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In this article we will talk about water dispensers. They have been on the market for years and even if you don't have one at home, it is likely that you have used them on more than one occasion.
They are devices that give you immediate access to ready-to-drink water by simply placing a glass and pressing a button or lowering a lever, as the case may be. Depending on the type of device you can even choose the temperature of the water you are going to drink, these are highly functional devices.
You probably use them so often that you have never stopped to think about what features you would need to consider if you wanted to buy one. So we have done the homework for you, and we will support your decisions by giving you useful information such as: what they are, how they work, what advantages and disadvantages they have, among other things.
Contents
Summary
- Water dispensers are devices that, as the name says, "dispense water", i.e. they provide us with drinking water ready to drink. Their use has many advantages that add value to the device, to the user's time and ultimately also to his or her pocket.
- In terms of how they work, they can be classified into two types: carafe dispensers or pipe-connected dispensers. In addition to the physical characteristics that each option may have, the substantial difference between them lies in the source from which they obtain the water they will dispense.
- The ideal dispenser is the one that adapts to the user's needs, there is necessary information that must be available to make the purchase decision, for example: is it needed for the office or for the home, how many people should it serve, will it be connected to the pipe or is it better to use carafes, etc.
The best Water Dispenser: Our picks
Buying guide: What you need to know about water dispensers
Buying household appliances is a task that many of us enjoy, but we must choose the right one because, on the contrary, nobody likes to get involved in exchange or return procedures in order to enjoy the product in good condition. That is why it is essential to buy in a safe way with preliminary information.
(Photo: belchonock /123rf.com)
What is a water dispenser and what are its advantages?
Water dispensers are devices or attachments that provide instant drinking water, either by pressing a button or pulling a lever. Depending on the model, you can get warm, cold or hot water, so they are not only functional, but also useful in different climates throughout the year.
In terms of how they work, there are those that are connected to a water bottle or those that are connected to the public water supply, both of which guarantee the quality of the water. In terms of structure, there are floor, wall or table options. Depending on their temperature, there are those with 1, 2 or 3 taps, levers or buttons. Depending on their cooling system, there are mechanical or electric.
Once we go into the options in detail, you will realise the variety that exists for instant water. Large or small appliances, with one or more functions, one or more advantages; any of them can come to your home in your next purchase.
Barrel or mains water dispensers - what do you need to look out for?
We have already discussed the types of dispensers that exist, but let's start with those that are categorised by function, as this is where the other models can be broken down. We are referring to those that are connected to a carafe or to the public network.
It is a personal choice, it is enough to think initially if you want to pay for the device plus an installation or the device and carafes on demand. Both are viable options and in the long run represent an economic saving, as well as benefiting the environment by not having to buy plastic bottles.
Connected to the bottle: They are simple to operate. They have a 19-litre bottle at the top or inside, which is normally used. If it is at the top it works by gravity, the water falls when the button is pressed and the bottle is emptied. The ones that are connected inside work by suction.
Connected to the public mains. They have a similar appearance but guarantee a constant water supply with good quality water, supplied by means of filter systems, either reverse osmosis or activated carbon, which free it from contaminants such as chlorine, ions or molecules and particles that are present in the water.
| CONNECTED TO THE GARRAFON | CONNECTED TO THE PUBLIC NETWORK | |
|---|---|---|
| Types | Floor, table, wall, nozzle (portable) | Floor or tabletop |
| Installation | No installation required | Yes installation required |
| Taps | With warm, hot and cold option | With warm, hot and cold option |
| Maintenance | Easy, cleaning once a month | Medium, requires filter change every 3 to 4 months |
| Expenditure | Periodic purchase of jugs | None |
Purchasing criteria
Purchasing a water dispenser for the home or office will require you to make certain decisions to best suit your needs, but you will also need to take into account some criteria that should not be overlooked if you want to have a good buying experience.
Operating system
As we have already discussed, there are two types of dispensers in terms of operation: with a carafe or with installation to the public network. If you have opted for the former, then you will have to periodically buy carafes from your trusted retailer. If you have chosen the second option, you will need a water outlet and a light contact.
Space
Considering how much space you have to add another appliance to your home is a must. There are homes with enough empty areas, even with very large kitchens, but there are others that are smaller. For all cases there is the possibility of having an appliance that meets our needs.
Among the options you can choose from are the floor-standing ones, with a bottle on the top or hidden; the table-top ones, which, due to their smaller size, can be placed on some surfaces such as tables, bars, shelves, etc.
There are also the wall-mounted ones, which are compact devices suitable for smaller spaces; and the electric nozzle or pump ones, which are placed directly in the mouth of the demijohn without taking up more space than the space occupied by the demijohn.
Capacity
Whether for offices or for the home, it is good to take into account the approximate number of people who will be consuming water on a constant basis. On average, a floor-standing dispenser usually has jugs ranging from 11 to 19 litres, table-top dispensers have tanks ranging from 8 to 9 litres.
Taking into account that each person should drink a minimum of 2 litres per day, then for a family of 4 people a table-top dispenser may be sufficient, although during the day there may be a higher requirement if additional drinks such as coffee or teas are consumed.
(Featured image photo: belchonock / 123rf.com)
Taps
Taps are the water outlets through which water is dispensed into cups or bottles, usually made of plastic. Each dispenser that comes attached to the appliance is intended to provide water at a certain temperature.
Depending on how simple or sophisticated the dispenser is the number of taps that are included, either one, two or three. The minimum is that one dispenses cold water. The most complete ones have options for hot and warm water.
Filters
From jugs or from the public water supply, water is already filtered, but there are options that use filters for additional protection to remove sediment and particles, as well as to increase its quality, smell and taste.
If this function is included, they should be replaced regularly, between 3 and 4 months approximately. To be on the safe side and depending on the model, it is best to check the manufacturer's instructions to ensure that the appliance is working properly and that you are drinking water in good condition.
Safety
Especially if the appliance has a hot water function, it is necessary and essential that it has a safety method to prevent children from handling it and getting burned.
Maintenance
Maintenance is very simple for appliances with carafes. It only requires monthly cleaning and, if necessary, the replacement of any damaged parts. On the other hand, those connected to the mains need more in-depth technical maintenance.
Manufacturing Material
The most common material used in this type of device is plastic, which is light and resistant. It can be moved from one place to another if necessary. They are also available in stainless steel, making them even more durable over time.
(Featured image source: Serezniy/ 123rf.com)
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