How to Clean a Whirlpool Water Cooler
Cleaning your Whirlpool water cooler is an important maintenance task to ensure that your water remains fresh and tastes good. This guide will take you through the steps to clean your water cooler, including the importance of cleaning the bottles, running a vinegar solution through the lines, and finally flushing the system with fresh water. Regular maintenance is key to extending the lifespan of your water cooler and keeping it performing at its best.
Disassembling the Water Cooler
Before you begin the cleaning process, it is necessary to disconnect the water cooler from the power source to avoid any electrical risks. Once the power is cut off, you can start to remove components that need to be cleaned. The top bottle should be removed, and the plastic collar that snaps around the bottle needs to be taken off as well. This collar slides off by pressing down on the plastic on either side. The silicone gasket underneath will seal the collar to the cooler. Ensure that everything is disconnected before you proceed, ideally using a small bucket to gather any excess water that drains out.
Cleaning the Water Lines
Once the bottles and collars are removed, plug out the cooler and ensure all residual water has been drained from the reservoir, which is secured by a small screw at the back. Opening this will release a significant amount of water, so having a container handy is important. Reinsert the plug with the small screw back in place to secure it.
The next step is to clean the water lines. To do this, you'll need to run a solution of 4 cups of distilled white vinegar and hot water through the cooler's spigots. The vinegar solution will help to remove any mineral buildup and other contaminants. If your cooler is equipped with a heater, you can turn this on after plugging the cooler back in. Once the light turns off, unplug the cooler again and let it sit for about 30 minutes. This allows the solution to work effectively in breaking down any residues. After this time, you can dispense the mixture and drain the lines thoroughly.
Flushing and Reassembling the Cooler
After 30 minutes, refill the reservoir with fresh cold water and run it through both taps to flush the lines. Repeat this process if necessary, especially if the taste of the water is still suspect. Once you are satisfied that the water is clean, pull the plug in the back to drain any residual water in the system. Reinsert the plug and secure it with the small screw.
Maintaining Clean Water Bottles
In addition to cleaning the water cooler itself, regular cleaning of the water bottles is also essential. We recommend cleaning your water bottles every few months with a warm water and vinegar mix, along with a few grains of white rice. Put the vinegar solution in the bottles and close the caps tightly. Shake the bottles for several minutes to allow the rice to scrub the interior surfaces. After shaking, drain the solution and flush the bottles thoroughly with clean tap water. Allow the bottles to air dry in the sun to help eliminate any remaining moisture and bacteria. This routine will ensure that the water in your cooler remains as fresh and clean as possible.
Cleaning the Exterior
Finally, take the time to clean the exterior of your Whirlpool water cooler and its surrounding coils. Use a gentle vacuum to remove any lint or dust. For a thorough clean, wipe the exterior and coils with a warm soapy water solution and a soft clean towel. This not only improves the look of your cooler but also helps to keep it free from dust and debris, which can affect its performance.
Conclusion
By following these steps, you can ensure that your Whirlpool water cooler is cleaned and maintained effectively. Regular cleaning not only improves the flavor of your water but also extends the life of the appliance. Remember to clean your water bottles every few months and to give your cooler a thorough clean at least once a year to keep it performing its best.