LA Pure Water sells refills of drinking water from outdoor dispensers at only 25 cents per gallon. Bring your plastic jugs or purchase a new water cooler from the store; they come in several different styles and colors. For those who can't or would rather not be tied to the water grid with the Department of Water and Power, this is a good local solution.
LA Pure Water is located near the 110 freeway in Highland Park, on Figueroa St. If you're heading north on the 110, exit Ave 52 and make a left, then take a right at Figueroa. You should eventually see the storefront on your left, in the same strip mall as Big Mama's Donuts.