Boiling water taps are the latest kitchen convenience to hit the market. They look sleek and sophisticated, offer a high cup capacity and are a great option for hygienic serving.
Boiling water taps have a small thermally insulated tank that keeps the water hot. When the handle is pressed, cool **tap water** flows into the tank and displaces the boiling water that comes out of the spout.
Style
A boiling water tap is a stylish addition to any kitchen and, while it’s not cheap, can add some serious wow factor. There’s plenty to think about though, including installation and maintenance and they can also take up quite a lot of space under the sink.
Most models dispense water at between 75 and 98 degrees Celsius (near-boiling) but there are some that can deliver even hotter water. They’re able to do this thanks to clever technology which heats and then instantly dispenses water in a steady stream. Some have digital displays so you can choose the desired water temperature and some come with a water filtration kit included in the box.
Unlike kettles, which tend to be a little faffy and rely on a bit of luck with how long they last before busting, boiling water taps are designed with longevity in mind. There’s also a child safety spring lock on the push down lever, which ensures that the steaming hot water is never left running unattended and helps to prevent scalding accidents.
As well as a child safety feature, most boiling water taps have a handy automatic shut off after 5 minutes so that the water isn’t kept on for longer than you need it. There’s a nifty thermal insulation on the spout too, which keeps the water cool to the touch and again reduces energy consumption.
Convenience
One of the biggest advantages of an instant boiling water tap is convenience. You can save time by not having to boil a kettle and avoid the risk of burns if you forget about it. Boiling water taps also offer more energy efficiency than traditional dispensers as they only heat the amount of water required. They also come in a variety of styles and finishes, making them easy to match with your kitchen design.
Another advantage of a boiling water tap is safety. These taps are usually insulated to prevent the hot water from overheating. They also have a child lock to protect children from accidental scalding. Most models of boiling water taps come with a safety warning that will flash on the screen. In addition, they are fitted with sensors to detect any water leaks and shut off automatically.
Many brands of boiling water taps provide a service option that allows you to book a technician when you have a problem with your system. The technicians will diagnose the issue and fix it, ensuring that your tap is always working at its best.
Having a boiling water tap installed in your kitchen can be a great idea for those who often make tea and coffee. The taps can also help to reduce the amount of plastic bottles you use, saving space in your kitchen. They can even be installed in boardrooms and conference areas. They look stylish and can replace both water coolers and boiling kettles. They are also easy to clean and can be wiped down regularly with a wipe cloth or dishcloth.
Safety
Boiling water taps are a convenient and time-saving alternative to kettles, offering piping hot water at the touch of a button. However, there are some safety concerns associated with these handy appliances, especially in homes with children, and it is important to be aware of them before investing in one for your kitchen.
Unlike kettles which can be prone to spilling, a boiling tap’s spout is contained within the cylinder underneath and only dispenses water when the handle is turned on. This prevents any accidental scalding. Additionally, these taps don’t have electrical cords attached or require a power supply and they can’t be dropped or knocked over like kettles can.
Most models feature a safety catch which must be pushed down and twisted to activate the spout, further protecting against any accidental use. Most also have a safety indicator light to warn users when the tap is switched on and a spout that is thermally sealed and anti-splatter.
Boiling taps are generally much easier to clean than kettles, and you can usually remove limescale deposits with lemon juice or white vinegar rather than the harsh chemicals required to clean a stove-top. These taps are also significantly more energy efficient than kettles, and can save you money on your electricity bills. This means that they can be an excellent investment for households who are conscious of their energy consumption.
Cost
Boiling water taps look like a normal kitchen tap but have a small thermally-insulated tank underneath which is plugged into the mains and your home’s plumbing supply. When you press the handle it displaces cooler tap water and fills the tank with near boiling water. When you’re ready to use it the tap simply dispenses it into the sink as normal.
Most models also include a built-in filter which ensures the water is safe to drink. The cost of these taps is typically more than a regular tap but significantly less than buying and installing a separate boiler. Plus they’re a lot safer than using an electric kettle and take up much less space in the kitchen.
Installing a new tap requires a plumber and can be expensive depending on the make and model of the tapping you choose. It also depends on whether or not any other work is required such as modifying cabinetry. A freestanding boiling water system from Quooker for example costs around $395 to install. This includes a 13A power point and plumbing connection inlet close to the sink.
On the other hand, if you only drink one cup of tea or coffee per day then an instant boiling water tap isn’t going to save you much money over boiling a kettle. However, if you’re a family who drinks lots of hot beverages and want to declutter your kitchen then this is an option that is well worth considering.