Keeping the water cooler and dispenser clean is an important aspect of maintaining a reliable supply of drinking water. Overtime, appliances like these can be the breeding ground for bacteria and mold if they are not properly cleaned and maintained. There are quite a few people who may not be familiar with the best methods for cleaning their water coolers and dispensers which may lead them to clean improperly or even inefficiently.
Efforts to sustain clean and safe drinking water utilized by consumers are worth our commitment. So, we decided to gather expert tips to lead you through the whole process. From the recommended cleaning solutions to step-by-step instruction, this guide contains all the information necessary to make your water cooler and dispenser properly sanitized.
Regular inspections, in this case, will allow your water cooler to last longer, avoid serious problems and not to forget having fresh and safe drinking water at your disposal.
Types of Water Coolers and Dispensers
Starting out with the cleaning suggestions, it is important to first know the various types of water coolers and dispensers. This way, you able to know what cleaning methods are good for the particular type of equipment that you have.
- Bottle-fed Water Cooler and Dispenser – A big container of water can be the source of water cooler and dispenser, it is either put on top of the machine or it is installed at its back. The water is discharged by using a fool or faucet with most of these types of devices.
- Point-of-use Water Cooler and Dispenser – These water coolers are also named as plumbed-in or bottleless water coolers; they are joined to a water source directly and thus do not utilize bottles. These units are manufactured with dual taps to make sure that the users have different temperatures on the water. They use multiple taps, one for cold and the other for hot water.
- Countertop Water Dispenser – They are smaller and can be easily placed on a countertop. They are available in both the bottled and the bottleless versions.
- Electric Water Dispenser – These are the same as the point-of-use dispensers in the sense that they also need a direct connection to the water source but, in addition to that, they can be used for electric cooling and heating.
Needless to say, the cleaning of different types of water coolers and dispensers can vary. Thus not all the cleaning methods are suitable for all types. For instance, do not ever plunge an electric water dispenser into the water in the bid to clean it up.
Expert Tips for Cleaning Your Water Cooler and Dispenser
Thorough cleaning and maintenance are two ways to ensure that your water cooler and dispenser stay sanitary. There are some expert tips:
Read the Manufacturer’s Instructions
Before commencing any cleaning operation, make sure to check the manufacturer’s instructions on the specific water cooler or dispenser model you possess.
These instructions give crucial information about the chemical cleaners that are compatible, how you should do it, and if there’s any component that needs special care. Disregarding what the manufacturer says can lead to damage or poor cleaning of the equipment. Without a hard copy of the manual, most manufacturers allow downloading the document from their web pages.
The perfect execution of the recommendations equals the most efficient removal of contaminants and this way you can also extend the lifetime of the water cooler. Correct execution of the above directions guarantees a safer and more thorough cleaning process.
Unplug or Disconnect the Appliance
The paramount requirement for safe cleaning of a water cooler or dispenser makes the first step in this process being removing the appliance from its power source or unhooking it from the water supply. This step reduces the chances of electric shock during the operation.
For the sake of electric water dispensers, the units must be switched off to avoid causing any possible internal damage that could occur if it was to be run while still connected and cleaned.
Make sure every appliance is switched off before starting a cleaning or maintenance session, only then it is safe. Being extra cautious by properly disconnecting the machines not only makes your cleaning process safer and more secure but also takes a few extra seconds out of your busy day.
Empty and Sanitize Any Removable Parts
Do not forget to remove the removable parts from the water cooler or dispenser, like drip trays, nozzles, and bottle collars. Get rid of the remaining water or particles and then wash them away with a warm, foamy, soapy water mix, or a cleaning gel that is food-safe.
For an even better sanitization, sink the detachable portions in a 1 Tbsp water/gallon bleach in a 5-10min solution. After this, you can gently brush through if any residue is still there.
Rinse each part with plenty of water and then let it dry in the air completely before you can put them back together. The point of this step is to prevent these wings of the machine from being polluted by microbes.
Clean the Exterior of the Appliance
Take a soft cloth or use a sponge instead and clean the outside surfaces of both your water cooler and your dispenser with warm, soapy water.
The reason is that the water reduces any kind of dirt, fingerprints, spills, and other accumulations of dust and the like on the outer part of the equipment. Get a non-corrosive but mild cleaning agent that is water-resistant or foam-resistant and is safe for your device’s material. Get rid of any persistent stains or spots by visiting the closest service center.
Keep in mind that you should not let water into the electronic parts or openings. After wiping your cleaning cloth, with a damp cloth, you should immediately follow it by using a dry cloth. Regular face maintenance is the key to its facial space looks and can also help maintain its hygiene.
Flush Out the Water Lines
Keeping your water cooler clean and free from contaminations is the most important thing to do to stay healthy and the only way is by cleaning and flushing the water lines (the tubes through which water travels from the cooler to the cup). If it is possible, pull apart the tubing and push warm, clear water through it to remove any dirt or sand that may have jammed inside.
Some people might give more time to deep cleaning by using a combination of water and white vinegar which is allowed first for a few minutes before the finish is always with clean water. After that you can repeat the same steps until all traces of the white vinegar mix are not present anymore and no residue is left behind.
Correctly flushing out the water lines to keep the dispenser running smoothly and provide safe, clean water.
Use a Mixture of Hot Water and Vinegar for Mineral Deposits
Mineral deposits that build up in the water supply of coolers, filters, and fountains are common in hard water areas. To get rid of these depositions, make the mixture of hot water and white vinegar of the same amount.
Now you just need to pour that mixture into the cooler’s reservoir and let it stand for the next 15-20 minutes. This way allows you to access the most obstinate mineral formation and disinfect the inner surfaces.
In case of need of cleaning, shine the cooler with a gentle brush. Wipe away the mixture fully and wash the cooler’s tank out times with clean water to get rid of any vinegar taste or odor stayed. Your cooler will be clean again if you choose this simple alternative.
Can A Water Cooler or Dispenser Clean Itself?
The most advanced water coolers and dispensers that exist now are the smart ones. They are controlled by a computer chip and have the Auto-Cleaning feature to clean themselves without our help.
If you have something to do with this extra option, it is important to clean your device manually so that any physical leftovers or accumulated dirt can be removed. Moreover, in some cases, the self-cleaning feature does not exist, so a proper cleaning procedure is needed anyway.
Be sure to find the user manual that your manufacturer provided you for more detailed information about your particular model. Basically, it is recommended that you do a proper cleaning for a month at least as this is the way you will not only be clean but also hygiene.
Is It Safe to Drink Tap Water From a Cooler or Dispenser?
Water coolers and dispensers are produced to offer clean drinking water which is free from impurities and contaminants in the main water supply. However, the proper care and maintenance of a water cooler or dispenser above can be only through regular cleaning to ensure the appliance continues to deliver healthy, safe, and clean drinking water.
If you are worried about the safety of your tap water, you can go for another option by using a water filtration system along with your cooler or dispenser to feel more secure. Also, for the best result, you will need to follow the proper procedures and replace the filters and cartridges when the manufacturer’s instructions say. By this, you will be able to have a guarantee of the best drinking water quality for yourself and your whole family.
Be mindful of the source and environment of the water, factor these into your placement options so as not to get it too close to sources that could introduce bacteria or chemicals into the water. Keeping it in a clean and well-maintained environment will help ensure you get safe and good quality drinking water from your cooler or dispenser.
FAQs
Does the type of water used affect the cleaning process?
Yes, the quality of water actually affects the cleaning process. That is, hard water with a high mineral content might need to soak and be scrubbed longer to get rid of the buildup, whereas soft water may not.
Do I need to clean my dispenser if I use only bottled water?
By using bottled water in your dispenser you may even lesser the need for cleaning but you must still clean and sanitize all internal components regularly to prevent bacteria growth and to drink safe water.
Can I use dish soap or other household cleaners to clean my dispenser?
No, it is not a good idea for you to use dish soap or other household cleaners on the dispenser because they are likely to leave residue or even contain contaminants that will then move to your water. Moreover, follow the instructions and use the cleaning methods and solutions recommended by the manufacturer. Do not bleach, or use other cleaning agents that are not a special design for food-contact surfaces.
How often should I clean my water dispenser?
The experts highly suggest you at least thoroughly clean every month your dispenser. But your frequency of cleaning can be less or more, according to the use and environmental aspects. The first thing you would like to refer to is the manufacturer’s guide to maintenance and cleaning the specific model you have.
Conclusion
In conclusion, your best bet for safe and hygiene drinking water is a continued practice of consistently cleaning and taking care of your water dispenser or cooler.
Obey the given laws of physics by utilizing these particular ways and unique products, you can thrive in the game and partake of it throughout the year with water that is clean and clear as reported by WaterLogic.
It is also best to follow the username manual provided by the subscriber for the feedback provided on how to properly take care of your model. Skol to a life of health and joy with you and your family! Additionally, prevention helps can be obtained from the manufacturer’s website and the customer service support line.
Those water dispensers/water coolers you keep in good condition can run up to some years with the advantage of reducing energy and cooling, besides, cutting pollutants emission thus creating a safe environment for you not to get ill. Bo quenched!
Wish you a good health and a better day!
