All you have to do is fill the dispenser with water and select a temperature setting, which vary by model.

140 degrees – not so hot water
175 degrees – for green and herbal teas
195 degrees – for cocoa, coffee, and french press
208 degrees – for noodles and instant foods

I stick with 195 degrees. The pot will boil at 212 degrees and then keep the water at your selected temperature setting indefinitely or until you run out of water. Some models play a melody when the water has finished boiling, a cute feature.

There’s a display window so you can monitor the water level. Once the water level goes down to the recommended refill line, it’s time to add more water. A removable 3-foot power cord, swivel base, carry handle, a safety dispenser button, and easy-to-clean nonstick interior provide added convenience.

Recommendations on sizes:

2  – 3 liter for 1 person

3  – 4 liter for 2 people

5.0 – 6.0 liter for 3+ people

We have the 4.0 liter hot water boiler which 2 – 3 people use on a daily basis. I wish we had bought the 5.0 liter version since we have to refill the water boiler 1 – 2 times a day. The bigger the hot water boiler, the less often you will have to refill.

A good hot water boiler will cost $80 – $170. Yes, they are a tad pricey, but the time you’ll save to have instant hot water, will be worth it.

FYI: Some of the cheaper models tend to leak. To avoid this, stick to the Zojirushi (which make great rice cookers) and Tiger brands.