How to choose an electric water heater for an apartment and a house

What is better to choose for the house - storage or instantaneous water heater?

It is impossible to give an unambiguous answer on this matter, since each unit is optimal in its field. To take a shower, two family members do not have to install a bulky boiler.And vice versa, to meet the needs of 4 people, even the most powerful instantaneous water heater is not enough.

To determine which device is optimal for specific conditions, a comparative description of electric storage water heaters and flow-through heating systems is given below.

Weight and dimensions

Since the average flow system rarely weighs more than 2 kg, and its dimensions do not exceed 300 x 200 x100 mm (this does not apply to gas water heaters), further comparison in this category does not make sense. Even the most compact storage water heater has a weight of at least 55 kg and dimensions of 550 x 500 x 400 mm

It is important to note that wall mounting is allowed only for models with a volume of not more than 120 liters, boilers with a volume of 150 liters and more are produced in a floor version

What is more economical

If we evaluate which water heater consumes more electricity, flowing or storage, then the answer to this is very clearly formulated in the school physics course:

To heat one liter of water to a predetermined temperature, storage and instantaneous water heaters will consume an equal amount of electricity.

Despite this, the meter readings when using a boiler will be larger, since in this case energy is spent not only on heating, but also on automatic control of the water temperature within the specified limits.

However, not everything is as obvious as it seems at first glance. First of all, heating water in storage water heater tanks can significantly exceed 60C, which makes it possible to mix it cold, increasing the real hot water volume.

Secondly, the operation of the flow system is significantly affected by the temperature of the water at the inlet pipe and the pressure in the line, while these factors practically do not affect the operation of the storage systems, in other words, the operation of the boiler is stable, which cannot be said about the instantaneous water heater.

Installation and start-up work

Installation of flow and storage systems is somewhat different.

Instantaneous water heater installation most often performed using reinforced hoses. The input of the device is connected to the cold water main, the output is connected to the mixer

Particular attention should be paid to electrical work. If a power consumption exceeds 5 kW, the connection must be made via a three-phase network

Regardless of whether a flowing or storage water heater is installed, the presence of grounding is a prerequisite.

It is not required to install a 380V storage boiler, however, you should make sure that the existing wiring is in good condition, or use a separate cable of the appropriate section. For wall mounting, metal anchors with a diameter of at least 10 mm and a length of at least 100 mm are used.

A distinctive feature of the storage units is the ability to integrate directly into the hot water supply system. This allows you to use any mixer available in the apartment. To prevent leakage into the main line, a special tap is installed that blocks the communication between the water supply and household consumers.

Summing up, we can highlight the main advantages and disadvantages of storage and instantaneous water heaters.

Advantages of flow systems:

• Instant heating of water to the required temperature;
• Compactness and low weight;
• Do not require special care;
• Affordable price.

Flaws:

• High load on the wiring, it is often necessary to have a three-phase wiring.
• The outlet temperature depends on the pressure in the system and the temperature of the incoming water;
• Water heaters of small and medium capacity do not provide sufficient pressure.

Advantages of storage systems:

• The water temperature is always within the specified limits;
• Possibility of centralized supply of hot water to all consumers;
• The heating process does not depend on external factors.
• To connect a sufficiently serviceable household electrical network 220V.

Flaws:

• The need for regular maintenance;
• Long period of primary heating;
• Significant overall dimensions and weight require a reliable supporting surface (concrete, brickwork) for fastening.

Below are the reviews of consumers who have already made their choice, which water heater is better to choose, instantaneous or storage.

Electric storage, direct heating

Such a water heater organically fits into the interior of a bathroom or other room. It is intended for connection in apartments or private houses of the small area. The water heater can be installed independently, permits are not required for this. Usually it is a round or rectangular container, powered by the city power supply and decorated with a special casing. The water tank is made of enameled or stainless steel.

Heating elements are installed at the bottom of the structure. Depending on the model, the heater can be equipped with one or two heating elements. Branch pipes are installed for cold water inlet and hot water outlet.The temperature is controlled by a thermostat. The maximum temperature for most models is 75 degrees

Please note that the heater maintains the set temperature in automatic mode.

Price category

The first thing they usually pay attention to when buying is the price of a heater. According to this criterion, one of the best options is a gas water heater.

But the installation of such equipment requires permission, and gas is often not available in the same places where there is no hot water supply (in the country or in a country house). Therefore, as suitable options, we will consider only electrical models in the article.

• For washing hands or dishes, you can buy an inexpensive instantaneous water heater for 1500-3000 rubles. If you need a device to provide hot water to the whole family, you need to take a model with more power, and therefore pay more - about 6-15 thousand rubles.
• The minimum price of a boiler with a volume of only 10 liters starts at 3,000 rubles. But models for 40-50 and even 80 liters will not cost much more - from 4-5 thousand. And the cost of the largest storage heaters, for 100-150 liters, rarely exceeds 30 thousand rubles.

It is worth considering that the cheapest models are not worth buying for permanent use. They are suitable for seasonal housing and can last no longer than 3-5 years. If buying a water heater every 3 years is not included in your plans, you should immediately choose reliable stainless steel equipment or more profitable steel models coated with zirconium or titanium enamel.

Gas water heaters

Gas water heaters are most often run in large buildings and cottages, because with a high efficiency, they are able to heat quite a lot of water. At the same time, fuel costs are relatively inexpensive, since you can always get by with cheaper options.

The disadvantages of using gas water heaters is that its installation requires special permission from the relevant authorities. The way the gas burns and the water is heated is affected by the temperature outside. In addition, a separate hood is required for the equipment of a gas water heater, as was written earlier.

Which water heater is best?

Within the segment, water heating equipment is divided into:

• flow,
• cumulative.

According to the source of water heating, water heaters are divided into three groups:

• electrical,
• gas,
• combined.

An important question is: which water heaters are more economical flow or storage. There is an opinion that gas is more profitable than electric. This is not true. The issue is considered in the context of specific numbers and technical capabilities of the premises.

For example, gas storage water heater will require a package of permits from supervisory services and the presence of a chimney. And for the installation of some electrical instances, cable laying with the required power is required.

Therefore, the issue price is determined not only by the cost of the model. It is necessary to choose flow or storage based on a comparison of the total costs of purchase and installation.

How to choose a device?

When choosing a water heater, first of all, it is necessary to take into account such important criteria:

water consumption;

number of water points.

As a rule, the device comes with several nozzles for convenient and practical use: washing dishes, taking water procedures, and so on. It is worth considering the size of the device. If you need to choose a model for use in a country house or a small one-room apartment, it is better to stay on a compact heater.

Together with the device, special nozzles are included. Heaters of this type are made in a vertical form and placed on the wall. You should not buy the device in the first available store.

Tips for choosing a water heater - in the next video.

What to look for when choosing a heater

Tank

What to look for when choosing a storage heater? First of all, on the dimensions, configuration and material of the tank

capacity

The volume of the tank is recommended to be selected depending on the number of users. For one owner, a boiler with a volume of 30 or 40 liters may be suitable, for a family of two or three people it is recommended to choose a tank of 60–80 liters, and for large families it is better to play it safe and buy a boiler with a tank of 100 liters or more. Of course, it all depends on the tastes and individual preferences of the owners. Someone loves take hot baths, and someone will be fine with a cool shower.

4 capacity options

• 10-15 liters. Water heaters of small volume, designed for short-term use. As a rule, their main scope is the kitchen.
• 30 liters. Water heaters with below average capacity. It is possible to use them in the kitchen and in some cases in the bathroom, if there is only one user (and without any special claims).
• 50–80 liters. Water heaters of average capacity, universal option, can be used everywhere.The bathroom is good with a small number of users.
• 100 liters or more. Large volume water heaters provide a high level of comfort, but it can be difficult to accommodate models of this size.

Dimensions, shape and weight

Too voluminous storage water heater, unfortunately, takes up a lot of space. Let's say a 100-liter boiler with a traditional body shape is a vertically standing cylinder with a diameter of about 0.5 m and a height of about 1 m. The placement of such a water heater can be a serious problem, especially considering that the appliance weighs about 130– 140 kg, not every wall can withstand it.

To simplify the task, manufacturers offer various modifications of devices, in particular, boilers with a flat tank. This form is more difficult to manufacture and therefore more expensive, but the flat body is easier to place in conditions of limited space. In addition, the flat body gives less load on the fasteners, on which the water heater is suspended from the wall. Another option for solving the "problem with placement" is water heaters with the possibility of horizontal mounting (the cylinder or flattened body is mounted so that the axis of symmetry is directed parallel to the ground level). This modification of the boiler can be placed high under the ceiling or, for example, above the front door.

Housing and protective coating material

The inner tank of the water heater can be made of black enameled steel or stainless steel. All internal tanks are non-repairable, so one of the main criteria when choosing a boiler is the reliability of the tank. Unfortunately, it is impossible to independently find out how well the tank is made. Indirectly, this can be estimated by the warranty period of service.Warranty for enamelled tanks is usually from 1 year to 5-7 years (7 years is very rare). The warranty period for a stainless steel tank is 5–7 years.

Other Options

What else should you pay attention to when choosing a storage type electric water heater?

Maximum temperature

Typically, storage water heaters are designed to produce hot water at a temperature of 60 to 85 °C. You should not chase high performance too much: scale is known to form at water temperatures exceeding 60 ° C. Therefore, it is good if the water heater has the option of adjusting the maximum heating temperature: by setting it, say, at 55 ° C, you are guaranteed to protect the tank from scale formation.

Built-in RCD

Serves to prevent electric shock in case of water heater breakdowns. Built-in RCDs are available in many models of Ariston, Electrolux, Ballu, Polaris, Timberk and some other manufacturers.

half power

A mode that provides for the operation of the heater at half the maximum power. This option is useful, for example, in the case of using powerful (about 3 kW) water heaters that create a large load on the network.

Frost protection

A useful option for our climate. If the temperature of the water in the water heater drops below a certain limit (for example, to 6 °C in the Vaillant eloSTOR VEH basis model), automatic frost protection will immediately turn on, which will heat the water to 10 °C.

Dismantling the heating element from the bottom of the water heater.

TEN.

At the bottom of most models are the inlet (blue) and outlet pipes.

2 in 1 effect

Each buyer, when choosing an electrical appliance, should think about the consumption of electricity. When developing a tankless water heater, engineers thought about this issue and did everything possible for the economical consumption of electricity. Professionals have combined the strengths of the two types of heaters and made a 2 in 1 formula.

This principle applies not only to productivity, but also to the amount of hot water inside the device. Due to the constant flow of cold water into the inner tank, the actual size of the tank becomes more than the nominal 2 times. During use, the consumer will receive water of the required temperature from all taps in the house, while hot water will be supplied immediately, without delays and expectations. It should be noted that the number of points connected to the heater can be adjusted as desired.

Why is an electric model better than a gas model?

In city apartments, you don’t have to choose between the two types of devices, as they usually use electric, safer models.

The exception is apartments in which gas water heaters are installed during the process of equipping the premises upon delivery of the house. This applies to "Khrushchev", "Stalinka" and some types of panel houses built in the 60-70s of the last century.

Scheme geyser devices. A necessary condition for its operation is a water pressure of at least 0.25-0.33 atm (approximately 1.5-2 l / min), otherwise the heating elements will not turn on

In country houses, water is often heated using a powerful floor-standing boiler, but some prefer to use a gas water heater out of habit.

Its use is appropriate for stove heating or in warm climates that do not require the installation of heating equipment.

Electric flowers are considered safer, although their operation is more expensive than using gas water heaters. In addition, with gas heating, an exhaust hood and reliable ventilation are required, otherwise there will be a risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Savings are considered a plus, since gas prices are lower than electricity prices.

In old-built houses, it is not possible to use a powerful electric type appliance (above 3.5 kW), so you will have to get by with either a weak water heater or a gas water heater. Thus, if there is a choice, consider the condition of electrical networks and ventilation, water pressure, the cost of fuel (gas or electricity).

We invite you to familiarize yourself with the guidelines for choosing a water heater in the article devoted to these issues.

Electric instantaneous water heaters

No. 4 - Thermex Surf 3500

Thermex Surf 3500

Inexpensive, low-power, but reliable device that is suitable for installation in a small apartment or in the country. An excellent solution to the problem of seasonal water shutdown for relatively little money.

The cost of this device starts from 4000 rubles. The model consumes 3.5 kW of electricity and is designed for one point of water intake. There is an indicator for turning on the column, and the device is protected from overheating and turning on without water. Degree of protection against liquid 4th level. The heating element is spiral and made of steel. The heat exchanger is also steel. Dimensions - 6.8x20x13.5 cm. Weight - just over 1 book.

Users note that this model has a high build quality and is very convenient to use. It does not take up much space, slightly loads the power grid and at the same time does an excellent job of heating water. The main disadvantage is weak pressure outlet water. 

pros

• low price
• small size
• heats water well
• consumes little energy
• simple use
• secure fastening

Minuses

• weak outlet water pressure
• short power cord
• only for one intake

Prices for water heater Thermex Surf 3500

Thermex Surf 3500

No. 3 - Electrolux NPX 8 Flow Active 2.0

Electrolux NPX 8 Flow Active 2.0

A rather expensive model with not the highest performance, which has a self-diagnosis function and a water filter in the kit. A compact option for those who want to have a reliable water heater at home.

The cost of the model starts from 15 thousand rubles. The device can easily heat up to 60 degrees 4.2 liters of liquid in one minute, while consuming 8.8 kW. Electronic type control, there is an indicator for turning on and operating the device, as well as a thermometer. The heater readings can be monitored on the display. Protection against overheating and switching on without water is in the list of functions. Dimensions 8.8x37x22.6 cm.

According to users, this heater will not spoil the interior, as it has a stylish and interesting design. It heats water well and quickly and is easy to use. The main downside is, of course, the price.

pros

• heats water quickly
• stylish design
• convenient use
• reliable
• compact
• water filter included

Minuses

high price

Prices for water heater Electrolux NPX 8 Flow Active 2.0

Electrolux NPX 8 Flow Active 2.0

No. 2 - Stiebel Eltron DDH 8

Stiebel Eltron DDH

A heater that is designed to supply hot water to several points of water intake at once. Model has a high degree of protection from water and as safe as possible for humans.

The cost of this heater starts from 15 thousand rubles. The productivity of the device is 4.3 l / min, the power is 8 kW.Mechanical type control, reliable and simple. There is an indicator of heating and turning on the device. Heating element in the form of a heating element made of copper. Dimensions - 9.5x27.4x22 cm.

Users note that this is a small but very effective device that will allow you to have hot water at home from several points of water intake at once. Heats water quickly and only when it is turned on. Very easy to use. Cons - the price and "gluttony" in terms of electricity. Ideal for the period of periodic shutdown of hot water supply.

pros

• heats water quickly
• small size
• copper heater
• powerful
• good performance
• high level of protection
• can be used for multiple water points

Minuses

• high price
• wastes a lot of electricity

Prices for water heater Stiebel Eltron DDH 8

Stiebel Eltron DDH 8

No. 1 - Clage CEX 9

Clage CEX 9

A rather expensive option, but it is designed to supply hot water to several water intake points and has a control panel. Included is a water filter. The high level of protection against water makes the device as safe as possible.

The cost of this heater is high and starts from 23 thousand rubles. This option is capable of heating up to 55 degrees 5 l / minute, while consuming 8.8 kW of electricity from a 220 V network. There are indicators for heating and turning on, as well as a display. The model is equipped with a self-diagnosis function, if necessary, limits the heating temperature. Inside there are 3 spiral heaters made of steel. Dimensions - 11x29.4x18 cm.

Users write that this heater is very well assembled, reliable and comes with a mounting card.It can be seen that the manufacturer paid a lot of attention to detail. Heats water very quickly and is easy to set up and operate. Made in Germany and that says it all.

pros

• German quality
• compact
• reliable
• heats water quickly
• high level of security
• designed for several water points

Minuses

high price

The best storage water heaters for 80 liters or more

Boilers with a tank volume of 80 l, 100 l and 150 l are most often used in summer cottages and in private homes. This volume will be enough for several people to buy without reheating, but at the same time, the time to heat the water increases several times.

4Stiebel Eltron 100 LCD

Stiebel Eltron 100 LCD is an incredibly functional, but at the same time very expensive electric storage water heater. This model combines high German standards, advanced technology and high security class.

The first thing that attracts the attention of the buyer is a multifunctional liquid crystal display. On it you can see the amount of energy consumed, temperature, the current amount of water in the tank, operating modes, and so on.

In addition, the self-diagnosis mode will report any malfunctions in the device.

The enamel inner coating of the tank will prevent rust. The Stiebel Eltron 100 LCD also provides for the presence of a titanium anode, which, unlike magnesium, does not require replacement and maintenance during operation. It is also worth noting the function of a two-tariff power supply mode, a boiler and anti-freeze mode.

pros

• Very powerful device, heats water quickly
• Holds heat well
• Convenient management
• Additional modes of use

Minuses

3Gorenje GBFU 100 E B6

Gorenje GBFU 100 E B6 ranks third among best storage electric water heaters 80 liters or more. This model is created using modern technologies, which ensures reliable operation and easy maintenance.

The main advantage in comparison with analogues is the presence of a “dry” heating element. This type of heating element is protected from scale and damage by a special flask. Plus, the inner surface of such devices is completely covered with enamel, which means that the load on the magnesium anode is much less.

How to decipher the name Gorenje GBFU 100 E B6?

GB stands for "dry" heating element.

F - compact body.

U - can be installed vertically and horizontally (nozzles are on the left).

100 is the volume of the water tank in liters.

B - the outer case is metal with coloring.

6 - inlet pressure.

Otherwise, the equipment is practically no different from competitors. In this model "Gorenie" there are 2 heating elements with a power of 1 kW each, a mode of preventing freezing, economical heating, a check valve, a thermometer and an indication of the boiler operation.

pros

• Keeps warm for a long time
• Good reliability for the price
• Universal mounting
• Dry heating element and power of 2 kW

Minuses

2Polaris Gamma IMF 80V

The second place goes to the incredibly simple but effective device Polaris Gamma IMF 80V. Due to a reliable heat-insulated tank and several points of water intake, the boiler is ideal for use in houses, baths, cottages, apartments and so on.

Thanks to the flat body, the boiler can easily fit even in small rooms with a shortage of space. All controls are located on the front. The digital display shows the current temperature value, next to it there is a temperature level regulator and a mode switch. In this model the mode of economy and the accelerated heating is provided.

The maximum power of the heater in Polaris Gamma IMF 80V is 2 kW. A 100 liter tank heats up in just 118 minutes. The built-in adjustable thermostat maintains the temperature at the set level. The device is protected from switching on without water, overheating, leakage and pressure drops.

pros

• For 80 liters very compact model
• The price is lower than that of analogues with the same functionality
• There is protection against switching on without water and against overheating
• Convenient and simple control

Minuses

1Gorenje OTG 80 SL B6

Most water heaters have very similar specifications, so picking the best one can be tricky. However, Gorenje OTG 80 SL B6 can be considered one of the best models for 80 liters and more.

The compact size of the device allows you to install it even in small spaces (for example, in a toilet). The enameled tank and magnesium anode will protect the body from corrosion. It also includes frost protection, splash protection, safety valve and thermostat. Good thermal insulation allows you to keep the water warm for a long time, even after a power outage.

Numerous positive customer reviews speak for themselves. There is nothing superfluous in this device. Install a Gorenje boiler at home, set the desired temperature, and forget about problems with hot water forever.

pros

• Simple and reliable assistant
• European assembly
• Thermal insulation at a high level
• Heats up a full tank fairly quickly

Minuses

Results

For an area with a small footage, an instantaneous water heater is the best option.

The main things to look for when choosing a water heater:

• heating rate;
• the ability to provide the necessary hot water for the needs of the family.

From the point of view of financial and energy costs, flow-through ones look more advantageous.

When choosing, it is necessary to take into account the dependence of flow models on the availability of high-quality electrical wiring and the level of pressure in the water supply.

The dimensions of storage devices require a large footage in the room.

If you expect to consume significant amounts of water, it is better to purchase a gas heater.