How Much Space Does a Boiling Water Tap Tank Need
One of the most common questions we hear from installers and kitchen professionals is how much space a boiling water tap tank actually requires. It is a fair question, particularly when working with modern kitchens where cupboard space is often limited.
Understanding the physical footprint of a boiling water tap system at the planning stage helps avoid installation issues later and allows you to specify the right solution with confidence.
Typical Tank Size for Boiling Water Taps
Most modern boiling water tap systems are designed to fit comfortably within a standard kitchen base unit. A typical tank for a boiling water tap will usually measure around 300mm to 350mm in height, with a footprint similar to a small waste bin.
For 4 in 1 boiling water taps that also deliver chilled and filtered water, an additional chiller unit is included. This is usually installed alongside the main tank rather than stacked, allowing greater flexibility within the cupboard.
Our boiling and chilled systems are supplied with compact 2.4L tanks, making them suitable for most under sink layouts without the need for custom cabinetry.
What Else Needs Space Under the Sink
In addition to the main tank, installers should allow room for the following components:
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Water filter housing
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Chiller unit where applicable
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Pipework and electrical connections
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Adequate ventilation around the units
It is important not to pack units too tightly. Leaving some airflow around the tank helps maintain efficiency and supports long term reliability.
When specifying a boiling water tap for a project, we always recommend checking existing services within the cupboard, particularly waste traps and cleaning product storage.
Can the Tank Be Installed Away From the Tap
In most cases, the tank is installed directly beneath the sink for convenience and efficiency. However, there is flexibility in many systems to position the tank within an adjacent cupboard if required.
This can be useful when working with narrow sink bases or when the client wishes to retain maximum storage under the sink. Pipe runs should remain as short as possible to maintain performance and heat retention.
Our systems are designed with installer flexibility in mind, allowing you to adapt layouts to suit different kitchen configurations.
Planning for Boiling and Chilled Systems
Boiling and chilled taps require slightly more planning than boiling only systems due to the additional chiller unit. While this does increase the required space, the overall footprint remains manageable for most kitchens.
The benefit for the end user is having instant boiling water alongside chilled filtered water from a single tap, which often justifies the small reduction in cupboard storage.
When specifying a 4 in 1 boiling water tap, it is worth reviewing the full system layout during the design stage to ensure a smooth installation on site.
Power and Ventilation Considerations
All boiling water tap tanks require a standard electrical supply. Positioning the socket within the cupboard or in an adjacent unit keeps the installation tidy and accessible for servicing.
Ventilation is equally important. Modern tanks are energy efficient, but they still benefit from airflow to dissipate heat and operate efficiently. Avoid enclosing tanks tightly behind fixed panels without ventilation gaps.
Making the Right Specification Choice
Space under the sink is rarely as limited as it first appears, especially when using modern compact tanks. With careful planning, boiling water taps can be installed cleanly in most kitchens without compromising usability or performance.
Choosing a system designed for trade installation helps simplify the process. Compact tanks, flexible pipe routing, and clear installation requirements all contribute to smoother installations and fewer issues once the kitchen is in use.
If you are planning a project and need guidance on tank dimensions or system layouts, our team is always available to provide practical advice based on real world installations.