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With bottle-based coolers, you have a choice between top-loading or bottom-loading models.

Avalon Bottom Loading Water Cooler Water Dispenser on a blue textured background

The Spruce

Bottom-loading units hide the bottle behind a door in a lower compartment for tidier aesthetics and easier loading.

You’ll hear some humming as the machine is running, but it’s not especially noisy.

Below it is a removable drip tray to catch spills.

Avalon Bottom Loading Water Cooler Dispenser

PHOTO: Amazon

(Temperature parameters are non-adjustable.)

Other bottleless models are available with various levels of filtration, as are standard top- and bottom-loading bottled dispensers.

The hot/cold water tanks understandably have smaller capacities than full-size coolers, but it’s enough for most households.

Frigidaire EFWC498 Top-Loading Water Dispenser

PHOTO: Amazon

Both are certified againstNSF/ANSI standardsto attest to their effectiveness and should last about six months.

The bowl is also dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning.

Touch-Free Convenience: Other features are more automated, providing convenience and another layer of sanitation.

Brio Moderna Touchless 4-Stage Reverse Osmosis Bottleless Water Cooler

PHOTO: Walmart

One More Thing

Don’t forget to have a plan to keep the water flowing!

(Many water companies also offer coolers for rent if you don’t end up buying your own.)

Why Trust The Spruce?

Avalon A12 Countertop Bottleless Water Cooler

PHOTO: Amazon

Primo Top-Loading Water Dispenser with Pet Station

PHOTO: Amazon