-quality, lead-free porcelain for years of worry-free use.
Crock water dispensers don’t have a built-in water tank, but rather dispense water from a standard water jug. The crock itself holds just over 2 US gallons and can accommodate an additional 2 to 5-gallon jug on top.
This dispenser provides some flexibility because it is not limited to dispensing just water. For social gatherings, why not try filling your crock with punch or juice?
Pros
- Classic design
- Made from durable, high-quality porcelain
- Wide mouth allows for easy and thorough cleaning
- Dishwasher safe
- Can be operated with or without an additional water jug on top (porcelain cover purchased separately)
Cons
- Some users reported leaking around the spigot
- Spigot is plastic (upgradable to a stainless steel spigot)
Birando Metal Water Stand and Valve
This little wire stand is the low-end entry to our list of water dispensers.
Its simple and compact design makes it perfect for short-term use or social events. All you have to do is mount your three or 5-gallon water jug in the frame and attach the spout.
The valve fits a water bottle with a 55 mm, non-threaded crown top.
Pros
- Low cost water dispenser option
- Portability make it perfect for social gatherings or sporting events
- Non-slip feet
- Accommodates 3 or 5 gallon water jugs
Cons
- Not suitable for long-term use
Our Choice
After evaluating the selection of countertop water dispensers available, the Avalon Countertop Self Cleaning Bottleless Water Cooler Water Dispenser washes out its alternatives.
The Avalon promises water filtration and convenience among its other options. When compared to the dispensers that accept three or 5-gallon jugs of bottled water, this dispenser offers convenience by not having to switch out heavy water jugs continually.
This water dispenser is an investment you’ll gain gallons from in the long run.