Boiling water taps are becoming ever popular as people realise the benefits. Not only do they provide instant boiling water, but they can also help to reduce your water and electricity consumption, saving money on utility bills. So, how do these innovative taps work? Are they easy to install and can they really cut down your consumption of water and electricity?
What is a boiling water tap?
Quite simply, an instant boiling water kitchen tap delivers boiling hot water on demand. Say goodbye to your kettle and say hello to the ultimate in kitchen convenience!
There are many options on the market that cater to different requirements and style preferences. Some models are stand-alone boiling taps that are completely separate from the normal hot and cold taps. While other models integrate regular hot and cold water in addition to boiling water.
Simply choose the colour and finish to suit your kitchen design and select the best model to meet your needs.
How do they work?
There are many different types of boiling water taps on the market, so functionality and installation will depend on the model. Instant boiling taps boil water via an unassuming boiler tank that is hidden away underneath the kitchen sink. Naturally, the tank will need an electricity supply. Therefore, you must ensure there is a plug socket available underneath the sink or have one installed before the tap is fitted.
With a little plumbing work, the boiling water tank is attached to the cold water inlet. The tank has a dispensing feed that is connected to the faucet so the boiling water can be dispensed.
Models that incorporate regular hot and cold tap water include additional connections to the standard water supply inlets. This facilitates the use of normal running tap water. The unit includes an integrated mixer tap for ease of use. These combined systems are space saving and offer the ultimate in convenience.
The hidden tank underneath the sink boils water from the cold water supply. Due to its innovative low energy technology, it keeps the water at your chosen temperature until you're ready to use it. This means that compared to boiling a kettle, a boiling tap is much more energy efficient.
Most boiling taps feature a water filter that filters the mains cold water before it reaches the tank. This helps to remove contaminants and improves the overall quality and taste of the water. Many multifunctional taps also have the option to dispense filtered cold water. An added bonus if you prefer a purer taste.
What are the benefits?
These taps are quickly becoming an essential piece of equipment in the modern kitchen. Benefits include:
- Reduce water and energy consumption
- Save time - no more waiting for the kettle to boil to make a cup of tea
- Speedy cooking - use boiling water from the tap to use while preparing food
Are they easy to install?
Many taps come with optional installation provided by the manufacturer. Keen DIY enthusiasts should be able to install a tap with the correct tools by following the instructions in the box. If you are ever in doubt, call a professional plumber or arrange an installation service direct from Fohen.
Most manufacturers provide easy to follow online videos, like Fohen’s instant boiling water tap installation guide.
Are boiling hot water taps eco-friendly?
As you only use what you need, boiling taps are considered to be environmentally friendly. This is because they reduce water consumption and are energy efficient. Over the course of a year the savings are relatively small, however, they can save money on your utility bills while helping to reduce your carbon footprint.
With rapidly increasing energy costs it is becoming more expensive to heat water. Depending on the type of kettle you use, boiling a full kettle could cost up to 6.5p every time. Although it doesn’t seem like much, if you drink a lot of tea and coffee, this can add up over time.
Are boiling taps safe?
Worried about someone accidentally using the boiling water tap to wash their hands, such as small children or elderly relatives? You can relax, as these taps have safety features such as spring loaded catches that must be held down for the tap to function.
Is it safe to have a plug under a sink?
Having a plug socket fitted underneath a sink is low-risk if it is installed at a safe distance. NICEIC recommends fitting the plug around 30 cm away from the side of the sink. Therefore, if the sink were to overflow, the plug wouldn’t come into contact with leaking water.
Can I have a boiling water tap if I live in a hard water area?
The dual-action filter removes limescale before the water supply reaches the boiling tank. As a result, limescale should not be a problem. If you live in a hard water area, it’s worth checking if the model you have in mind includes a water filter.
How much does a boiling water tap cost?
With so many models to choose from you are sure to find one to suit your budget. Why not start by taking a look at Fohen’s collection starting from just £349!