From the classic kettle to the sleek boiling water tap, choosing the right appliance for your perfect cup of tea can be surprisingly tricky. While boiling taps are a more premium investment, their efficiency and convenience might just make them worth the cost. If you're weighing up which option suits your kitchen best, this guide will help you decide.
Although both appliances serve the same purpose (heating water) they do so in very different ways, each with its own pros and cons.
For most households, the kettle is a familiar and affordable choice. Depending on the brand and features, a decent electric kettle will cost between £30 and £100. According to a 2014 study by The Telegraph, the daily running cost was around 5.64p, using approximately 0.45kWh of energy per hour. With an average capacity of 1.5 litres, the cost per litre worked out at roughly 1.66p, assuming efficient use.
Kettles are quick, portable, and require no installation – just plug in and go. However, they lose heat rapidly after boiling, wasting up to 25% of the energy used. Overfilling is another common issue. A standard mug holds about 325ml, yet many people fill the kettle to the top for just one cup. Data from GetWaterFit shows that over 40% of UK households fill their kettles half-full or more every time, leading to unnecessary water and energy waste.
Boiling taps are a more substantial investment, typically costing between £200 and £800. But they come with a host of benefits. The same Telegraph study found that boiling taps cost less to run daily – around 5.27p – and use just 0.1666kWh of energy per hour. With an average capacity of 41 litres, the cost per litre drops to just 1p.
Boiling taps are more energy-efficient, heating only the water you need and delivering it instantly. While the upfront cost is higher, the long-term savings and convenience can make it a worthwhile upgrade.
Unlike kettles, boiling taps need to be professionally installed. They function like standard taps but dispense boiling water on demand. A tank fitted under the sink connects to your water supply and mains electricity, heating and storing water at your chosen temperature.
Installation should be done by a qualified plumber, who can ensure there's enough space under the sink for the tank and that a suitable power source is available. Many boiling taps are designed to sit neatly on your worktop, offering a streamlined, modern look.
Despite the name, boiling taps are often safer than kettles. Many models include child-safety features such as cool-touch exteriors and safety locks to prevent accidental use.
Boiling taps use a small amount of energy to maintain temperature, but they’re still more efficient than kettles – especially when you consider how often kettles are overfilled. Insulated tanks allow boiling taps to produce up to 25 cups per hour, and you only use what you need. Switching off the tap overnight can also help save energy.
Higher-end models can improve the taste of your water, particularly in hard water areas. Some taps include filtration systems to remove impurities and soften the water. To manage limescale, you may need a control unit or descaling solution – just be sure it’s compatible with your tap’s materials.
Modern boiling taps also offer adjustable temperature settings, and some even come with touchscreen controls. With a wide range of finishes available, you can easily match your tap to your kitchen’s style.
While kettles are convenient and budget-friendly, boiling taps offer long-term benefits in terms of energy efficiency, convenience, and style. If you're looking to upgrade your kitchen and reduce your environmental impact, a boiling tap could be a smart investment.
Interested in more water-saving tips? Visit https://getwaterfit.co.uk and complete the easy actions for the chance to earn rewards for your water saving.
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