At Aquaclear, we’ve installed a lot of Zip HydroTaps - from university and school installations to busy corporate offices where the kettle gets more use than the coffee machine. The Zip HydroTap G5 Elite Plus is one of the most popular models we work with, and after seeing it in action so many times (and using it ourselves daily), we’ve got a pretty clear view of what it does well — and where it could be better.
If you’re weighing up whether this is worth the price tag, this review breaks down what we’ve actually seen in real workplaces across Australia.
Quick Summary
● Model tested: Zip HydroTap G5 Elite Plus (Boiling, Chilled, Sparkling)
● Ideal for: Schools, offices, and anyone who hates waiting for the kettle
● Pros: Beautiful design, reliable performance, great-tasting filtered water
● Cons: Pricey, needs professional installation and ventilation
● Our verdict: Once you’ve lived with one, it’s hard to go back
First Impressions
The first thing people notice when we install a HydroTap G5 Elite Plus is how premium it feels. The tap itself looks sleek and minimalist — especially in matte black or brushed gold. But what’s impressive is what’s hidden underneath.
The Command Centre
Under the bench, the Command Centre is where all the work happens — boiling, chilling, and carbonating the water. The touchscreen display is genuinely useful, not gimmicky. You can:
● Set exact water temperatures
● Measure its power consumption
● Check when the filter needs changing
● Schedule sleep times to save power
It’s one of those systems that quietly takes care of itself once it’s set up right. We find customers appreciate being able to see filter status or water temps at a glance - no guesswork.
Installing the G5 Elite Plus: What We’ve Learned
We’ve installed the HydroTap in every kind of kitchen — under deep sinks, tight island benches, boardroom corner kitchens where space is tight. A few practical things stand out:
● You need ventilation. The G5 Elite Plus uses air-cooling, so we cut a small vent into the cabinetry to let warm air out. Without this, the unit can overheat.
● The unit takes up space. Roughly the size of a large briefcase. It usually fits fine under a kitchen sink, but if you’ve got bins or drawers in that cupboard, plan accordingly.
● Install it properly. We’ve seen DIY installs that went wrong — leaks, heat issues, warranty voided. It’s a job for a certified technician (like us) who knows these systems inside out.
Once installed correctly, it’s rock-solid. We’ve seen five-year-old units still running smoothly with just regular filter swaps.
Everyday Use: What It’s Like Living With One
If we had to describe the HydroTap in one word: effortless.
The boiling water really is instant — no waiting, no refilling kettles. It’s filtered and consistent at around 98°C, perfect for tea and coffee. The chilled water is icy cold and smooth. And the sparkling water? Crisp, fizzy, and surprisingly addictive.
After a few weeks, most users (ourselves included) realise how often they reach for it — tea in the morning, chilled water throughout the day, sparkling water for guests. It quickly becomes the most-used appliance in the kitchen.
Taste and Filtration
Zip’s MicroPurity filtration system does make a difference. We’ve tested it against regular tap water and it’s noticeably cleaner - no chlorine taste, no odour. Each filter lasts about 6–12 months, and the tap flashes a light when it’s time to change.
Changing the filter is simple: twist, swap, done. Most of our clients handle it themselves, but we can do it as part of a service if preferred.
Performance and Efficiency
Over time, we’ve found the G5 Elite Plus to be one of the most consistent performers in this category.
● Boiling: Always steady. It delivers cup after cup without the temperature dropping.
● Chilled: Maintains 5–10°C even under frequent use. Offices especially appreciate this on hot days.
● Sparkling: carbonation - from a light fizz to café-style sparkle.
We also like that the G5 Elite Plus has a sleep mode. It powers down during set hours (like overnight), then wakes up automatically. It saves a surprising amount of energy — handy for all types of workplaces.
Maintenance: Real-World Costs
The G5 Elite plus is low maintenance if you stay on top of the basics.
Here’s what to expect:
● Filter replacement: Every 6–12 months
● CO₂ refills: If you use sparkling, about every 2–3 months
● Cleaning: Has an air filter that easily removes so it can be washed in the sink.
We recommend scheduling filter changes with your regular service or setting a reminder. If you forget, the tap will let you know — one of those little design touches that saves headaches.
How It Holds Up Over Time
From our experience, Zip HydroTaps are built to last. We’ve seen units still running well after a decade, with only minor part replacements.
Zip offers a 3-year warranty, and their after-sales support is strong — parts are easy to get, and we stock most replacements ourselves.
Common issues? Honestly, not many. Occasionally a CO₂ leak or a sensor error, usually due to an old filter or blocked vent. Once serviced, they go right back to normal.
Comparing Zip to Other Brands
We also install Billi taps, so we know how the two stack up. Here’s the simple version:
| Feature | Zip HydroTap | Billi Tap |
| Cooling type: | Air-cooled (needs vent) | Water-cooled (no vent) |
| Energy efficiency: | Excellent | Also excellent |
| Maintenance: | Simple filter swaps | Simple, but uses a drain line |
| Warranty: | 3 years | 2 years (5 on tank) |
| Design range: | Broader (more finishes) | Slightly fewer options |
If you have limited cabinet space and no easy way to add a vent, Billi might fit better. If you want cutting-edge tech, a sleek interface, and strong warranty support, Zip takes the lead.
What Customers Tell Us
After installation, we often ask for feedback a few months later. The common themes:
“We drink more water now — it just tastes better.” “Can’t believe how fast we make tea now.” “Expensive, but I’d buy it again in a heartbeat.”
The only occasional complaint? The price. But most people quickly forget the cost once they start using it.
So, Is It Worth It?
If you want convenience and quality — and you’ll actually use the features — then yes, the Zip HydroTap G5 Elite plus is worth every cent.
It’s not for everyone. If you only make tea once a day, it’s probably overkill. But for offices where the kettle never cools down, it’s a game-changer.
Our take: We’ve installed a lot of premium taps over the years, and the G5 Elite remains one of the most reliable and well-designed systems on the market. It’s not the cheapest, but it’s the one that customers rave about long after install day.
Aquaclear’s Final Word
The Zip HydroTap G5 Elite Plus is one of those rare appliances that genuinely improves how you use your kitchen. It’s sleek, dependable, and once you’ve had one installed — you’ll wonder how you ever managed without it.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I change the filter?
Every 6–12 months, depending on usage and water quality. The tap flashes an alert when it’s due.
Does it need ventilation?
Yes — it’s air-cooled, so the cupboard needs a vent cutout. We include this with every professional installation.
Is it energy efficient?
Yes. With the PowerPulse system and programmable sleep mode, it uses very little power.
For more information check out the Zip HydroTap G5 Elite here: https://aquaclear.com.au/product/zip-hydrotap-g5-elite-plus-chrome-boiling-chillled-sparkling-copy/