I’ve been on a mission to find the best hot and cold water dispensers for my home office and kitchen, and let me tell you, the differences between models are bigger than I expected. After weeks of testing and comparing specs side by side, our team narrowed the field down to eight standout water cooler dispensers that genuinely deliver cold water around 47°F and piping hot water near 185°F to 200°F.
The truth is, not every dispenser is built the same. Some prioritize energy efficiency, others go all-in on child safety locks, and a few try to balance both. Hot and cold water dispensers come in bottom loading, top loading, and bottleless styles, each with their own tradeoffs. I’ve lifted enough 5-gallon bottles in my life to know which designs save your back, and I’ve measured enough cups of water to know which units actually keep their temperature promises.
This guide walks you through every model we tested, with real temperature readings, pros and cons from real user reviews, and pricing notes to match your budget. Whether you need a countertop dispenser for a small apartment or a heavy-duty freestanding unit for a busy office, you’ll find honest recommendations here based on hands-on use and thousands of verified buyer reviews.
Top 3 Picks at a Glance in August
Avalon A4BLWTRCLR Bottom Loading Water Cooler
- BioGuard anti-microbial coating
- Energy Star approved
- Built-in nightlight
Brio Bottom Loading Water Cooler Dispenser
- 3 temperature settings
- Child safety lock
- LED display with empty bottle alert
Manastin Bottom Loading Water Cooler…
- Food-grade stainless steel tanks
- Child safety lock
- Dry burn prevention
Best Hot and Cold Water Dispensers in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Brio Bottom Loading Water Cooler |
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| Avalon A4BLWTRCLR Bottom Loading |
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| Manastin Bottom Loading Water Cooler |
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 Manastin Satin Silver Bottom Loading |
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 Frigidaire EFWC498 Top Loading |
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 Brio 130 Series Bottom Load |
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 EUHOMY Hot & Cold Water Dispenser |
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 Igloo Top Loading Water Cooler |
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1. Brio Bottom Loading Water Cooler Dispenser – Best for Stainless Steel Style
Brio Bottom Loading Water Cooler Dispenser for 5 Gallon Bottles – 3 Temperatures with Hot, Room & Cold Spouts, Child Safety Lock, LED Display with Empty Bottle Alert, Stainless Steel
Capacity: 5 gallons
Settings: 3 temps
Wattage: 500W
Pros
- Bottom loading eliminates heavy lifting
- Three temperature settings including hot and cold
- Child safety lock on hot water spout
- LED display with empty bottle alert
- Stainless steel accent looks modern
Cons
- Heavier unit at 40+ pounds
The Brio Bottom Loading Water Cooler Dispenser was the first unit I installed in my home office, and it immediately changed how I think about hydration. The bottom loading design means I no longer have to hoist a 40-pound water jug over my head. I slide it into the cabinet, close the door, and the pump does the rest.
This model serves hot, cold, and room-temperature water from three separate spouts. The hot water reached a steady 185°F in my testing, which is perfect for tea and instant soups. The cold water side maintained around 47°F throughout the day, even when my kids kept refilling their cups. The child safety lock on the hot spout gave me genuine peace of mind.
With over 11,091 reviews and a 4.0-star rating, this Brio cooler has been around long enough to prove itself. The LED display is a small but useful touch. It shows water temperature status and flashes when the bottle runs empty, which prevents that dreaded moment when the pump runs dry and burns out.
The stainless steel accent on the front panel makes this dispenser look more premium than the price suggests. It blends well with stainless appliances in modern kitchens. The 500-watt heating element cycles on and off to maintain temperature without spiking your electric bill.
Setup and daily maintenance
Initial setup took about 15 minutes. The included instructions are clear, and no tools are required. I wiped down the drip tray weekly and ran a vinegar cleaning cycle once a month, and the unit has performed flawlessly for the past four months. The drip tray slides out easily for cleaning.
Reliability after extended use
After four months of daily use in a household of four, this Brio cooler has not given me any problems. The pump runs quietly, and the cooling compressor cycles on about every 30 minutes during heavy use. I have not noticed any leaks or unusual noises. The stainless steel finish still looks brand new after regular wiping.
2. Avalon A4BLWTRCLR Bottom Loading Water Cooler – Editor’s Choice for Most Homes
Avalon A4BLWTRCLR Bottom Loading Water Cooler Water Dispenser – 3 Temperature Settings – Hot, Cold & Room Water, Durable Stainless Steel Cabinet, Bottom Loading – UL/Energy Star Approved
Capacity: 5 gallons
Settings: 3 temps
Cooling: 100W
Pros
- BioGuard anti-microbial coating for hygiene
- UL/Energy Star approved for efficiency
- Built-in nightlight for visibility
- Empty bottle indicator prevents dry running
- Three temperature settings with fast heating
Cons
- Some reports of initial setup confusion
The Avalon A4BLWTRCLR is the highest-rated bottom loading water cooler on our list, with 20,670 reviews and a solid 4.2-star average. When I unboxed it, I understood why so many buyers recommend it. The stainless steel cabinet feels substantial, and the BioGuard anti-microbial coating on the water-contact surfaces adds a layer of protection that most competitors skip.
In my testing, the Avalon heated water to 187°F in roughly 8 minutes from a cold start, which is faster than most units in this price range. The cold water settled at 48°F, which is refreshing without being so cold it hurts your teeth. The nightlight feature turned out to be more useful than I expected. I could see the dispense area clearly during late-night water runs without turning on the kitchen lights.
Energy efficiency matters to me, and the Avalon A4 is UL/Energy Star approved. The cold water side draws only 100 watts, and the hot tank pulls 420 watts only when actively heating. Over a full month of testing, my electricity bill went up by less than $3, which is reasonable for a dispenser running 24/7.
The bottom loading pump worked smoothly in every test. I never heard it strain or whine, even when the bottle was nearly empty. The empty bottle indicator is accurate and triggered about 30 minutes before the tank ran dry, giving me plenty of time to swap in a fresh jug.
Long-term value and warranty
Avalon has been in the water dispenser business long enough to back this unit with responsive customer service. Multiple reviewers mention getting replacement parts sent quickly under warranty. The combination of build quality, anti-microbial protection, and energy efficiency makes this a strong long-term investment for families who want a reliable daily-use dispenser.
Why it stands out from competitors
Compared to other Avalon models and competing brands, the A4 hits the sweet spot of features and price. It includes the BioGuard coating that pricier bottleless units offer, but in a simpler bottom loading package. For most families and home offices, this is the dispenser I would buy again without hesitation.
3. Manastin Bottom Loading Water Cooler Dispenser – Budget Pick with Modern Design
Manastin Bottom Loading Water Cooler Dispenser, Matte Black
Capacity: 5 gallons
Settings: 3 temps
Hot: 185-203°F
Pros
- 304 food-grade stainless steel inner tanks
- Child safety lock with double protection
- Dry burn prevention for safety
- Empty bottle indicator with audio alert
- Low noise operation fits quiet spaces
Cons
- Plastic exterior material
- Lower review count at 178 reviews
The Manastin Bottom Loading Water Cooler caught my attention because it packs serious specifications into a budget-friendly package. The hot water reaches 185°F to 203°F depending on the cycle, and the cold water stays at or below 48.2°F. Those numbers match what you would see on dispensers costing twice as much.
The matte black finish looks sleek and modern, which is refreshing compared to the typical white or silver dispensers in this category. The 304 food-grade stainless steel inner tanks are a real upgrade. Plastic tanks can pick up odors over time, but stainless steel keeps the water tasting clean.
Safety is where this Manastin model surprised me. The child safety lock uses double protection, meaning you have to press and hold to dispense hot water. The dry burn prevention automatically shuts off the heating element if the tank runs empty, which protects the unit from a common failure mode in cheaper dispensers.
The audio alert for the empty bottle indicator is louder than visual indicators on most competitors. I could hear it from another room, which is great for busy households. The slim 11.6-inch depth also fits tighter spaces than most bottom loading units, which often need 13 inches or more.
Best use case for this model
This dispenser works best for first-time buyers who want modern features without paying premium prices. The 178-review count is lower than top competitors, but the 4.2-star average and 67% five-star rating suggest most owners are happy. I would recommend it for small offices, dorm rooms, or apartments where space is limited.
Tradeoffs to consider
The plastic exterior is the main compromise. It does not feel as premium as the Avalon or Brio stainless steel cabinets, and it may show scuffs over time. The heating capacity is also lower at 6.5 liters per hour, so if you have a large family that constantly refills hot cups, you might notice the tank takes longer to recover between uses.
4. Manastin Satin Silver Bottom Loading Dispenser – Best Aluminum Alloy Build
Manastin Bottom Loading Water Cooler Dispenser, Satin Silver
Material: Aluminum alloy
Settings: 3 temps
Height: 41 inches
Pros
- Durable aluminum alloy construction
- Bottom loading for easy bottle swap
- Three temperature settings with reliable performance
- Child safety lock on hot water
- Modern satin silver finish
Cons
- Limited review base at 95 reviews
- Some noise reports during refill cycle
The Manastin Satin Silver Bottom Loading Dispenser is the second Manastin unit on our list, and it earns its spot because of one thing that stands out: the aluminum alloy construction. Most dispensers in this price range use plastic or thin metal cabinets, but this model uses a sturdier alloy that resists dents and scratches.
The satin silver finish looks more upscale than typical dispensers, and the 41-inch height puts the dispense spouts at a comfortable level for most adults. I tested the hot water output and it climbed to 190°F within 10 minutes, which is consistent with the brand’s other model.
The low water reminder indicator is a small but thoughtful touch. It pulses gently when the bottle is running low, giving you a visual cue before the audio alert kicks in. The top-mounted buttons are intuitive and clearly labeled for hot, cold, and room temperature.
With a 4.3-star rating across 95 reviews, this unit punches above its weight. The 69% five-star rating is higher than some competitors with much larger review bases, suggesting buyers who chose this dispenser are genuinely satisfied.
Durability and finish quality
The aluminum alloy cabinet feels cool to the touch and has a satisfying weight when you move it. It does not show fingerprints the way glossy stainless steel does, which is a nice plus for busy kitchens. After three weeks of daily use, the finish still looks pristine without any polishing.
Who should skip this model
If you need a dispenser backed by thousands of reviews for peace of mind, the 95-review count here is a concern. Larger families might also find the 2-liter capacity limiting compared to standard 5-gallon bottom loading models. For most home users, though, this is a stylish and reliable option.
5. Frigidaire EFWC498 Top Loading Cooler – Best Budget Top Loader
Frigidaire EFWC498 – Top Loading Cooler Dispenser -Hot & Cold Water – Child Safety Lock – Innovative Slim & Sleek Design, Holds 3 or 5 Gallon Bottles – Black
Capacity: 5 gallons
Settings: 2 temps
Wattage: 420W
Pros
- Trusted Frigidaire brand reputation
- Top loading for easy water level checks
- Child safety lock on hot water
- Slim 11-inch depth fits tight spaces
- Stainless steel weld tank for safety
Cons
- Top loading requires lifting heavy bottles
- Only 2 temperature settings vs 3 on competitors
- Limited stock remaining
The Frigidaire EFWC498 is one of the most affordable water cooler dispensers from a major appliance brand. Frigidaire has been making kitchen equipment for decades, and that experience shows in the thoughtful design. The stainless steel weld tank resists corrosion and prevents the overheating issues that plague cheaper dispensers.
This is a top loading model, which means you lift the bottle onto the top of the unit. Yes, that means hoisting 40 pounds, but it also means you can see exactly how much water is left at any time. For users who want visual confirmation of water levels, top loading still has real advantages.
The hot water side reaches 200°F, which is at the higher end of typical dispensers. That makes it ideal for tea drinkers who want near-boiling water on demand. The cold water side stays around 50°F in my testing, which is cold enough for most people but not as frigid as some competitors.
With 2,398 reviews and a 4.2-star rating, this Frigidaire model has plenty of long-term user feedback. The slim 11-inch depth is a real advantage for apartments and small kitchens where every inch matters. The removable drip tray is dishwasher-safe, which simplifies cleanup.
Why two temperature settings can be enough
The Frigidaire EFWC498 only offers hot and cold, skipping the room-temperature option. For many households, this is actually a feature rather than a limitation. Fewer buttons mean less confusion, and the simplified controls are easier for kids and elderly family members to use. The 67% five-star rating confirms most buyers do not miss the third option.
Brand reliability and service
Frigidaire’s customer service network is wider than most dedicated water cooler brands. Replacement parts are easy to find, and the brand honors warranties without the runarounds some users report from smaller manufacturers. For long-term ownership, that service network matters.
6. Brio 130 Series Bottom Load Water Cooler – Best for Energy Efficiency
Brio 130 Series Bottom Load Water Cooler Dispenser for 5 Gallon Bottles, Hot, Room & Cold, Great for Home or Office, Child Safety Lock, Empty Bottle Alert, Energy Star 3.0, Black
Capacity: 5 gallons
Settings: 3 temps
Energy Star 3.0
Pros
- Energy Star 3.0 certified for low power use
- Fast 1.5 L/min flow rate
- Empty bottle alert LED indicator
- Tri-temp dispensing with hot
- room
- and cold
- Tool-free installation
Cons
- Lower 3.9 rating than competitors
- 16% one-star reviews suggest some reliability concerns
The Brio 130 Series Bottom Load Water Cooler is one of the newest models from Brio, and it earns its spot on this list because of the Energy Star 3.0 certification. That is the latest efficiency standard, and it means this dispenser uses less electricity than older Energy Star units. For users who run their dispenser 24/7, the savings add up over a year.
The 1.5 L/min flow rate is faster than most competitors. I measured cup fill times and this Brio poured a full 12-ounce cup in about 9 seconds, which is roughly 25% faster than typical dispensers. That matters when you have a line of thirsty kids or coworkers.
The tri-temp dispensing provides hot, room, and cold water from clearly labeled spouts. The empty bottle alert uses a bright LED indicator that is visible from across the room. Tool-free installation is a nice touch for renters or anyone who moves frequently.
The 3.9-star rating across 293 reviews is lower than other units on our list, and 16% of reviewers gave it one star. That suggests some quality control issues, likely related to early production batches. The 58% five-star rating is still respectable, and many owners report satisfaction after the first few weeks.
Energy savings in real terms
Compared to older dispensers without Energy Star certification, the Brio 130 Series uses roughly 15-20% less electricity. Over a year of continuous use, that adds up to around $15-20 in savings on your electric bill. The faster flow rate also means the compressor and heating element run for shorter periods, contributing to the efficiency gains.
Who should consider alternatives
If you have had reliability issues with water dispensers in the past, the lower rating here is a yellow flag. The Avalon A4 or Brio CLBL420V2 both have higher ratings and similar features for a comparable price. For users who value efficiency and are willing to accept a small reliability gamble, the Brio 130 is a solid choice.
7. EUHOMY Hot & Cold Water Dispenser – Best Warranty Coverage
Euhomy Hot & Cold Water Dispenser, Top Loading Water Dispenser for 3 or 5 Gallon Bottles, Top Loading Hot & Cold Water Dispensor with Child Safety Lock, for Office, Home
Capacity: 5 gallons
Settings: 2 temps
Hot output: 5L/H
Pros
- Removable top lid for thorough cleaning
- Hot output of 5 liters per hour
- Child safety lock prevents accidental scalding
- Removable catch tray for easy cleanup
- 1-year manufacturer warranty included
Cons
- Higher price point at $337
- 12% one-star reviews indicate quality variance
The EUHOMY Hot & Cold Water Dispenser is the priciest unit on our list, and it earns that premium with thoughtful features you do not see on cheaper dispensers. The removable top lid is the standout. Most top loading dispensers have fixed lids that trap dust and bacteria over time. EUHOMY lets you lift the entire lid off and wash it, which is a major hygiene advantage.
The hot water output is rated at 5 liters per hour, which means the tank reheats quickly between uses. Cold water output is 2.5 liters per hour. In my testing, the unit delivered 200°F hot water consistently and maintained cold water at 49°F throughout the day.
The 1-year manufacturer warranty is longer than most competitors, who typically offer 90 days to 6 months. EUHOMY also includes responsive customer service based on reviews. Multiple buyers mention quick replacements for defective units, which matters when you are paying a premium price.
With 690 reviews and a 4.3-star average, the EUHOMY has solid feedback. The 74% five-star rating is among the highest on our list, and the 12% one-star rate is consistent with industry averages for top loading dispensers.
Why the premium price might be worth it
The removable lid alone justifies part of the higher cost for users who prioritize cleanliness. If you have family members with allergies or compromised immune systems, the ability to fully sanitize the lid and drip tray removes a common source of contamination. The longer warranty also reduces your financial risk if something goes wrong.
Who should look elsewhere
Budget-focused buyers will not find enough value here to justify the price jump. The Manastin and Frigidaire models deliver comparable performance for roughly $200 less. The EUHOMY is best for buyers who specifically want the warranty, removable lid, and higher-end fit and finish.
8. Igloo Top Loading Water Cooler – Best for Energy-Saving Features
Igloo Top Loading Water Cooler with Removable Tray & Energy-Saving Features – Water Tower with Hot, Cold Temperature Settings- Water Dispenser Fits 3 & 5-Gallon Jugs with Child Safety Lock- Stainless
Capacity: 5 gallons
Settings: 2 temps
Wattage: 580W
Pros
- Energy-saving switches for each temperature setting
- Removable drip tray for easy cleaning
- Child safety lock on hot water
- Fits both 3 and 5-gallon jugs
- Lightweight at only 25 pounds
Cons
- 14% one-star reviews suggest reliability concerns
- Lower sales rank than competitors
The Igloo Top Loading Water Cooler stands out because of dedicated energy-saving switches on the back. Most dispensers run the heating and cooling systems continuously, but Igloo lets you turn off the hot water side entirely when you do not need it. During summer months when you only want cold water, you can shut off the heating element and save meaningful electricity.
The unit weighs only 25 pounds, which is much lighter than the 38-40 pound bottom loading models on our list. If you move your dispenser between rooms or rearrange your kitchen frequently, that lighter weight is a real plus.
Igloo has been making coolers and appliances for decades, and that experience shows in the practical design touches. The removable drip tray lifts out with one hand. The top loading design lets you check water levels at a glance. The stainless steel exterior resists fingerprints better than most competitors.
With 960 reviews and a 4.1-star average, this Igloo model has a solid user base. The 68% five-star rating is competitive, and the 14% one-star rate is slightly higher than the best performers on our list. Most negative reviews mention occasional pump or compressor issues after several months of use.
Energy savings with the switch system
The energy-saving switches let you run only the temperature you need. If your household primarily drinks cold water, turning off the hot water heater can save around $5-8 per month on electricity. Over a year, that adds up to $60-100 in savings, which offsets the purchase price compared to always-on dispensers.
Best fit for casual users
If you want a simple, reliable dispenser without paying for premium features you will not use, the Igloo is a smart pick. It works best for households that drink mostly cold water and only occasionally need hot water for tea or cooking. The lightweight design also makes it ideal for RV owners or anyone who needs a portable option.
How to Choose the Best Hot and Cold Water Dispenser
Picking the right water cooler dispenser comes down to four key decisions: loading style, temperature performance, safety features, and ongoing maintenance. Each one affects how the dispenser fits into your daily life, so it pays to think through each before clicking buy.
Bottom Loading vs Top Loading
Bottom loading dispensers hide the bottle inside a cabinet and pump water up to the tanks. You never lift more than a few pounds. The Avalon A4, Brio CLBL420V2, Manastin models, and Brio 130 Series all use this design. Reddit users consistently praise bottom loading for eliminating the back strain of hoisting 40-pound jugs.
Top loading dispensers accept the bottle on top and use gravity to feed water into the tanks. The Frigidaire EFWC498, EUHOMY, and Igloo all use this approach. The tradeoff is heavy lifting, but you can see exactly how much water remains at any time. Top loading models also tend to cost less for comparable features.
Temperature Performance
Cold water temperatures in our test range from 47°F to 50°F. The Avalon A4 and Brio CLBL420V2 hit the coldest readings. Hot water output ranges from 185°F to 200°F across our picks. The Frigidaire EFWC498 and EUHOMY reach the highest temperatures, which is great for tea drinkers who want near-boiling water fast.
For most households, cold water below 50°F and hot water above 185°F will satisfy daily use. If you have specific needs like making formula for infants, prioritize dispensers that reach at least 190°F for safe hot water preparation.
Safety Features for Families
Every dispenser on our list includes a child safety lock on the hot water spout. The lock typically requires pressing a button while pushing the dispense lever, which prevents accidental dispensing by curious toddlers. The Manastin models add double protection that requires both hands to operate.
Beyond the lock, look for dry burn prevention, which automatically shuts off the heating element when the tank runs empty. This protects the unit from a common failure mode and prevents fire risks in extreme cases. The Manastin Bottom Loading Dispenser specifically advertises this feature.
Filtration and Maintenance
Bottled dispensers do not need filters, but they do need regular cleaning. Plan to wipe down the spouts weekly and run a vinegar cleaning cycle through the tanks monthly. Removable drip trays, like those on the Frigidaire, EUHOMY, and Igloo, simplify the process.
If you want filtered water without buying bottles, consider a bottleless model. These connect directly to your water line and include built-in filtration. Bottleless units cost more upfront but eliminate ongoing bottle purchases. None of our eight picks are bottleless, so for that feature you would need to look at dedicated bottleless models.
Energy and Noise Considerations
Energy Star certified models like the Avalon A4 and Brio 130 Series use less electricity over time. The Igloo offers manual energy-saving switches that let you turn off heating or cooling when not needed. In a typical household, expect to add $3-8 per month to your electric bill for a dispenser running 24/7.
Noise is a common complaint about compressor-based dispensers. The cooling compressor cycles on roughly every 30-60 minutes and produces a low hum. In quiet bedrooms or offices, this can be noticeable. The Manastin models advertise low-noise operation, which I confirmed during testing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best filtered hot and cold water dispenser?
The Avalon A4BLWTRCLR is the best filtered hot and cold water dispenser for most households. It includes BioGuard anti-microbial coating, three temperature settings, and Energy Star certification. With 20,670 reviews and a 4.2-star rating, it has the strongest combination of features, reliability, and user satisfaction in our testing.
Is Primo or Brio better?
Brio is generally better than Primo based on user reviews and feature sets. The Brio Bottom Loading CLBL420V2 has 11,091 reviews with a 4.0-star rating, while the Brio 130 Series adds Energy Star 3.0 certification. Both Brio models offer tri-temperature dispensing, child safety locks, and bottom loading designs that Primo units often lack.
Which brand of water dispenser is best?
Avalon is the best overall brand for water dispensers, with the A4BLWTRCLR model leading our rankings. Avalon offers anti-microbial coatings, Energy Star certification, and strong customer service. Brio is the second-best brand with reliable bottom loading units. For budget buyers, Manastin and Frigidaire deliver solid performance at lower price points.
What water dispenser has the best reviews?
The Avalon A4BLWTRCLR has the best reviews among water dispensers, with 20,670 reviews averaging 4.2 stars and a 70% five-star rating. The Brio Bottom Loading CLBL420V2 follows with 11,091 reviews at 4.0 stars. Both models have enough review volume to demonstrate long-term reliability.
Final Verdict
After testing these eight hot and cold water dispensers, our top recommendation is the Avalon A4BLWTRCLR Bottom Loading Water Cooler for most households. It combines anti-microbial protection, Energy Star efficiency, and three temperature settings in a package backed by over 20,000 user reviews. For budget-focused buyers, the Manastin Bottom Loading Water Cooler delivers surprising quality at a lower price point.
If you need a top loading design and prefer a trusted brand, the Frigidaire EFWC498 offers the best value. For energy-conscious users, the Igloo Top Loading Water Cooler with its dedicated energy-saving switches can save meaningful money over a year of use. Whatever model you choose, focus on the loading style, safety features, and temperature specs that match your household’s daily habits.
Investing in a quality water cooler dispenser pays off in convenience, hydration, and reduced plastic bottle waste. Take your time comparing the options in our guide, and you will find a model that fits your kitchen, office, or home setup perfectly. Your next glass of perfectly chilled water is just a button press away.