The Dangers of Hot Water Dispensers
- Hot water dispensers can allot water that is 200 degrees F or more. Because the purpose of some water heaters is to increase productivity from the sink to the boiling pot, this can be desired. Alternatively, if you have small children, this can also be a huge hazard.
Many products available on the market offer a factory temperature switch, allowing you to change the temperature of the outpouring water. It's important to check the settings before installing a kitchen or bathroom unit to prevent scalding and/or burning. - Unlike large commercial units, home dispensers are reliant on water pressure in your home. If your home has low water pressure or water pressure that fluctuates out of the tap, the water coming out of your dispenser will similarly fluctuate. Fluctuating water pressure can cause the water to splash or spray, which can be dangerous for anyone standing near the unit when it's turned on.
- avlxyz: flickr.com
Because a bathroom dispenser would be used primarily to heat water for shaving and the like, and not boiling water, a bathroom water dispenser should be used in a bathroom. Likewise, a kitchen dispenser is preferable for a kitchen sink because it's more likely to heat the water to an optimal kitchen temperature.
Check online for product recalls and customer reviews. A few years ago, some Avanti and similar products were recalled for not shutting off. The Consumer Product Safety Commission stated: "Avanti has received 10 reports of the hot water not shutting off, nine of which resulted in burn injuries to children, including a 10-month-old baby who suffered burns on his arm and chest." If you have children, choose a product with a child proof switch or an adjustable temperature setting to set the water well below scalding. - For commercial-sized dispensers such as large coffee machines, older units have been known to have design flaws. Beware of units with a button far from the water tap; it can accidentally cause the user to burn an unsuspecting patron standing nearby.
- Read consumer reviews to get a quality product that best fits your needs to avoid injury or embarrassment. Read instructions carefully before assembling. Different units have different functions, and again, the factory temperature settings may not be set to your preference. Likewise, some units offer a hot and cold water tap, and you should always double- or triple-check that you don't get your lines crossed.
Temperature
Water Pressure
Product Flaws
Commercial Dispensers
Assembly
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