What Are the Different Types of Water Dispensers?

Choosing the right water dispenser starts with understanding what each type offers. The market has ten distinct options, each designed to solve specific workplace problems and meet different needs.

These dispensers range from portable countertop models that fit small offices to bottle-free systems that connect directly to your water supply. Some provide basic hot and cold water, while others add flavors, dispense sparkling water, or offer touchless operation for better hygiene. High-capacity floor units work well in busy hotel lobbies and large offices, while wall-mounted designs save space in compact banking branches and legal firms.

Your choice shapes daily experiences. It affects how quickly employees can get water during busy workdays, impacts your building's environmental footprint, and shows your commitment to workplace wellness. A tech startup might choose flavor-infused options that boost employee satisfaction, while a hotel focuses on units that impress guests and handle high traffic.

This guide breaks down ten water dispenser types, looking at what each offers and which workplaces benefit most from their features. Let's explore how each type works and where it fits best.

The 10 Types of Water Dispensers

1. Plumbed-in (Point-of-Use) Dispensers

Plumbed-in dispensers connect directly to your building's water supply. This means no more bottled water deliveries or storage. These systems filter water on-demand, removing contaminants like microplastics, bacteria, and heavy metals. They deliver chilled, room temperature, or sparkling water instantly.

Aquablu's REFILL+ is a plumbed-in dispenser that works as both a countertop unit and a built-in option. The system connects to your water line and uses advanced Nano-Silver Filtration to remove 99.9% of contaminants. It also has automatic UV cleaning technology that constantly cleans the dispensing area.

Pros:

• Eliminates plastic bottle waste and supports sustainability goals

• Provides consistent water quality with advanced filtration

• Removes ordering hassles—no deliveries or storage needed

• Gives unlimited water supply for high-traffic areas

Cons:

• Needs professional installation to connect to water lines

• Requires regular filter replacements and system maintenance

• Higher upfront cost compared to bottled options

Where to Use: Plumbed-in dispensers work well in offices with established plumbing, hotels with high guest traffic, corporate headquarters, and any workplace where water demand justifies the initial setup cost.

2. Countertop Water Dispensers

Countertop water dispensers sit directly on desks, tables, or kitchen counters. They provide water without taking up floor space. These compact units work with small water bottles or connect to water lines, making them flexible for various workspace setups.

Their small size makes countertop dispensers perfect for spaces where room is limited. Small offices, hotel café areas, and meeting rooms benefit from their simple design and easy access. Employees can get water without leaving their work areas, while hotel guests enjoy convenient access in lounges and business centers. Many models offer both hot and cold water options for coffee breaks and cold drinks.

Pros:

• Saves floor space in compact areas

• Sets up quickly with minimal work required

• Moves easily between locations as needs change

• Fits naturally into existing furniture

Cons:

• Holds less water than floor-standing models

• Needs more frequent bottle changes or refills in busy settings

• May not meet demand during peak times in larger teams

Where to Use: Countertop dispensers work well in small offices with 5-15 employees, hotel guest lounges and café stations, conference room areas, executive suites, and employee break rooms where counter space is more available than floor space.

3. Freestanding Water Dispensers

Freestanding dispensers stand on the floor independently. They're the most common water dispenser type in commercial settings. These units work with both traditional bottled water setups and plumbed-in systems, offering flexibility based on your building's infrastructure.

Their sturdy design handles high-volume demand easily. Large offices, hotel lobbies, and corporate reception areas use freestanding dispensers to serve dozens or hundreds of people daily. The dispensing height works comfortably for users filling glasses, bottles, or mugs. Most models provide hot, cold, and room-temperature water options. This flexibility supports everything from morning tea to post-workout hydration throughout the workday.

Pros:

• Holds much more water than countertop options

• Provides easy, comfortable access at standing height

• Offers multiple temperature options in one unit

• Handles high traffic without constant refilling

Cons:

• Needs dedicated floor space in your layout

• Bottled versions require regular deliveries and bottle storage

• May need more upkeep when using bottled setups

Where to Use: Freestanding dispensers work best in large offices with 50+ employees, hotel lobbies and conference centers, corporate headquarters and reception areas, employee cafeterias, and any high-traffic zone where water demand stays consistently high.

4. Bottled Water Dispensers

Bottled water dispensers use large replaceable water bottles—typically 3 to 5 gallons—that sit on top of or inside the unit. These systems work independently from building plumbing, making them ideal for locations where connecting to water lines isn't practical or possible.

Their simple setup attracts businesses in various situations. You plug in the unit, load a water bottle, and start dispensing—no plumber needed. This flexibility serves offices in older buildings without accessible water lines, temporary workspaces during renovations, pop-up locations, and buildings where plumbing changes aren't feasible. When offices move or change layouts, bottled dispensers relocate easily to new positions without infrastructure concerns.

Pros:

• Sets up immediately without installation costs or plumbing work

• Moves easily as office needs change

• Works in any location with electrical access

• Provides solutions for buildings with plumbing limitations

Cons:

• Needs coordinating regular water bottle deliveries

• Creates ongoing plastic waste unless using returnable bottles

• Requires storage space for backup bottles

• Involves physical effort changing heavy bottles

Where to Use: Bottled dispensers serve remote office locations, temporary workspaces and construction site offices, small businesses in older buildings, event venues and seasonal facilities, and any environment where plumbing access is limited or too expensive.

5. Cold & Hot Water Dispensers

Cold and hot water dispensers provide dual-temperature options in a single unit, serving both hydration and beverage preparation needs. Aquablu's new REFILL+ Series 2 is a great example, offering hot, cold, sparkling water, along with vitamin-infused and flavored options—all from one system. Users can get chilled water for refreshment and hot water at perfect tea temperature for coffee, tea, or instant meals without needing separate appliances.

These versatile systems are popular in modern offices and hospitality settings where beverage preferences vary throughout the day. Employees grab cold water after working out, then return for hot water during afternoon tea breaks. The REFILL+ Series 2 replaces the hassle of managing multiple beverage vendors with one trusted system, making office management easier while satisfying diverse team preferences.

Pros:

• Combines multiple beverage needs in one compact space

• Eliminates separate kettles and coolers, reducing clutter

• Serves different preferences throughout the workday

• Provides instant access without waiting for kettles to boil

Cons:

• Uses more energy than cold-only models

• Needs maintenance for both heating and cooling parts

• May increase electricity costs in high-usage environments

Where to Use: Cold and hot dispensers work great in office kitchens and break rooms, hotel guest lounges and business centers, meeting and conference rooms, co-working spaces, and employee cafeterias where beverage variety drives satisfaction.

6. Bottom Load Water Dispensers

Bottom load dispensers position the water bottle in a cabinet at the unit's base rather than on top. Users slide the bottle into the lower compartment, where an internal pump draws water upward to the dispensing area. This design eliminates the need to lift heavy bottles overhead—a task that often causes workplace injuries and stops employees from changing bottles themselves.

The ergonomic advantage changes the bottle-changing experience. Instead of lifting 40-pound bottles to shoulder height, employees simply slide them into the base compartment at waist level. This easier access encourages more people to help maintain the dispenser rather than leaving the task to facilities staff. The hidden bottle design also creates a cleaner, more professional look in client-facing areas, as bulky bottles don't dominate the visual space.

Pros:

• Eliminates heavy lifting and reduces injury risk during bottle changes

• Presents a sleeker, more polished look with hidden bottles

• Encourages self-service bottle replacement across the team

• Maintains stability without top-heavy weight

Cons:

• Costs more upfront than traditional top-load models

• Needs slightly more floor space for the base cabinet

• Pump parts may need occasional maintenance

Where to Use: Bottom load dispensers serve offices that prioritize workplace safety and comfort, reception areas and client-facing spaces where looks matter, facilities where diverse staff all help with maintenance, and workplaces with moderate to high water use.

7. Wall-Mounted Water Dispensers

Wall-mounted dispensers attach directly to walls, freeing up valuable floor space while providing water at convenient heights. These units connect to building water lines through in-wall plumbing, eliminating bottles entirely and creating a permanent hydration station that serves high-traffic areas efficiently.

Their space-saving design changes how buildings approach hydration infrastructure. Narrow hallways, compact break rooms, and crowded cafeterias gain accessible water sources without sacrificing floor space for equipment or bottle storage. The plumbed-in setup supports sustainability goals by eliminating plastic bottle waste completely, while the fixed installation provides reliable service without delivery coordination or bottle management. High-traffic environments benefit especially—users access water quickly without navigating around floor units during busy periods.

Pros:

• Maximizes floor space in compact or congested areas

• Eliminates plastic bottle waste through direct water line connection

• Needs minimal ongoing maintenance once installed

• Handles high traffic without bottle replacements or deliveries

• Provides consistent water quality through built-in filtration

Cons:

• Requires professional installation with wall mounting and plumbing connections

• Limits placement to walls with good structural support and water access

• Moving it becomes impractical once installed

Where to Use: Wall-mounted dispensers work well in hospitals and healthcare facilities, offices with limited square footage, employee cafeterias and dining halls, school corridors and gyms, and any high-traffic hallway or waiting area where floor space is at a premium.

8. Under-Sink Water Dispensers

Under-sink dispensers install beneath countertops or sinks, housing filtration systems out of sight while providing purified water through a dedicated faucet at counter level. The main filtration unit stays hidden in the cabinet below, connecting to existing water lines and providing filtered water on demand without taking up any visible space.

This hidden approach appeals to environments that prioritize clean looks and counter space preservation. The system filters water at the point of use, removing contaminants, chlorine, and impurities before they reach your glass. Hotel suites, executive offices, and compact kitchenettes gain premium water quality without adding visible equipment to already limited counter areas. The discrete faucet blends seamlessly with existing fixtures, maintaining the space's design while upgrading water quality significantly.

Pros:

• Preserves all counter and floor space with hidden installation

• Delivers continuously filtered, high-quality water

• Eliminates bottle deliveries, storage, and plastic waste

• Maintains clean, uncluttered look in premium spaces

• Provides unlimited filtered water supply

Cons:

• Needs professional installation with plumbing changes

• Requires regular filter cartridge replacements

• Installation costs exceed portable dispenser options

Where to Use: Under-sink dispensers work great in hotel suites and guest rooms, executive offices and private workspaces, compact office kitchens and break rooms, residential-style office spaces, and any environment where counter space limitations meet demands for premium water quality.

9. Integrated Water Dispensers

Integrated water dispensers embed directly into existing office infrastructure—built into refrigerator doors, kitchen cabinetry, or custom millwork. These systems blend seamlessly with surrounding fixtures, creating unified designs where the dispenser becomes an architectural element rather than standalone equipment.

This built-in approach elevates workspace looks while maximizing function. Modern offices integrate dispensers into kitchen islands, allowing employees to access water while preparing meals or socializing without navigating separate stations. High-end co-working spaces embed dispensers into custom furniture pieces, maintaining their premium design language throughout the facility. The integration eliminates visual clutter that standalone units create, presenting a sophisticated solution where technology disappears into the environment. These systems especially appeal to design-conscious organizations where every element reflects brand identity and attention to detail.

Pros:

• Creates seamless, clutter-free look that enhances workspace design

• Maximizes space efficiency through smart placement

• Delivers premium appearance that impresses clients and employees

• Customizes to match existing architectural elements perfectly

Cons:

• Needs higher initial investment for custom design and installation

• Requires professional planning and construction coordination

• Limits future relocation or reconfiguration flexibility

Where to Use: Integrated dispensers define high-end corporate offices and executive suites, modern co-working and flexible workspace environments, boutique hotels and luxury hospitality settings, design-forward tech campuses, and any premium environment where looks and function converge.

10. Portable Water Dispensers

Portable water dispensers move easily between locations, featuring lightweight designs, compact sizes, and built-in handles or wheels. These units operate independently—needing only electrical outlets or working entirely battery-free—making them adaptable to changing environments and temporary setups where permanent installations aren't feasible.

Their mobility changes how organizations approach hydration in dynamic settings. Event coordinators transport them between conference rooms, outdoor venues, and pop-up locations throughout the day. Construction site managers move them as work zones shift. Flexible office spaces adapt quickly, moving dispensers to wherever teams gather for the week. This versatility serves organizations testing new layouts, hosting temporary events, or operating in spaces where drilling into walls or connecting to plumbing isn't allowed. The plug-and-play nature means anyone can set up, move, or pack away these units without specialized knowledge.

Pros:

• Moves freely to wherever hydration needs arise

• Needs zero installation or permanent modifications

• Adapts instantly to changing space setups

• Serves temporary events and seasonal operations perfectly

Cons:

• Holds less water than stationary models, needing frequent refills

• May lack advanced features like multi-temperature options

• Smaller capacity struggles with large groups or extended events

Where to Use: Portable dispensers serve corporate events and trade shows, outdoor activities and festivals, remote job sites and temporary offices, flexible co-working environments, seasonal operations, and any setting where mobility and quick setup outweigh capacity concerns.

How Do You Choose the Right Water Dispenser?

Selecting the right water dispenser means evaluating multiple factors that impact daily operations, employee satisfaction, and long-term sustainability goals. The decision goes beyond basic function—it shapes workplace culture and reflects your organization's values.

Partner with a Trusted Provider: Choose suppliers with proven track records in commercial hydration solutions. Reliable providers offer responsive support, clear pricing, and systems designed for demanding workplace environments. They should understand your industry's specific needs and deliver consistent service that keeps operations running smoothly.

Prioritize Regular Maintenance: Dispensers need ongoing care to maintain water quality and system performance. Evaluate maintenance requirements upfront—filter replacement schedules, cleaning protocols, and service response times. Systems with automated cleaning features and simple maintenance procedures reduce operational burden while ensuring hygiene standards.

Demand Quality Water: Advanced filtration technology removes contaminants, improves taste, and protects employee health. Look for systems offering multi-stage filtration that addresses your local water quality challenges while delivering consistently pure, great-tasting water.

Offer Variety: Modern dispensers like Aquablu's REFILL+ Series 2 provide hot, cold, sparkling water, plus vitamin-infused and flavored options, transforming basic hydration into an experience employees appreciate. Variety drives usage, boosts satisfaction, and shows investment in workplace wellness.

The right dispenser reduces plastic waste, eliminates delivery logistics, and creates positive daily touchpoints with employees. It supports sustainability initiatives while enhancing the workplace environment—making it an investment in both operational efficiency and company culture.

For detailed guidance on selecting the perfect system for your office, explore how to choose the best water dispenser.

Where Can You Buy a Water Dispenser?

Finding the right water dispenser means partnering with providers who deliver quality products backed by reliable service and support. Aquablu's REFILL+ and REFILL+ Series 2 represent leading solutions for organizations seeking smart, sustainable hydration systems that go beyond basic water delivery.

The REFILL+ Series 2 offers hot, cold, and sparkling water alongside over 60 vitamin-packed flavor combinations, transforming everyday hydration into an employee perk that drives satisfaction and wellness. These plumbed-in systems eliminate plastic bottle waste entirely while providing the variety modern workplaces demand. The system replaces the complexity of managing multiple beverage vendors with one trusted solution, making operations easier while supporting sustainability goals.

Partnering up with Aquablu ensures you receive professional installation support and ongoing maintenance services. Our team understands the unique demands of offices, hotels, and high-traffic commercial environments, providing tailored solutions that match your specific needs.

Ready to upgrade your workplace hydration? Explore Aquablu's products and discover how the REFILL+ systems can transform your office's approach to water consumption.