Summary
Keeping your water cooler dispenser clean is essential for maintaining the quality and safety of your drinking water. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of thoroughly cleaning both the interior and exterior of your water cooler dispenser, ensuring it remains in top-notch condition.
Cleaning the Interior of the Water Cooler Dispenser
Draining the Cooler
- Unplug the water cooler and remove the water bottle.
- Using the cold tap, drain the contents of the cooler into a gallon jug or pitcher. This water is still safe to drink.
- The average water cooler dispenser holds around 3-5 gallons of water, so be prepared with a container large enough to accommodate the full contents.
Removing the Water Guard and Baffle
- Locate the water guard, which is a protective cover inside the cooler, and gently remove it.
- Next, remove the baffle, which is a plastic or metal disc that helps distribute the water flow.
- These components should be washed separately to ensure a thorough cleaning.
Washing the Water Guard and Baffle
- Mix a solution of mild dishwashing liquid and warm water, just as you would for washing dishes by hand.
- Submerge the water guard and baffle in the soapy solution and gently scrub them clean using a soft-bristled brush or sponge.
- Rinse the components thoroughly to remove all traces of soap.
- Dry the water guard and baffle on a clean, dry microfiber cloth before reassembling.
Cleaning the Reservoir
- In a separate container, mix 1 cup of distilled white vinegar with 3 cups of hot water.
- Pour this vinegar solution into the reservoir of the water cooler dispenser.
- Use a microfiber cloth to wipe down the interior of the reservoir, ensuring all surfaces are thoroughly cleaned.
- Drain the vinegar solution from the reservoir into a bucket.
- Rinse the reservoir twice by filling it with clean water and draining it into the bucket.
Reassembling the Dispenser
- Return the baffle and water guard to their respective positions inside the cooler.
- Install a new water bottle and plug the power supply back in.
Cleaning the Exterior of the Water Cooler Dispenser
Removing the Taps and Tray
- Unplug the water cooler dispenser.
- Remove the taps and tray from the unit.
- Wash the taps and tray in the sink using a mixture of mild dishwashing liquid and warm water.
- Dry the taps and tray thoroughly with a microfiber cloth.
Cleaning the Exterior
- Fill a spray bottle with distilled white vinegar.
- Spritz the exterior of the water cooler dispenser, including the area where the tray would sit, with the vinegar solution.
- Use a microfiber cloth to wipe away any grime or vinegar residue.
Reassembling the Dispenser
- Return the taps and tray to their respective positions on the water cooler dispenser.
- Plug the power supply back in.
Sanitizing the Water Cooler Dispenser
Most manufacturers recommend sanitizing your water cooler dispenser every 3-6 months. However, it’s essential to check the specific care instructions for your model to ensure you’re following the recommended frequency.
Sanitizing a water cooler dispenser can be a delicate process, as improper techniques can result in the water tasting off or even being harmful to your health if sanitizer is left in the system for too long.
Many people opt to use bleach for sanitizing their water cooler dispensers. However, it’s crucial to note that if you’ve cleaned your dispenser with vinegar, you should never mix it with bleach, as the combination can create toxic chlorine gas.
It’s always best to consult the manufacturer’s instructions or seek professional assistance when it comes to sanitizing your water cooler dispenser to ensure the process is done safely and effectively.
Conclusion
Maintaining a clean water cooler dispenser is crucial for ensuring the quality and safety of your drinking water. By following the step-by-step instructions outlined in this guide, you can keep your water cooler dispenser in top-notch condition, providing your household with fresh, clean water for years to come.