Those boiling water taps - any experience/thoughts?

[KneesUp]

In order to come out boiling it has to have a reserve of boiling (or very near boiling) water. I cannot imagine how that is good for the environment, to be using energy to keep water on the boil, but then we're out all day, and don't drink tea.

 

[Mr Celine]

Yes but that is like saying you can use a Halfords road bike so why spend £5,000 on a carbon fibre Tdf replica
just not a valid argument on a cycling website

Your argument is even less valid on a cycling website. £1000 on a tap?

You could buy a good pair of wheels for that...

 

[CepZan]

Like this kinda thing….

https://www.quooker.co.uk/458-taps/223-flex/flex-flex.html

Yes, stupid price but….
We are in the process of buying a new build house and it’s an option. We’ll have solar so daytime leccy not an issue. We drink a lot of tea and could use the hot water for washing-up rather than using the combi-boiler to heat occasional water. My SIL uses the kettle to boil water for washing-up!
A big up-front cost, but struggling to justify on payback at the mo.

So thoughts, pro’s/cons etc.

Like this kinda thing….

o.uk/458-taps/223-flex/flex-flex.html

Yes, stupid price but….
We are in the process of buying a new build house and it’s an option. We’ll have solar so daytime leccy not an issue. We drink a lot of tea and could use the hot water for washing-up rather than using the combi-boiler to heat occasional water. My SIL uses the kettle to boil water for washing-up!
A big up-front cost, but struggling to justify on payback at the mo.

So thoughts, pro’s/cons etc.
I think a billi tap could be a smart upgrade — instant boiling, chilled or sparkling water is really handy, especially in a busy kitchen or office. Great for drinks, cooking and saving time. Pricey upfront, but convenience and versatility might justify it if you use it daily.

I get why you’re torn — those Quooker-style taps are ridiculously pricey, but also weirdly tempting. We looked into one when we moved, and the main appeal was exactly what you mentioned: endless tea and quick hot water for small washing-up jobs without firing up the whole combi. With solar, the running cost is basically negligible, so it’s really the upfront hit that stings. The convenience is real, but the financial payback is honestly pretty slow unless you use boiling water multiple times a day. If you’re heavy tea drinkers, it might feel worth it — otherwise it’s more of a luxury than a necessity.