Simon Hastings, technical manager from Zip Water UK, discusses why retailers need to be alert on the compliance of hot water taps

The inclusion of boiling water taps in residential kitchens has become commonplace – this is hardly surprising when they mean you can make a cup of tea in mere seconds.

But as with all electrical appliances in the home, there are certain standards that manufacturers must ensure these products meet to guarantee the safety of the user.

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The issue of regulations and compliance can sometimes seem like a minefield for retailers, who ultimately just want to know that the products they are selling are fit for purpose, have the right aesthetics and meet the customer’s needs.

But it’s crucial retailers are not only aware of the relevant compliance requirements for these types of taps, but also understand that compliance is only effective when practised.

Compliance for hot taps

At Zip, we have a deep understanding of the market and the requirements that hot taps need to meet, so it’s unnerving to see there are products on the market that may be contravening the compliance regulation, thereby putting installers and end-users at risk.

Let’s start by looking at the key regulations hot tap products need to meet.

• Regulation 4 compliance

To comply with Regulation 4, look out for certification from these independent bodies:

• WRAS approval
• Kiwa approval
• NSF certification

These approvals mean the product meets the Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999 or Scottish Water Byelaws.

• Building Regulation G3

This regulation specifically relates to hot water systems and supply, and is designed to keep installers and users safe from scalding injuries. G3 states that any hot water stored must not exceed 100℃ and that the water must be discharged safely.

• UKCA and CE

These marks are important as they mean that the manufacturer has fully tested the product against UK and EU safety requirements. Either of these marks are acceptable.

Significance of non-compliance

So what does non-compliance mean? And what are the potential effects?

Firstly, the product won’t be signed off by building control officers, and a replacement that does comply will have to be found.

If the product isn’t removed, the installer may face criminal charges.

But to put it plainly, non-compliance could put an installer or user at risk.

The G3 regulation, in particular, is designed to make sure that hot water is stored and delivered safely.

Unvented systems in particular may carry a greater risk of failure if the water temperature is over 100℃.

As the water temperature rises, so does the pressure, which may become too much for the system to handle.

Safety at forefront

At Zip, our priority is to create products that perform day after day, delivering pure-tasting water for homes and businesses all across the UK – but with compliance and safety always at the forefront of our designs.

All of our HydroTaps are set to deliver water at 98℃, they feature a boiling safety lock to provide peace of mind that younger family members can’t access hot water, and remain cool to the touch.

We hope retailers become more aware of the compliance issue and question the compliance of their chosen hot water tap.

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