Refrigerator with internal water dispenser and ice maker

When looking for a refrigerator with a water dispenser, we all envision that ice-cold water coming from the tap whenever we feel the need to quench our thirsts. And when it comes to fridge water dispensers, there are two different options you can choose from: interior and exterior.

An interior water dispenser is located inside the refrigerator (typically at the very top), and can only be accessed by opening the door, whereas an external water dispenser provides water and/or ice through the refrigerator door. The main difference between the two is essentially the appearance and location; however, they both offer unique features that make them individually stand out.

Refrigerator with internal water dispenser and ice maker

If you’re deciding on a new fridge but can’t land on which type of water dispenser is best for you, check out our breakdown of what to look for when choosing between an interior and exterior water dispenser.

Interior Water Dispenser

If you know you’re getting a new fridge but are debating where you want the water dispenser to be located, let us plead our case for the interior. Rather than being installed into the door, interior dispensers fit discreetly on the refrigerator wall with the ice-maker located inside the freezer.

Refrigerator with internal water dispenser and ice maker

And while having to open the fridge door for access every time isn’t the most convenient, placing the dispenser within the fridge prevents water spills on the refrigerator surface – meaning those hard-to-clean water stains are virtually non-existent! Along with helping keep the outside of your fridge clean, some other key features for interior water dispensers include:

  • Ice-maker frees up more space in the fridge compartment.
  • Provides a clean aesthetic of a solid refrigerator front.
  • Ability to fill large containers with water or ice due to less space restrictions.

Exterior Water Dispenser

On the other hand, if you live in a busier household where the fridge is frequented often and water is in even greater demand, you may enjoy the easy access of an external water dispenser. Located directly on the fridge door, exterior water dispensers are hands-down the most convenient way to get water (or ice) in your home.

Refrigerator with internal water dispenser and ice maker

On top of convenience, many refrigerators with external water dispensers have been designed to maximize user experience by including modern features like a second ice maker. And while exterior dispensers may not provide the most seamless look, many brands will relocate the ice-maker from the refrigerator compartment, to inside the door, in order to maximize fridge capacity. Along with these features, other key characteristics of external water dispensers are:

  • Outside access helps retain cold temperatures inside the refrigerator and freezer.
  • Simple functionality and easy access.
  • More energy efficient than an interior dispenser.

Which One is Best for You?

Buying a new fridge is a huge investment and something you’ll rely on for many years to come. Choosing which type of water dispenser that comes equipped with it can also be a crucial task, but at the end of the day, interior and external dispensers are completely based on your personal preference.

Refrigerator with internal water dispenser and ice maker

Having knowledge of both styles can be very helpful when making a decision on your next refrigerator purchase, but all in all, both options will efficiently serve up refreshing water (and potentially ice) for you day after day. If you have any questions about these dispensers and think it’s the perfect time to purchase a new fridge, contact us today or shop our catalog of high-quality refrigerators from top appliance brands.

Counter-depth 3-door French door refrigerator with customizable and changeable door panels available in a variety of colors and finishes featuring a family hub. Samsung’s family hub lets you see inside your refrigerator, manage your family’s calendars, stream music, see who’s at the front door, and much more, all right from your fridge. It also features the beverage center with both a water dispenser and autofill water pitcher, plus a dual ice maker with cubed ice and ice bites.

  • Enjoy your favorite beverage with your choice of ice. Select from cubed ice or Ice Bites that chill your drink faster
  • A built-in pitcher that automatically refills with filtered water and the option to infuse with a flavor of your choice.
  • Flat-panel door design with easy-to-open recessed handles blends into your kitchen to give you a modern look.

[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] We welcomed our new family member into the house a few weeks ago, and I have to say, this fridge is awesome and gorgeous! My family is enjoying every single feature, from the fridge's exterior sleek design and beauty to the entertaining family hub. The interior of the fridge itself is well designed to fit an abundant amount of food, drinks, produce, etc. The cooling technology is above expectations in how it keeps all the food so fresh and perfect temperature, and not to mention if I leave the fridge door open, it will play a pleasant ring to notify me. The freezer design and space is also perfect. Features such as the ice maker, water pitcher, and connection with the Samsung Smart Things app, are just extra toppings to the icing on the cake, which is what makes this fridge my family's new favorite smart tech in the house, as well as the VIP friend for my 3 year old son. He gets to call out at Alexa to listen to Pandora or ask Alexa to play a game, or ask questions to gain knowledge. My wife uses the Smart Hub on the regular to get recipes, make shopping lists, and create reminders. These are just a few things of what this baby can do! This is our new Kitchen Companion. I will always love Samsung!. Nostradamus0113. Manassas. 2022-06-18 00:00:05

Is it better to have water dispenser inside or outside?

The main benefit to having an external dispenser is convenience. It is much easier for the consumer to simply walk up to the refrigerator and get ice and chilled water without having to open the door.

Are internal water dispensers good?

Internal Water Dispenser Pros ✓ Placing the dispenser within the fridge prevents water spills on the refrigerator surface, meaning hard-to-clean water stains are virtually non-existent. ✓ Internal dispensers allow the ice-maker to be relocated in the freezer, freeing up more space in the refrigerator compartment.

What is internal water dispenser fridge?

An interior water dispenser is located inside the refrigerator (typically at the very top), and can only be accessed by opening the door, whereas an external water dispenser provides water and/or ice through the refrigerator door.

Does the ice maker and water dispenser use the same water line?

There is only one water line to the refrigerator; however, there are two plastic water lines on the fridge that run from the double water valve to the icemaker and the water dispenser. The fill tube which supplies water to the icemaker can freeze and cause no water to get to the icemaker.