Cleaning Your ReadyRefresh Water Dispenser
Cleaning your ReadyRefresh water dispenser is important for maintaining the quality of your water and ensuring the longevity of your dispenser. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to clean your water dispenser thoroughly.
Step 1: Gather Your Cleaning Supplies
Before you start cleaning, ensure you have the following items:
- Unscented bleach or a vinegar solution (white vinegar is preferred)
- Clean bucket
- Soft cloths or sponges
- Clean rubber gloves
- Cleaning brush (if available)
Step 2: Unplug and Prepare the Dispenser
For safety purposes, make sure to unplug the water dispenser from the electrical outlet. Remove the water bottle from the dispenser and drain the water reservoir by dispensing water from the spouts until it is empty.
Step 3: Create Your Cleaning Solution
Mix a solution for sanitizing the dispenser. Use one tablespoon of unscented bleach per one gallon of water, or for a more natural method, you can use a mixture of one part white vinegar to three parts water.
Step 4: Disassemble Parts for Cleaning
Take apart any removable parts of the dispenser, such as the drip tray, water spouts, or water guard (the piece the water bottle sits on). These parts can usually be washed separately with the same sanitizing solution.
Step 5: Clean the Water Reservoir
Pour your cleaning solution directly into the water reservoir. If your dispenser has a hot and cold option, engage the hot and cold spouts to allow the solution to run through the system. Let the solution sit for a few minutes for thorough santization.
Step 6: Scrub and Rinse
Use a clean brush or sponge to scrub the inside of the reservoir. Be sure to reach any crevices where bacteria could be hiding. After scrubbing, rinse the reservoir several times with clean water to ensure all the cleaning solution is removed.
Step 7: Clean the Removable Parts
Soak and clean any removable parts you’ve disassembled in the cleaning solution. After soaking, scrub them as needed with a sponge, rinse thoroughly, and dry with a clean towel or allow to air dry.
Step 8: Reassemble the Dispenser
Once all parts are clean and dry, reassemble your water dispenser. Make sure everything is correctly placed, and parts are firmly attached.
Step 9: Sanitize the Exterior
Use the remaining cleaning solution or a disinfectant spray to wipe down the outer surfaces of the dispenser. Don’t forget the back and the areas around the spouts.
Step 10: Refill and Plug-In
After ensuring all the parts are dry and reassembled, place a new water bottle onto the dispenser. Plug the unit back into the electrical outlet.
Step 11: Flush the System
Before using the dispenser, it is advisable to flush the system by dispensing a few glasses of water from each spout. This helps to ensure that any residual cleaning solution is cleared out.
Extra Tips:
- It’s generally recommended that you clean your water dispenser every 3-6 months, depending on usage levels and manufacturer’s guidelines.
- If you have a model with filters, refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for replacing or cleaning the filters.
- Always refer to the user manual specific to your model for any special instructions or warnings.
- If you notice an unusual taste or smell after cleaning, flush the system further by dispensing more water until it improves.
Following these steps will help maintain the dispenser in good condition, providing you with fresh and clean water every time.