## How to Clean a Dirty Water Dispenser
Water dispensers are a great way to have access to clean, filtered water at home or in the office. However, over time, water dispensers can become dirty and filled with bacteria. If you don’t clean your water dispenser regularly, you could be drinking contaminated water that could make you sick.
Here are some signs that your water dispenser needs to be cleaned:
The water tastes or smells bad.
The water is cloudy or discolored.
There is a build-up of slime or mold on the inside of the dispenser.
The dispenser is making strange noises.
If you see any of these signs, it’s time to clean your water dispenser. Here are some step-by-step instructions on how to do it:
Materials You’ll Need:
White vinegar or a commercial water dispenser cleaner
Baking soda
A clean cloth or sponge
A bucket or sink
A toothbrush (optional)
Instructions:
1. Unplug the water dispenser and empty the water reservoir.
2. Fill the water reservoir with a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water.
3. Let the vinegar solution sit in the reservoir for 30 minutes.
4. Drain the vinegar solution and rinse the reservoir thoroughly with clean water.
5. Fill the reservoir with a mixture of one tablespoon of baking soda and one gallon of water.
6. Let the baking soda solution sit in the reservoir for 30 minutes.
7. Drain the baking soda solution and rinse the reservoir thoroughly with clean water.
8. Wipe down the exterior of the water dispenser with a clean cloth or sponge.
9. Use a toothbrush to clean the inside of the water spout.
10. Reassemble the water dispenser and plug it back in.
Tips:
Clean your water dispenser every three to six months.
If you use your water dispenser frequently, you may need to clean it more often.
If you have a water dispenser with a built-in filter, change the filter according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Never use bleach to clean your water dispenser. Bleach can damage the dispenser and leave behind harmful residues.
## Troubleshooting
If you’re having trouble cleaning your water dispenser, here are some troubleshooting tips:
The water tastes or smells like vinegar after cleaning. This is normal. The vinegar solution can take some time to completely dissipate. Run a few gallons of water through the dispenser before drinking it.
The water is still cloudy or discolored after cleaning. There may be a build-up of scale on the inside of the dispenser. You can remove scale by filling the reservoir with a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water and letting it sit overnight. Drain the vinegar solution and rinse the reservoir thoroughly with clean water.
The dispenser is making strange noises. This could be a sign that the motor is malfunctioning. Contact the manufacturer for assistance.
## Conclusion
Cleaning your water dispenser is a simple but important task that can help you avoid drinking contaminated water. By following these instructions, you can keep your water dispenser clean and running smoothly for years to come.