First, clean the drip tray. That little plastic grid under the spigot is a microbial playground. Wash it with hot, soapy water every week. Second, if you have a bottled dispenser, never lift the bottle by its neck alone—use both hands, or invest in a pump.
Third, listen to your machine. If you hear a whining noise from the compressor, it might be low on refrigerant. If hot water comes out lukewarm, the thermostat might need resetting. Most manufacturers offer a reset button on the back panel—it’s the “turn it off and on again” of the water world.
Finally, consider the energy cost. An old, leaky dispenser can waste as much electricity as a small fridge. Look for Energy Star-rated models, or set a timer so it only heats water during work hours. Your landlord and the planet will both appreciate it.
