Should You Turn Off Your Boiling Water Tap? Here's What You Should Know
Boiling water taps are fast becoming a staple in Irish kitchens — and it’s easy to see why. From quick morning coffees to cutting down cooking times, they bring a level of speed and simplicity that traditional kettles just can’t match.
But a common question among new owners is whether you should turn your boiling water tap off when it's not in use. In this guide, we’ll explain when it’s a good idea to switch it off — and when you’re better off leaving it running.
Is It Necessary to Turn Off Your Boiling Water Tap?
In short: most of the time, no.
Boiling water taps are designed to be energy-efficient by maintaining a consistent water temperature inside their tanks. In fact, shutting your tap off and letting the tank cool completely means it’ll have to work harder — and use more electricity — to heat back up again.
However, there are a few exceptions where switching off makes sense:
- You're going away for an extended break (a week or longer)
- The tap's tank is located somewhere prone to freezing conditions
Outside of these scenarios, you can leave your boiling water tap on without worry. And if you're concerned about safety, it’s reassuring to know that our systems are fitted with advanced monitoring that automatically powers down the tank if it detects an issue. For a full breakdown of boiling water tap safety, see this article.
What Makes Boiling Water Taps So Popular?
Imagine never having to wait around for a kettle again. With a boiling water tap installed, hot water is instantly available — perfect for busy households, coffee addicts, or anyone who loves to cook.
Beyond their sheer convenience, boiling taps also bring a touch of modern style to the kitchen, with sleek finishes and space-saving designs. Most models also come with built-in safety mechanisms like childproof locks and adjustable temperature settings, offering peace of mind as well as practicality.
Everyday Benefits of a Boiling Water Tap
The advantages of a boiling water tap go far beyond making tea faster. They also make cooking easier — whether it’s blanching vegetables, speeding up pasta preparation, or rinsing dishes with hot water.
And with models like our 4-in-1 Quanta offering chilled, filtered drinking water straight from the same system, it’s a brilliant all-round solution for the modern kitchen. Crisp cold water and steaming hot water from a single tap? You’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.
How Much Does It Cost to Run a Boiling Water Tap?
You might assume that having instant hot water would send your electricity bills soaring — but actually, the running costs are surprisingly low. Most boiling taps cost between 4 and 10 cents a day to operate, meaning you’re looking at a monthly cost of just €1–€4. In many homes, that’s about the same (or even less) than repeatedly boiling a kettle.
Plus, you could see a saving on your hob use too, since you won’t need to heat large pots of water as often. A boiling tap’s built-in tank stores enough hot water for cooking, cleaning, and endless cups of tea.
Safety First: What You Should Know
While boiling water taps are packed with safety features, it’s still important to treat them with the same caution you would any other hot appliance.
Hot water can cause burns if misused — but you’ll be reassured to know our taps include insulated spouts, child safety locks, and automatic shut-off functions. These clever design features help minimise risks without compromising on the convenience you love.
Tips for Looking After Your Boiling Water Tap
Boiling water taps are built for daily use — but a little regular care will keep them performing at their best.
Here’s how to look after yours:
- Check fittings every so often to ensure everything stays tightly connected
- Change the water filter roughly every six months to keep water tasting fresh and avoid limescale buildup
- Clean the tap body gently with a mild detergent and soft cloth — no harsh chemicals needed
- Avoid abrasive sponges or strong cleaning agents that could damage the finish
With these easy steps, your tap will keep delivering instant hot water reliably for years to come.
Looking to find out more about the benefits of boiling water taps? See our ultimate guide or explore our range and discover how quickly one can transform your kitchen routine.
