A water cooler and dispenser is a very convenient appliance but proper cleaning is essential for its proper functioning. The dispenser stores the most important liquid that human beings need, which is why it has to be maintained impeccably clean.
Sanitation specifics depend on the model and variety of dispenser you own. The manufacturer usually provides detailed instructions about the steps that have to be undertaken. If you need a bit of additional information, however, you’ll find a couple of practical tips in this article.
A Few General Suggestions for All Kinds of Dispensers
Regardless of your dispenser’s specifics, you may want to do a couple of essentials when it comes to cleaning.
Always disconnect the electric cord from the outlet before getting started with cleaning. Many people ignore this step but it’s an essential safety precaution.
Drain the reservoir of the dispenser. If you use the variety that’s supplied with water via a plastic gallon, you’ll have to remove the gallon. Drain any water that may still be inside the dispenser. You’re now ready to begin the cleaning process.
If the dispenser is equipped with a water guard, you’ll have to remove the piece. Usually, the water guard can be taken out when you press it on both sides and pull it upward. Wash the guard with warm water and a mild detergent.
When thorough sanitizing is required, add half a teaspoon of bleach to a gallon of water. Pour the solution in the reservoir and keep it there for up to five minutes. Drain all of the bleach solution and rinse with large quantities of water.
Cleaning Hot and Cold Water Dispensers
Apart from the steps already mentioned, you’ll have to follow a couple of additional procedures to thoroughly clean a dispenser that produces both hot and cold water. Always plug the hot water tank off before getting started with cleaning.
When removing the water and bleach solution, use solely the cold water faucet. When rinsing with clean water, you’ll have to pour it out through the cold faucet, as well. If you want to, you may want to repeat the procedure a second time. This way, you’ll make sure that no bleach is left inside.
Plug the cooler back in when you’re done. Depending on the variety you own, it will take anywhere between 15 and 30 minutes to get the water hot. Do a test and pour yourself a glass. Make sure that the water doesn’t taste like chlorine. If you feel the taste or odor of chemicals, you’ll have to rinse the reservoir with clean water once again.
A Few Additional Cleaning Tips
The drip tray is to be cleaned, as well.
Lift it off and scrub well. If the drip hasn’t been cleaned for a longer period of time, some grime could have formed there. A sponge will usually be sufficient to get the job done and if necessary, apply a little bit of kitchen cleaner.
The bleach solution is a powerful anti-bacterial substance but you don’t have to use it every single time. A milder alternative consists of one cup of water and two tablespoons of baking soda. Stir thoroughly to get the soda dissolved and use it like the bleach solution. This natural possibility is suitable for dispensers that are cleaned frequently. If you haven’t sanitized your dispenser for a longer period of time, opt for bleach.
Never keep the same water inside the dispenser for a period longer than 30 days. Bacteria will build up with time and become potentially dangerous. If you haven’t managed to drink it all, drain the reservoir and use the bleach solution already mentioned in the first part of the article.
The wires and the tube condenser are located on the back of the dispenser. These will have to be cleaned periodically because they’ll accumulate dirt and lint. Disconnect the power cord and use a small brush or a soft piece of fabric to wipe the back of the dispenser clean.
The final thing to remember is that you can also rely on companies that will get water dispensers professionally sanitized. These are the same companies that deliver water bottles to your address. Having the dispenser cleaned professionally every once in a while will make the water safer and potentially increase the lifespan of the appliance.