How to choose an instantaneous electric water heater: tips and introduction to successful models. How to choose an instantaneous electric water heater

How to choose an instantaneous electric water heater: tips and introduction to successful models. How to choose an instantaneous electric water heater

Supply interruptions hot water, especially in the summer, happen with enviable consistency. To solve this problem, many are forced to install an autonomous source of hot water supply in their apartment. Quite often our choice is a flow-through electric water heater. Of course, you need to decide which instantaneous water heater better and how to choose the desired model.

Instantaneous pressure water heater under the sink is invisible and useful

These units are distinguished by their small size, low electricity consumption, and in terms of efficiency they are no worse than modifications accumulative type. In such devices, the liquid is instantly heated and you don’t have to worry that when taking a shower from a horn, you will find yourself under a cold stream of water, because the hot water has run out in the storage tank.

How does an instantaneous water heater work?

An instantaneous water heater is a plastic or metal casing, inside of which a tubular electric heating element (TEN) is located. The principle of operation of a instantaneous water heater is not complicated: cold water entering the input of the device, coming into contact with the heating element, acquires the desired temperature at the outlet. Energy is consumed only when the device is operating. The best instantaneous water heaters have the following advantages:

  • light weight and overall dimensions;
  • possibility of placement in any convenient place;
  • unlimited amount of heated liquid;
  • electricity consumption in interval mode;
  • at a small price.

Internal organization instantaneous water heater - example modern technologies

You must understand that the more often a water heater of this design operates, the higher the billing costs will be. Basically, it depends on the number of people living in the apartment, the location of water intake points, and so on. The best low-power flow heaters used in the country are very economical.

Which is better: an electric water heater or a gas one?

Flowing water heaters, depending on the energy source used, are divided into electric and gas. The operating principle is essentially the same, so you need to choose an energy source. There is no clear answer to the question whether a gas water heater or an electric water heater is better: each unit has its own advantages and disadvantages.

Price gas fuel below, but equipment is required to install gas water heaters exhaust ventilation with a chimney and compliance with a number of fire safety requirements.

A gas water heater requires special permission from the relevant authorities, which means installation by yourself is prohibited, and a certified specialist is needed.

In addition, the gas water heater requires constant maintenance, and for the unit to function, there must be a constant operating pressure in the gas main. They are large in size, have restrictions on the installation location and burn oxygen.


A small-sized instantaneous water heater will harmoniously fit into any interior

Instantaneous water heaters, the energy source of which is electric current, are much safer to use. Their installation is not difficult and can be done with your own hands. It must be taken into account that powerful models place an increased load on the electrical wiring, so a safe connection should be provided. These units are compact in size and can be installed in any convenient location.

What is the difference between pressure and non-pressure models?

Non-pressure models are distinguished by the fact that the internal pressure in the system is close to atmospheric. Pressure modifications are always under pressure from the water main fluid. Gravity water heaters do not have high power, as a result, they heat water weakly and are used mainly as auxiliary devices for hot water supply; they work great in dacha conditions.


The water heater can be built directly into the faucet

Non-pressure models, designed to serve one water intake point, include a shower hose, watering can or tap. Units of this type do not place increased load on electrical network, to which they are connected, so replacing the wiring with a more powerful one in most cases is not required. This is again convenient for a summer residence. Non-pressure models are always installed after a tap or mixer that shuts off the flow of water.


Instantaneous water heater option with tap

Pressure water heaters are mounted directly into the water supply network and can serve several water intake points simultaneously. Most often they are installed under the sink, hung on the wall or placed behind the door. kitchen furniture. These units can maintain a constant temperature of heated water and automatically turn on when the tap is opened.

Connecting water heaters

Water heaters are connected to water supply utilities and electrical energy. However, there are differences in the electrical installation of pressure and non-pressure models, but grounding must be done in any case. Non-pressure water heaters are much easier to connect to a water source.


The water heater under the sink takes up very little space

Pressure units are connected to two water supply lines that supply hot and cold water. In almost any case, it would be correct to arrange the power supply with a separate line, since overloading the existing wiring is unacceptable, and all safety requirements must be observed. Electrical installation water heaters operated in rooms with high humidity must be performed especially carefully.

Connecting a gravity model to a water source

Installation of a instantaneous water heater always begins with hydraulic installation, because it is necessary to squeeze out the air pockets and fill its body with water. Connecting a gravity model to a source cold water is not difficult and can be done with your own hands. The device is mounted through a gasket that has dielectric properties and is included with the device.


A heated shower head is another instantaneous water heater option.

There must be a mixer or stopcock. This is necessary so that in the container in which the liquid is heated to the required temperature, pressure is not created for which it is not designed.

If a shut-off valve is connected at the outlet of a water heating device, a tank rupture may occur, since the automation that controls the work process does not monitor the pressure of the liquid at the place of its heating, but controls its presence or absence only at the system input.

The hot water coming from the water heater is supplied through a long hose with a shower head or gander. You cannot replace the mixer or spiral hose included with the unit, as they are specially designed for the required heating and economical water consumption. During operation, it is necessary to avoid splashing water on the unit and exposing it to external mechanical influence.

Connecting a pressure water heater to the water supply system

The pressure version of the water heater provides for connection to the water supply through the cut pipeline system. A tee is used, installed up to the nearest pipe branch. In order to be able to turn off the unit during a centralized supply of hot water, liquid supply shut-off valves are installed on the inlet pipes.


Connecting a pressure instantaneous water heater to a mixer

In addition, their presence helps to remove the device for repair or replacement without blocking the center line. It is better to install a filter in front of the tee for cleaning tap water, since its quality in the vast majority of cases can lead to a reduction in the service life of the device.

Electrical installation

Electrical installation of a instantaneous water heater is carried out after it is strengthened in the selected location and the device body is filled with water. Low-power models can be plugged directly into an outlet. If the apartment has electric stove, the cable feeding it is activated.


Electrical wiring diagram for connecting an instantaneous water heater

Some powerful units require equipment three-phase network rated voltage three hundred eighty volts. In all cases, it is necessary to provide for high-quality grounding. In addition, a device is required protective shutdown, which interrupts the operation of the unit in the event of a danger of electric shock to a person. Detailed instructions You will find information about connecting an RCD in the article

Control options for water heating devices

From the quality of management water heating devices the effectiveness of their functioning largely depends. The following options for implementing this function exist:

  • Devices using automation hydraulic type. In this case, a special sensor is located at the input of the system, which controls the appearance of the flow of flowing liquid and turns on the heating element. The disadvantage of this design is that it only connects one level of heating power. In some models it can be changed manually using push-button switching.
  • Using an electronic microprocessor. It controls the operation of the heater using control sensors and allows you to maintain the same temperature regime of the heated liquid.

Hydraulic control allows you to increase the temperature of the serviced fluid only by a certain amount. Which one depends on the power of the tubular electric heating element. It is believed that the inlet water temperature varies from twenty to twenty-five degrees.

It turns out that in summer the hydraulic control allows you to provide hot water supply, but in winter the unit may not be able to cope with heating water that is too cold.

Electronic control allows you to maintain the set temperature of the heated liquid regardless of the time of year. Such units are much more expensive and have greater power; as a result, they require a separate connection line and mandatory installation residual current devices.

Determining the required power of an instantaneous water heater

The power of an instantaneous water heater is its most important operational parameter. It determines the amount of hot water heated by the unit over a certain period of time. The low-power unit can heat about five liters of water within a minute, which is enough for cooking dinner or taking a shower.

The power of an instantaneous water heater required to satisfy the need for hot water can be simplified by dividing this parameter by half. The result obtained will show quite accurately how many liters of liquid, the temperature of which will increase by approximately thirty degrees, will be consumed in a minute time interval. For example, an eighteen-kilowatt unit will provide nine liters of hot water per minute.

Having determined the daily consumption of hot water depending on the number of people living in the apartment, you can easily calculate required power instantaneous water heater. It increases approximately one and a half times if a bath is taken instead of a shower, and there are many water intake points.


Depending on the design and purpose, the power of the water heater will vary.

In practice, when using a non-pressure water heater with a tap, a power of 3.5 kW is sufficient. If you need to heat water only for a shower, choose a 5 kW device. If it is possible to use a shower and a tap at the same time, it is better to purchase a 7 kW water heater.

Estimation of possible water consumption

Possible water consumption is estimated depending on the size of the family living in the apartment, the presence or absence of a bathroom, and so on. What will it be like average consumption water for an average family of three? Let's try to figure it out.

When taking a shower, an adult man spends approximately fifteen liters of hot water, a woman on average ten liters more. Adding here the morning hygiene procedures, washing dishes and hands, we get that a family of three will spend about one hundred liters of water. At the same time, thirty liters will be enough for one person.

Real offer on store shelves

On modern market There is a huge variety of modifications of instantaneous water heaters, both pressure and non-pressure. Actual offers of pressure models can be compared using the table below.

Table of characteristics of instantaneous water heaters
Water heater nameNumber of pointsPower, WDimensions, mmProductivity, l/minControl typeCost, %
Electrolux Smartfix 2.0 TX1 6500 270x135x1003,7 hydraulic100
Thermex System 800from 1 to 38000 270x95x1706 hydraulic160
Electrolux NPX 8 Flow Activefrom 1 to 38800 226x88x3704,2 electr490
AEG RMC 75from 1 to 37500 200x106x360from 1 to 3electr510
Evan V1-9.451 9450 260x190x7053,8 mechanical530
Stiebel Eltron DHM3from 1 to 33000 190x82x1433,7 hydraulic660

When choosing a specific device for a house or apartment, it is necessary to take into account the totality of all operating parameters. The most important part of an instantaneous water heater is the tubular electric heating element. For long-term trouble-free operation of the unit, high-quality protection of this part from direct contact with the heated liquid is necessary. Other structural elements in contact with water must be made of brass, copper or stainless steel.

Flow-through household heating systems are distinguished by a simple control system and compact dimensions, since they do not require an additional tank for operation. The operating process consists of circulating water through a tubular heating element, where it is instantly heated to a certain temperature. Most the best way equip your home with uninterrupted supply warm water- install instantaneous water heaters for the apartment.

Brief technical specifications

Modern equipment is divided into several types, which involve the use of different methods of heating the liquid:

  • The heating coil or heating element operates on the basis of electricity;
  • The work is carried out using a gas burner;
  • Operation occurs thanks to a heat exchanger through which water passes and reaches the desired temperature.

Electrical devices are considered the easiest to use - they are very easy to connect, work without problems, but consume a lot of electricity. The average power of such a heater is 3-5 kW.

The most economical ones are gas, but they require connecting the house to gas networks and are installed exclusively by specialists with a clearance category.

VIDEO: How to choose a water heater? Which one is better to buy?

Rules for choosing a flow apparatus

The problem of how to choose an instantaneous water heater for an apartment must be approached as responsibly as possible. To avoid making a mistake in your choice, you should answer several questions.

  1. What energy source will the device operate on?

Today there are two types of energy sources: gas or electricity. If the house is heated gas boiler, you can generally purchase a double-circuit boiler, which both heats and provides hot water. Both circuits are autonomous and are not interconnected in operation.

In the absence of gas, electric instantaneous boilers are chosen, which are installed in close proximity to the water intake point - on the tap, on or instead of the shower, near the sink as an additional source of hot water, etc. The performance of the device depends on the type of wires installed. For example, in old buildings, panels are designed for a maximum current supply of up to 16A. They can withstand equipment power of no more than 3.5 kW. More later buildings have shields that can withstand 32-40 A, in this case you can use powerful device, with a value of up to 8 kW.

Regardless of the quality of the wiring and the year of construction, when installing an electrical device, you should additionally run a separate wire running from the unit to the electric machine.

  1. Type of equipment

There are two types of equipment: non-pressure and pressure. The second option is more suitable for the apartment, which during the installation process is mounted directly on the hot and cold water pipes. The device has the ability to supply hot water to several faucets at once.

However, if the purpose of purchasing a device is to seasonally shut off the centralized water supply, you should choose a non-pressure option. It often has less power and comes with additional shower heads. This unit is intended to heat the coolant only in the summer; in winter it is not able to cope effectively with the work.

  1. Equipment performance

Here, to a greater extent, you need to navigate what water consumption is required for domestic purposes, taking into account the incoming and outgoing temperature conditions. It is these parameters that are recorded in the passport of the instantaneous water heater for the apartment.

To calculate, place a container with a known volume under the tap and time it for one minute. The amount accumulated over a given period of time is the main parameter for choosing a device.

The temperature of the incoming water is of fundamental importance. If it is at 14°C or higher, the output will be the degrees declared by the manufacturer. The lower the incoming temperature, the correspondingly cooler it will be.

Experts recommend purchasing equipment famous manufacturer. Since dubious products will significantly save investments, however, a little later, problems may arise with rapid breakdown of the unit and difficult to access parts.

Installing low-quality equipment in a house or apartment can lead not only to difficulties associated with its functioning, but also to a violation of the security of the entire property.

In order to figure out how to choose an instantaneous water heater for an apartment, you need to correctly assess the upcoming load. For a family of four people you will need a device with a power of 14-16 kW. Volume of water in in this case will be 5-8 liters per minute, which is enough for 1-2 water intake points.

Maximum temperature should be at least 50°C, but keep in mind that in winter it may be 3-5°C less at the outlet. Because the we're talking about For household use, the power supply must be designed for 220 V, frequency 20-30 Hz. If the house is private or there are regular voltage drops in the network, buy devices with a frequency of 30 Hz. If voltage stabilizers are installed, you can get by with 20 Hz.

Do not buy devices without overheat protection. The protection must be marked IP30.

As for probes, it is better to prefer anti-corrosion ones, but some manufacturers have already released a line of soapstone ones. Both types have proven themselves equally well in operation.

When the choice is made, be sure to ask the sales consultant for a certificate of quality conformity and do not forget about the warranty period.

Popular brands, models and reviews about them

As was already discussed a little earlier, the use of more powerful models is not advisable for an apartment, as with a private house the situation is different. Therefore, we will give examples of less productive units that occupy leading positions in the technical market.

Electric instantaneous water heater for kitchen Atmor Basic 3.5 kW

With a power of 3.5 kW and a maximum liquid flow rate of up to 3 l/min. The budget version of the heating system is capable of producing a temperature range of up to 40 ° C, under one condition, if the liquid at the entrance to the device is not colder than 18 ° C. The estimated cost varies from 1000 to 1500 rubles.

The main complaints from users are frequent shutdowns and cold water “shooting” when turned on at high power.

Water heater Polaris Vega T 3.5

Power 5.5 kW and capacity - 4.3 liters. Thanks to its universal shape, the appliance can be mounted under a bathtub, washbasin or in a niche. The package includes a faucet and shower head.

Generally, negative reviews There are very few users, the equipment is called good quality, which fully justifies its affordable cost - 2000 rubles.

Instantaneous water heater for apartments Cartridge PE-VN-220

It has an average cost of up to 2600 rubles. Power does not exceed 5 kW, flow rate - 5 l/min. The device involves the treatment of low quality water, therefore it is equipped with an additional protective layer that increases the service life of the equipment.

Electric instantaneous water heater Electrolux SMARTFIX 2.0 S (3.5 kW)

A very high-quality line of equipment, equipped with all necessary protective equipment. Average productivity is 3-4 liters. Power 5.5 kW. Very compact dimensions, laconic design. They are conveniently placed in niches. There is only one drawback - the price. On average, such equipment will cost 5,000 rubles.

Modern models already have predominantly steatite heating elements, which even compared to anti-corrosion ones extends the service life. Maximum temperature 50°. Parameters - 220V, 20-30 Hz. Everything is done very high quality.

Instantaneous water heater Thermex System 1000 (wh)

Universal water heaters that are in demand among consumers, but at the same time have a number of complaints. First of all, this concerns the lack of gaskets under the thermostat. Limitation of the operating frequency to 25 Hertz, which can affect the operation of the equipment in case of voltage fluctuations in the network. It is advisable to immediately install a voltage stabilizer and not use the device at full power.

The advantages are thermal switches, high-quality regulators and versatility. Most have 3 operating modes. Price - 5500-6000 rub.

How to install the device?

First of all, it is necessary to install the device directly on the wall, and then connect it to common system water supply

Next, a power connection is required. Even if the instantaneous water heater has a low power, it should still have a separate electrical wiring. This process must be carried out based on the factor that not every electric meter is able to withstand a large current load.

The wiring diameter and type of automation are selected based on technical features water heater and meter. It's important to remember that standard socket, through which the equipment is planned to be connected, must have a grounding element.

After this, the device is connected to the water supply directly to the tap or the shower head is replaced, depending on the configuration and type of device.

VIDEO: Instantaneous water heater. Schematic diagram connections

For most, hot water shutdown situations are understandable.

In addition, the majority are indignant about the water being cut off in summer period, the period when water is most needed in urban environments: playing sports, traveling to the country, or simply washing dishes is difficult.

However, this is the 21st century, and humanity has found a way out of this situation - searching for warm water.

The most economical fuel and, naturally, the method of obtaining hot water is gas and, accordingly, a geyser. True, this option is suitable in a situation where there is a nearby gas main near the home.

In any case, the possibility of heating water is always available by installing a boiler operating on liquid fuel, mainly diesel fuel. Although it is worth saying in advance that placing the unit will require not only free space, but also the whole room.

An electric water heater is also a good way to heat water. In this case, electricity will cost a little more than gas, however, as history confirms, it works, and electricity is present in every home. Therefore, this will be the most suitable option- electric water heaters as a convenient way to heat water.

Operating principle

For those who are planning to purchase this equipment - an electric water heater, it is worth deciding on the basic principles of its operation. So, it’s a logical question what knowledge “dummies” will need.

The entire operating principle of this unit can be described in two words:

At the same time, a fairly simple system has several variations due to which several types of devices can be distinguished, divided into classes according to the control method and power consumption.

First of all, we cannot ignore the option of a water heater with a power of 3.5 kW, which will ideally fit into a situation of lack of water, say, even for a period of time, i.e. for summer use.

This is due to the temperature level provided by the device - water is not lower than 18 degrees; the second model is standard and already operates at a power of 5 kW, which is quite powerful and allows you to heat water even in winter.

It is worth noting the advanced options that have appeared on sale. These units have functionality that allows heating a mode with a power of 7 kW or more, however, the demands on the condition of the electrical wiring also increase. Considering that electrical appliances have high power, they will require separate high-quality electrical wiring.

Do not forget about safety measures - it is worth grounding the device. As a rule, due to the connivance of the owners, the potential risk is reduced, and in most cases, the places where the device is located and used are not equipped with the appropriate quality of electrical wiring.

Therefore, even a device with a power of 5 kW, or even more, is not equipped with a plug and power cord for the safety of inattentive users, when plugging the heater into a regular outlet.

The best option would be if the fuses trip, but the worst would be if the insulation melted and short circuit. It is necessary to calculate the home wiring for a current strength of 30 Amps.

In order to cope with this, you will need to find the corresponding inscription on the electric meter below the spinning numbers. At installed at home On electric stoves, the total wiring is designed to be up to 8-9 watts. Anyway the best solution You will need to consult a professional electrician.

Previously, we already introduced you to the fact that there are several types of water heaters, where we can note devices of closed (pressure) and open (non-pressure) type, which have different operating principles.

  1. Boiler closed type ideal for centralized water supply systems. Heating container in this device metal (enamelled steel, stainless steel, copper). To avoid damage to the container due to an increase in pressure when water expands during the heating process, an expansion tank is used in conjunction with the boiler. Steel tanks with high blood pressure corrosion is prevented cathodic protection based on a sacrificial anode;
  2. The open type of the device is able to supply only one water point due to the water supply fittings. The principle of operation of this type of fittings is reduced to shutting off the network water under pressure at the entrance to the container. This feature allows the container to be made from less durable materials, often plastic.

Closed type boilers can be used with special mixers, but open type with a safe group of safety, return and relief valves, and expansion tank cannot be used.

The very concept of “gravity-free” does not require necessarily filling the container and subsequently disconnecting it from the water supply source.

In order for water to be collected and hot water to flow, cold water should be supplied under pressure into the container. In this case, the tank itself will always be full. If there is no pressure at the inlet, the water is not able to come out.

In cases of constant lack of supply, options for the device without thermal insulation are provided.

Which one is better to choose?

Having decided to purchase this device, you will have to pay attention to certain selection tips, which we will try to outline below with their advantages and disadvantages.

A flow heater will require:

  • A great option for the winter period, however, you will need to connect to a power supply of at least 12 kW;
  • When solving a seasonal problem in the summer, it is worth turning to a device with 6-8 kW of power. This power is quite enough for a confident and comfortable shower.

The advantages of a flow-through heater are worth noting:

  • Compactness– small dimensions, which allows us to talk about its mobility;
  • Economical(consume electricity only to maintain temperature). Also, as a rule, flow-through will cost the buyer less than storage. It is also worth noting an example of efficiency: usually a shower takes up to 10 minutes. An 8 kW “flow-through” device will consume about 1.33 kW over a given period of time. In turn, a 100-liter “storage” can fully warm up in 4 hours. Considering simple arithmetic calculations: in 4 hours 1.5 kW is 6 kW of electricity consumption. Extremely clear.
  • not limited by the amount of hot water drawn. The heating option is limited by the container’s own volume. Although, if such electrical power is not possible, then there is no alternative, as such, to a storage device.

What's inside?

  • Inside the storage version of the water heater there is an internal flask, thermal insulation (the thickness of which determines the reduction in electricity consumption), and heating elements.
  • The flask must be made of steel with an anti-corrosion coating.
  • When choosing a small volume water heater, it is necessary that they contain a copper inner bulb.
  • Regarding stainless steel, it is worth noting only its unsuitability for production: poor weldability of the material will lead to leakage of seams or corrosion at the welding site.

What should you pay attention to when purchasing?

  1. When in a instantaneous water heater the heater is replaced with a spiral - open heating element, then if there is air lock it will easily burn in water.
  2. Without safety valve supplied with the storage water heater, excess water will not be discharged, which will lead to rapid decommissioning.
  3. If there is no anti-corrosion anode in the storage model or its volume is too small, then after a certain time the flask will begin to corrode.
  4. A water heater without IP 24/25 protection will be unprotected from moisture, water jets, splashes, and therefore its installation in the bathroom is not safe.
  5. In the case of a horizontal water heater, it is impossible to ensure that hot and cold water do not mix.

During the selection process, you should pay attention to the following brands and models of heaters.

Among flow models The choice of household water heaters that are affordable and easy to service is quite extensive. In addition, the bulk of the devices presented in stores are affordable in terms of cost, which starts from 1,300 rubles (say, for the Timberk WHEL-3 OS version) and up to 32 thousand -36 thousand rubles. (AEG, Stiebel Eltron).

Also in the store you can find models from manufacturers Thermex, Stiebel Eltron, Electrolux, AEG, Bosch, Atmor, Polaris and others.

Cumulative options are more popular, so their variety on the shelves is wider: AEG, Gorenje, Ariston, Thermex, Timberk, Electrolux, Haier, Stiebel Eltron, Atmor, Bosch, Polaris. The price level for these devices starts from 2,500 rubles (Haier ES6V-Q1 for 6-liters) and up to 130 thousand rubles. (Stiebel Eltron, AEG, Austria Email with volumes of 150-300 l).

Note that the vast majority of devices are storage pressure type options.

An electric instantaneous water heater is a device that can be found in many homes today. It works on a very simple principle, which is that water enters the device directly from the water supply. The liquid is heated in a special chamber to which a heating element is installed. After heating to a given temperature, water is sent through a tap or shower to the consumer. Since there is no separate container for water, its accumulation does not occur.

Application and performance of instantaneous electric water heaters

Electric water heaters do not take up much room space. Thanks to their compact size, they can be placed on taps in bathrooms and kitchens. They also put heaters on the shower. It is worth talking in more detail about the operating principles of this device.

Operating principles of instantaneous electric water heater

If there are power outages in your home hot water arise quite often, the water heater becomes an indispensable device. The device provides rapid heating of water in a short period of time; the owner of the house can set the most comfortable temperature himself.

It doesn’t matter how many people live in the apartment - the water heater will provide hot water to everyone. Since the volume of hot water available to residents through a tap or shower does not depend on the storage tank, there is enough hot water for everyone!

Electrical energy is consumed by the device only if the water heater passes liquid through itself. The device starts working the moment the tap opens. In this case, hot water is immediately supplied through the shower, which is very convenient, because there is no need to wait for the water to heat up.

Electric water heaters are available for sale different types. For country houses A non-pressure device is ideal for showers; it has very low energy consumption. The power of the device is small, but for summer cottage powerful devices are rarely required.

Pressure water heaters can be used in any conditions. They only have a water inlet or outlet. Of course, today there are not only electric storage water heaters on sale, but also gas-powered devices, but electrical appliances are the most common. People are happy to buy them for cottages and apartments and install them on showers.

The devices are produced different manufacturers, and each buyer can choose the most suitable device for himself. Electrical devices They are quite easy to connect to a tap or shower; there is no need to install additional networks. Such devices often replace storage heaters, because a flow-through heater does not require much space for installation and is very easy to use. The apartment owner only needs to install required level heating water.

Of course, electric water heaters, like any other devices, have their pros and cons. It is for this reason that it is worth deciding in advance which characteristics of the device are important and which can be classified as desirable, but of primary importance.

Characteristics of instantaneous water heaters

Instantaneous water heaters have several advantages over other devices that have already been mentioned. Firstly, the device allows you to set the required water heating level. Secondly, thanks to its compact size, the water heater can be installed in any room.

In addition, it is necessary to take into account that when installing the device on a shower, installation additional equipment, for example, a chimney, as sometimes happens when installing a gas water heater.

The level of energy consumption of the device directly depends on the power of the heating element. If excessive energy consumption is not needed, you should pay attention to the choice of heating element.

The disadvantages of the devices include significant energy consumption, because the device installed on the shower must heat a fairly large volume of water. If it is low-power, then the energy consumption is small. If the heating element is powerful, consuming 10-12 kW, then a lot of energy will be required. This is worth considering when purchasing.

If you live in a private house, it is worth finding out whether it is possible to install a powerful heater operating from the network with the existing power lines. Consult a specialist on this issue. If in doubt, it is better to choose a device that has low power. Low-power devices are well suited for apartments and houses.

All water heaters that are sold in stores can be divided into two groups. Pressure devices provide excellent pressure, which allows you to draw water from several points simultaneously. Non-pressure water heaters provide hot water to only one water intake point; they are installed on one tap. Some models come with their own watering can.

The devices also differ in the type of control. There are electronic and hydraulic heaters. Electronic devices have more complex design, but their power can be adjusted. In addition, electronic control makes it possible to more flexibly control water heating.

How to choose an instantaneous water heater for a tap

Start by choosing the housing material. Since the device is exposed to quite high temperatures, then it is better to buy heaters with enameled containers. Such devices are resistant to aggressive substances contained in water.

Electric instantaneous water heater for tap

Instantaneous water heaters for showers

It is better to purchase an electric instantaneous water heater, the body of which is made of polypropylene or copper. The most expensive electric heaters have anti-scale protection installed. Most often this is an anode that lasts more than 5 years, even when interacting with hard tap water. When the anode is destroyed, the lamp begins to light, signaling the need to replace it.

To install electric instantaneous water heaters on a shower, you need circuit breaker, and there should be a wire coming from the electrical panel.

If there are only gas stoves, then you should not install a device with a power of more than 8 kW.

Modern water heaters have the ability to regulate the power of the heating element and the water pressure. Some models do not have such a control system, which must be taken into account when purchasing a device.

When choosing a device, pay attention to its safety. It is best to purchase a water heater that has built-in overheating protection. Many models have water filters, heating indication, and a shower. The devices, which were produced by leading companies, are equipped with a spout or nozzle, as well as all fittings necessary for installation.

Pressure water heaters operate simultaneously for the shower and kitchen and are connected directly to the central water supply system

You should buy devices only in specialized stores. Be sure to ask for all documents and warranty cards. Find out if it does service center company post-warranty service.

How to choose a water heater? Which one is better to buy? Video

The presence of hot water is one of the indispensable attributes comfortable life. Citizens are so accustomed to such conditions that temporary shutdowns of hot water supply bring a lot of inconvenience. There is also not enough hot water outside the city, in dachas. Decide this problem maybe an electric instantaneous water heater. This device can supply hot water not only on a temporary, but also on a permanent basis: you can build a hot water supply system for a private home.

Principle, structure and operating features

An electric instantaneous water heater is a small device that heats the water flowing through it. The heating element is a heating element (tubular electric heater) or an open spiral. Heaters with heating elements are more common - they are safer and the heating element is easier to replace. In very compact models - faucet attachments, etc. — there is simply nowhere to put the heating element, so an open spiral is used.

The device starts working when a flow appears (the tap opens), and turns off when the flow disappears. The set temperature is reached in a few seconds, after which it is maintained constantly (if the heating element has sufficient power).

Externally, an ordinary instantaneous electric water heater is a small plastic case connected to cold water and electricity. Has one outlet for hot water. Depending on the purpose, it can supply hot water to one (individual) or several (system) distribution points.

What parts does an electric instantaneous water heater consist of?

The structure of an instantaneous water heater is simple; it contains the following elements:

  • Cold water inlet. It is connected to the water supply, usually with a flexible braided hose.
  • Flow sensor. Monitors the appearance of water in the device (the tap is opened) and turns on the heating element. It also turns off the heating when the flow stops (the tap is closed).
  • Tank with heating element. A small container, inside of which there is a heating element curved in the form of a spiral. This is where the water is heated.
  • Hot water outlet. From the tank with water goes a tube through which heated water is discharged.

As you can see, the device is simple. There is also a control panel on the lid, where the conductors from the flow sensor and heating element are routed - so that you can adjust the operating mode and monitor the status of the device (power-on indication).

Types and connections to water supply and electricity

There are two main types of instantaneous electric water heaters: pressure and non-pressure. Pressure pumps are also called system pumps and often have the word Sistem in their name. They connect to the gap water pipe, as a rule, have greater power and can provide hot water to two or more water points.

Gravity or individual instantaneous water heaters are connected as usual Appliances- through a flexible hose or a water pipe outlet. They supply one point with heated water, have relatively low power (3-7 kW) and low cost. They exist in different forms:


If you need to wait out several weeks of hot water supply outages, you can install an individual non-pressure electric instantaneous water heater of any type. If a constant supply of hot water is required, it would be more rational to install a pressure unit.

Connecting a pressure water heater to the water supply

Pressure or system electric water heaters are connected to existing system water supply in a pipe rupture. They cut in using a tee, which installed before the first branch. Shut-off valves are installed at the inlet of cold and hot water Ball Valves. They turn off the device if there is a centralized hot water supply. These taps are also needed so that, if necessary, the device can be removed for repair or replacement.

The quality of tap water leaves much to be desired and it is better to install the heater after the filter. If there is no filter at the entrance to the apartment, it is advisable to install it either immediately after the branch to the apartment, or before the water heater.

In a private home, such a unit will work if there is pumping station or a self-assembled system with a hydraulic accumulator. It cuts in after all the filters, and the output goes to consumers.

Connecting gravity to water

Non-pressure (individual) electric instantaneous water heater standard view connects like normal household appliance. There must be an outlet from the water supply with a tap and thread at the end. Using a flexible braided hose, the device is connected to the water supply.

Faucet attachments for heating water are a small group. They are basically screwed onto the threads at the end of the spout (gander). To do this, first unscrew the mesh that is usually installed there.

Some time ago there were quite a lot of them, but they were characterized by low efficiency. The nozzle itself is quite large and you can’t attach it to a low crane—it gets in the way. TO In addition, taps with electric water heating have appeared on the market, which heat water better, have the ability to adjust the temperature and are more convenient to use. They are installed in place of a regular faucet on a sink or sink. The only difference in installation is the need for an electrical connection.

Electrical connection

Any electric instantaneous water heater is a powerful and Requires a separate power line. As an exception, you can connect it to the line that goes to the electric stove - the line is suitable according to the parameters. Only in this case, you need to make sure that the stove and instantaneous water heater do not start working at the same time, otherwise the machine will work due to overload.

The connection of an instantaneous electric water heater is standard - from the panel, the phase from zero is connected to a two-contact RCD (it is necessary to disconnect both the phase and the zero), then the phase is also connected to the machine and only after that is supplied to the consumer.

The connection itself can be made via a three-pin plug and socket with a mandatory ground connection. You can also install a contact plate or connect a cable directly to the appropriate heater inputs.

Pull the power line copper wire(mono core):

  • up to 7 kW cross section 3.5 mm;
  • from 7 to 12 kW - 4 mm.

The machine is selected according to the maximum current consumption (available in technical specifications). Take the nearest higher rating (if you take the smaller one there will be a lot of unnecessary operations - every time you switch to maximum power). The RCD is taken one step higher in rating, the leakage current is 10 mA.

Read more about selecting the ratings of circuit breakers.

Control type

You can adjust the operation of the electric water heater (change the degree of heating) using several regulators that are located on the control panel. Control can be hydraulic or electronic.

An electric instantaneous water heater with hydraulic control heats the water to a certain number of degrees. It always turns on at maximum power, even if it has several different heating modes. And even if one of the modes was set before turning off, it will turn on again from the maximum.

It also has one more feature - it heats the water by a certain number of degrees. You must change the degree of heating manually - switching modes after turning on. Moreover, the maximum temperature delta is most often 25°C. That is, if you have water at the inlet of +5°C, then at the outlet of such a device it simply cannot be warmer than +30°C (with full flow). This does not mean that the unit is broken or is not working correctly. This means that it simply cannot make it warmer. You can slightly correct the situation by reducing the pressure, then you can achieve a slight increase in temperature, but in such conditions you will not get fully hot water from such a unit.

Installations with electronically controlled usually have greater power and noticeably more high price. This is due to the fact that they have heating elements with multi-stage power adjustment, and they are more expensive. In addition, the “filling” of such a device is more complicated - there are several sensors, and it also contains a microprocessor that processes data and regulates the operation of the heaters. If the unit is selected correctly in terms of power, it will be able to maintain the set temperature (usually up to 40°C) with a deviation of one degree.

Selecting an electric instantaneous water heater by power

Whatever type of electric water heater you choose, you need to choose the right power. That's right, in this case, it's so that it meets your expectations. The easiest way is to focus on the number of taps that will require a simultaneous supply of hot water:


Not all electrical networks can withstand such power. Often the total allocated power per house or apartment is much less. In this case, it is worth considering the possibility of installing less powerful individual instantaneous water heaters or. Great option- , but it is for those who have the ability to connect to the gas mains.

Selection by water consumption (performance)

You can choose an electric instantaneous water heater according to the required flow rate. There are hot water consumption standards for different consumers. By adding up the required consumption for your case, you will get the desired figure. So, average consumption:


When choosing, you must have the same power value and consumption. In this case, water at all flow points that can operate simultaneously will be supplied at the specified temperature. If not, you will have to make sure that only one tap is open at a time.

What the market can offer

The choice of electric instantaneous water heaters is at least large... You can easily get confused. What should you pay attention to besides power and performance? On the material from which the tank and heating element are made. The tank can be copper, stainless steel or plastic. This information is not provided by all manufacturers, but if it is not available, the filling is most likely made of plastic. It is, of course, heat-resistant, but not as reliable as metals.

Also pay attention to the minimum and maximum pressure cold water at which the unit can operate. There are capricious models that require a reducer to be installed on our networks to connect them.

NamePowerDimensionsPerformanceAmount of pointsControl typeOperating pressurePrice
Thermex System 8008 kW270*95*170 mm6 l/min1-3 hydraulic0.5-6 Bar73$
Electrolux Smartfix 2.0 TS (6.5 kW)6.5 kW270*135*100 mm3.7 l/min1 hydraulic0.7-6 Bar45$
AEG RMC 757.5 kW200*106*360 mm 1-3 electronic0.5-10 BAR230$
Stiebel Eltron DHM 33 kW190*82*143 mm3.7 l/min1-3 hydraulic6 Bar290$
Evan B1 - 9.459.45 kW260*190*705 mm3.83 l/min1 mechanical0.49-5.88 Bar240$
Electrolux NPX 8 Flow Active8.8 kW226*88*370 mm4.2 l/min1-3 electronic0.7-6 Bar220$

We should also talk about taps with electrically heated water. They are also called a water heater faucet. They appeared not so long ago, but are quickly gaining popularity because they are easy to use and easy to connect.

NameControl typeHeating rangeOperating pressureConnection sizePower/voltageHousing materialPrice
ATLANTA ATH-983auto30-85°Cfrom 0.05 to 0.5MPa1/2" 3 kW / 220 Vceramics40-45$
Aquatherm KA-002mechanicalup to +60°Cfrom 0.04 to 0.7 MPa1/2" 3 kW / 220 Vcomposite plastic80$
Aquatherm KA-26mechanicalup to +60°Cfrom 0.04 to 0.7 MPa1/2" 3 kW / 220 Vcomposite plastic95-100$
Delimanoautoup to +60°C0.04 - 0.6 MPa1/2" 3 kW/220-240 Vplastic, metal45$
L.I.Z. (Delimano)hydraulicup to +60°C0.04-0.6 MPa1/2" 3 kW/220-240 Vheat resistant ABS plastic50$