Water Filters & Purifiers

Water Cooler Not Working? Troubleshooting and Repair Guide

July 05, 2021 3 min read

Most water cooler problems are straightforward to diagnose and fix yourself. Here’s a practical troubleshooting guide before you call a technician.

Browse our water cooler range or see our Water Coolers Guide.


Common Problems and Quick Fixes

1. Cooler Not Turning On

Check the power source first. Confirm the unit is plugged in at the wall and the power outlet is working (test with another appliance). Check that the power switch on the back of the unit is in the ON position.

2. No Water Dispensing

For bottle-fed units: check the bottle isn’t empty and is properly seated. For top-loading units, an airlock can form — remove and reseat the bottle to release it. For bottom-loading units, check the hose connection between the probe head and the water pump is fully seated.

For mains-connected units: confirm the main water supply valve is open and check for any kinked or disconnected supply lines.

3. Water Not Cold Enough

Allow 30–60 minutes after installation or bottle change for the cooling system to reach temperature. If the unit has been running but water is still warm, check that the ventilation grilles aren’t blocked — the compressor needs airflow to cool effectively. Try the reset procedure below.

4. Water Not Hot Enough

Confirm the hot water switch (usually on the back of the unit) is turned ON. Allow 20–30 minutes for the hot tank to heat up. If the water is lukewarm but not hot, the heating element may need replacement.

5. Leaking

Check the bottle is properly seated and the probe is not cracked. Inspect the drip tray — if it’s overflowing, empty it. For mains-connected units, check all pipe connections and fittings for tightness.


How to Reset a Water Cooler

  1. Unplug the unit from the wall.
  2. Drain all water from the reservoir through the taps.
  3. Wipe the reservoir dry with a clean cloth.
  4. Leave the unit unplugged for at least 3–5 hours (overnight is ideal).
  5. Plug back in, install a fresh bottle, and wait 30–60 minutes before use.

This reset procedure resolves most temperature-related issues.


When to Call a Professional

If basic troubleshooting doesn’t resolve the issue, contact the manufacturer or a qualified appliance technician. Common issues that require professional repair include compressor failure, heating element replacement, and refrigerant recharging. Check whether your unit is still under warranty before paying for a repair — most Awesome Water Coolers come with a manufacturer’s warranty.

Contact us on 1800 789 781 or via our customer request form for warranty and support queries.


Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my water cooler making a gurgling noise?

A gurgling sound when dispensing water is normal — it’s air entering the bottle to replace the water being dispensed. Loud or continuous gurgling may indicate an airlock; remove and reseat the bottle to resolve it.

How do I clean the coils on my water cooler?

Remove the water bottle and top cover to access the coils. Clean with a mild cleaning solution and a soft cloth, removing any dust or debris. Ensure the coils are completely dry before reassembling. See our full cleaning guide: How to Clean a Water Cooler.

Is it worth repairing an old water cooler?

If the unit is more than 5–7 years old and requires a major repair (compressor, heating element), it’s often more cost-effective to replace it. Browse our current water cooler range for replacement options.

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