Instant Hot Water Tap Installation & Repair

The efficiency of instant hot water taps depends on how you use them compared to a kettle. Here’s a breakdown:

Advantages:

• Heat only what you need: Unlike a kettle that heats a full pot, instant taps only heat the amount of water dispensed, reducing wasted energy.
• Minimal heat loss: The reservoir is close to the tap, minimizing heat loss during travel.
• Standby mode: Many taps have an eco mode that reduces energy consumption when not actively used.

Disadvantages:

• Constant heating: The reservoir maintains hot water, using a small amount of energy continuously.
• High initial cost: Instant taps are more expensive than kettles.

Overall:

• If you frequently use boiling water throughout the day, an instant hot tap can be more efficient than a kettle.
• For occasional use, a kettle might be more cost-effective.

The running cost of instant hot water taps can be a double-edged sword, depending on your usage:

• Low usage: If you only use boiling water occasionally, a kettle might be cheaper. Instant taps constantly maintain hot water, using a small amount of energy even when not actively dispensing.

• Frequent usage: For those who regularly use boiling water for tea, coffee, pasta, or other hot drinks and meals, an instant tap can be more cost-effective. They heat only the amount needed, eliminating wasted energy from reheating a full kettle multiple times a day.

Some things to remember when drinking hot water from the tap;

• Hot water heaters: Hot water heaters can harbour bacteria like Legionella if not properly maintained. This bacteria is more likely to grow in hot water environments.
• Plumbing: Hot water pipes can leach lead or other metals into the water, especially in older buildings.

While the risk might be low, it’s generally recommended to not rely solely on hot tap water for drinking.

Here are some safer options:

• Cold tap water: This is the safest option for drinking. You can chill it in the fridge for a refreshing drink.
• Boil tap water: If you’re concerned about potential bacteria in the hot water system, bring cold tap water to a boil for at least 1 minute to kill any bacteria.

If you’re unsure about the safety of your hot water or have concerns about your plumbing, it’s always best to give us a call to see if we can point you in the right direction.

The lifespan of a hot water tap itself, separate from the hot water heater it’s connected to, is generally quite long. Most well-maintained taps can last anywhere from 15 to 20 years or even longer.

Consider getting an instant hot water tap if:

• You frequently use boiling water: If you constantly make tea, coffee, sterilize baby bottles, or cook pasta, the convenience of instant hot water can be a timesaver.
• Value convenience: Boiling water on demand eliminates waiting for a kettle to heat up.
• Appreciate a clean countertop: Instant taps declutter your bench space compared to having a kettle out.
• Your budget allows for the initial investment: While more expensive than a kettle upfront, instant taps can be cost-effective in the long run for frequent users.

An instant hot water tap might not be ideal if:

• You rarely use boiling water: A kettle might be more cost-effective for occasional use.
• Concerned about running costs: If you’re on a tight budget and prioritise minimising energy use, a kettle might be better.
• Have lead pipes or concerns about hot water safety: Opt for cold tap water or boiled tap water for drinking.