Troubleshooting Your Boiling Water Tap

Boiling water taps are some of the most advanced appliances you can have in your kitchen, and issues with them are often few and far between. Whether you're using a tap bought from us, Hot Water Taps, or from another brand like Franke, Quooker or Insinkerator, if you're experiencing issues with your boiling water tap, read on for our top troubleshooting suggestions:

The water isn't hot when using the boiling water function

If you're running your boiling tap and the water temperature is lower than before, check for these common issues:

1. The tank is not plugged into the mains socket properly. Try switching it off, removing the plug and plugging it back in. Check for any damage or leaks around the socket.
2. The temperature is set too low on the boiler. Check the temperature that has been set on the touch-screen control and turn it up if it's set to a lower temperature.

The flow of water seems restricted

If the water pressure seems to have reduced or the water is running slowly, check for these common issues:

1. The pipes are pinched, squeezed, bent or squashed. Make sure all of the cables and pipes are free from physical obstructions and there are no visible signs of tears.
2. The water pressure has dropped. Check the water pressure on the pressure gauge. The operating pressure for our taps is between 0.5 to 5.0 bar - if your pressure is below or over you should consult a plumber before attempting to use the tap again. The operating pressures for hot water taps of other brands may be different - consult the manufacturer's instructions to find this information.
3. The water filter needs replacing. Check if the filter needs replacing. It is normally every six months but our tank includes patented technology that measures the water that passes through it to ensure you're notified in time. You should see a red light and also receive a reminder email from us telling you that it is time to change your filter. You can buy replacement filters here or learn how to replace your filter here.

The tap is spitting or dripping water when not in use:

If your hot water tap is spitting or dripping boiling, chilled, hot or cold water when it's not in use, it's probably caused by one of the following:

1. There's a restriction in the tubes. Check that the tubes aren't pinched, kinked or squeezed in any way.
2. There's air trapped in the system. Run the tap until the boiler has emptied to expel any air pockets. If this does not work, you may need to replace the boiler tank.

The tap is spitting or dripping water when in use:

If there are issues with spitting or dripping water when you are using your boiling water tap, it could be caused by any of these reasons:

1. There's air trapped in the system. Run the tap until the boiler has emptied to expel any air pockets. If this does not work, you may need to replace the boiler.
2. The temperature of your boiler is too high. Check the temperature on the boiler tank and reduce it slightly to see if it fixes the problem. Seek a specialist if you think the temperature settings aren't working - customers can get in touch with our team here.
3. The water pressure is too high. The operating pressure for our taps is between 0.5 to 5.0 bar - if your water pressure falls outside of these parameters you should adjust it (with the help of a plumber if necessary) before trying to operate the tap.

There's water in the cabinet where my boiler is stored:

If there's water in your cabinet, we suggest first switching off any plugs/sockets until you have identified the cause of the problem. Here are some of the most common causes:

1. There are loose connections. Check the water supply lines, filters, adapters and tank connections under your sink for any loose parts. If you find them, tighten them with the appropriate tool or replace them if they are worn.
2. A leaking tank. If your boiler tank is leaking, we recommend replacing it. If your 2-year warranty is valid we can send you a replacement.
3. A leaking tap. If the tap is leaking, you should check the attached cables and pipes to see if they are damaged or loose. If you see the former, you may need to replace it. If you see the latter, tighten the connections.

My boiling water tap is not dispensing water:

If there is no flow of water when you operate the tap, this is commonly due to:

1. A blocked filter. Check if the filter needs to be replaced (usually every 6 months). A light should appear on your boiling water tank when it is time to be replaced.
2. A problem with the water supply. Check the other water functions on your tap, plus other taps in your home. Look at the pipes and connections and ensure there are no kinks or leaks.
3. The boiling water tank is not switched on. This could be because the socket itself isn't turned on, or isn't functioning properly. When switched on, the boiler tank's touch-screen display should light up, and you will be able to change the settings. If you believe the socket is the issue, consult an electrician or use an alternative if one is available.

Installing a boiling water tap and maintaining it afterwards are both fairly simple tasks and rarely cause serious problems. However, if your issue isn't covered here or the steps followed haven't worked, please get in touch to speak with a member of our team. If you are concerned about possible damage to your boiler tank or tap, we advise you to turn it off and wait until the issue is identified.

Troubleshooting FAQs

Q1: Why is my boiling water tap making a lot of noise?

Instant hot water taps do make some noise when they're in use as boiling water will produce steam - however, this noise shouldn't be excessive. Excessive noise from your boiling water tap could be due to the build-up of limescale or air trapped in the system. Regular maintenance and proper cleaning can help eliminate this problem. If the noise persists, please contact our team for an assessment.

Q2: Why is the water from my boiling water tap cloudy?

Cloudy water is usually the result of harmless air bubbles in the water, which is not a cause for concern. However, if the water remains cloudy after being left alone for a minute, it could indicate a problem with the filter or your water quality. Consider replacing your filter or getting in touch with your local water authority.

Q3: My boiling water tap is not dispensing water. What should I do?

If your boiling water tap is not dispensing water, it might be due to a blocked filter or a problem with the water supply. Check if the filter needs replacing or if there is an issue with your water supply. If you're still experiencing problems, get in touch with our team.

Find answers to more commonly asked questions about boiling water taps here.