Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the safe and efficient operation, installation, and maintenance of your Igloo MWC8988 Bottom Loading Water Dispenser. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the appliance and retain it for future reference.
The Igloo MWC8988 is a freestanding water dispenser designed to provide cold, hot, and room temperature water. Its bottom-loading design eliminates the need for lifting heavy water bottles, concealing them neatly within the base of the unit. The dispenser features a compressor for efficient cooling and a heating element for hot water on demand.
Important Safety Information
To reduce the risk of injury or property damage, observe the following safety precautions:
- Always plug the dispenser into a grounded electrical outlet. Do not use extension cords.
- Keep the dispenser away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
- Ensure proper ventilation around the unit. Maintain at least 4 inches (10 cm) clearance from walls.
- Do not operate the dispenser without a water bottle installed.
- Supervise children when they are near the dispenser, especially when dispensing hot water.
- Unplug the dispenser before cleaning or performing any maintenance.
- Do not immerse the dispenser, cord, or plug in water or other liquids.
- If the supply cord is damaged, it must be replaced by the manufacturer, its service agent, or similarly qualified persons to avoid a hazard.
- This appliance is intended to be used in household and similar applications such as staff kitchen areas in shops, offices and other working environments; farm houses and by clients in hotels, motels and other residential type environments; bed and breakfast type environments; catering and similar non-retail applications.
Package Contents
Upon unpacking, please ensure all items are present and undamaged:
- Igloo MWC8988 Bottom Loading Water Dispenser
- Water Probe Assembly
- User Manual (this document)
Product Overview
Familiarize yourself with the components of your water dispenser.

Figure 1: Front view of the Igloo MWC8988 water dispenser with the bottom compartment door open, revealing a water bottle and the water probe assembly. The top features dispensing buttons and indicator lights for cooling, heating, and power.

Figure 2: Side view of the Igloo MWC8988 water dispenser highlighting key features such as bottom loading, freestanding design, compressor cooling, 420W heating power, and 100W cooling power.
Setup Instructions
- Unpack the Dispenser: Carefully remove all packaging materials. Place the dispenser on a flat, level surface.
- Positioning: Ensure the dispenser is placed in a cool, dry location, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Allow at least 4 inches (10 cm) of clearance from walls for proper ventilation.
- Install Water Bottle:
- Open the bottom compartment door of the dispenser.
- Remove the protective cap from a new 3 or 5-gallon water bottle.
- Insert the water probe assembly into the opening of the water bottle. Ensure the probe is fully inserted and the bottle is sealed.
- Slide the water bottle into the bottom compartment.
- Close the compartment door securely.
- Prime the System: Before plugging in the unit, place a cup under each dispenser faucet (hot, cold, room temperature) and press the buttons until water flows steadily from each. This removes air from the lines.
- Plug In: Plug the dispenser into a grounded 120V AC electrical outlet.
- Activate Heating/Cooling: The cooling and heating functions will begin automatically. Allow approximately 15-30 minutes for the water to reach optimal cold and hot temperatures. The indicator lights on the front panel will show when the desired temperatures are reached.
Operating Instructions
Your Igloo MWC8988 dispenser offers three temperature options:
- Cold Water: Press the blue button to dispense chilled water.
- Room Temperature Water: Press the green button to dispense water at ambient temperature.
- Hot Water: For safety, the hot water faucet typically has a child-safety lock. Simultaneously press the red button and slide the safety lock (if present) to dispense hot water. Exercise caution as hot water can cause burns.
When the water bottle is empty, the "Bottle Empty" indicator light will illuminate. Replace the bottle following the "Install Water Bottle" steps in the Setup section.
Maintenance
Regular cleaning and maintenance ensure optimal performance and hygiene.
- Exterior Cleaning: Wipe the exterior surfaces with a soft, damp cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
- Drip Tray Cleaning: The drip tray should be emptied and cleaned regularly to prevent overflow and bacterial growth. Remove the tray, wash with mild soap and water, rinse thoroughly, and replace.
- Internal Cleaning (Descaling):
- Unplug the dispenser and remove the water bottle.
- Drain all water from the hot and cold tanks using the drain plugs located at the back of the unit (refer to your specific model's diagram for exact location).
- Prepare a cleaning solution of 1 gallon (3.8 liters) of water mixed with 2 tablespoons of household bleach or a food-grade descaling solution.
- Pour the cleaning solution into the water reservoir (where the probe usually sits).
- Allow the solution to sit for 15-20 minutes.
- Drain the solution completely from both hot and cold water faucets and the drain plugs.
- Rinse the system thoroughly by filling the reservoir with clean water and draining it several times until no bleach odor remains.
- Replace the drain plugs, install a new water bottle, and plug in the dispenser.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No water dispensing. | Water bottle empty or not properly installed. Air lock in the system. | Replace water bottle. Prime the system by pressing all dispense buttons until water flows. |
| Water not cold/hot enough. | Dispenser recently plugged in. Heating/cooling switch off. Poor ventilation. | Allow 15-30 minutes for temperatures to stabilize. Ensure heating/cooling switches (if present, usually at the back) are ON. Check for adequate clearance around the unit. |
| Water leaking from unit. | Water bottle cracked or improperly seated. Drain plug loose. | Check water bottle for cracks and ensure it's correctly installed. Tighten drain plugs at the back. If leaking persists, unplug and contact support. |
| No power. | Dispenser unplugged. Power outlet not working. Circuit breaker tripped. | Ensure dispenser is securely plugged in. Test the outlet with another appliance. Reset the circuit breaker. |
Specifications
| Model: | MWC8988 |
| Brand: | IGLOO |
| Type: | Bottom Loading Water Dispenser |
| Dimensions (L x W x H): | 40.64 x 39.37 x 113.03 cm (16 x 15.5 x 44.5 inches) |
| Weight: | 17.69 kg (39 lbs) |
| Material: | Aluminium (internal components, exterior likely plastic/metal) |
| Heating Power: | 420 Watts |
| Cooling Power: | 100 Watts |
| Installation Type: | Freestanding |
| Access Location: | Bottom |
| UPC: | 058465801656 |
Warranty and Support
Specific warranty details and customer support contact information were not provided in the product data. For warranty claims or technical assistance, please refer to the documentation included with your purchase or visit the official Igloo website for the most current information.





