Boiling water taps have gained significant popularity in recent years, revolutionising the way we access hot water in our kitchens.
These taps offer the convenience of instantly dispensing boiling water for a variety of purposes, from making tea or coffee to cooking pasta. However, like any technology, they come with their own set of advantages and disadvantages. In this article, we'll delve into the pros and cons of boiling water taps to help you decide whether they're the right choice for your kitchen
Pros:
Convenience: Perhaps the most significant advantage of boiling water taps is the unparalleled convenience they offer. With just a simple push of a button or flick of a lever, you can have piping hot water at your disposal within seconds. This eliminates the need to wait for a kettle to boil or to use a stove, saving you valuable time in the kitchen.
Energy Efficiency: Boiling water taps are often more energy-efficient than traditional methods of boiling water. Unlike kettles or stovetops, which heat a large volume of water regardless of the amount needed, boiling water taps only heat the water that is dispensed. This can result in lower energy consumption and reduced utility bills over time.
Space-saving: Installing a boiling water tap eliminates the need for a bulky kettle on your countertop, freeing up valuable space in your kitchen. This is particularly advantageous for smaller kitchens where space is at a premium.
Safety: Boiling water taps are designed with safety features to prevent accidents, such as accidental scalding. Many models come with childproof locks or require a specific action, such as pressing and turning simultaneously, to dispense boiling water, reducing the risk of burns.
Versatility: In addition to dispensing boiling water, many boiling water taps also offer options for delivering cold, filtered, or sparkling water, providing added versatility and convenience in the kitchen.
Cons:
Installation Costs: One of the primary drawbacks of boiling water taps is the initial cost of purchase and installation. Boiling water taps can be significantly more expensive than traditional kettles, and installing them may require modifications to your plumbing system, which can add to the overall cost.
Maintenance Requirements: Boiling water taps require regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance and hygiene. Filters need to be replaced periodically, and the tank may need descaling to prevent the buildup of limescale. Failure to maintain the tap properly can result in decreased efficiency and potential health hazards.
Limited Capacity: While boiling water taps offer instant hot water, they typically have a limited capacity compared to traditional kettles. This means that if you need to dispense large volumes of boiling water at once, such as for cooking pasta or filling a large pot, you may need to wait for the tap to reheat between uses.
Potential for Water Wastage: Some users may find that they waste water when using boiling water taps, as it can take a few seconds for the hot water to start flowing. Additionally, if you accidentally dispense more water than you need, you cannot return it to the tank, resulting in wastage.
Risk of Malfunction: Like any mechanical or electrical device, boiling water taps are susceptible to malfunction or breakdown over time. Components such as valves, seals, or heating elements may fail, requiring repairs or replacement, which can be costly and inconvenient.
How do the leading brands compare?
Quooker
Quooker taps offer premium convenience and style, with prices ranging from £1,050 to £2,420 depending on tap style, tank size, and finish. Tap options include various styles, with all models providing cold, hot, and boiling water. Tanks come in sizes suitable for different household needs. Additional filtration options are available, including filters for improved water taste and scale control. Installation by a Quooker-approved engineer is available for £99 per system. Maintenance is minimal, with options for scale control and cleaning vinegar for limescale removal. All Quooker taps come with a two-year warranty covering manufacturing defects.
Qettle
Qettle offers a range of taps starting at £470 for the Qettle Mini, up to £1,125 for the Qettle Signature in various finishes with the largest tank option. Monthly instalments are available to spread the cost. Tap options include 2-in-1 and 4-in-1 models, with tank capacities of 2, 4, or 7 liters. A carbon block filter, priced at £40, needs replacing twice a year for chlorine, chemical, and sediment removal. Installation can be self-done, by a plumber, or a Qettle accredited installer for £260. Maintenance involves annual deep cleaning of the tank, occasional tap cleaning with warm soapy water, and descaling with Kilrock cleaning fluid. No servicing options are available, as the tap and tank are designed for easy self-maintenance.
InSinkErator
InSinkErator taps come in a wide price range, from £270 for the Novara tap to £1,500 for the 4in1 Touch. Tap options include 3-in-1 and 4-in-1 models, with tank capacities of 2.5 liters and two options for heating temperature. Carbon filters are available for soft or hard water, costing £60-78 for a twin pack. Installation can be self-done or by the brand for £180. Maintenance involves replacing filters every 6-8 months, with no regular descaling required. The warranty covers parts and labour for five years, with a 'We Come to You' service provided during the warranty period.
Grohe
Grohe is renowned for its premium hot water taps, with its Red range offering chrome plated taps at £1,155 or stainless steel finishes at £1,300. Tap options are limited, with choices of spout shape and tank sizes: M-size (3 litres) or L-size (5.5 litres). The Grohe Blue S-size filter, priced at £60, is recommended every six months for optimal performance. Installation is advised by a professional, costing £250 for one tap or £350 for two taps in one location. Maintenance involves regular filter changes and cleaning with non-abrasive soap, with an option to purchase GrohClean for limescale removal. Grohe offers a two-year warranty against defects, extendable to three years with registration, but improper installation or maintenance may void the warranty.
Summary
Boiling water taps offer undeniable convenience and efficiency in the kitchen, but their hefty pricetag and ongoing maintenance requirements may give you pause for thought. There are a range of options available, from the relatively affordable options from Qettle and InSinkErator to Quooker's high end, design-led offerings. Ultimately, whether a boiling water tap is right for you depends on your specific needs, and budget.