Description
This professional-grade DXF template is specifically designed for Franke Little Butler hot water dispenser installations in stone and engineered countertops. The template features the exact 1.25-inch (32mm) mounting hole diameter required by Franke's complete line of instant hot water dispensers. With a 3.5-inch clearance zone, this template ensures proper spacing for the mounting assembly and connection hardware that characterize Franke's quality construction. Fabricators working with Franke products will appreciate the precision of this template, which accounts for the unique mounting requirements of the Little Butler series including both hot-only and hot-cold combination units.
Related Templates
This professional-grade DXF template is specifically designed for Franke Little Butler hot water dispenser installations in stone and engineered countertops. The template features the exact 1.25-inch (32mm) mounting hole diameter required by Franke's complete line of instant hot water dispensers. With a 3.5-inch clearance zone, this template ensures proper spacing for the mounting assembly and connection hardware that characterize Franke's quality construction. Fabricators working with Franke products will appreciate the precision of this template, which accounts for the unique mounting requirements of the Little Butler series including both hot-only and hot-cold combination units.
Installation Overview
Franke Little Butler hot water dispensers require a precisely cut 1.25-inch diameter hole positioned to allow adequate clearance for the below-counter heating tank and filtration system. This template provides the exact specifications used in Franke's official installation guides, ensuring compatibility with all Little Butler models including the LB1000, LB2200, LB7200C, and DW series dispensers. The 3.5-inch clearance diameter indicates the minimum unobstructed zone needed beneath the deck surface. When templating for Franke installations, verify that the chosen location provides clearance for both the heating tank (typically 10-14 inches in height) and the filtration system if specified. Franke recommends positioning the dispenser within easy reach of the primary sink while maintaining at least 2.5 inches from the sink rim. Critical installation note: Franke tanks must be filled with water before connecting electrical power, as a dry start will void the warranty. Ensure access to cold water supply and a 115-volt grounded outlet beneath the installation point.
CNC Cutting Notes
Import this DXF template into your CNC control software and verify the 1.25-inch hole diameter before programming toolpaths. For Franke installations, precision is critical as the mounting hardware has tighter tolerances than some other brands. Use a 1.25-inch diamond core bit for natural stone materials, ensuring the bit is sharp and properly cooled throughout the cutting process. Program your CNC to approach from the finished surface to minimize chipping on the visible edge - this is especially important for Franke's sleek European designs where the dispenser sits close to the deck surface. Set feed rates conservatively for granite and quartz (2-4 inches per minute) to achieve clean, chip-free edges. The 3.5-inch clearance circle marked on the template is for reference only and indicates the keep-clear zone beneath the countertop. When cutting multiple holes in a single slab, maintain minimum 8-inch spacing between hole centers to preserve material strength. For manual installation, use the template to mark the exact center point, then drill a pilot hole before switching to the final 1.25-inch core bit. Always test-fit the Franke dispenser shank in the completed hole before final installation to ensure proper alignment.
Material Compatibility
This Franke hot water dispenser template works seamlessly with all natural and engineered countertop materials including granite, marble, engineered quartz (Caesarstone, Silestone, Cambria), quartzite, soapstone, and solid surface materials (Corian, Hi-Macs). The 1.25-inch hole size is ideal for materials of standard thickness (2cm-3cm), providing adequate support for the dispenser body while minimizing stress concentration. Franke dispensers feature quality construction with substantial mounting hardware, so adequate material thickness is important - for 2cm installations, consider reinforcing the area with epoxy backing or support washers to prevent flexing under the weight of the dispenser. In solid surface materials, the hole can be cut with carbide tooling and the edge polished to match the surface finish. For ultra-compact surfaces like Dekton, Neolith, or Lapitec, use porcelain-rated diamond core bits and reduce cutting speed to prevent microcracking around the hole perimeter. When working with exotic materials such as semi-precious stone, backlit onyx, or book-matched marble, consult the slab supplier regarding minimum edge distances - typically 4 inches from any edge. Franke's mounting system distributes load well, but avoid placing holes within 4 inches of seams, corners, or other penetrations in all materials.
Where to Buy
Franke Little Butler hot water dispensers are available through authorized kitchen and bath dealers, plumbing showrooms, and online retailers specializing in premium kitchen fixtures. The Little Butler line includes various models such as the LB7200C (hot and cold), LB1000 series, and combination units that pair hot water with filtration. When specifying for this 1.25-inch template, confirm the model number as Franke produces several dispenser styles with consistent mounting requirements. Complete Franke systems typically include the faucet dispenser, heating tank (HT-100, HT-200, or HT-300 depending on capacity), and optional filtration components. Professional fabricators should advise clients to have the actual Franke unit on-site during templating, as finish options and trim styles may affect final positioning. Franke dispensers are premium products with retail prices typically ranging from $300-$600 for the faucet unit, with heating tanks adding $350-$550 depending on capacity. Authorized Franke dealers can provide technical support and warranty service - locate dealers through the Franke Kitchen Systems website or call 1-800-626-5771.