Buying the best boiling water tap will make everything in your kitchen that little bit easier. Whether it's too cook pasta, top up your cup of tea, or sanitize your kitchen surfaces, boiling water is an essential part of any household. Many depend on a kettle or hot water dispenser to stay on top of their needs, but boiling water taps offer boiling water on demand. All you need to do is get past the in-built safety locks to have a speedy supply of piping hot water, with no wait for the best kettle to boil needed.
When looking for the best hot water taps or boiling water taps, you'll see many of the same brands cropping up time and time again. Quooker, InSinkerator, Franke, Grohe, Fohen, and Qettle all offer a range of models with different styles and designs to complement just about any kitchen.
What's the difference between a boiling water tap and an instant hot water tap?
The difference between an instant hot water tap and a boiling water tap is pretty slight. Put simply, a boiling water tap produces water that's reached 100ºC, while hot water taps tend to hit a maximum of about 98ºC.
Beyond looks though, take into account that not all boiling water taps technically go up to that 100°C temperature, although they all come very close. What they do all do is offer on-demand steaming hot water, and they do this by containing a tank of hot water below your sink so it's available whenever you may need it.
Some boiling water taps describe themselves as three-in-one boiling water taps, meaning they offer all the functions of a regular kitchen tap but with the added mode of boiling water. This means they'll have a hot and cold water side for day-to-day use, as well as a separate way of switching into boiling mode.
This typically is very distinct from the controls for the hot and cold taps, to avoid any confusion and potential safety hazards, and it's also designed to only be switched on with very deliberate safety locks to prevent children from fiddling with the tap and potentially hurting themselves. In fact, while you may have your concerns about the safety of boiling water taps, they are often a lot safer than leaving a kettle or hot water dispenser within reach on your kitchen counter.
Best boiling water tap and hot water tap reviews 2021
Delivering up to eight cups of boiling water at one time, this intelligently named boiling water tap delivers cold water, hot water and water at 100ºC in an instant.
Why we like it
This is probably the best boiling water tap for those who are eco-conscious. When the time comes to change the filter (the LED display on the tap will light up to let you know), it's not only affordable, but the replacement filter cartridges are also recyclable.
What it does well
It'll replace your current kitchen tap, and it has a four litre capacity. Also, if you do happen to drain the four litre boiling water tank, it'll reheat in just 10 minutes. It's safe for those with children as the tap has a safety clip, and the best part is that it costs only 3p a day to run when it's on standby.
What to watch for
You will need to get a plumber to install the Qettle 4-in-1, but with anything involving water that’s probably no bad thing.
This filtered water tap from Insinkerator is a compact and practical solution if you’re after a do-it-all model that won’t be too obtrusive in your kitchen.
Why we like it
The build quality and the overall look and feel of the Insinkerator definitely feels more premium than the price tag.
What it does well
While not a boiling water tap (although at 98ºC, it does get pretty close) the hot and cold functionality of the Insinkerator makes it a valuable, versatile addition sink-side, and the filter makes for a fresher taste, whether you’re enjoying a straight-up glass or a hot drink.
What to watch
The 2.5 litre tank of this Insinkerator filter tap is on the petite side compared to some of our other picks, but if you’ve been frantically doing the maths and worrying about making space for an oversized tank, this might be a good solution.
Aptly named, this boiling water tap from Franke really does seem to do it all. It looks almost like a regular tap design but you soon discover that it’s got lots more going for it...
Why we like it
It’s a surprisingly rare example of a boiling water tap that really delivers on that just-off-the-boil promise with up to 100°C water straight out of the nozzle, and with a large 4ltr+ tank, the water just keeps on coming, perfect for making large pans of pasta and filling sizeable mop buckets.
What it does well
Reviewers loved how foolproof it was: with ergonomic handles for lefties and righties, easy installation, filter change alert lights, splash-proof function and child lock all commended, it looks to be a great all-rounder and the best boiling water tap for big and busy families.
What to watch for
There's only one design available, but it's pretty neutral so we reckon it will suit more households. Apart from that the only thing to overcome is the pretty hefty price tag, but you are buying from a high-quality, experienced brand.
If you don't want a boiling water tap to take the place of your main tap, take a look at the InSinkErator Chrome Effect Filtered Hot Water Tap. It's budget-friendly and has a small 2.5 litre capacity. Perfect for cuppas.
Why we like it
It's not an overly expensive option but the InSinkErator Chrome Effect Filtered Hot Water Tap will sit to the side of your sink in new or existing kitchens.
What it does well
It's a sleek option controlled by a single lever, and easy to differentiate from a main tap and has an auto shut-off lever.
What to watch
It has a smaller capacity and won't take the place of a hot and cold tap, so don't expect to get rid of your old one if you buy this option.
Many of the best boiling water taps look very similar, but the Fohen Flex Matt Black 3-in-1 Instant Boiling Water Tap has a unique industrial-style design.
Why we like it
It has a touch-screen control unit that can go from 75-98°C. It has a child-safe control, where you push down the left handle and twist to start the boiling tap. This is different to the main tap, which is controlled by the right handle.
What it does well
The touch controls are a big win for adjustability.
What to watch
The tap doesn't quite go up to 100°C, but it's not far off.
We love the compact design of this hot water tap, plus we think it's the best boiling water tap if you are looking for a model that allows you to completely control the temperature.
Why we like it
With the ability to dispense up to 100 cups of boiling water an hour, this hot water tap gives you the option to set the temperature to whatever you like, so whether you need it at its hottest for boiling veg or just a little warm for the baby's bottle, it has a setting to suit everyone.
What it does well
The unobtrusive 2.5 litre tank fits easily under a sink to supply water at all temperatures, and all hot water that comes out is filtered, too. For those who are style-conscious, it's available in two shapes and several finishes to complement your kitchen. In terms of safety, it has a push-lever safety mechanism to prevent accidents. Its best quality is by the far its adjustable thermostat, making it the best boiling water tap for temperature control.
What to watch for
Reviewers mentioned that it could be quite slow at dispensing larger quantities of water, so just be aware of that if you are going to be using it frequently for cooking. Although obviously it's still going to be quicker than boiling a full kettle.
A super-safe hot water tap that boasts a stylish design and great build quality, the Grohe Red Duo deserves a spot in our round up of the best boiling water taps.
Why we like it
We liked that you can choose from either a 3 litre or 5.5 litre boiler, depending on requirements. You will, however, need space in your kitchen cupboard to allow for this to be installed.
What it does well
Available in four different designs, the Red Mixer Tap from Grohe makes both a stylish and functional addition to a modern kitchen. Two-step, child-safe activation and a release-to-stop model makes it one of the safest options available on the market and therefore perfect for a family home, while the option for an integrated hot and cold tap for make it the perfect replacement for a standard kitchen tap.
What to watch for
This can be an issue with a lot of boiling water taps, but reviewers did note that despite the insulated sides, parts of the tap did get hot to the touch.
This boiling water tap from Carron Phoenix is a sleek new tap that not only dispenses 98⁰C hot water, but also hot and cold water, all from one single tap.
Why we like it
Cleanliness. Thanks to its water conditioning filter, your hot water will always be free of sediment, odour and any unwanted particles.
What it does well
Its available in a chrome finish, the tap features a timeless swan-neck design to suit a wide range of kitchen styles. In terms of safety, it has a cool-touch spout and features a push-and-twist operation to protect against accidental activation of the steaming hot water function. Its 2.4 litre tank can sit neatly in a cupboard under the sink and, for a 3-in-1 tap with a built-in filter, the price tag is pretty low, sitting in the £500 bracket.
What to watch for
It is a little slow at dispensing large quantities of water in one go and a few reviewers mentioned that the temperature didn't quite reach boiling. Also, it sometimes spits in use and parts of the tap get hot to the touch.
Ideal for those who want a boiling water tap which looks good, but still want it to be safe around the kids and of course, practical; this is is definitely one of the best boiling water taps you can buy.
Why we like it
As with all Quooker boiling water taps, you can choose your tank size depending on your personal usage, and you can select add-ons like a soap dispenser, scale control and a mounting bracket.
Quooker, also, does not use boiler technology, but instead uses a unique patented vacuum flask tank, which holds water under pressure at 110°C, so that it is dispensed at a consistent true 100°C boiling.
What it does well
It has a childproof double push and turn switch, and delivers boiling water in an aerated spray to avoid any accidents. There's also a cold filtered drinking water option, and our favourite part is the red warning light ring which illuminates when boiling water is heating up or being dispensed.
What to watch for
Not necessarily something that should put you off, but do bear in mind that Quooker taps are expensive. Prices for the Fusion start from £1,150. Quooker also provides a single boiling water tap which starts at £950. You can also opt for a Combi tank which mixes boiling and cold to provide ordinary hot water, supplying all temperatures from just one cold feed.
What we look for in the best boiling water tap and hot water tap
Where to buy the best boiling water tap
In this expert guide we have scoured the web and our favourite retailers to bring you, what we think, are the best boiling water taps and hot water taps on the market for 2021. We've donned our appliance hats to compare the manufacturing quality, ease of installation, add-on availability, safety features, appearance, the size and the price – all the important elements – so, essentially, you don't have to spend your precious minutes, hours and days looking for the best option because we've done all the leg work for you.
How to choose the best boiling water tap and hot water tap
So you've honed in on the best boiling water tap or hot water tap for the household, but there a few things now to consider on how to actually get it into the home.
Installation
The latest boiling water taps don't just dispense instant hot water – they deliver mains hot and cold water, too. Although they can be retro-fitted, a boiling water or instant hot water tap is a high price tag item that's probably best installed alongside a brand new kitchen, especially as you have to factor in the space beneath the sink for the tank, which can range from two litres to 11 litres (bear in mind that most kettles have a capacity of around 1.7 litres).
If you are going from two pillar taps to one boiling water tap, you will need a replacement kitchen sink with just one hole but if this is too much of a faff the it would be worth seeking the best hot water dispenser as a freestanding alternative.
- Got questions? This guide was written with you in mind: the pros and cons of boiling water taps
Temperature: why are some called boiling water and some called hot water taps?
While instant hot water taps are often referred to as boiling water taps, most boiling water taps might boil the water to 100ºC, but it's delivered at 98°C (many have adjustable temperature settings). There are only a few taps that truly deliver boiling water.
Filters
Look out for designs that come with a filter to purify the water before it enters the boiler tank. This will not only remove prevent limescale build-up in the tank, but it will also make the water taste better.
Price: How much does a hot water tap cost?
Boiling water taps and hot water taps and boiler tanks are not exactly 'cheap' by anyone's budget with prices starting from around £500. You'll then need a plumber to install the tap in the same way that they would any tap (although admittedly with more connections to filters and boiler tanks); the boiler tank often comes with a standard 13 amp plug that goes straight into the wall next to it. This means that these instant hot water taps are a real investment, and is one which needs to be carefully thought out.
Running costs
Aside from the initial upfront costs, you'll need to have a think about the general running costs to see if it will save you money in the long run and know what to expect when your monthly energy bills land.
While a kettle costs around 2.5p per boil, Quooker says that their boiling water taps cost just 3p per day to run on standby. Although it does look more pricey from the outset, if you tend to boil your kettle several time throughout the day – in the morning, in the afternoon and just before bed, for example – then you could save save a few pennies at the end of each month.
How to keep your boiling water tap in top condition
Not only can the tap make tea and coffee in an instant, it also saves precious kitchen space, helps to cut down on single-use plastic, and it can save you money in the long run – at the same time as being an effortlessly stylish addition to the home.
However – in order for you and your family to enjoy the benefits of a Boiling Water Tap for many years to come, taking care of it once it has been installed is essential.
By changing the filter every six months, your boiling water tap will deliver the highest quality drinking water, completely protected from limescale build-ups.
Replacement filters can be bought from the retailer website. The replacement filters are a breeze to install, and some brands such as INTU boiling water taps even come with a filter recognition system that lets you know exactly when it’s ready to be replaced.
Keeping the tap clean is just as easy as keeping your kitchen free from germs. Using a soft cloth, clean the tap with warm water and a mild detergent solution, and afterward rinse the tap thoroughly with warm water.
Make sure not to use any abrasive or harsh chemical products, as they could damage the tap’s finish and invalidate your guarantee.
What is the best boiling water tap or hot water tap?
To recap...if you are after what gets the Real Homes vote for the best boiling water tap, we recommend you buy the Quooker Fusion. It is a stylish – and child friendly – design, and has great functionality. Also suitable for use as a regular hot and cold tap, this piece of kit will replace the kettle and revolutionise your current sink set-up.
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