To avail hot or cold water at any time, the water dispenser should be left on all the time. However, this comes with a concern about energy waste. Therefore, many people often wonder if they should turn off their water dispensers at night.
Well, the answer to that question is both yes and no. If you want to increase the longevity of your water dispenser as well as save up on your utility bill, you should definitely turn it off at night. However, keep in mind that when you turn it off, you no longer can get hot or cold water instantly, during the middle of the night.
Below we will explain in detail when and why you should turn off your water dispenser at night and when you should consider leaving it on. So, read on.
Benefits of Turning Off the Water Dispenser
Although it may limit your ability to get hot or cold water whenever you want, there are some benefits of turning your water dispenser off too, especially during the night.
1. Energy Savings
When you turn off your water dispenser at night, you save some energy. Most water dispensers available in the market have both heating and cooling mechanisms that maintain your set temperature of the water. And they keep on using energy all the time to keep the water to the desired temperature. By turning off the dispenser, you can avoid unnecessary energy consumption during the hours when you’re not using it. especially at night, when y you usually don’t use it for quite a long time.
2. Extend the lifespan of the Water Dispenser
It’s no secret that when electricity passes through appliances constantly, it reduces the lifespan of the appliance. So, reducing the operational hours of your water dispenser can contribute to a longer lifespan for the appliance. Continuous usage over extended periods can lead to wear and tear on the internal components faster than if you turn it off every once in a while. So, by giving your dispenser a break during the night, you allow it to cool down and reduce the strain on its mechanisms.
3. Less Noise During Your Sleeping Hours
Most water dispensers produce some noise when they are running. It can be to heat or cool the water or simply to pump it. And although the noise may not be very audible during the day, it can certainly be quite annoying at night, especially if you have installed your water dispenser close to your bedroom. So, if the noise from your dispenser bothers you or disturbs your sleep, turning it off at night can provide a quieter environment for a good night’s sleep.
Benefits of Leaving the Water Dispenser on at Night
As explained earlier, there are some benefits too, of leaving the water dispenser on at night. They are:
1. Added Convenience
When you leave your water dispenser at night, it means that you have access to hot and cold water at any time during the night. If you frequently use water during the night for drinking, making tea, or other purposes, keeping the dispenser on might be more convenient for you.
2. No Wait
Water dispensers take time to cool down or heat up water when you turn it on. So, when you turn it off at night, during the morning when you turn it back on, it will take some time to dispense water at your desired temperature. So, you might need to wait for a while. Therefore, by leaving it on all night, you can ensure that you don’t need to wait for your drinking or coffee water in the morning.
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
Does the water dispenser use a lot of electricity?
A water dispenser consumes 0.3-1.2 kWh for cold water and 2.8 kWh for hot and cold water, with an annual consumption of approximately 912 kWh.
Should I turn off the water dispenser when on vacation?
Yes. When you are not going to use your water dispenser for a long time, you should definitely turn it off. This will not only save a lot of energy but also will prolong your water dispenser’s service life.
How long can water sit in the water dispenser?
This depends entirely on the manufacturer of your water dispenser. Usually, it takes about 20-30 days before the water in your water dispenser goes bad. Before that, since the water doesn’t come in contact with air or outside contaminants, it doesn’t go bad.
How often should I clean my water dispenser?
Clean and sanitize your water cooler every 6-12 months by following the instructions carefully. Read the user manual thoroughly to learn how often the manufacturer recommends you clean your water dispenser.
Final Thoughts
In the end, whether you should turn off your water dispenser at night depends on your priorities and preferences. If energy savings, appliance longevity, and noise reduction are important to you, turning off the dispenser might be a good choice. On the other hand, if convenience, quick access to water, and safety features are your main concerns, leaving the dispenser on might be more suitable. Consider your daily water usage habits, energy conservation goals, and the features of your specific water dispenser when making your decision. Whichever option you choose, remember that regular maintenance and occasional cleaning are essential to keep your water dispenser functioning optimally and provide you with clean and refreshing water whenever you need it.
