Choosing the right water cooler for your office is an important decision. It affects costs, convenience, and the quality of water your employees drink.

There are two main types of water coolers: bottled and mains-fed (also known as plumbed-in). Each has its benefits and drawbacks. The right choice depends on your business size, budget, and office setup.

What Is a Bottled Water Cooler?

A bottled water cooler uses large refillable water bottles, usually 18 to 19 litres, placed on top of a dispenser. The machine cools (and sometimes heats) the water before it is dispensed.

Pros of Bottled Water Coolers

  • Easy to install – No plumbing is needed. Just plug it in, and it’s ready.
  • Portable – Can be moved if you rearrange the office or relocate.
  • No water supply needed – Suitable for businesses where plumbing access is limited.
  • Tastes consistent – Uses bottled spring or filtered water, ensuring quality.

Cons of Bottled Water Coolers

  • Ongoing costs – You need to keep buying and storing water bottles.
  • Storage space – Spare bottles take up room, which can be an issue in smaller offices.
  • Manual refills – Someone has to replace the bottle when it runs out, which can be heavy and inconvenient.
  • Delivery reliance – You need a reliable supplier, or you could run out of water.

Bottled water coolers suit businesses with small to medium offices, those without access to plumbing, or those who want flexibility.

What Is a Mains-Fed Water Cooler?

A mains-fed (plumbed-in) water cooler connects directly to your building’s water supply. It filters and cools the water before dispensing it.

Pros of Mains-Fed Water Coolers

  • No bottles needed – No deliveries, storage, or lifting heavy bottles.
  • Lower running costs – After installation, it’s often cheaper than bottled water over time.
  • Unlimited supply – Water won’t run out, making it ideal for busy offices.
  • Eco-friendly – Reduces plastic waste and delivery emissions.

Cons of Mains-Fed Water Coolers

  • Requires plumbing – Needs access to a water supply and professional installation.
  • Fixed location – Once installed, it can’t be moved easily.
  • Initial cost – The upfront price is usually higher than a bottled cooler.
  • Mains-fed coolers are best for medium to large businesses, especially those looking for a long-term solution.

Cost Comparison: Which Is More Affordable?

Cost is often a deciding factor. Here’s how the two compare.

Bottled water coolers have a low upfront cost, but the ongoing expense of water bottles can add up.

Mains-fed water coolers have a higher installation cost, but there are no ongoing bottled water costs. Over time, they are usually more cost-effective.

For a small office, a bottled cooler may be cheaper. For a larger business, a mains-fed cooler often makes more financial sense.

Space and Convenience: Which One Works Best for Your Office?

If you have limited space, a mains-fed cooler saves storage by eliminating bottles. However, if you lack access to plumbing, a bottled cooler is more convenient.

For businesses with many employees or high water consumption, a mains-fed cooler prevents the hassle of replacing bottles. But if you move offices frequently, a bottled cooler offers flexibility.

Hygiene and Maintenance: What’s Easier to Manage?

Both types need regular cleaning and servicing to ensure safe drinking water.

Bottled water coolers need the bottle replaced and the dispensing area cleaned frequently.

Mains-fed water coolers require filter changes and occasional professional maintenance.

A good supplier will handle servicing for both types. If hygiene is a key concern, mains-fed coolers remove the risk of external bottle contamination.

Which One Should You Choose?

Here’s a quick way to decide.

Choose a bottled water cooler if:

  • You have a small to medium office.
  • You need flexibility or might move premises.
  • You don’t have access to a mains water supply.

Choose a mains-fed water cooler if:

  • You have a medium to large office.
  • You want to save money in the long run.
  • You want a more sustainable solution with no bottle deliveries.

Final Thoughts

Both bottled and mains-fed water coolers provide clean, refreshing water for your employees. The best choice depends on your office size, budget, and long-term needs.

If you need help choosing the right option, speak to a trusted supplier. They can assess your office setup and recommend the best solution.

Whatever you choose, keeping your team hydrated is always a smart investment.