This thing is great. I bought it because I have a cpap machine and was tired of having to purchase all the plastic distilled water bottles. I debated buying a more expensive one, but I am glad I went with this one. I set in on the floor in my kitchen under the window and put a small towel underneath. Unlike some of the other posters, I use the metal spout. It works perfectly and prevents any water splashing or dripping outside of the bottle. I use the water, not only for my cpap, but I use it in my coffee and tea pot and I am in the process of filling up 25 gallons of emergency water with it. I use this thing daily. It is a little loud, but it is just a soft fan noise and it is essentially white noise. It is very easy to use and is straightforward to clean. I can't say enough good things about this.