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Best Self-Cleaning Water Dispensers

Updated June 2023
Bottom line
Pros
Cons
Best of the Best
Brio Self Cleaning Bottom Load Water Dispenser
Brio
Self Cleaning Bottom Load Water Dispenser
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Customer Favorite
Bottom Line

This big dispenser offers hot, cold and room-temp drinking water, and it is compatible with 3- and 5-gallon canisters.

Pros

A free-standing model made of stainless steel and plastic, this dispenser has dedicated taps for each water temperature. An LED lights up when water level gets low or when the unit is in a self-cleaning cycle. You can also start a cleaning at any time should you notice buildup. Dispenser measures 13.5 x 12 x 40.5 inches.

Cons

Shipping damage is fairly common. Some say their cold or hot water functions failed after a year.

Best Bang for the Buck
Brio Limited Edition Top Loading Water Cooler Dispenser |
Brio
Limited Edition Top Loading Water Cooler Dispenser |
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Best for Everyday Use
Bottom Line

A stainless steel water dispenser from a trusted brand that fits 3- and 5-gallon jugs and cleans itself with ozone.

Pros

Versatile model features separate switches to control cooling and heating functions so you only use the energy you need. The part of the dispenser near the taps is resistant to thumbprints. Use the child safety lock to prevent burns from the hot water. Remove the BPA-free drip tray to drain any spilled water.

Cons

Some say it can start to leak after six months. Its water can have an earthy taste.

Avalon Self Cleaning Water Cooler Water Dispenser
Avalon
Self Cleaning Water Cooler Water Dispenser
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Most Comprehensive
Bottom Line

A big water dispenser that is Energy Star-approved and will hold both 3- and 5-gallon canisters.

Pros

This self-cleaning water dispenser stores water canisters in its base to limit lifting. It reliably cranks out cold, hot and room-temperature water. Use the tap lock to keep curious kids safe from the hot water. A light indicates when the water level is getting low.

Cons

Quality control is suspect, with some faulty products being shipped. It's a bit loud.

Avalon Self Cleaning Bottleless Water Cooler Dispenser
Avalon
Self Cleaning Bottleless Water Cooler Dispenser
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Easiest to Use
Bottom Line

Relegate heavy water canisters to the dustbin of history with this self-cleaning dispenser that connects to your water line.

Pros

Dispenser applies two stages of filtration to your water and each of its filters is replaceable. Filters can remove contaminants from 1,500 gallons of water and will last for about six months. Delivers hot, cold and ambient-temperature water, and it has a sensor to detect leaks. Press a button to initiate a cleaning of the system.

Cons

Audio alarm goes off often when water levels get low. A few say water from this unit has a plastic taste.

Avalon Self Cleaning Bottom Loading Water Dispenser
Avalon
Self Cleaning Bottom Loading Water Dispenser
Check Price
Most Versatile
Bottom Line

This dispenser has a nightlight to help groggy and thirsty people get a quick drink before going back to bed.

Pros

This model accepts 3- and 5-gallon canisters, and it produces tasty water at three temperatures. The hot water tap has a locking mechanism to protect kids. Replace canisters in the dispenser base without much lifting. Sturdy unit is made of stainless steel and metal. Handy self-cleaning function sanitizes the dispenser.

Cons

In rare cases, model’s compressor can glitch and freeze your water solid. Some units suffer shipping damage.

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BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and all opinions about the products are our own. About BestReviews  
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We buy all products with our own funds, and we never accept free products from manufacturers.About BestReviews 
HOW WE TESTED

We recommend these products based on an intensive research process that's designed to cut through the noise and find the top products in this space. Guided by experts, we spend hours looking into the factors that matter, to bring you these selections.

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30
Models
Considered
132
Consumers
Consulted
10
Hours
Researched
Category cover
Our Top Picks
Brio
Best of the Best
Brio
Self Cleaning Bottom Load Water Dispenser
Bottom Line
This big dispenser offers hot, cold and room-temp drinking water, and it is compatible with 3- and 5-gallon canisters.
Shop Now
Brio
Best Bang for the Buck
Brio
Limited Edition Top Loading Water Cooler Dispenser |
Bottom Line
A stainless steel water dispenser from a trusted brand that fits 3- and 5-gallon jugs and cleans itself with ozone.
Shop Now
Avalon
Top Pick
Avalon
Self Cleaning Water Cooler Water Dispenser
Bottom Line
A big water dispenser that is Energy Star-approved and will hold both 3- and 5-gallon canisters.
Shop Now
Avalon
Top Pick
Avalon
Self Cleaning Bottleless Water Cooler Dispenser
Bottom Line
Relegate heavy water canisters to the dustbin of history with this self-cleaning dispenser that connects to your water line.
Shop Now
Avalon
Top Pick
Avalon
Self Cleaning Bottom Loading Water Dispenser
Bottom Line
This dispenser has a nightlight to help groggy and thirsty people get a quick drink before going back to bed.
Shop Now
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