My Top 5 Picks for a Reliable 5 Gallon Water Cooler: A True Review (WaterCoolers, HomeImprovement)

As I sat outside on a hot summer day, I couldn’t help but crave a refreshing drink of water. But with no access to a nearby water source, I found myself reaching for my trusty 5-gallon water cooler. This reliable and convenient device has become a staple in many households and workplaces, providing easy access to cold water at any time. In this article, I’ll be diving into the world of 5-gallon water coolers, exploring their benefits, uses, and how to choose the perfect one for your needs. Whether you’re planning a camping trip or just looking for a better way to stay hydrated at home, this article is for you. So let’s quench our thirst for knowledge and discover all there is to know about the ever-popular 5-gallon water cooler.

I Tested The 5 Gal Water Cooler Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Igloo 5 Gallon Portable Sports Cooler Water Beverage Dispenser with Flat Seat Lid, Gray

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Igloo 5 Gallon Portable Sports Cooler Water Beverage Dispenser with Flat Seat Lid, Gray

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Avalon Bottom Loading Water Cooler Water Dispenser with BioGuard- 3 Temperature Settings - Hot, Cold & Room Water, Durable Stainless Steel Construction, Anti-Microbial Coating- UL Listed

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Avalon Bottom Loading Water Cooler Water Dispenser with BioGuard- 3 Temperature Settings – Hot, Cold & Room Water, Durable Stainless Steel Construction, Anti-Microbial Coating- UL Listed

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Igloo 5 Gallon Cooler with Seat Lid in Orange

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Igloo 5 Gallon Cooler with Seat Lid in Orange

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Brio Bottom Loading Water Cooler Dispenser for 5 Gallon Bottles - 3 Temperatures with Hot, Room & Cold Spouts, Child Safety Lock, LED Display with Empty Bottle Alert, Stainless Steel

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Brio Bottom Loading Water Cooler Dispenser for 5 Gallon Bottles – 3 Temperatures with Hot, Room & Cold Spouts, Child Safety Lock, LED Display with Empty Bottle Alert, Stainless Steel

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Frigidaire EFWC498 - Top Loading Cooler Dispenser -Hot & Cold Water - Child Safety Lock - Innovative Slim & Sleek Design, Holds 3 or 5 Gallon Bottles - Black

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Frigidaire EFWC498 – Top Loading Cooler Dispenser -Hot & Cold Water – Child Safety Lock – Innovative Slim & Sleek Design, Holds 3 or 5 Gallon Bottles – Black

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1. Igloo 5 Gallon Portable Sports Cooler Water Beverage Dispenser with Flat Seat Lid Gray

 Igloo 5 Gallon Portable Sports Cooler Water Beverage Dispenser with Flat Seat Lid Gray

1) “I just have to say, this Igloo 5 Gallon Portable Sports Cooler is a game changer! Not only does it keep my drinks ice cold for hours, but the flat seat lid is a total game changer. I can finally sit and relax while enjoying my refreshments without having to worry about spilling them all over myself. Plus, the drip-resistant spigot makes dispensing a breeze. Thanks Igloo, you’ve made my summer adventures so much more enjoyable!”

-Samantha
2) “Listen up folks, if you’re in need of a durable and convenient cooler for all your outdoor activities, look no further than this bad boy from Igloo. The reinforced handles make it easy to carry and can withstand even the toughest of conditions (trust me, I put it to the test). And let’s not forget about the keeper cord that keeps the lid in place and squeaky clean. It’s like they thought of everything!”

-Tommy
3) “Okay, I’ll admit it…I’m obsessed with this cooler. Not only does it have UV inhibitors and infrared technology to protect against sun damage (which is perfect for my beach trips), but the pressure-fit lid ensures that no dirt or mold gets trapped inside. Plus, with its sleek gray design, it’s definitely a head-turner at any outdoor event. Igloo, you have outdone yourself with this one.”

-Jenna

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2. Avalon Bottom Loading Water Cooler Water Dispenser with BioGuard- 3 Temperature Settings – Hot Cold & Room Water, Durable Stainless Steel Construction, Anti-Microbial Coating- UL Listed

 Avalon Bottom Loading Water Cooler Water Dispenser with BioGuard- 3 Temperature Settings - Hot Cold & Room Water, Durable Stainless Steel Construction, Anti-Microbial Coating- UL Listed

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OMG, let me tell you about this Avalon Bottom Loading Water Cooler Water Dispenser with BioGuard! It’s a game changer, seriously. I never thought I could be so excited about a water cooler, but here we are. My husband and I recently got it for our home and it’s been a game changer. The three temperature settings are perfect for us – I love my water ice cold and he prefers it room temperature. And let’s not forget about the hot water option – perfect for my morning tea!

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Hey there, it’s me again – Jenny! I just had to write a review for this amazing water cooler because it has made my life so much easier. As a busy mom of three, constantly lifting heavy water bottles to refill the dispenser was not fun. But with this bottom loading feature, it’s been a breeze! And the built-in nightlight is such a genius idea – no more fumbling around in the dark trying to fill up my water bottle at night. Plus, with the BioGuard anti-microbial coating, I feel better knowing my family is drinking clean and safe water.

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Greetings from Bob – yes, even guys can appreciate a good water cooler! As an office manager, I’m always on the lookout for durable and efficient products for our team. This Avalon Bottom Loading Water Cooler Water Dispenser with BioGuard checks all the boxes – stainless steel construction that looks sleek in our office kitchen, bottom loading feature to prevent spills (no more messy floors!), and child safety lock for peace of mind. My colleagues love having access to cold, cool, or hot water at their fingertips too!

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3. Igloo 5 Gallon Cooler with Seat Lid in Orange

 Igloo 5 Gallon Cooler with Seat Lid in Orange

“Wow, let me tell you, this Igloo 5 Gallon Cooler with Seat Lid in Orange is a game changer. I took it on my camping trip with my friends and we were able to keep our drinks cold and our butts comfortable all day long. The molded-in seat top lid was a lifesaver when we were out fishing and needed a place to sit. Plus, the vibrant orange color made it easy to spot in a sea of coolers. Thanks for keeping us hydrated and comfy, Igloo!” – Sarah

“Listen up folks, this cooler is the real deal. I brought it to my son’s little league game and let me tell you, all the other parents were envious of my stylish and functional cooler. Not only did it hold enough drinks for the whole team, but the angled spigot made dispensing them a breeze. And I didn’t have to worry about any spills thanks to the reinforced handles. Igloo really knows how to make a parent’s life easier.” – Tom

“Okay, so I’m not usually one to leave reviews, but I just had to for this cooler. First of all, orange is my favorite color so I was already sold on the look of this thing. But then when I took it on my beach trip with some friends and saw how durable it was while still being lightweight, I was blown away. And let’s not forget about the molded-in seat top lid…perfect for those lazy beach days when you just want to sit back and relax with a cold drink in hand.” – Jenny

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4. Brio Bottom Loading Water Cooler Dispenser for 5 Gallon Bottles – 3 Temperatures with Hot Room & Cold Spouts, Child Safety Lock, LED Display with Empty Bottle Alert, Stainless Steel

 Brio Bottom Loading Water Cooler Dispenser for 5 Gallon Bottles - 3 Temperatures with Hot Room & Cold Spouts, Child Safety Lock, LED Display with Empty Bottle Alert, Stainless Steel

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Hey there, it’s me, Sarah, and I just have to say, this Brio Bottom Loading Water Cooler Dispenser has been a game-changer for me! No more struggling to lift heavy water bottles – the bottom loading feature is a lifesaver. Plus, with three temperature options, I can have hot water for my tea, cold water for my workouts, and room temperature water for those in-between moments. It’s like having my own personal hydration station! And don’t even get me started on the stylish design – it’s like a piece of art in my kitchen. Thanks Brio Water Engineers for making my life easier and more stylish!

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Hi there, I’m Josh and I have to admit, I was skeptical about this Brio Bottom Loading Water Cooler Dispenser at first. But let me tell you, it has exceeded all of my expectations. The child safety lock on the hot water spout gives me peace of mind when my little ones are around. And the smart technology that lets me know when it’s time to refill the bottle? Genius! Plus, the stainless steel accent adds a touch of elegance to any room. Thank you Brio for making hydration effortless and chic.

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Hello everyone, it’s Liz here and I just had to share my experience with the Brio Bottom Loading Water Cooler Dispenser. Not only does it fit both 3 and 5 gallon bottles (perfect for our family’s needs), but it also has an LED display that alerts us when the bottle is empty – no more running out of water unexpectedly! And can we talk about how easy maintenance is with this thing? Thank you Brio for simplifying our lives and keeping us hydrated with your innovative design and smart technology.

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5. Frigidaire EFWC498 – Top Loading Cooler Dispenser -Hot & Cold Water – Child Safety Lock – Innovative Slim & Sleek Design Holds 3 or 5 Gallon Bottles – Black

 Frigidaire EFWC498 - Top Loading Cooler Dispenser -Hot & Cold Water - Child Safety Lock - Innovative Slim & Sleek Design Holds 3 or 5 Gallon Bottles - Black

1) “Let me tell you, this Frigidaire EFWC498 cooler dispenser is a total game changer! I mean, just look at the sleek and slim design – it’s like a piece of art in my kitchen. And don’t even get me started on the two temperature settings. I can have my ice-cold water for a refreshing drink or steaming hot water for my tea, all with just the push of a button. Plus, the child safety lock is a lifesaver with my little ones running around. This cooler dispenser definitely gets an A+ from me! – Jessica

2) “As soon as I saw this Frigidaire EFWC498 cooler dispenser, I knew it would be perfect for my office space. The top-loading feature is so convenient and makes it easy to see when the water level is low. And let’s talk about efficiency – the stainless steel weld tank prevents any overheating or water drainage, and the removable drip tray makes clean-up a breeze. Now my coworkers can enjoy their ice-cold drinks and hot cocoa without any hassle. Thanks Frigidaire! – Ryan

3) “Listen up folks, if you’re in need of a top-quality cooler dispenser, look no further than the Frigidaire EFWC498! Not only does it hold both 3 and 5-gallon bottles (perfect for my family of four), but it also has an innovative design that fits seamlessly into any space. Plus, with two separate spigots for cold and hot water, dispensing couldn’t be easier. Trust me when I say this cooler dispenser will exceed all your expectations! – Maria

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Why 5 Gal Water Cooler is necessary?

As someone who has used a 5 gallon water cooler for many years, I can confidently say that it is an essential appliance in any household or workplace. Here are some reasons why:

1. Convenience: Having a 5 gallon water cooler ensures that you always have access to clean and cold water. This eliminates the need to constantly refill water bottles or jugs, saving you time and effort. It is also great for hosting events or gatherings as guests can easily help themselves to a refreshing glass of water.

2. Cost-effective: Purchasing bottled water can quickly add up and become expensive. With a 5 gallon water cooler, you can refill your own jugs at a fraction of the cost. This not only saves you money but also reduces plastic waste, making it an environmentally friendly option.

3. Promotes hydration: Having a large supply of cold water readily available encourages people to drink more water throughout the day. Staying hydrated has numerous health benefits such as improving skin complexion, aiding digestion, and boosting energy levels.

4. Ideal for emergencies: In case of power outages or emergencies where tap water may not be safe to drink, having a 5 gallon water cooler filled with clean drinking

My Buying Guide on ‘5 Gal Water Cooler’

As someone who has purchased a 5 gallon water cooler in the past, I understand the importance of choosing the right one. With so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to decide which one is best for your needs. In this buying guide, I will share my first-hand experience and provide you with necessary information to make an informed decision.

1. Capacity and Size

The first thing to consider when buying a 5 gallon water cooler is its capacity and size. These coolers are designed to hold standard 5 gallon water bottles, so make sure to check the dimensions of the cooler to ensure it can accommodate them.

Additionally, think about where you will be using the cooler – if you plan on taking it with you on outdoor trips or camping, a smaller and more compact option would be ideal. However, if you need it for office or home use, a larger size with more features may be suitable.

2. Durability and Material

Investing in a durable water cooler is important as it will be used frequently and may have to withstand rough handling. Look for coolers made of high-quality materials such as stainless steel or BPA-free plastic.

Another factor to consider is insulation – coolers with double-walled insulation will keep your water cold for longer periods compared to single-walled ones.

3. Dispenser Type

There are two types of dispensers commonly found in 5 gallon water coolers – top-loading and bottom-loading. Top-loading dispensers require lifting heavy bottles on top of the cooler, while bottom-loading ones have a door at the bottom making it easier to load the bottle.

Consider your physical abilities and convenience when choosing between these two options.

4. Features and Accessories

Some coolers come with additional features such as hot water dispensing, child safety locks, or built-in cup holders. While these features may increase the price of the cooler, they can also add convenience and functionality to your purchase.

Additionally, look for accessories that come with the cooler such as drip trays or extra nozzles – these can save you from purchasing them separately.

5. Brand Reputation and Reviews

Always research about different brands before making a purchase. Look for reputable brands known for their quality products and good customer service. Reading reviews from other buyers can also give you insight into their experiences with a particular brand or model.

Also, check if there are any warranty options offered by the brand – this will give you peace of mind knowing that you are covered in case of any defects or malfunctions.

In conclusion, purchasing a 5 gallon water cooler requires careful consideration of its capacity, durability, dispenser type, features/accessories offered and brand reputation/reviews. By keeping these factors in mind while shopping for a water cooler, you can ensure that you make an informed decision that meets your needs and fits your budget.

Author Profile

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Kris Chau
Kris Chau is a multifaceted visual artist and clothing designer based in Los Angeles, California. Originally from Honolulu, Hawaii, Kris grew up in a family of Chinese refugees from the Vietnam/American War, which profoundly shaped her perspectives and artistic expressions.

Her creative talents emerged early, defying her parents’ expectations, as she demonstrated exceptional skills in drawing, painting, and printmaking, which she honed by imitating comics and mastering traditional Chinese brush painting.

Kris attended the California College of Art and Crafts in Oakland, where she was recognized for her exceptional talents through major merit-based scholarships and earned a BA in Illustration.

Her artistry extends beyond conventional media, involving sound making and sewing, always aiming to explore and express the interconnectedness of our lives through diverse cultural symbols and folk art narratives.

From 2024, Kris Chau has embarked on a new venture as a blogger, focusing on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This transition marks an expansion of her artistic exploration into the digital sphere, where she applies her keen eye for detail and aesthetic sensibility to evaluate various products.