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Avalon A1 Top Loading vs Frigidaire Stainless Steel Water Cooler Dispenser Side-by-Side Comparison
Overall Verdict
The Avalon A1 and Frigidaire EFWC519 are two very worthy competitors. Both are top-loaders and a good choice for an office water cooler dispenser.
The Avalon A1 has a more catchy contemporary design with its bright red and blue paddle levers contrasted against a white body. The Frigidaire, meanwhile, is a more old-school design with a stainless steel body.
Performance-wise, the Frigidaire has a slight edge over the Avalon A1. The hot water reaches a higher temperature—198 ℉ compared to 192 ℉. The lower temperature of the Avalon may be preferred in some office environments.
Understandably, the Avalon has faster heating or ready-to-dispenser times and puts out more hot water per hour (5.4 vs 5.0 L). The Frigidaire EFWC519 can serve a maximum of 20 people per hour while the Avalon is only 19. Under pressure, however, the Avalon rear heat exchanger gets quite hot while the Frigidaire runs relatively cool.
In terms of design differences, the Frigidaire has detachable tap spouts and levers while the Avalon does not. Neither have ozone or UV, and the water guard of the Avalon is difficult to remove making the Frigidaire all-round easier to clean.
The Frigidaire is our top recommendation for an office water cooler dispenser, especially for how it performs to a maximum capacity while staying relatively cool.
The Avalon A1 is a good runner-up, especially for a smaller office, for its more catchy design, and if you prefer hot water at a lower temperature.
Pros & Cons
- Cold water performance
- One-hand cold water dispensing
- Color design
- Hot water safety mechanism
- Cold water efficiency
- Stainless steel body
- Light weight
- Cool to run
- Easy to clean
- Stiff water guard
- Fixed nozzle design
- Cramped dispensing space
- Awkward hot water lever
- Old design
Key Specs
Where to Buy
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Analysis and Test Results
Performance
Hot Water Test
Cold Water Test
Design
In the Box
Build Quality
Dimensions
Panel & Indicators
Water Inlet Controls
Water Dispensers
Drip Tray
Rear Switches
Door and Cabinet
Cord and Plug
Usability
Dispensing Water
Hot Water Safety
Bottle / Filter Changing
Cleaning
