We have heard rumours for several months, but at last they are here: the new HydroTap G4 range from Zip.
There has been some simplification of the range (phew!) but after careful study of all the specifications, we are more than happy that this new set of products for the commercial market from Zip keep them head and shoulders above all other manufacturers of boiling water taps.
The Zip HydroTap G4 - Under the sink
The story starts under the sink, where Zip have improved the insulation of the tanks and the electronic control of the water temperature which means that in standby mode, the units actually use up to 55% less electricity than before, and, because of a new cross-ventilation system, there is no need to vent the undersink cupboard.
And to underline that they really are the ‘Rolls Royce’ of instant water solutions, the settings such as temperature, timing, and diagnostic information are all driven through a touch-screen control panel on the under-sink “command centre” (yes, they really do call it that, honestly!) which has access control through a PIN so that only authorized staff can alter the settings.
Improved Water Filtration
Zip have always been proud of the water filtration capabilities of the HydroTap, but the G4 now comes with a 0.2 micron filter. That might not sound very impressive, but 0.2micron is actually just 1/5000mm (0.0002mm). It will filter out chlorine odour and taste, but not beneficial fluoride, and although a scale management solution is still recommended in all hardwater areas, the 0.2 micron filter will also help reduce scale accumulation.
The G4 Tap
Not all the G4 differences are under the sink: the look of the actual tap has changed slightly as well.
The HydroTap G4 has a longer spout, apparently to better suit under-mounted sinks, where the tap cannot be placed as close to the edge as you might like (this also means that the standard font kit, used to site the tap away from the sink, has changed too).
The shaft of the tap looks slightly different as well – it has a slight scalloping towards the front, and the tap head now has a touch-sensitive safety switch at the front (compared to the older mechanical switch) and the red/blue lines on the tap levers are now LED illuminated.
So those are the major changes – as usual, you shouldn’t expect the Zip HydroTap to be the cheapest on the market, but from what we have seen so far, you should certainly continue to expect that it is of the best quality and the most highly featured product compared to any of its competition.
If you need any more guidance on choosing a model from the new range, please just give us a call on 01934 253600 – we’re always happy to advise.
