The Best 5 Gallon Water Dispensers

The best 5 gallon water dispenser is not only an indispensable appliance in the modern office, giving workers access to clean and safe drinking water. This gadget can also be an excellent tool for contemporary families because of its convenience, elegance, and ability to encourage everyone to increase their fluid intake.

If you choose wisely, a 5-gallon water dispenser can save you hundreds of dollars on expensive bottled water every year. It can also be the perfect companion during your weekend getaways with your loved ones. The question now is how to pick the correct 5-gallon water dispenser for your family. Let’s find out.

Best 5 Gallon Water Dispenser Reviews

1. Myvision T3DX Water Bottle Dispenser

I consider Myvision T3DX among the top 5-gallon water dispensers I’ve tried because of its straightforward and clean looks, convenience, durability, and versatility.

I love this portable water dispenser’s compact and simple design. It is perfect for any water jug size with a 2.16-inch neck diameter, whether it is a 5-gallon bottle or a 1-gallon container. I can enjoy a day at the picnic grounds without worrying about the safety of my drinking water.

Unlike conventional water dispensers that run on electricity, this bottom loading water dispenser features a large-capacity rechargeable lithium battery. After only three hours of USB smart recharging, it’s ready to dispense water from six 5-gallon containers.

I do not drink that much though, so my dispenser can hold its charge for up to 40 days. Other brands can only last a few weeks.

Installing the water dispenser is as effortless as inserting the silicone tube and popping it right into the water container. I only need to remove the top cap, and already have instant access to clean and safe water.

This product has premium-quality construction, including BPA-free and food-safe materials. Thus, I never feel worried about giving my family unsafe water to drink.

2. YOMYM Water Bottle Dispenser

I find the YOMYM Water Bottle Dispenser efficient, simple, and performs beyond my expectations.

As mentioned, this product looks uncannily similar to the T3DX, including its ease of operation, premium-quality materials, extra-long battery life, and straightforward design. The difference? It is a few dollars more affordable than the T3DX. It is suitable for families that want to save as much money they can from any purchase they make.

I like this water dispenser’s clean design. The one-touch button on top changes in color, letting the user know if it is charging, in use, or fully charged. A three-second press is enough to deliver 25 ounces of safe water. The materials are completely safe, never undermining water quality and safety.

I also love its lithium battery with its Smart USB charging capability. After plugging this in the power bank, I never worry about not having germ-free drinking water wherever I am. The battery recharges in four hours and can keep on dispensing water for up to 40 days or about six 5-gallon water jugs.

3. D DATADAGO 5 Gallon Water Dispenser

The D DATADAGO 5-Gallon Water Dispenser is a compact device that pops right on top of 2 to 6-gallon water jugs, providing me with safe water to cook with and drink.

I love this device’s elegant look with its matte black finish and silver accent. It is a welcome change from the traditional white color of other devices.

Inside this appliance is a powerful water pump that gives about 41 ounces per minute. It is enough to let me enjoy cooking and drinking at the picnic grounds, beach, and other outdoor recreational areas. Sometimes I even bring it to the office or the bedroom.

I love the pentagon-shaped button, which is a departure from the usual circular control. It is both waterproof and dustproof, protecting its sensitive electronics. The lithium battery only requires a USB port to reach full charge status in four hours. Once recharged, it can continue serving our family up to 30 gallons.

4. CHIVENIDO 5 Gallon Water Bottle Pump

The CHIVENIDO 5-Gallon Water Bottle Pump may look like other portable water dispensing units. However, it has a few aces up its sleeves that can blast the competition out of the water.

While this unit cannot match a high-tech water dispenser with ice maker, it can wow us with its 4-watt pump. Most products with a similar design can only deliver about 40 ounces of drinking and cooking water per minute. This water dispenser can give about 51 ounces, enough for a family of six.

Another feature I love is its adapter cover. Many water dispensers do not work with capless and threaded water jugs. The company included two adapter covers on one purchase, allowing me to use this water dispenser on water containers of different sizes and lid types. That is what I call versatility and flexibility.

It also helps that the device has a silicone ring to eliminate leaks during use.

I also like its high-capacity battery that requires only three to four hours of charging in a USB port. I can then use the device to dispense up to 30 gallons of safe drinking water before getting my power bank for a recharge. Knowing when the battery is full is as easy as looking for an unlit LED button. If it is red, the device is still charging.

5. Pudhoms 5 Gallon Water Dispenser

The Pudhoms 5-Gallon Water Dispenser is a compact small appliance that delivers safe drinking and cooking water wherever we are. It is perfect for small families, offices, and those who want contaminant-free drinking water wherever their adventures may take them.

Like many portable water dispensers, this gadget runs on a rechargeable lithium-ion battery. It has enough power to continue dispensing up to 30 gallons of water before it needs recharging. There are no issues with its power supply, too. We can plug it in a power bank, and will never worry about the device not giving the water.

I like its LED-backlit button. It turns red when charging and blue when in use. When there’s no light, the battery is already full. I also do not have to wait a whole day to recharge the unit. Three to four hours is enough to let me continue with my water dispensing needs.

I also love its universal fit. As long as I have a water jug with a 2.16-inch diameter neck, this gadget can fit. For a 2-gallon or a 3-gallon container, this device will work, too.

While this water dispenser is suitable for outdoor and indoor applications, it is not a water cooler for home use. We will need to put ice cubes into our glass to enjoy refreshingly cool drinking water. Alternatively, take my advice to fill our jug with cold water before putting it on the device.

6. BLNYPOR 5 Gallon Electric Drinking Water Pump

Families who are on a tight budget should consider getting the BLNYPOR Electric Drinking Water Pump. It has almost the same specifications, design, and function as the other water dispensers on this list, except for its budget-friendly price.

I am surprised to see this water dispenser can be this affordable. It is effortless to operate, requiring only a press of its large LED button on top. The gadget also accommodates different water container sizes with a neck diameter of 2.16 inches, making it a suitable replacement for the user’s countertop water dispenser.

People love its lithium-ion battery’s extra-long runtime, and so do I. The device can be charged through a laptop, PC, power bank, or an electrical outlet using an AC/USB adaptor. The device reaches full capacity within four hours, sufficient to dispense up to 30 gallons of safe drinking and cooking water.

The spout features stainless steel, while the water dispenser housing has non-toxic ABS plastic. Despite its plastic body, the device does not look cheap at all. The silicone tubing is also long enough to facilitate a more efficient water dispensing performance.

7. Igloo IWCBL353CRHBKS Water Dispenser

The Igloo IWCBL353CRHBKS is an elegant-looking bottom-loading water dispenser capable of providing us with three different drinking water types. It is efficient and convenient, making it a worthy appliance in any home or office.

I love this water dispenser’s two-switch design. For when I do not need cold or hot water, flipping either respective switch is fine. Turn both switches on, and I have a device that delivers hot water for coffee and tea, cold water for juices, and room temperature water for cooking.

The hot water dispenser button also features a child lock mechanism. We will never want our young kid to press this button, right?

Some people may think that this water dispenser is a top-loading appliance because of its tall design. The lower compartment can accommodate standard water jugs up to 5 gallons in capacity.

Since it is bottom-loading, I will never have back problems resulting from lifting the water jug. It looks slim and modern, complementing any interior décor.

This 5 gallon water cooler also has six LED indicator lights, making it easy to determine which device function is operating. My favorite is the No Water LED indicator. It is a handy feature because the LED indicator will alert us when it is time for a refill.

8. COJITO KEJITUO Electric 5 Gallon Water Pump

The COJITO KEJITUO is one of the most innovative 5-gallon water pump dispensers I have ever bought. I absolutely love its thoughtful design and robust features.

What blew me away about this water dispenser is its integrated cup or glass tray. It is like having a miniature countertop on top of the water jug. Ican place the empty glass on the tray, press a button, and then enjoy safe drinking water flowing straight into my glass.

Take note. This gadget also features a 360-degree swiveling spout that looks like any standard kitchen faucet.

Not only that, its two water flow rate buttons also impressed me. Press the 0.3L button for a gentle flow or the 1.0L mode for faster filling of the cup.

I wonder, what if the company included a self-cleaning water dispenser technology into this product’s design? It will be even more sophisticated.

Suffice it to say, this small appliance is one of the best to get for my family. It is also suitable for small offices and public places. Campers will love having this gadget whenever they hit the road.

9. MIKOSI 5 Gallon Water Dispenser

The MIKOSI 5-Gallon Water Jug Electric Dispenser is a compact device that fits in your backpack’s pocket. It is the ideal travel companion for families going on a road trip, small offices, backyard parties, and more.

This water dispenser has a straightforward design meant to maximize drinking water delivery. It features non-toxic materials, including stainless steel spout, food-grade silicone hose, and BPA-free ABS plastic.

I like the product’s single-button control, although it takes some form of acclimatization. It has an LED ring that turns blue when in use and red when recharging. The light turns off once fully charged, taking only less than four hours. The water dispenser can deliver up to 30 gallons of water before it needs a recharge.

It fits two to five-gallon water jugs, perfect for homes, RVs, campers, and small establishments. Dormers will also love having this unit in their room, giving them access to safe water whenever they need it.

10. M Nutra Portable Electric Water Dispenser

There was a time when I felt tired of the usual design of conventional portable water dispensers. I then tried the M Nutra and fell in love with it. This device has a single-piece construction that shortens the installation into two quick, effortless steps.

Made in Australia, this portable electric water dispenser features a spout contiguous with its main body. Most portable water pumps require the insertion of the water spout into the dispenser housing. It’s ready to use right after I take it out of the box. The design cuts the usual four-step installation process in half.

I also love the blue LED light underneath the spout. It is the perfect contraption during nighttime use, allowing me to get water from the dispenser without turning on the room lights or bumping into furniture. The light also doubles as a spotlight, illuminating the glass as I fill it with great-tasting water.

Like many portable water dispensers, this unit also comes with a USB-rechargeable lithium battery that can last up to 40 weeks on standby. It can continue serving drinking water needs for up to 30 gallons. The best part? It does not need four hours to recharge. Three hours is all it takes to have it running again.

I will love to bring this unit wherever I go, be it camping, road-tripping, picnicking, or any other outdoor adventure. It is also perfect for the office and home.

11. Igloo IWCTL352CHBKS Stainless Steel Water Dispenser

The Igloo IWCTL352CHBKS is a reliable top-loading dispenser suitable for large households, dorms, offices, public spaces, commercial establishments, and other places with a high drinking water demand.

This water-dispensing appliance gives us instant access to cold and hot water. Making coffee, instant soups, hot choco, and tea is convenient with this device nearby. I even also create iced tea and fruit juice using the water coming from this water dispenser.

I love its compatibility with existing water supply lines. However, it requires a plumber to make the necessary connections between the water distribution line and this appliance.

At least, there is no need to worry about refilling the water jug anymore. There’s instant drinking water anytime, every time. The system accepts both 3-gallon and 5-gallon water jugs, enough for everyone in my family.

I also like this water dispenser’s height-adjustable legs. Let us face it. Not all of us have even or level floors. It is never an issue with this 5 gallon water dispenser stand because I can always modify the height of the device’s front legs. I feel rest assured knowing it will not tip over when putting the water jug.

I do have a concern about its top-loading design. The risk of back injuries is high if we do not observe the proper body mechanics when lifting and placing the 5-gallon water jug into the water dispenser’s opening. People with diminished strength may also have problems refilling the system.

12. Calogy 5 Gallon Water Dispenser

Homeowners, RV owners, campers, picnickers, and other outdoor-oriented families will love the Calogy 5-Gallon Water Dispenser. This water jug dispenser is compact and versatile.

This compact, portable water dispenser comes with the longest battery runtime, capable of dispensing up to 80 gallons of water. Most brands max out at 30 gallons.

What surprised me is that the device has the same mAh rating, yet it lasts longer. It takes me about six to seven weeks of continuous use before I recharge the system in the USB port.

I love this product’s water jug compatibility. As long as my water container has a 2.16-inch diameter neck, I could fit this gadget. I find it handy in converting a 1-gallon bottle into an improvised countertop water dispenser.

The 5-gallon water dispenser has a straightforward design that never detracts from any interior décor. It will sit nicely in an office setting or right in my bedroom, utility room, or camper. On top of that, I never again have to worry about shelling out a huge sum from my pocket.

What is a 5 Gallon Water Dispenser/ Who is This for

A 5-gallon water dispenser is a simple appliance that provides safe, pre-filtered drinking water straight into a glass, cup, or any other container. The water source is a jug that can range from 1 gallon to 5 gallons in capacity. Once empty, you can replace the water jug with another one to continue getting fresh and safe water for your various needs.

A water dispenser is a more cost-efficient way of accessing clean and safe drinking water. It replaces conventional bottled water, minimizing the impact of plastics on the environment. It also costs you less than buying bottled water. You can save as much as $100 every month. The only costs you will think about are the water refills, the initial equipment cost, and energy expenditure.

The good news is that there are water dispensers that do not require electricity, functioning more like an ordinary water container with a receptacle for accommodating the 5-gallon water jug.

A water dispenser is suitable for anyone who wants readily available drinking water in the home, office, or anywhere else. Since the source is a refillable water jug, you can choose which kind of water to put into the dispenser. It can be mineral water, distilled or purified water, or alkaline water.

5 Gallon Water Dispenser Buying Guide

Getting the correct information is vital in determining the most suitable water dispenser to buy for your family or your needs. Several factors can play an essential role in the selection process. You can identify the best water dispenser for you if you can address the following parameters.

Top-loading or Bottom-loading?

The first thing you have to decide is whether to get a top-loading or a bottom-loading water dispenser. The difference is in the location of the water jug. A top-loading dispenser will have the water jug on top of the dispensing unit, while a bottom-loading appliance will have the water container below the dispenser.

The issue with a top-loading system is the risk of injury due to lifting the water jug into the dispenser receptacle. A 5-gallon water jug can weigh about 42 pounds. People with weakened arm muscles may not be able to raise the jug. If you fail to observe proper body mechanics, you risk lower back pain.

There is also the concern about spills. As you place the jug into the receptacle, there is always the likelihood of water spilling onto the floor. It can be a serious safety hazard, not to mention a total waste.

A bottom-loading unit addresses these concerns because there is no need to lift the water jug. You also eliminate the risk of wasting water.

Portable or Freestanding?

Portable water dispensers are small and compact cylindrical units that you put over the water jug’s lid. The device has a spout – either removable or built into the dispenser body – for delivering water into a glass. The gadget’s underside has a hole for inserting a stainless steel tube for connecting a silicone water hose.

The device sucks the water from the jug and into the dispenser. The water then goes out through the spout and into your glass.

On the other hand, a freestanding unit has a complex mechanism that allows you to choose between cold and hot water. A bottom-loading appliance will have a lower compartment for the water jug and an upper section for its dispensing system.

Freestanding water dispensers can be floor-sized dispensers or countertop devices.

Dispenser-only or Hot/Cold Water Dispenser?

In general, portable water pumps have a dispenser-only design, while freestanding appliances have cold and hot water functionalities. Some products also give you the option to turn off both hot and cold water modes and rely only on room temperature water.

A dispenser-only device cannot give you hot or cold water. However, it is still possible to dispense either cold or hot water by filling your jug with water at your preferred temperature. For example, if you put cold water in the container, you will have access to cold water. Unfortunately, it would be foolish to expect the water dispenser to continue providing you with cold water.

Water Refill Availability

Another factor you might want to think about is water refill availability. The majority of cities and municipalities today have several water refilling stations. You can bring your empty 5-gallon water jug to them and bring home a refilled container.

If you do not have a refilling station in your place, you may want to check if your grocery store sells 5-gallon water jugs. It makes no sense to buy a water dispenser if you do not have access to water refills.

Water Jug Capacity

Water jugs typically come in different sizes. The US uses Imperial measurements, while most of the world uses the metric system. As such, you may see products with specifications in liters instead of gallons. It would be wise to check the water dispenser’s water jug compatibility.

Most manufacturers design their water dispensers to accommodate any water jug size. The only qualifier is the neck diameter, pegged at 2.16 inches. If your water jug does not have this diameter, there is a chance you may not be able to fit it into the water dispenser.

Other Features to Look For

You may want to check the tap or faucet design. Most products have a stainless steel spout you need to connect to the dispenser base. Other water dispensers already have the faucet integrated into the device.

For freestanding water dispensers, you may want to consider the height of the water spout relative to the drip tray. It should be high enough to accommodate your travel mug or reusable water bottle. It will be ideal to get a water dispenser with a small nozzle so you can fit your drinking bottle during refilling.

Units with hot water functions should have child safety locks. This feature is essential in preventing accidental burn injuries in children.

You may also want to consider the water reservoir. Most products today feature stainless steel parts that do not leave any unwanted taste and odor in your drinking water. A few products may have a porcelain water reservoir. This product is not advisable for households with large pets and young, highly active children.

Price

A portable water dispenser is perfect for budget-conscious families, costing them about $20 or less. On the other hand, freestanding units can set you back by about $100 to $150, depending on the inherent features.

Regardless of which water dispenser you choose, it will still come out more economical than buying bottled water for the whole family.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who makes the best 5 gallon water dispenser?

Igloo makes the best top-loading water dispensers on the planet. Their products can accommodate various water gallon sizes, giving families the versatility they need. Sparkletts and Crystal Springs also make reliable and high-quality top-loading water dispensers for modern families.

If you are looking for the best bottom-loading water dispenser brand, you have several choices. Leading the pack is Myvision with its state-of-the-art water pump and futuristic user interface. Other brands worth checking out include YOMYM, D DATADAGO, Pudhoms, CHIVENIDO, Calogy, BLNYPOR, COJITO, MIKOSI, and M Nutra.

Which is better top or bottom loading water dispenser?

Both top and bottom-loading water dispensers provide you with clean and safe drinking water. However, a bottom-loading system has several advantages over a top-loading dispenser.

A bottom-loading unit has a compact design, allowing you to store it in your kitchen drawer when not in use. It will also not break your back during refills because you do not need to lift the water container. You only need to remove the container’s lid and secure the water dispenser over it to gain access to the water.

Because it does not require lifting and placing the water container upside down into the dispenser unit, you do not waste water.

The only minor issue you may have with a bottom-loading device is its price, which is a little higher than a top-loading system.

Do water dispensers save money?

If you drink bottled water exclusively, yes, getting a water dispenser can save you money. The price of bottled water does not only account for the water itself. It also includes production costs, marketing costs, distribution costs, and retailer fees.

Suppose you drink the recommended eight glasses of water each day, equivalent to about 40 ounces. Five gallons is about 640 ounces, giving you 16 days to finish one 5-gallon container. Let us say it will cost you about $7 to refill a 5-gallon water container. You will be paying about 43.75 cents per day.

You can buy 20-ounce bottled water for about $1.25 to $1.50. Since you need 40 ounces per day, you will have to spend about $2.50 to $3 every day. Within 16 days, you will spend $40 to $48. We are only talking about a single person here.

In one month, you could be spending almost $100 on bottled water alone. On the other hand, you will only spend about $15 on refilling your water container for your dispenser. That is 85% savings for you.

How to clean 5 gallon water dispenser?

Cleaning a top-loading 5-gallon water dispenser is pretty straightforward.

1. Prepare a cleaning solution.
2. Unplug the water dispenser from the electrical outlet to prevent shocks.
3. Remove the water container from the dispenser.
4. Clean the bottle holder and valve.
5. Remove the water guard if your dispenser has one. Rinse it with water and disinfect it with the cleaning solution. Rinse well before drying.
6. Remove and clean the dispenser’s drip guard and trivet or tray.
7. Pour the cleaning solution into the water reservoir. Leave it for five minutes before draining the cleaning solution.
8. Rinse the reservoir by pouring two gallons of water into it. Drain the solution and refill the reservoir before checking the water’s taste and smell. If you can still taste the disinfectant solution, repeat the process.
9. Replace the different components.

For a bottom-loading 5-gallon water dispenser, you can follow steps 1 to 3 above before doing the following steps.

1. Pour the cleaning solution into the water container and add water. Mix the solution.
2. Hook up the water dispenser reservoir to the cleaning solution-filled water container. Disinfect the reservoir for ten minutes.
3. Drain the reservoir and rinse well.
4. Replace the different parts.

What kind of cleaning solution should I use?

You have two cleaning solution options to use on your water dispenser. You can add a tablespoon of gentle unscented bleach for every gallon of clean water. If you’re not a fan of bleach, you can make a solution of warm water and white vinegar instead. To do this, you need three parts of warm water for every part of white vinegar.

How can I remove the stubborn spots in the water bottle holder of my dispenser?

To remove stubborn spots in the water bottle holder, you can make a baking soda paste. Start with a tablespoon of baking soda and add a few drops of water. Mix it well. If it is too dry, you can add more water until you get a thick pasty consistency. Rub the mixture on the stubborn spots using a scrubbing pad or a scrub brush.

If you notice dirt or mildew in your dispenser’s bottle holder, you can wipe it clean using a paper towel.

Make sure to follow it up with your vinegar or bleach disinfectant solution. Ensure thorough rinsing and drying.

How to use a portable bottom-loading water dispenser?

Using a portable bottom-loading water dispenser is like replacing the water jug’s lid with the device. You only need to insert a metal tube and a silicone hose into the small appliance. Next, you must push the hose straight into the water jug cap. Turn the gadget on, and you already have safe drinking water.

How different is a water dispenser and a water cooler?

Both appliances dispense safe, clean, and fresh-tasting water. The only difference is that a water cooler has an additional mechanism that lowers the water temperature. Such devices also have a hot water component, giving you water for your coffee, tea, or instant soup. A water dispenser does not have any of these features. Hence, the water you drink has the same temperature as the environment.

Can a portable water dispenser give cold water?

No, a portable water dispenser cannot give you cold drinking water because it does not have a cooling mechanism. However, you can improvise since the product includes a water pump. You can refill your jug with cold water before installing the gadget. You should enjoy cold water this way. Be reminded that the water may not remain cold for a long time.

Where to buy?

The most convenient and most affordable place to buy the best 5-gallon water dispenser is Amazon. You can read customer reviews and choose from different retailers that carry the same product. It allows you to determine which online store will provide you with the best deal.

Other noteworthy e-commerce platforms to buy a 5-gallon water dispenser include Lowe’s, Sears, Home Depot, and eBay. However, it would be best to understand that the selection may not be as extensive as what Amazon offers.

Conclusion

Choosing the best 5 gallon water dispenser gives you easy access to contaminant-free and great-tasting drinking water. It saves you hundreds of dollars on bottled water every year, allowing you to use that money for other more valuable endeavors.

You also get to encourage your family members to drink more, leading to better health. This appliance also contributes to a greener earth, reducing the volume of plastic water bottles that end up in landfills. Getting a 5-gallon water dispenser today could be the wisest decision you can ever make.

Edward Manning

My work as a freelance copywriter allows me to work with Stephen later join Usawaterquality as a content producer. Our team works together to produce high-quality contents that cater to the needs of large companies and households.