A hot water dispenser is a great alternative to using a kettle, and can make for a stylish addition to your kitchen. But like all electrical appliances, they can pose a risk if used incorrectly.
Hot Water Dispenser Safety
Safety First
- When buying a new hot water dispenser, always buy from a reputable dealer, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Always register a new hot water dispenser with the manufacturer. That way you can be contacted easily if a safety notice or recall is required. While the chances of a faulty product causing serious damage are small, the risk is still there and returning a faulty product or ordering its repair is very easy to do. To register all your appliances, regardless of age, visit our Product Registration page.
- Use our free online checker to see if you have any recalled electrical items.
- Check that your appliance has a UK plug, but if it doesn’t, do not use a UK travel adaptor - get in touch with the retailer and ask for their advice.
- Do regular checks of the plug and socket for burn marks, sounds of ‘arcing’ (buzzing or crackling) or if it feels too hot to touch. If you have fuses blowing or circuit-breakers tripping then contact a registered electrician to investigate.
- Ensure your home is fully protected by an RCD (residual current device), which can be found in your fuse box (also known as a consumer unit). An RCD is a life-saving device that protects against dangerous electric shock and reduces the risk of electrical fires.
- If you don’t have RCD protection in your fuse box for your sockets, consider installing an RCD socket or plug to protect you and your property from serious appliance faults.
- Sometimes, appliance fires are caused by something beyond your control. Smoke alarms and heat detectors are essential in keeping you safe by raising the alarm in the event of a fire. There should be a minimum of one alarm/detector per floor and fit enough to cover all areas where a fire could start, and make sure they are tested regularly.
- If a fire does start, don't try to fight the fire. Get out and call 999 immediately.
Safe Use
- If you notice a burning smell or any unusual noises, switch the hot water dispenser off immediately and contact the retailer and/or manufacturer.
- Make sure your hot water dispenser has boil-dry protection – this will switch it off if it doesn’t contain enough water.
- Don’t overfill your hot water dispenser – read the instructions before using.
- Some hot water dispensers leak or spit water. Read reviews before you buy and only use according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Always turn off the hot water dispenser at the socket when not in use.