An instant boiling water tap can provide near-instant access to hot or boiling water without waiting for a kettle to boil. For a home kitchen, office, café, showroom or workplace, it can make preparing tea, coffee and hot drinks much quicker.
However, installing a boiling water tap is more involved than simply replacing a standard kitchen tap. The system normally requires a suitable tap, under-counter boiling water tank, mains water connection, filtration, electrical supply and enough cupboard space.
Coffeeology supplies a range of instant tap systems for commercial and workplace environments, including AA First and Billi models. Its current collection includes the AA First G400 Instant Tap, AA First EZT7800, Billi Quadra XL and Billi Sahara Boiling & Ambient XL.
Before buying an instant boiling water tap, it is therefore worth checking what your existing plumbing, electrics and kitchen or workplace space can accommodate.
What Is an Instant Boiling Water Tap?
An instant boiling water tap is a plumbed-in water system that heats and stores water in an insulated tank beneath the worktop. Depending on the model, the tap can provide boiling, hot, ambient, chilled or filtered water.
Unlike a conventional kettle, the system does not require you to fill and switch on a kettle each time you want hot water. The heating tank maintains a supply of heated water ready for use.
The exact configuration varies between manufacturers and models. Some systems provide boiling and ambient water, while more advanced units can also provide chilled, filtered or sparkling water.
This distinction is important when choosing a system because an instant boiling water tap is not necessarily the same as an instant hot water tap or a boiling and chilled water tap.
What Do You Need to Install an Instant Boiling Water Tap?
The exact requirements depend on the model, but a typical installation needs:
- A suitable instant boiling water tap
- An under-counter boiling water tank
- A suitable mains cold water supply
- Appropriate water filtration
- Adequate water pressure
- A suitable electrical supply
- Accessible cupboard space
- Appropriate plumbing connections
- Suitable drainage or waste arrangements where specified
- A qualified installer
The manufacturer's installation instructions should always take priority because electrical loads, water-pressure requirements, tank dimensions and connection arrangements differ between products.
For example, Franke's current Maris Water Hub requires a minimum water pressure of 1 bar, has a 35 mm tap-hole requirement and uses a 220–240 V electrical supply, while its maximum power consumption varies by model.
Quooker installation criteria, meanwhile, specify a 13-amp power socket, waste and water supplies, with the required services positioned within 50 cm of the intended installation location for its specified installations.
That is why there is no single set of measurements or electrical requirements that applies to every boiling water tap.
1. An Instant Boiling Water Tap
The first requirement is obviously the tap itself, but choosing the correct model is more important than simply choosing a design you like.
Consider what water you actually need:
- Boiling water only
- Boiling and ambient water
- Boiling, hot and cold water
- Filtered drinking water
- Chilled water
- Sparkling water
Coffeeology's current instant tap collection includes systems aimed at different commercial requirements, including the AA First G400, AA First EZT7800, Billi Quadra XL and Billi Sahara Boiling & Ambient XL.
For a busy workplace, for example, capacity and recovery time may matter more than the appearance of the tap. For a smaller installation, cupboard dimensions and available electrical connections may be more important.
2. An Under-Counter Boiling Water Tank
Most plumbed-in boiling water tap systems use a heating tank installed beneath the worktop.
This tank heats the incoming water and maintains the required temperature so that hot water can be delivered when the tap is activated.
Before installation, measure the cupboard carefully. You need enough room for:
- The boiling water tank
- Filter cartridge and housing
- Water connections
- Electrical connection
- Flexible hoses
- Ventilation where required
- Access for future maintenance
Do not assume that an apparently large cupboard will be suitable. Tanks can be surprisingly tall or deep.
For example, Franke lists different dimensions for its Water Hub systems, while Quooker specifies dedicated clearance requirements for several of its tank and accessory configurations.
3. A Mains Cold Water Connection
A plumbed-in boiling water tap needs an appropriate cold mains water supply.
The installer will normally connect the system to the existing cold-water pipework beneath the sink or worktop. An isolation valve should also be accessible so the water supply can be shut off when servicing the system.
The exact connection size depends on the product. For example, Franke lists a 3/8-inch water supply hose connection on several current Water Hub models.
Your installer should check the existing plumbing rather than assuming that the current pipework will automatically be compatible.
4. The Correct Water Pressure
Water pressure is one of the most commonly overlooked installation requirements.
A boiling water tap needs sufficient pressure for the system to operate correctly. Too little pressure can affect flow and performance, while excessive pressure can require additional control equipment.
The required pressure varies by manufacturer and model.
For example, Franke specifies a minimum of 1 bar for its Maris and Mythos Water Hub systems, with a maximum of 5 bar.
Quooker's published installation criteria specify a minimum hot and cold water pressure of 2 bar for the relevant installation configuration.
This is why checking the pressure before purchasing is sensible. Franke also recommends that the installer or plumber checks household water pressure before selecting a tap.
If the pressure is too low, a suitable booster pump may need to be considered. If it is too high, the system may require a pressure-reducing valve, depending on the manufacturer's instructions.
5. A Suitable Electrical Supply
Because an instant boiling water tap heats water electrically, you also need an appropriate electrical connection.
This is one area where installation should not be based on assumptions.
Different systems have different power requirements. Franke, for example, lists 220–240 V operation and models with maximum power consumption such as 1,650 W or higher.
Some systems use a fused plug, while the precise installation arrangement depends on the product.
Electrical Safety First advises that electrical appliances such as hot water dispensers should be connected safely and warns that high-powered appliances can overload extension leads. It also recommends RCD protection and following the manufacturer's instructions.
Do not use an extension lead as a substitute for an appropriate electrical installation.
If a new electrical supply or circuit is required, use a suitably qualified electrician.
6. Adequate Cupboard Space
One of the biggest practical considerations is space beneath the sink.
A boiling water tap installation can occupy significantly more space than a conventional tap because the system may include a tank and filter housing.
Before ordering, measure:
Cupboard height + cupboard width + cupboard depth
Then compare those measurements with the manufacturer's installation requirements.
Also consider whether you will still be able to access:
- The isolation valve
- Electrical socket or connection
- Filter cartridge
- Tank controls
- Flexible hoses
- Service components
Quooker, for example, publishes specific clearance requirements for its tanks and accessories, while Franke provides individual tank dimensions for its Water Hub systems.
A technically compatible tap can still be unsuitable if there is not enough accessible space for installation and servicing.
7. A Water Filter
Many boiling water systems incorporate a water filter.
Filtration can improve water taste and, depending on the system, help manage minerals and limescale that can affect the equipment.
The filter requirements vary considerably between products. Franke's Maris Water Hub, for example, uses an advanced filter incorporating ion-exchange technology to help with limescale and mineral build-up.
Filter replacement is also part of ongoing ownership.
Franke states that its Maris and Mythos Water Hub filter cartridges have a maximum replacement interval of 12 months, although water hardness and the specific product should always be considered.
If you live in a hard-water area, ask the installer or manufacturer which filtration system is appropriate.
8. The Correct Tap Hole
Your worktop or sink needs an appropriate opening for the tap.
This is often straightforward when replacing an existing compatible kitchen tap, but it should still be checked before installation.
For example, several Franke Water Hub models use a 35 mm tap hole.
If a new hole needs to be drilled into a worktop, the material matters. Natural stone, quartz, ceramic and some composite worktops may require specialist equipment and should not be drilled without confirming the correct procedure.
9. Plumbing and Isolation Valves
The installer needs access to the existing plumbing beneath the sink.
The installation may require suitable:
- Isolation valves
- Connectors
- Flexible hoses
- T-pieces or adapters
- Pressure-control equipment
- Filter connections
- Waste connections where applicable
The exact components should be based on the installation kit supplied or specified by the manufacturer.
Do not substitute random plumbing components simply because they appear to fit. Water fittings that form part of a drinking-water supply need to comply with the applicable requirements.
10. A Qualified Installer
Installing a boiling water tap involves both plumbing and electrical considerations, so professional installation is generally the sensible option.
The plumbing work should be completed by someone competent with drinking-water systems, while any required electrical work should be undertaken by a suitably qualified electrician.
The Drinking Water Inspectorate recommends using a WaterSafe-approved plumber for plumbing work involving drinking-water systems.
For electrical work, Electrical Safety First recommends using a registered electrician and explains the role of competent-person schemes and electrical certification.
For commercial premises, the installation may also need to take account of the building's existing electrical capacity, plumbing arrangements and workplace requirements.
Do You Need a Separate Boiler for an Instant Boiling Water Tap?
Usually, no separate domestic hot-water boiler is required for the boiling function.
The boiling water system has its own under-counter heating tank. The tap is connected to the tank and dispenses the heated water when required.
However, the exact setup depends on the product.
Some multifunction systems also connect to the existing hot and cold water supplies to provide conventional hot and cold water through the same tap. Others may be designed around a cold mains supply.
For example, Quooker's published installation criteria state that its COMBI configuration requires only a cold-water supply, whereas other configurations require hot and cold supplies.
Always check the individual product specification before planning the pipework.
Can You Install a Boiling Water Tap Yourself?
It is technically possible for someone with the appropriate plumbing and electrical competence to carry out parts of an installation, but a boiling water tap should not be treated like an ordinary tap replacement.
There are water, electrical, pressure and scalding risks to consider.
The manufacturer may also specify that installation must be completed by a qualified professional. Franke's installation documentation, for example, states that installation should be carried out by a suitably qualified professional and comply with applicable UK requirements.
For a commercial installation, professional fitting is particularly important because the system may be used frequently by employees, customers or visitors.
What Should You Check Before the Installer Arrives?
A little preparation can make the installation much easier.
Check the following before ordering:
-
Measure the cupboard
Record the available height, width and depth beneath the sink. -
Check the water supply
Make sure an appropriate cold mains connection is available. -
Check water pressure
Ask the plumber to measure the pressure if you are unsure. -
Check the tap hole
Confirm that the existing hole matches the new tap or establish whether a new one is required. -
Check electrical access
Confirm that the required electrical supply is available in a suitable position. -
Check filter access
Make sure there will be enough room to replace the cartridge. -
Check the manufacturer's installation requirements
Use the exact instructions for the model you are buying.
How Long Does an Instant Boiling Water Tap Take to Install?
The installation time depends on the existing plumbing, electrical supply, tap hole, cupboard layout and system complexity.
A straightforward replacement can be relatively quick when all services are already available in the correct locations.
Installation can take longer if:
- A new electrical supply is needed.
- A new tap hole needs to be created.
- Plumbing needs to be modified.
- Water pressure needs correcting.
- Additional filtration is required.
- The cupboard needs modification.
- The installation is part of a wider kitchen refurbishment.
It is therefore better to assess the installation requirements before purchasing the system rather than assuming every tap can be fitted in the same way.
How Much Space Does an Instant Boiling Water Tap Need?
There is no universal cupboard size.
The required space depends on the boiling water tank, filter, accessories and tap configuration.
As an example, Franke publishes tank dimensions for its Water Hub systems, while Quooker provides separate clearance requirements for different tank and accessory combinations.
When planning a new kitchen or workplace installation, allow enough room not just for the equipment but also for servicing and filter replacement.
This is particularly important because filling the cupboard with cleaning products, bins or other equipment can make future maintenance unnecessarily difficult.
What Are the Most Common Instant Boiling Water Tap Installation Problems?
Many installation problems can be avoided by checking the requirements beforehand.
Insufficient Water Pressure
Low pressure can cause poor flow or unsatisfactory operation. The minimum requirement varies between models.
Insufficient Cupboard Space
The tank may physically fit but leave insufficient clearance for connections or filter replacement.
No Suitable Electrical Supply
The existing socket may not be appropriate for the selected system or may be poorly positioned.
Incorrect Tap Hole
The worktop opening may not match the tap specification.
Poor Ventilation
Some systems require appropriate ventilation around the tank. Franke's installation guidance, for example, specifies that the cabinet should be adequately ventilated.
Switching the System on Before It Is Filled
This is an important safety point.
Franke's installation instructions state that power should only be switched on once installation is complete and the tank is full of water.
Following the manufacturer's sequence helps prevent avoidable problems during commissioning.
Is an Instant Boiling Water Tap Suitable for a Workplace?
An instant boiling water tap can be particularly useful where tea, coffee and hot drinks are prepared frequently.
Coffeeology's range is focused heavily on commercial and workplace equipment, including instant taps alongside coffee machines, water coolers, filters and fixing kits.
For a workplace, consider more than just the initial installation.
Think about:
- Number of daily users
- Peak demand
- Tank capacity
- Recovery time
- Filtration
- Maintenance access
- Filter replacement
- Water pressure
- Electrical capacity
- Available cupboard space
A system that works well for a small office may not be appropriate for a large workplace with heavy daily demand.
Instant Boiling Water Tap vs Kettle
The biggest difference is convenience and system design.
A kettle heats a relatively small quantity of water when switched on. An instant boiling water system uses a dedicated tank connected to the mains supply and keeps heated water available.
A boiling water tap can therefore make sense where hot water is needed repeatedly throughout the day.
However, the purchase and installation costs are higher than those of a standard kettle. The system also needs filters, servicing and electricity, depending on the model.
The right choice depends on usage rather than simply assuming that one option is always better.
Does an Instant Boiling Water Tap Need Maintenance?
Yes.
Regular maintenance helps keep the system working correctly and can reduce problems caused by limescale, filters and general wear.
Maintenance requirements vary by manufacturer, but may include:
- Replacing water filters
- Checking connections
- Cleaning the tap
- Checking the tank
- Inspecting hoses
- Checking water pressure
- Servicing the system where recommended
Filter replacement is especially important for systems with integrated filtration. Franke recommends replacement of its relevant Water Hub cartridges within a maximum 12-month period.
For a busy commercial environment, a planned maintenance schedule is more practical than waiting for a problem to develop.
Choosing the Right Instant Boiling Water Tap for Your Business
The best system is not necessarily the most expensive one.
Start with the actual requirements of your site.
If you need boiling and ambient water, a simpler system may be sufficient. If you need boiling, chilled, filtered and sparkling water, a more advanced water hub may make more sense.
For commercial users, also consider:
- Usage: How many people will use the tap each day?
- Demand: How much boiling water is required during peak periods?
- Space: Can the tank and filtration system fit beneath the worktop?
- Water: Is the pressure suitable?
- Power: Can the existing electrical installation support the system?
- Maintenance: Can staff or engineers easily access the filter and tank?
Coffeeology currently offers four instant tap products, including AA First and Billi systems, giving businesses different configurations and price points to consider.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do instant boiling water taps need electricity?
Yes. The heating tank requires an electrical supply. The exact voltage, power consumption and connection method depend on the model.
Do boiling water taps need a water filter?
Many systems use a filter, although the exact arrangement depends on the model. Filtration can help improve water taste and manage limescale.
Do I need high water pressure for a boiling water tap?
Not necessarily. Requirements vary. Some systems operate from around 1 bar, while others specify higher minimum pressure. Always check the manufacturer's requirements.
Can a boiling water tap replace a normal kitchen tap?
Some multifunction models can provide conventional hot and cold water as well as boiling water. Others are designed for specific hot, boiling or ambient configurations. Check the product specification before choosing.
Does an instant boiling water tap need a boiler?
The boiling function normally uses its own under-counter heating tank rather than relying on a separate household boiler.
How much cupboard space does a boiling water tap need?
There is no standard size. Check the dimensions of the selected tank, filter and accessories before installation.
Can an instant boiling water tap be installed in an office?
Yes, provided the selected system is suitable for the environment and the required plumbing, electrical supply, water pressure and space are available. Coffeeology's current instant tap range includes products aimed at commercial use.
Is professional installation recommended?
Yes. A boiling water tap combines plumbing, electricity and very hot water. Using competent professionals reduces installation and safety risks and helps ensure the system follows the manufacturer's requirements.
Ready to Plan Your Instant Boiling Water Tap Installation?
Installing an instant boiling water tap requires more planning than fitting a conventional kitchen tap. The key checks are water supply, water pressure, electrical capacity, tap-hole size, cupboard space, filtration and access for maintenance.
The most important step is to select the system first and then work from its exact installation requirements. Specifications vary considerably between manufacturers, so generic installation advice should never replace the instructions supplied with the chosen model.
For businesses considering a commercial water solution, Coffeeology's instant tap range includes AA First and Billi systems in different configurations.