Install Grohe Boiling Hot or other filtered/boiling water tap in Oxford

⭐ Introduction

A boiling hot or filtered water tap is a modern convenience that supplies near-boiling water straight from your kitchen tap, and often filtered water too. Many UK homeowners choose to install one to save time boiling the kettle, enhance tea and coffee making, or improve their drinking water quality.

Whether you want a tap delivering instant boiling water, filtered cold water, or both, a professional plumber can install the system safely and to UK regulations. Such taps are especially useful for busy households or those who value convenience and quality water on demand.

🔧 What the job involves

Installing a boiling or filtered water tap means fitting a specialised mixer tap linked to an under-sink unit containing a hot water tank and sometimes a filtration system. This requires connecting to your existing cold water supply and mains electricity (or occasionally a gas supply), as well as drainage for overflow safety.

Key parts include:

• The tap itself, often designed with safety features such as childproof handles or buttons.
• An insulated, compact hot water cylinder or tank housed under the sink to store boiling water.
• A filter cartridge (if filtered water is provided), which requires regular replacement.
• Plumbing connections from mains water supply.
• A power supply for heating the water, typically a 13A electrical connection (joule-rated or fused spur).

The job involves plumbing work, some electrical installation, and testing to ensure everything works safely. Because hot water taps carry water above 100°C, safety certification and compliance with water fittings regulations are important.

📝 Step-by-step from booking to completion

1. Initial enquiry: Contact a qualified plumber experienced with boiling/filtered taps. Describe your needs and kitchen setup.
2. Site survey: The plumber visits your home to assess your plumbing, electrical supply, and under-sink space, ensuring compatibility with the system.
3. Quotation: You receive a written quote covering parts, labour, any additional work, and certification.
4. Booking works: Arrange a convenient date for installation.
5. Installation day: The plumber installs the tap, connects plumbing and electrical components, tests functionality, and ensures safe operation.
6. Demonstration: The plumber explains how to safely use, maintain, and care for the tap and filtration system.
7. Certification and paperwork: You'll get electrical and plumbing certification where applicable, plus warranty documents for parts and workmanship.
8. Aftercare: Arrange any required filter changes or servicing to keep the system running efficiently.

💷 Main costs to expect

• Labour: Typically £150–£300 depending on complexity and plumber’s rates.
• Tap and unit (materials): £300–£700, depending on brand, features, and filtration options.
• Additional plumbing parts: £50–£150, such as valves, hoses, or adaptors.
• Electrical work: £80–£150 for fitting a fused spur or socket if needed.
• Disposal: Some plumbers include this; otherwise £20–£40 for old tap/unit removal.
• Certification: May be included or a small extra (e.g. £30–£50) for Part P electrical notification or water fittings compliance.

Example: A straightforward tap swap with electrical hookup might be around £600 total, but a more complex filtered tap with extensive plumbing changes could reach £900 or more.

📊 What affects the price

• Access and space under the sink (tight spaces increase labour time).
• Existing plumbing condition — any leaks or corroded pipes needing repair.
• Electrical supply availability and ease of installation.
• Type and brand of boiling/filtered tap and tank chosen.
• Need for water filtration systems or advanced features (e.g. child safety locks).
• Compliance requirements — extra certification or notifications.
• Location — London and South East generally higher labour costs.
• Urgency — emergency or short-notice installs may incur extra fees.

⏱ How long does it take?

• Simple replacement of existing boiling water tap: 2–3 hours.
• Installing a new boiling + filtered water tap with new plumbing and electrical work: 4–6 hours.
• Complex installations involving repositioning plumbing, electrical upgrades, or integration with kitchen units could take longer or require multiple visits.

🏠 Can you DIY it?

Installing a boiling hot or filtered water tap is not generally recommended as a DIY job for most homeowners. It involves:

• Connecting to mains cold water supply with safe plumbing practices.
• Electrical work that may require Part P notification and must meet Building Regulations (e.g. fitting a fused spur or RCD protection).
• Safe handling of near-boiling water systems to avoid scalding risks.

Incorrect installation can cause leaks, electrical hazards, or void warranties. It’s best to hire a Gas Safe-registered or Part P-registered plumber or electrician to ensure compliance and safety.

💰 Typical UK price range

Most homeowners can expect to pay between £500 and £900 for a professional installation of a boiling or filtered water tap, including materials and labour. This estimate includes VAT at the standard 20% rate but does not cover any major kitchen alterations or remedial work. Specific prices will depend on tap model, site conditions, and installer rates.

✅ Handy tips before you start

• Check your space under the sink — sufficient room is needed for the hot water cylinder unit.
• Prepare your kitchen by clearing the cupboard to give the plumber easy access.
• Confirm the type of water you want (boiling only, boiled + chilled, filtered, etc.) to match your needs and budget.
• Keep all paperwork including installation certificates, manufacturer warranties, and filter replacement schedules.
• Ensure you know how to operate child safety features, if present, to avoid accidents.
• Ask about servicing and filter replacement intervals to keep your tap working well long term.

By planning ahead and working with a qualified installer, you can enjoy the convenience and quality of a boiling or filtered water tap safely and with peace of mind.