When it comes to keeping your workforce hydrated and productive, choosing the right water dispenser can make all the difference. With the UK water dispenser market projected to reach £240.7 million by 2030, businesses are increasingly recognising that quality hydration solutions are essential investments in employee wellness and operational efficiency.
Whether you’re considering rental options or outright purchase, understanding the key differences between dispenser types will help you make the best decision for your business needs and budget.
Difference between Free Standing and Countertop Dispensers
The primary distinction between these two types of dispersers lies in their physical design and intended placement within your workspace.
Free-standing water dispensers are robust, floor-standing units designed to serve as central hydration hubs in high-traffic areas. These traditional “water coolers” are engineered for capacity and durability, making them ideal for busy offices, reception areas, and large communal spaces.
Countertop water dispensers are compact units designed to sit on existing surfaces like kitchen counters or work desks. These space-saving solutions are perfect for smaller offices, meeting rooms, or anywhere floor space is at a premium.
| Example | Countertop: The Select Pro | Free Standing: The Elite UVC |
| Best for | Small offices (up to 40 users), meeting rooms, kitchens | Larger offices, reception areas, gyms, and hospitals |
| Space | Sits on an existing countertop, preserving floor space | Requires dedicated floor space |
| Capacity | 30-40 litres per hour output | High performance with ice bank cooler for continuous supply |
| Installation | Professional installation for mains-fed connection | Professional installation for mains-fed connection |
| Temp Options | Chilled & Ambient. Other models offer hot options. | Chilled, Ambient & Sparkling water options available |
| Key Feature | Available completely contactless with hygienic touch buttons. | UVC LED Filtration for perfectly safe and healthy water. |
| Typical Cost | Rental plans from just £8.99 per week. | Rental plans from £17.99 per week. |
How to Pick A Countertop or Free-Standing Water Cooler: Your Decision Tree
Here are a few steps worth taking before picking between a countertop water cooler or free-standing water cooler:
Step 1: Assess Your Space
- Limited floor space? → Consider Countertop
- Ample floor space available? → Consider Free Standing
Step 2: Evaluate Usage
- 1-30 users, moderate consumption? → Countertop suitable
- 30+ users, high consumption? → Free Standing recommended
Step 3: Choose Water Source
- Want simple setup, accept ongoing bottle costs? → Bottled system
- Prefer unlimited supply, lower long-term costs? → Mains-fed (POU) system
Step 4: Select Water Temperature Options (Optional)
- Need boiling water for hot beverages and instant meals? → Choose a model with instant hot water functionality
- Want sparkling water for refreshing drinks? → Select a unit with an integrated carbonation feature
Free Standing Water Dispensers: Features, Costs & Considerations
Free-standing dispensers are the workhorses of commercial hydration, built to handle high-volume usage while providing a comprehensive range of features.
✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
|
|
Best for:
- Large offices (30+ staff)
- Manufacturing facilities and warehouses
- Hotels and hospitality venues
- Schools and universities
- Hospitals and healthcare facilities
- Gyms and fitness centres
- Government buildings
- Event venues
Price Range
Usually, a few hundred to a few thousand, depending on features and water source (bottled vs mains-fed)
Capacity and Water Volume
Typically 30-50 litres per hour output, with internal reservoirs of 3-7 litres for hot and cold water storage.
Hot Water Compatible?
Yes – models such as the Select Pro Plus countertop dispenser offer hot water suitable for tea and coffee preparation, with child safety locks standard.
Installation and Setup
- Bottled models: Simple placement near power outlet
- Mains-fed models: Professional installation required, connecting to water supply and drainage
Maintenance and Upkeep
- Bottled: Regular cleaning of reservoirs and taps, bottle replacement management
- Mains-fed: Filter changes every 6-12 months, annual sanitisation service recommended
Considerations
- Ensure adequate floor space and ventilation clearance
- Budget for professional installation if choosing mains-fed
- Consider noise levels in quiet environments
- Factor in ongoing maintenance costs and responsibilities
Countertop Water Dispensers: Features, Costs & Considerations
Countertop dispensers offer powerful hydration solutions in compact, versatile packages that maximise space efficiency without compromising on water quality.
✅ Pros | ❌ Cons |
|
|
Best for:
- Small offices (1-30 staff)
- Meeting rooms and breakout areas
- Cafés and restaurants
- Retail spaces and pharmacies
- Temporary events and pop-ups
- Reception areas with limited space
- Medical practices and consultancies
Price Range
Usually, a few hundred to a few thousand, depending on whether it’s a basic gravity-fed model or a premium integrated tap system. Rental plans from as little as £3.49 per week.
Capacity and Water Volume
Generally 3-30 litres per hour output, suitable for individuals to small teams of up to 30 people.
Hot Water Compatible?
Yes – electric models typically offer hot water functionality.
Installation and Setup
- Bottled/Gravity models: Plug-and-play setup
- Mains-fed models: Professional installation required for plumbing connections
Maintenance and Upkeep
Generally simpler due to smaller size, though mains-fed models still require filter changes. Removable components are often dishwasher-safe.
Considerations
- Evaluate available counter space and user accessibility
- Consider the bottled model’s portability needs
- Assess daily water consumption to ensure adequate capacity
- Factor in countertop aesthetics and workflow impact
Business Use Case Examples
Small Marketing Agency (15 Staff)
Challenge: Limited office space in converted warehouse with open-plan design
Solution: A mains-fed Select Pro Plus countertop dispenser in the kitchen area, offering instant chilled, hot, and sparkling water.
Benefits: This single, compact unit replaces a kettle and eliminates bottled water clutter, fitting perfectly into their modern, space-efficient office.
View our Office Water Dispensers & Coolers for more information.
Manufacturing Facility (200+ Workers)
Challenge: Large workforce across multiple shifts requiring reliable hydration
Solution: Multiple Select Plus Water Fountains or Contactless Bottle Filling Stations.
Benefits: These robust, heavy-duty steel units are vandal-resistant and designed for high-usage public areas, providing a continuous supply of chilled water to keep the large workforce hydrated safely and efficiently.
View our Factory & Warehouse Water Coolers for more information.
Boutique Hotel Reception (50+ Daily Guests)
Challenge: Provide premium water service while maintaining a sophisticated aesthetic
Solution: An integrated Elite Instant Tap T3 system.
Benefits: The under-counter system is invisible, preserving the luxury aesthetic. It offers touchless Bluetooth operation for a modern guest experience and provides premium hot, chilled, and sparkling water on demand, reinforcing the hotel’s commitment to quality.
View our Hotel Lobby Water Dispensers for more information.
Choosing between countertop and free-standing dispensers ultimately depends on your specific business requirements. By considering your team size, available space, and desired features, you can find the perfect fit.
Ready to upgrade your workplace hydration?
- Explore our full range of countertop water dispensers.
- Discover the power of our free-standing water coolers.
Or, contact our expert team today for a free, no-obligation quote. We’ll help you find the ideal solution to keep your team happy, healthy, and hydrated.