How to Refill a 5 Gallon Water Dispenser

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In Mexico and some other countries, 5-gallon water bottles are the norm, and hefting 18kg (40 pounds) of an open water bottle onto the narrow neck of a dispenser without spilling it can be a challenge. Here is a way to make it much more manageable.

Steps

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    Note that Ciel bottle caps have a left-hand thread, so turn right (clockwise) to loosen. [1]
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    You can use a drill or a knife.
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    The water pressure against the foam cap will keep all but maybe a slight dribble from leaking. [2]
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    The foam seal will then float to the top.
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      Tips

      • If your cap lid did not come with a seal, you can make one out of gasket material. Here is shown a two-piece seal, one with a crosscut, and one with a flap, for a Santorini bottle. The flap goes on the water side.
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      Warnings

      • Some gasket materials may leach toxic substances into your drinking water.
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      • This will only work if your dispenser has a piece protruding into the neck as shown.
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      • Ciel bottles have reusable caps, so your water distributor may charge you a few pesos for the cap you have rendered unusable (by them). Keep your modified cap and it will be a one-time expense.
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      References

      1. ↑ http://www.csueastbay.edu/riskmanagement/files/docs/ehs/safety-tips/how-to-safely-change-a-5-gallon-water-cooler.pdf
      2. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kwW9vO8qQjs

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