Yes, hot water dispensers - like kettles and coffee machines - should be descaled regularly to keep them working properly.

A hot water dispenser does actually boil water, but we have found that by the time it's dispensed into the cup it's no longer at boiling point. If you find kettles bothersome to lift, fill, carry or pour, or just like the idea of dispensing a speedy cup of hot water without waiting around, a hot water dispenser could be a practical solution.

Win: Cooks Professional is known for producing reliable and durable products, and the Hot Water Dispenser is no exception. It boasts a sturdy build and is constructed using high-quality materials, ensuring long-lasting performance and durability. This robust build quality makes it a dependable appliance for everyday use. Capacity: Determine how much hot water you need on a daily basis. Consider factors like the number of people in your household, the frequency of use, and the volume of water required for your favourite beverages or recipes. Hot water dispensers come in various sizes, so choose one that meets your specific needs. All of the hot water dispensers we tested come with a drip tray, similar to one you’d find on a coffee machine. This is where your cup sits while it’s being filled, and the drip tray will also catch any spills Boil dry protection A hot water dispenser can boil and dispense a single mugful of water at a time. But while some will consistently give you the right amount of water at the right temperature, others spit water everywhere and dispense a less predictable amount.

Win: Breville is renowned for its high-quality products, and the VKJ142 Hot Cup is no exception. It boasts a sturdy build and durable construction, designed to withstand regular use. The robust build quality ensures long-term reliability and durability, making it a worthwhile investment.

Win: The Breville Hot Water Dispenser offers a generous water capacity, allowing you to prepare multiple hot beverages without the need for constant refilling. Its ample capacity ensures convenience, particularly during busy mornings or when serving a group of people. You should buy a hot water dispenser if you only want to boil a small amount of water at a time or have difficulty using a kettle. They’re not suitable for boiling large quantities of water, or for making lots of cups of tea in a row.

Win: This hot water dispenser provides adjustable temperature settings, giving you the flexibility to choose your desired heat level for different beverages. Whether you prefer boiling water for tea or a slightly lower temperature for coffee, this functionality allows customization to suit your preferences. Some hot water dispensers have a variable water setting, which means you can alter the amount of water that’s dispensed, but generally they dispense between 150ml (equivalent to a cup or small mug) and 350ml (a large mug). These are a few of the features you should look out for when choosing the model for you. Easy-to-fill water tank Water dispensed into a room-temperature mug from a hot water dispenser is 91°C. We repeated the same scenario with a freshly boiled kettle and the temperature of the water was 96°C once it was poured into the mug.Win: This hot water dispenser is designed for ease of use and maintenance. It features intuitive controls and a user-friendly interface, making it simple to operate with just a push of a button. The removable drip tray and water tank facilitate easy cleaning and maintenance, ensuring a hassle-free experience. Win: The Breville Hot Cup is designed for ease of use and maintenance. It features one-touch operation, allowing you to dispense hot water with a simple push of a button. The removable drip tray facilitates easy cleaning and maintenance, ensuring a hassle-free experience. This is a safety feature that stops the hot water dispenser from working, and turns it off, if the water tank doesn’t contain enough water. When you're on the hunt for the perfect hot water dispenser, consider these detailed points to ensure you make an informed choice: Win: This hot water dispenser is equipped with safety features to ensure secure operation. It includes a manual stop button that allows you to halt the water flow at any time. Additionally, the dispenser has built-in protection against overheating, preventing potential hazards.