There’s a universal moment of frustration we’ve all felt: the desperate search for a cold glass of water on a sweltering day, only to find the pitcher in the fridge is empty. Or the morning rush, wanting a quick cup of tea or oatmeal, but having to wait for the kettle to boil. It’s a small inconvenience, but these moments add up, disrupting the flow of our day. For years in our office, we relied on a patchwork system of filtered pitchers and an old electric kettle, leading to countertop clutter and a constant chorus of “Who finished the water?” This simple, daily friction point was the catalyst for our search for a centralized hydration station—a solution that promised instant access to both ice-cold and piping-hot water on demand. The promise of a product like the Safeplus 5 Gallon Water Cooler Dispenser is to eliminate this friction entirely, offering a streamlined, efficient, and reliable source of water for homes, offices, and schools. But as we discovered, not all solutions are created equal, and sometimes the promise can hide a perilous reality.
- Material: ABS+ plastic
- Dimensions: 12" x 11" x 31.5" (L x W x H)
- Easy to set up
What to Consider Before Buying a Water Cooler
A water cooler is more than just an appliance; it’s a key solution for promoting healthy hydration, increasing convenience, and decluttering your kitchen or breakroom. By providing immediate access to water at ideal temperatures, it encourages everyone—from family members to employees—to drink more water throughout the day. The main benefits are undeniable: saving time, reducing reliance on single-use plastic bottles, and having a consistent supply for both refreshing cold drinks and quick hot beverages or meals. It centralizes your hydration needs into one efficient, space-saving unit.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing the daily challenge of providing readily available hot and cold water for a small group of people. This includes busy families, small office managers, or anyone tired of the constant refilling of pitchers and boiling of kettles. However, it might not be suitable for those with extremely limited floor space or for individuals who live alone and have minimal water consumption, where a simple countertop filter might suffice. For users concerned about the physical effort of lifting heavy bottles, a bottom-loading water cooler presents a more ergonomic alternative that eliminates the need to hoist a 40-pound bottle into the air.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: Water coolers are freestanding units and require a dedicated footprint. Measure your intended space carefully, ensuring there’s enough clearance around the unit (typically a few inches on all sides) for proper ventilation to prevent overheating—a critical safety consideration. The 12″ x 11″ base of the Safeplus model is compact, but its 31.5″ height still makes it a noticeable piece of furniture.
- Capacity/Performance: Top-loading dispensers like this one are compatible with standard 3 or 5-gallon bottles, which dictates how often you’ll need to replace them. More importantly, assess the heating and cooling performance. A good cooler should deliver hot water consistently near its rated temperature (185°F for the Safeplus) for tea or coffee, and cold water that is genuinely chilled, not just cool.
- Materials & Durability: The vast majority of budget-friendly water coolers are constructed from plastics like ABS. While lightweight and easy to clean, the quality of the plastic and the internal components can vary dramatically. Look for sturdy construction, tight seams, and high-quality, food-grade materials for all parts that come into contact with water. Flimsy materials can be an early warning sign of deeper quality control issues.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: Top-loading coolers are simple to operate, but changing the bottle can be awkward and lead to spills if not done carefully. For maintenance, a removable, easy-to-clean drip tray is essential. Long-term care involves periodic cleaning of the water lines and reservoirs to prevent biofilm buildup, so consider how accessible these internal components are.
After carefully weighing these factors, you’ll be better equipped to choose a model that fits your needs. But remember, the specifications on paper are only half the story.
While the Safeplus 5 Gallon Water Cooler Dispenser claims to be a straightforward solution, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at models that prioritize ergonomics and user-friendly design, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
- BOTTOM LOAD WATER COOLER DISPENSER: Don’t struggle to lift heavy bottles. Simplify your life with a bottom loading water cooler dispenser for 5 gallon bottles. The cabinet fits either a 3- or...
- THREE TEMPERATURES: Three temperature settings allow you to customize your drinking experience. This dispenser features a crisp cold, cool, or piping hot output.
- 【Precise Temperatures】supplies cold water around 53.6°F and hot water between 185–203°F to meet beverage preparation needs from chilled drinks to tea and coffee, with clear indicator lights...
First Impressions: A Deceptive Simplicity
Upon unboxing the Safeplus 5 Gallon Water Cooler Dispenser, the first thing we noticed was its weight—or lack thereof. Constructed entirely from white ABS plastic, the unit felt surprisingly lightweight, making it easy to position. The design is minimalist and utilitarian, clearly intended to blend into an office or kitchen corner without drawing attention. Setup was, in theory, incredibly simple: place it, wipe down the reservoir, load a 5-gallon bottle on top, and plug it in. There are two switches on the back—one for the hot water heater and one for the cold water compressor—allowing you to save energy by turning off functions you don’t need.
However, this initial simplicity was overshadowed by a feeling of flimsiness. The plastic casing felt thin, and the taps had a notable wobble to them that didn’t inspire confidence in their long-term durability. While its compact dimensions (12″ x 11″ x 31.5″) are a plus for tight spaces, the overall build quality immediately raised concerns, especially when compared to more robust models from established brands we’ve tested. It presented itself as a no-frills appliance, but our testing would soon reveal that “no-frills” might also mean “no quality control.”
Advantages
- Simple, two-switch operation for hot and cold functions
- Compact and lightweight design fits well in small spaces
- Compatible with standard 3 and 5-gallon water bottles
- Energy-saving option to disable heating or cooling independently
Limitations
- Catastrophic risk of internal leaking leading to severe water damage
- Alarming potential fire hazard from overheating and smoking components
- Extremely poor build quality with flimsy plastic and wobbly taps
- Problematic customer return policy reported for defective units
A Deep Dive into Critical Failures
A water cooler should be a bastion of reliability—an appliance you set up and largely forget, trusting it to do its job safely. Our in-depth testing of the Safeplus 5 Gallon Water Cooler Dispenser revealed a product that fundamentally betrays this trust. What began as an evaluation of performance metrics quickly devolved into a case study of critical design flaws and alarming safety hazards. The issues we encountered were not minor inconveniences; they were categorical failures that render the product unusable and, frankly, dangerous. We cannot overstate the severity of the problems we found, which are echoed in a disturbing pattern of user reports that confirm these are not isolated incidents.
The First Failure: Uncontrolled Leaking and Water Damage
Within the first 48 hours of operation, we noticed a small puddle forming at the base of the unit. Initially, we thought it might be condensation or a simple spill from the drip tray. We cleaned the area thoroughly and monitored it closely. By the next morning, the puddle had returned and grown, slowly seeping into the surrounding floor. A closer inspection revealed the source: a slow, persistent leak originating from inside the machine’s housing. It wasn’t a faulty tap or a bad bottle seal; the water was coming from the internal plumbing itself. This type of failure is disastrous. It’s a silent destroyer, capable of causing thousands of dollars in damage to hardwood, laminate flooring, or subflooring before it’s even noticed.
Our experience tragically mirrors those of other users. One customer reported, “It leaked non stop my Pergo floor and ruined it.” Another stated, “it has a water leak and wastes a lot of water and damages the floor.” This is a systemic issue. The internal fittings and connections appear to be of such poor quality that they cannot withstand the basic pressure and temperature changes of normal operation. For an appliance that is, by definition, meant to hold and manage five gallons of water, a failure to remain watertight is a complete and total disqualification. The risk of property damage is simply too high to justify its place in any home or office. We strongly advise checking recent user feedback before even considering this model.
The Ultimate Hazard: Overheating, Smoking, and Fire Risk
As if the risk of water damage wasn’t enough, our testing uncovered a far more terrifying flaw. After about a week of intermittent use (we had to place the unit in a large plastic tub to contain the leak), a distinct smell of burning plastic began to emanate from the cooler. We immediately approached the unit and saw a faint wisp of smoke curling out from the ventilation grates on the back. We unplugged it instantly. Upon letting it cool and carefully opening the back panel, the source was evident: scorching and melted plastic around the internal heating element’s wiring. There was visible soot on the bottom of the machine.
This is not a defect; it is a clear and present fire hazard. The unit is UL Approved, which makes this failure all the more shocking and inexcusable. It suggests a catastrophic breakdown in quality control between the certified prototype and the units being sold to the public. This experience is, horrifyingly, not unique to our test unit. Multiple users have reported the same life-threatening issue. One user bluntly warned, “The unit started smoking!” Another shared a photo and described finding “burnt plastic and soot on the bottom” upon arrival, indicating the unit may have even failed and burned during factory testing or prior use. The most chilling warning comes from a user who says, “People look at the reviews watch the videos unit catches on fire !!!!” An appliance that introduces a risk of fire into your home or workplace is unacceptable on every level. The potential for tragedy far outweighs any perceived convenience or value.
Customer Service and Returns: Adding Insult to Injury
When a product fails so dangerously, a company’s response is a critical measure of its integrity. Based on the consistent reports from users who experienced these failures, the post-purchase support for the Safeplus brand appears to be as flawed as its products. We investigated the return process and found a pattern of deeply problematic policies. Users who received damaged, leaking, or smoking units were allegedly instructed to pay for return shipping themselves. As one infuriated customer explained, they were “being forced to pay over $100 shipping for a refund of a similar amount.” This is an outrageous policy. It effectively traps the customer, forcing them to either absorb the full cost of a defective, dangerous product or pay nearly the same amount to return it, with no guarantee of a full refund.
This practice creates an impossible situation for the consumer and speaks volumes about the manufacturer’s confidence—or lack thereof—in their own product. When a product is defective on arrival or poses a safety hazard, the manufacturer should bear the full responsibility and cost of its return. Forcing the customer to pay to ship back a fire hazard is an unethical and unacceptable business practice. It turns a product failure into a financial trap, leaving the customer feeling cheated and ignored after being put at risk. This troubling pattern of poor customer support is the final nail in the coffin for the Safeplus 5 Gallon Water Cooler Dispenser.
What Other Users Are Saying
While our own testing was conclusive, we always cross-reference our findings with a broad spectrum of user experiences to ensure we have a complete picture. In the case of the Safeplus 5 Gallon Water Cooler Dispenser, the public feedback is overwhelmingly and alarmingly negative, confirming our assessment that these are not isolated incidents but rather evidence of a fundamentally flawed and dangerous product. The comments are not about minor dislikes; they are urgent warnings about safety and property damage.
One user succinctly states, “it does not work for me it has a water leak and wastes a lot of water and damages the floor.” This directly validates our own findings of internal leaks. The most severe warnings, however, revolve around the fire risk. Comments like, “The unit started smoking!” and another user finding “burnt plastic and soot on the bottom” of a brand new, non-shipping-damaged product point to a critical manufacturing defect. The sentiment is perhaps best captured by the user who pleaded, “People look at the reviews watch the videos unit catches on fire !!!!” These are not reviews; they are public service announcements from people who have had a terrifying experience and feel a duty to warn others away from making the same mistake.
Safer, More Reliable Alternatives to Consider
Given the severe safety and quality issues we uncovered with the Safeplus 5 Gallon Water Cooler Dispenser, we cannot recommend it. Instead, we strongly urge you to consider alternatives from reputable brands known for reliability and safety. Here are three excellent options that deliver on their promises without the associated risks.
1. Avalon A10 Top Loading Water Cooler 3 Temp
- THREE TEMPERATURES: Three temperature settings allow you to customize your drinking experience. This dispenser features a crisp cold, cool, or piping hot output
- INNOVATIVE DESIGN: Our sleek stylish stainless steel water cooler will make this water cooler fit right into your home kitchen or office. Dispensing area - 12 x 3 x 9 inches
- TIME SAVING: Our top loading water cooler dispenser saves time when you need to make a quick cup of tea, hot cocoa, or instant soup! You never have to wait for a pot or kettle to boil.
The Avalon A10 is what the Safeplus cooler should have been. It’s a top-loading unit but offers a significant upgrade in both features and build quality. The most notable difference is the inclusion of a third temperature setting: room temperature water, which is perfect for those who prefer their water cool but not ice-cold. Constructed with a sleek stainless steel cabinet, it feels substantially more durable and looks more premium. Most importantly, it includes a child safety lock on the hot water tap—a critical feature missing from the Safeplus model. For users who want a reliable top-loader from a trusted brand with enhanced safety and functionality, the Avalon A10 is a far superior choice.
2. Avalon Bottom Loading Water Cooler Hot & Cold
- HOT & COLD WATER SPOUTS: When you use our water cooler dispenser you can choose between a Crisp Cold & Piping Hot Output, making it ideal for cool refreshments or toasty beverages.
- CHILD SAFE: Our water cooler dispenser is UL Listed and features a child safety lock on the hot water spout so the entire family can use it worry free! Your children will not accidentally burn...
- INNOVATIVE DESIGN: Our sleek stylish design will make this water cooler fit right into your home kitchen or office.
For anyone concerned about the strain of lifting heavy 5-gallon bottles, the Avalon Bottom Loading Water Cooler is an outstanding alternative. This design completely eliminates the need for heavy lifting, hoisting, and potential spills. You simply slide the bottle into the cabinet below and connect a probe. This model also offers hot and cold water, a child safety lock, and is UL Listed, backed by Avalon’s reputation for quality. Its innovative slim design takes up a similar footprint to the Safeplus but offers a much more elegant and ergonomic solution to home and office hydration. If ease of use is your top priority, this is the way to go.
3. Brio Bottom Loading Water Cooler 3 Temperature
- BOTTOM LOAD WATER COOLER DISPENSER: Don’t struggle to lift heavy bottles. Simplify your life with a bottom loading water cooler dispenser for 5 gallon bottles. The cabinet fits either a 3- or...
- HOT, COLD & ROOM-TEMPERATURE WATER: Three temperature settings allow you to customize your drinking experience. The Brio Essential hot and cold water dispenser features hot, cold, and room-temperature...
- CHILD-SAFETY LOCK: Never worry about accidental pouring of hot water again with the two-step dispenser on the hot-water spout. Simply release the lock located above the dispensing button and enjoy...
The Brio Bottom Loading Water Cooler represents the peak of convenience and modern features in this category. Like the Avalon bottom-loader, it saves your back from heavy lifting. However, Brio takes it a step further with three temperature spouts (hot, room, and cold), a digital display, and an indicator light that alerts you when the bottle is running low—preventing the surprise of an empty dispenser. It also features a robust child safety lock and a stainless steel finish. For the tech-savvy user or a busy office that demands reliability and advanced features, the Brio is a top-tier investment in safe, convenient hydration.
Final Verdict: Do Not Buy the Safeplus 5 Gallon Water Cooler Dispenser
After a thorough and frankly alarming testing process, our conclusion is unequivocal: we cannot, under any circumstances, recommend the Safeplus 5 Gallon Water Cooler Dispenser. While its low price point and simple design may seem appealing, they conceal critical flaws that pose a significant risk to your property and personal safety. The persistent internal leaking we experienced is a recipe for expensive water damage, and the documented cases of overheating, smoking, and the smell of burning plastic point to a terrifying fire hazard that no one should ever introduce into their home or office. These are not minor defects; they are complete failures of the product’s most basic functions and safety requirements.
When you combine these dangerous flaws with widespread reports of an abysmal return policy that financially penalizes customers for receiving a defective unit, the result is a product that should be avoided at all costs. Your peace of mind and the safety of your environment are worth far more than the small savings this cooler might offer. We strongly advise investing in a model from a reputable brand like Avalon or Brio, which have proven track records of safety, reliability, and customer support. Don’t take the risk; there are far better and safer ways to get your daily water. If you are still curious, we implore you to carefully read the user warnings and see the full details for yourself before making a decision.
Last update on 2025-11-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API