Kitchen design
Boiling Water Taps: Are They Worth It?
How boiling water taps work, the space and running costs to plan for, safety features, and who they really suit.
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A boiling water tap gives near-boiling water instantly from a tank under the sink, so you can make tea or fill a pan without waiting for the kettle. They are popular in new kitchens, but they are a big purchase and are not for everyone.
Where to buy
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Types
| Type | Gives | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Boiling only | A separate small tap for boiling water | Keep your existing mixer tap |
| 3-in-1 | Hot, cold and boiling from one tap | Replaces your mixer tap |
| 4-in-1 | Adds filtered cold water | Filters need replacing |
| Add-ons | Chilled or sparkling water | Extra tank and cost |
What to plan for
- Cupboard space: the tank sits in the cupboard under the sink and takes a fair amount of space.
- Power: the tank needs a nearby socket and keeps water hot all the time, which uses some energy on standby. Most have an eco or timer mode.
- Limescale: in hard-water areas a filter protects the tank and needs replacing regularly.
- Installation: usually by a plumber, sometimes included by the maker.
Safety
Boiling water scalds instantly. Look for a child-resistant handle (usually push-and-turn), an insulated spout that stays cool, and a flow that is aerated or slowed so it does not splash.
Who they suit
Busy households that make many hot drinks or cook a lot of pasta and vegetables. If you boil a kettle a few times a day, a good kettle is far cheaper. Choosing the main tap? See our kitchen taps guide.
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Frequently asked questions
Are boiling water taps safe with children?
Most have child-resistant handles that need a push-and-turn action, and insulated spouts. They still deliver scalding water, so supervise children and keep the lock on.
Do boiling water taps use a lot of electricity?
The tank keeps water hot all the time, so there is some standby use. Eco and timer modes reduce it. Check the standby figure in the specification.
Can I fit a boiling water tap myself?
It is usually a job for a plumber, as it involves the water supply and a tank under the sink. Some makers include installation.