Since they share so many similarities and are constructed the same way, both a water dispenser and a point-of-use dispenser have many of the same components. Bottled water dispensers that do not have cooling or heating options are still available. Nevertheless, parts of water dispensers typically include a tank (or two) to hold the water pre-heated or cooled.

Dispensers use a water heater to heat the water and a refrigerating system to chill it. A spigot or tap for releasing water can be dispensed by pressing a button or turning a knob. A collar allows water to flow into the tank while holding the water bottle downward.