Do Water Coolers Filter Water?

We’ve all seen them in various workplaces, waiting rooms, and offices...

It’s where all those “important” conversations with our colleagues are happening, right? ;)

What Is A Water Cooler?

A water cooler is a large machine that dispenses drinking water, usually at a workplace or waiting room.

While some water coolers feature a water filter cartridge inside the machine to remove contaminants before drinking, most don’t.

So the most important question to ask is, where is this water coming from?

You may see a sticker on the side of the big bottle sitting on top of the water cooler, in which case you can just enter the name into google and check out what water you’re drinking.

Other water coolers are plumbed into the wall, giving you plain tap water.

Types Of Water Coolers

There are many types of water coolers available on the market, and each has its own features.

Bottled Water Coolers

This is the most common form of water cooler you’ll see around, and many of the replacement water bottles are delivered to the door periodically, so you never run out of water.

Is it filtered? Sometimes.

There are providers that fill those bottles with tap water too, so it’s worth checking out when you purchase.

Benchtop Water Coolers

These are common in offices and homes and sit on the countertop, and are designed to take up as little space as possible.

Ideal for homes, smaller offices or reception areas.

Is it filtered? Sometimes.

Some of these countertop water coolers have a water filter built-in, and some will not. You’re best to check before purchasing.

Plumbed-In Water Coolers (aka mains fed water coolers)

Plumbed in water coolers come in a variety of sizes, colours and designs and are plumbed into your water pipes, removing the need to order replacement water bottles or have one delivered each month.

Is it filtered? Sometimes.

As you can guess, most plumbed in water coolers will have water filter cartridges inside, and some won’t. The quality of these cartridges is also questionable in some cases, so as we always like to say, it’s best to check before going ahead.

Under Sink Chillers

Undersink chillers are installed underneath your kitchen sink.

Undersink chillers are plumbed into your water pipe, so unless they feature filtration, your water is just chilled tap water.

Instant Hot Water Dispensers

Again, another very common item found in many office kitchens and workplaces.

These deliver instant hot water to your faucet and are great for bustling environments where there is no time to wait for the kettle to boil.