How to choose a water heater for an apartment - it's simple! Competent choice of instantaneous water heaters

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

Brief specifications

Modern equipment is divided into several types, which involve the use different ways fluid heating:

• The heating coil or heating element operates on the basis of electricity;
• Work is carried out through the use of a gas burner;
• Functioning occurs due to the heat exchanger through which water passes and acquires the desired temperature regime.

Electrical appliances 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 are gas, but they require the house to be connected to gas networks and are installed exclusively by specialists with a tolerance category.

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

Rules for choosing a flow apparatus

The task of how to choose an instantaneous water heater for an apartment must be approached as responsibly as possible. In order not to make a mistake in the choice, you should answer a few questions.

1. What energy source will the device work on?

Today, there are two types of energy source: gas or electricity. If the house is heated by a 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 flow-through boilers are chosen, which are installed in the immediate vicinity of 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 installed wires. For example, in old buildings, shields are designed for maximum current supply up to 16A. They can withstand the power of equipment no more than 3.5 kW. Later buildings have shields that can withstand 32-40 A, in this case a powerful device can be used, with a value of up to 8 kW.

Regardless of the quality of the wiring and the year of construction when installed electrical device a separate wire should be additionally routed 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 hot and cold water pipes. The device has the ability to supply hot water several mixers at once.

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

1. Equipment performance

Here, to a greater extent, you need to find out 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, put a container with a known volume under the tap and note one minute. The amount that is 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 around 14 ° C and above, the output will be the degrees declared by the manufacturer. The lower the inlet temperature, the cooler it will be, respectively.

Experts recommend purchasing equipment from a well-known manufacturer. Since dubious products will significantly save investments, however, problems with a quick breakdown of the unit and hard-to-reach parts may arise a little later.

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

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

Maximum temperature should be at least 50°C, but keep in mind that in winter it can be 3-5°C lower at the outlet. Since we are talking about domestic use, the power supply must be rated 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, 20 Hz can be dispensed with.

Do not buy appliances without overheating protection. The IP30 marking is mandatory for protection.

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

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

Popular brands, models and reviews about them

As 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 give examples of less productive units that occupy a leading position in the technical market.

Instantaneous electric water heater for the kitchen Atmor Basic 3.5 kW

3.5 kW and maximum flow liquids - up to 3 l / min. The budget version of the heating system is capable of delivering temperatures up to 40 ° C under one condition, if the liquid at the inlet to the apparatus is not colder than 18 ° C. Estimated cost varies from 1000 to 1500 rubles.

The main user complaints are frequent shutdowns and “shoot through” of cold water when turned on at high power.

Water heater Polaris Vega T 3,5

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

In general, there are very few negative user reviews, the equipment is called solid, which fully justifies its affordable price - 2000 rubles.

Instantaneous water heater for apartment Cartridge PE-VN-220

It has an average cost - up to 2600 rubles. Power does not exceed 5kW, consumption - 5l / min. The device involves the processing of low-quality water, therefore it is equipped with an additional protective layer that increases the operational 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 the necessary protective equipment. Average productivity - 3-4 liters. Power 5.5 kW. Very compact dimensions concise design. They are conveniently placed in niches. The only drawback is the price. On average, such equipment will cost 5,000 rubles.

IN modern models predominantly steatite heating elements are already provided, which, even compared to anti-corrosion ones, prolongs the service life. Maximum temperature 50°. Parameters - 220V, 20-30 Hz. Everything is 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 for the thermostat. Limiting the operating frequency to 25 Hertz, which, if the voltage drops in the network, can affect the operation of the equipment. It is advisable to immediately install a voltage stabilizer and not use the device at full capacity.

In the pros - thermal switches, high-quality regulators and versatility. Most have 3 modes of operation. Price - 5500-6000 rubles.

How to install the device?

First of all, it is necessary to mount the device directly on the wall, and then connect it to common system plumbing.

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

Wiring diameter and type of automation is selected based on technical features water heater and meter. It is important to remember that the standard outlet through which the equipment is planned to be connected must have a grounding element.

After that, 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. circuit diagram connections

Choosing an instantaneous electric water heater becomes a priority for a demanding household, during planned outages or frequent interruptions in the supply of hot water. As you know, not all houses and apartments have hot water, not to mention summer cottages. For its heating, various devices are used, in particular instantaneous water heaters.

These options have significant differences. The traditional instantaneous electric water heater is more compact and mobile, making it possible to get hot water anywhere, only if electricity is available. The choice of such a device will be discussed in the following material.

The presence of a constant source of hot water is one of the main criteria for a comfortable stay. Flow type water heaters are designed to meet the needs of hot water in the absence of other ways to obtain it (centralized supply, gas water heating equipment, and so on).

Instantaneous electric water heater - the purpose of the device

Electric instantaneous water heaters can satisfy a variety of water needs - from one kitchen faucet to small production lines. This requires appropriate parameter values electric current. Flow EWHs are mainly used for short-term replacement of a permanent source of hot water supply due to the high cost of heating water with electric energy.

Structural elements

The design of an instantaneous electric water heater, as a rule, is the same in all models and it looks like this. An electric heating element (TEH) is mounted in a metal tank. The tank has two threaded pipes - cold water inlet and hot water outlet. Cranes are installed on the nozzles to enable the removal and repair of equipment. Further, the taps are usually connected with the help of flexible hoses to the networks, respectively, of cold (source) and hot water.

Perhaps the most expensive and important in the device is the heating element - the heating element. Its purpose is to heat the water flowing through the heater. When water pressure is created, the built-in pressure switch is activated in the device. It includes the work of the heating element.

Inside the body, on the body of the copper bulb, there is a thermal cycling interrupter. This is a sensor that ensures the safety of people and the device itself in case of exceeding the maximum allowable temperature water. If the temperature reaches a critical value, the breaker will turn off the heating element.

However, the main problem during the operation of a flow-through EWH is the failure of the heating element due to constant increased thermal and electrical loads. Replacing it does not present any difficulty and does not require special skills, the only negative is that the heating element fails at the most inopportune moment.

You can regulate the temperature of the passing water with a thermostat located on the body of the device. Also, the temperature can be changed by changing the water pressure if the water heater is not equipped with a water pressure stabilizer (in expensive models).

The principle of operation of the instantaneous electric heater

Heating of water is carried out directly at opening of the crane, during passage of a stream of water through a heating element. Water enters the tank, and then it is already heated, it is supplied to the draw-off point. As a standard, an instantaneous electric water heater has an automatic operation system. When the water tap is opened, the heater is switched on, and when the tap is closed, it is turned off.

Flowing electric water heaters have standard automation. A flow sensor is installed on the hydraulic path. Thus, at the beginning of the water intake (opening the mixer), a certain amount of water flow is formed, and the sensor gives a command to turn on the heating element. Accordingly, when the water flow stops, the heating element is also turned off (otherwise it will simply burn out).

The whole device is small and enclosed in a decorative plastic case. You can find the use of miniature instantaneous water heaters that are installed directly on the mixers, but due to their fragility and inconvenience of location, the instantaneous water heater on the faucet is of little use.

Most instantaneous water heaters are equipped with mechanisms for regulating the leaving water temperature (either by temperature value or by its range). Electric instantaneous water heaters have a metal case of increased strength and the most saturated safety automation - safety valves, sensors and so on.

Advantages of instantaneous water heaters

We briefly list all the advantages of flow type heaters:

1. The instantaneous electric water heater can be placed anywhere due to its compact size. Even for limited space, you can choose from a huge range of models that are suitable in size.

2. The second plus, a continuation of the first, small dimensions save space and do not take up useful space in the bathroom or kitchen.

3. Fast water heating. It is enough to open the tap, and after a couple of seconds we get warm water. In addition, there is no stagnant water and the possibility of the development of pathogens is cut off, in particular, there are no prerequisites for the emergence of Legionella bacteria.

4. economical consumption electricity due to switching on only after water supply.

5. There are no restrictions on the volume of passing heated water. Probably this advantage should be put in the first place, the instantaneous electric water heater provides comfortable use warm water absolutely not limiting you in time and volume. Water heating takes as long as the whole family needs.

6. It is possible to change the water temperature.

7. Acceptable cost. The instantaneous electric water heater is offered in a large assortment with a focus on different wallet thicknesses, there are always options where the price has a symbolic meaning.

Disadvantages of instantaneous water heaters

Unfortunately, not everything is so rosy and we have to talk about the disadvantages that an electric instantaneous water heater is endowed with. It is fair to say that the temperature regime is not high, usually the water heating does not exceed 45 ° C. In a cold winter, due to the icy incoming water, the flow can not cope and at the exit we will most likely get a barely warm stream. The flow design usually does not keep up with bringing cold water to the required temperature.

The second significant disadvantage is the need for high-quality wiring from metering devices with automatic plugs to the point of connection of the instantaneous water heater. The power of an electric instantaneous water heater is not small, which will provoke an increased load on the wires, with their further burnout. The bulk of the modifications available to the flowers are sold on store shelves with a power of 8 to 10 kW.

That is why, in old house, most likely it will be necessary to completely replace the wires with an increase in their cross section.Calling the master, with a viewto bring a separate eyeliner from the counter and equip it with a stopper with an automatic machine, will entail additional financial expenses.

With a large consumption of heated water, it is more advisable to install. About energy savings are out of the question if an instantaneous electric water heater is used for a significant amount of liquid. Use a protochnikunder conditions of increased preparation of heated water - means a complete lack of benefit.

Choosing the right water heater

Choosing an instantaneous electric water heater is a feasible task even for a beginner in matters of water supply. In order for the model you have chosen to fully satisfy your needs, attention should be paid to the device parameters listed below:

Pressure or non-pressure?

Pressure models are mounted in houses with several water intake points. They crash into breaks in water pipes. As a rule, they differ in more solid dimensions, increased power and high cost. Heating of water joins automatically at opening of any crane of water supply.

Non-pressure models are used at individual water intake points. If the house has several taps where hot water should be, it is recommended to purchase a separate water heater for each of them. Their power usually does not exceed 8 kW. Popular for summer kitchens, country houses, bath.

Single phase or three phase?

Choosing a model for this indicator is quite simple. If the building has one phase, then the device should be bought single-phase. The power of single-phase devices does not exceed 12 kW.
If there are three phases, focus on three-phase heaters with increased power ratings. Their power is usually 10-36 kW.

Power

The intensity of water heating depends on this characteristic, depending on its pressure. We can say that this is the main criterion by which an instantaneous electric water heater is selected for various installation locations. Simple non-pressure models have enough power of the order of 3 kW. It is for this indicator that most compact and inexpensive models are designed. For giving and summer kitchen this is quite enough, unless you plan to use the maximum water pressure in winter.

Standard city ​​apartment, will require more power and should, in this case, purchase a protochnik with an indicator of up to 8 kW. A power of 4.5-6 kW is already enough to provide a solid pressure of hot water all year round.Of course, for a full relaxation in a hot bath, it will not be enough, but washing the dishes and rinsing in the shower is more than enough.

If, nevertheless, you want to relax in a hot bath and enjoy abundant foam, you should check the possibilities of supplying three-phase electrical wiring, and consider installing an instantaneous water heater with a capacity of 13 kW. More powerful devices can be designed to connect several taps.

Water heater control

The control system can be hydraulic or electronic.

1. Hydraulic system.

It is used in the most simple and inexpensive models. When the user opens the water tap, the first (initial) degree of heating is switched on. When the pressure increases, the heater switches to the second stage. When water stops flowing, the stem moves the valve to the closed position. The disadvantage of such a control system is that weak pressure water, the device may not start working at all.

2. Electronic system.

Used in expensive and powerful models. The operation of the heater is electronically controlled. The water leaving the tap has a strictly specified temperature, regardless of the pressure of the water. The user sets only its desired temperature. The most advanced models can not only maintain the temperature specified in the settings, but are also able to regulate the water pressure.

Focusing on these basic parameters, you can buy yourself a really high-quality water heater and use it with maximum comfort for a very long time.

Installation of instantaneous electric water heater

The instantaneous electric water heater should be placed so that it does not interfere during operation, and splashes do not reach the body of the product. If the purchased model is connected directly to the outlet of the pipeline, stock up on a tee and shutoff valves.

The order of installation measures is carried out in the following sequence:

Connecting the electrical cable to the connection point, do not forget about safety, provide the shield with an additional machine;

Direct mounting of the product to the wall. In some cases, the kit includes an installation template (depending on the model);

We shut off the water in the pipeline, we connect it with the help of pre-purchased spurs, fittings and valves;

We gradually supply cold water and increase the pressure, look at the flow heater - there should be no leaks in it;

We turn on the network and control the performance of heating heating elements.

Professionals advise, at the inlet to the instantaneous electric water heater, to additionally mount a filter that traps various kinds of debris formed in the pipeline as a result of rust or incoming grains of sand. Protection against small specks will help keep the device running for a long time without unnecessary breakdowns. heating market specialists

A well-known blogger in a video review will tell you how to mount everything correctly and without errors:

Flow and storage water heaters. What to choose?

Hard to imagine without hot water comfortable conditions residence. There are many types of water heaters on the market today. In addition to differences in consumed resources (gas or electricity), they are divided into flow and storage. By the name it is already clear that some heat the water immediately, others accumulate it. It may seem that it is better to choose a flowing one, because you do not need to wait until it heats the water. But is it really so? To answer, you should analyze in detail the principle of operation of water heaters.

Instantaneous water heaters

Usually they are called columns if they run on gas. The principle of heating water is simple: water enters the heat exchanger, heats up with a burner, then goes to the desired tap or mixer. It takes time for hot water to reach the end point. It depends on the distance between the mixer and the water heater. Almost all gas The lower it is, the hotter and slower the water goes. If the pressure is minimal, the column may not start.

Electric instantaneous water heaters consume a lot of electricity, it is highly not recommended to install them on poor wiring. The advantage of individual models of gas water heaters is their non-volatility. Piezo ignition or batteries are used for operation.

Electric water heaters benefit from the absence additional elements(chimney) and permits. Flowing water heaters have a big drawback - they cannot be used simultaneously for several mixers. For example, if you open the water in the kitchen, the temperature in the shower will drop.

Storage water heaters

In the common people they are called. As for the differences between gas and electric boilers, they are similar to instantaneous water heaters. The difference is that they consume less electricity. But they also take up more space. But you can use several points at the same time. First you have to wait until the boiler heats up a certain amount of water. But you can set a timer that turns on the water heater at right time. By the way, gas boilers have direct and indirect heating.

The size of the storage water heater depends on the volume of the tank. How more people enjoy hot water, the larger the volume to be selected. For example, a family of three needs a tank of 50-100 liters. A smaller volume may not be enough, but a larger one will require extra bed. One of the advantages of the boiler is the ability to connect to a heated towel rail. Then it will work even in the summer, when heating is not used.

Conclusion

When choosing an instantaneous water heater, you should pay attention to the principle of its operation and the amount of water consumed by households. Despite all the advantages of storage devices, sometimes the installation of instantaneous water heaters is more appropriate. Each room has its own conditions, so the choice must be treated wisely.

Today we tried to clarify how to choose an instantaneous water heater with acceptable technical parameters forthe best water supply option during shutdown periods. Now you know which protooptimally matches your needs and desires of the household.

A flow-type domestic water heater does not need a special storage tank. The principle of its operation is that the flow of water is informed required amount thermal energy for the short period while it passes through the device.

• through electrical energy, heating a heating element or an uninsulated metal spiral;
• using a gas burner;
• using a heat exchanger in which water receives thermal energy from any coolant.

The last of these options is extremely rare, one of the first two is used much more often.

In order to choose the right instantaneous water heater for an apartment, it is necessary to consistently answer a number of questions:

1. Energy source: gas or electricity? If there are chimney channels in your house and the housing office allows the installation of gas equipment, then the most preferable option would be to install a gas column.

The power of a standard gas burner is enough even to heat water for a shower in winter. If your house is not equipped with chimneys, then you will have to install electric water heater.

His maximum power depends on the type of existing wiring.

For example, in old houses, in the shields of which fuses are installed, designed for a maximum current of 16 amperes, water heaters with a power of no more than 3.5 kW can be installed.

During the construction of houses in a later period, electrical networks were laid, designed for 32 and even 40 amps.

Such wiring will withstand a heater with a power of up to 8 kW. If you want to install more powerful unit, it is necessary to coordinate with the electricity supplier the laying of a separate power cable.

At the same time, it should be taken into account that instantaneous water heaters with a capacity of from 8 kW are designed for three-phase voltage.

Thus, in apartment buildings powerful "protochnik" are used quite rarely, this option more suitable for individual construction.

Video - types and types of electric instantaneous water heaters:

2. Type of water heater: pressure or non-pressure? For hot water supply to the entire apartment, you will have to install a pressurized water heater that cuts directly into the cold water riser.

Such equipment is capable of providing hot water to several points of water intake. If you just want to comfortably take a shower during the summer hot water shutdowns, choose a non-pressure heater.

As a rule, such devices have low power and are equipped with shower heads. However, it must be borne in mind that they are suitable for heating water in the summer.

In winter, when the temperature of the water in the pipes drops to 5 degrees, there will be little sense from a low-power free-flow "flow".

3. What capacity of water heater do I need? It will be much easier for you to determine not so much the power as the flow of water at known incoming and outgoing temperatures.

It is this parameter that the manufacturer indicates in the passport of his equipment. Open the water in the usual mode and note how long it takes, say, a bucket of water with a capacity of 10 liters.

Convert the received data into consumption per minute and feel free to go to the store. Now you can definitely choose the most suitable instantaneous water heater.

Be wary of buying dubious products or outright fakes, even if the seller promises you a significant discount.

Poor quality electrical or gas equipment will not only add to your repair hassle, but also may cause fires or explosions, the consequences of which will be much more expensive.

When buying equipment, ask the seller to show quality certificate and also ask what warranty period is provided for this equipment.

Popular electric heaters (cost and characteristics) ^

As already mentioned, the use of a powerful instantaneous water heater in an apartment is associated with great difficulties.

Therefore, in this review, we will only talk about low-power devices that occupy a leading position in terms of sales. In our country, the following brands have proven themselves well:

1. "Atmor Summer" (power - 3.5 kW, flow rate - up to 3 l / min). Inexpensive budget class heater. Able to "give out" a temperature of 40 degrees, provided that at the entrance it is not lower than 18. Approximate cost - 800-1500 rubles.

2. "Polaris Vega T 5.5" (power - 5.5 kW, flow - up to 4.4 l / min). A compact device with slightly more power.

Easily and conveniently mounted under a bathtub or washbasin, absolutely no claim to the free space of the bathroom. It is completed with a tap or a shower head (depending on the installation site).

3. "Proton" PEVN 5.0-220 (power - 5.0 kW, flow rate - 5 l / min). The approximate cost of this Russian model is 2500 rubles.

This device, like others of domestic production, is good because its creators tried to take into account the low quality of water in our water supply networks. As a result, it is characterized extended service life.

4. "Stiebel Eltron DHC 3" (power - 3.0 kW, flow rate - up to 3 l / min). This manufacturer can be safely attributed to the premium class, which, of course, was reflected in the cost of the model: 8000 rubles.

But for this money you get, as motorists like to say, “full stuffing”: double protection against overheating, protection against water ingress (IP24), trouble-free German automation, as well as a convenient and informative indicator system.

5. "AEG MP 8" (power - 5.0 kW, flow - up to 4.4 l / min). Another solid brand, the cost of one model fluctuates within 7500-8000 rubles.

Reliable and unpretentious device, relatively high price is fully justified by the quality and functionality.

Any water heater requires periodic replacement of the heating element. Read all about the heaters for water heaters in this article:
, learn how to choose, replace, where to buy better.

Instantaneous gas water heater ^

This type of instantaneous water heater is better known to us as geyser. As already mentioned, the installation of such equipment requires coordination with gas services, and also needs a chimney. Exists two ways to ignite a gas burner:

1. Ignition with a wick. Such a column has a small gas wick, which is set on fire once, for example, in the morning and burns throughout the day.

It is from the wick that the gas burner ignites when the tap is opened. This ignition system is cheaper, but is characterized by inefficient use of gas.

2. Piezoelectric. A similar principle is often used in lighters for cooker. This system is battery operated, the spark is supplied automatically when the tap is opened.

Inexpensive models of gas "protochnik" are hydraulically controlled. This means that the flow of water simply turns on gas burner without changing its power.

In more expensive models, "smart" electronics are installed, which analyzes the power of the water flow, the temperature at the inlet to the device and at the outlet of it.

In accordance with the data received, the valve on the burner is controlled, so that the unit always works in the optimal mode.

An important requirement: in the room where gas water heating equipment is installed, the window must be ajar without fail.

This is done to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.

Do-it-yourself installation of the "protochnik" ^

1. Connecting the heater to the water supply system. It is believed that the most common low-power instantaneous water heaters serve exclusively in the summer, when the hot water supply is turned off for preventive purposes.

Therefore, major changes to install such a device do not need to be done. It is most rational to connect the outlet pipe to the shower tube, and the inlet pipe through a tee to the cold water supply system.

More powerful pressurized water heaters, like boilers, connect on a return basis.

2. Electrical connection. Even if the water heater has an average power of approximately 6 kW, it is still necessary to connect it it is necessary to stretch a separate wire from the shield.

This has to be done for the reason that most meters are not designed for such a current load (approximately 27 amperes).

The cross section of the wire and the type of circuit breakers (in this case, you need to install an RCD) are selected according to special tables. Remember that the outlet into which the water heater is connected must have a ground wire.

3. Connection to the gas main.

It is forbidden to make such a connection on your own!

After the gas water heater is installed and connected to the water supply system, it is necessary to invite a representative of the gas service, who will connect the equipment to the gas supply system.

A short video about the pros and cons of instantaneous water heaters:

Why is there a water heater in the apartment? Perhaps this question did not torment those who, during the traditional summer shutdowns of hot water, travel to distant countries. But most of the inhabitants of our country, who managed to purchase a heater, managed to appreciate the benefits of a hot shower at any time of the year and day.

To do this, it is not enough to come to the store and compare prices. It is worth knowing that the devices run on gas and electricity, differ in volume, performance, type of installation and position, material, and many other parameters. Rarely used in modern apartments gas water heaters, especially large volumes. Therefore, we will dwell on popular electrical models in detail, defining best options For various conditions. "How is it happening , you can read in our article".

Flow devices are compact and inexpensive. Such a heater will fit perfectly in a cabinet under the kitchen sink and will not take up much space on the bathroom wall. Installation takes a minimum of time. With such an "assistant" you do not have to wash dishes and hands in cold water. The jet, passing through the heating element, at the outlet has a temperature of 35-40 degrees, sufficient for a comfortable shower.

But along with all the advantages of these silent units, there is a significant drawback - a large consumption of electricity. Therefore, flow models are more suitable for economical seasonal use during periods of hot water shutdown and for apartments in which, for various reasons, cold water runs from the hot water tap at night.

Note! If the wiring in your apartment has not changed since the days of the Soviet Union, it is better to refrain from purchasing an instantaneous water heater or to completely replace the electrical cables.

Flowing water heaters are produced in two versions - one- and three-phase. Also, the models differ in the principle of operation - pressure and non-pressure.

1. single phase devices are more popular, the power is usually from 4 to 8 kW, less often 12 kW.
2. Three-phase equipment is considered professional, costs several times more and is rarely installed in apartments. Such water heaters differ from single-phase ones not only in power, design, functionality, but also in the possibility of simultaneously serving several water points at once.

Pressure

Pressure water heaters flow type are very simple and do not require special care/maintenance. They almost instantly heat the water jet, starting to work as soon as the tap is opened. Such products are installed directly in the water riser.

Popular manufacturers of quality water heaters:StiebelEltron,Vaillant,Siemens,aeg,Unitherm,Clage, Timberk.

Video - Overview of instantaneous water heaters Timberk Watermaster

Non-pressure

Non-pressure instantaneous water heaters are installed next to the source of water intake, can be equipped with a shower and spout. A big plus of the pressureless is mobility. Such a device can be quickly installed if necessary and removed when the need for hot water disappears. But it is worth knowing that non-pressure water heaters differ very much. low power. Those. at the outlet of heated water there will be no more than 1-3 liters per second, or the water will not warm up enough. Another drawback lies in the design - over time, the heat transfer of the heating element may decrease.

In order to comfortably take a shower, it is worth purchasing a heater with a power of 8 kW or more, but such devices require high-quality wiring and mandatory grounding.

Instruction for Atmor Basic 5 kW

Video - Features of the choice of instantaneous water heaters

A little about performance

Productivity as the number of heated volumes of water per unit of time is always indicated by manufacturers. However, for models of a low price category, this indicator may be underestimated, because. incoming water t = 20 ° C is taken into account, while in Russian apartments the flow temperature in pipes rarely rises above 15 degrees. Large companies, on the contrary, underestimate the productivity indicator, taking into account minimum temperature incoming water (only 10°C).

Therefore, it is worth buying quality products famous brands, bypassing shelves with cheap products, even if the latter has fabulous performance indicators in the description.

Water heaters for an apartment

Flow-accumulating devices are great for use in apartments. Water heaters are connected to a regular shower hose and a standard 220 V socket. Even a housewife can handle the installation. The power of compact water heaters is small (about 2.5 kW), but in just half an hour a sufficient amount of heated water will accumulate in the tank, which is enough to take a shower.

Popular manufacturers:"Etalon" and "Termex".

Price range: 5-7 thousand rubles

Table. Characteristics of ETALON MK 15 Combi

Storage water heaters or boilers are devices that not only heat, but also maintain the temperature of water for a long time. You can use heated water even if the heater is disconnected from the mains. One water heater is enough to serve all the bathrooms. appliances in the apartment.

Boilers are much more convenient to use than flow devices, but they take up more space, and installation is a lot important nuances. Such a device cannot be simply removed from the wall and hidden in a closet when the need for alternative source hot water will disappear.

How to choose tank volume

The volume of the tank acceptable for an apartment is from 50 to 100 liters. This supply of water is enough for a family of two to four adults and a small child. If the periods of hot water shutdown are short-term and it is planned to use hot water only for domestic needs, it is worth installing a more compact 30-liter boiler.

To calculate the approximate daily volume of water consumed, it is best to check the readings of water meters, checking the readings at 24-hour intervals. The approximate volume of water needed for 1 day for 1 person is 230-300 liters. Since the water in the boiler is heated to 75-85 degrees, after which it is diluted with a cold stream, the output is 2 times more warm water than was heated by the device. Based on this, it will be enough for one user to turn on a 50-liter heater twice a day to provide himself with warm water for the whole day.

Mounting method

Boilers are mounted on the wall in a vertical or horizontal position, installed in niches, under kitchen sinks or on the floor. The latter type of installation is typical only for large-sized models with a volume of 150 liters or more. Horizontal boilers are more convenient and compact, but more expensive than vertical ones.

The hidden location of the heater under the sink is very convenient, but most often boilers are hung on the wall in the toilet or bathroom, next to the plumbing. This is due to the design of devices that differ in the type of liner (upper or lower).

Tank

Boiler tanks are made of steel (including stainless steel), less often - copper (very expensive devices), as well as with coatings of bioglass porcelain, glass ceramics, enamel, titanium enamel. A novelty is a coating with silver ions AG + from Ariston, which not only protects the metal from corrosion, but also has a pronounced antibacterial effect.

When purchasing a tank, it is important to pay attention to the quality of its thermal insulation. The best materials- polyurethane and polyurethane foam. The thicker the insulation (optimally 35 mm), the longer water in the tank will remain hot, the less electricity will be spent. The low weight of a volumetric device will indicate a poor quality of thermal insulation. Such models are cheap and suitable for rare short-term use in cases of seasonal or emergency power outages. energy.

The low weight of the device will additionally indicate the unsatisfactory quality (small thickness) of the internal tank. A thin layer of enamel will crack quickly. When choosing, it is worth comparing several models of the same displacement, paying attention to their weight and making sure that better products weigh > 10% more.

TEN and its power

A heating element is a heating element that is made of carbon or alloy steel, copper, etc. Heating elements are dry (mounted in a sealed flask) and wet (contact with water, heating it). The heating element must have a place for attaching the magnesium anode.

In vertical boilers, straight heating elements are more often installed, in horizontal ones - long curved ones. It is better to choose a heating element with the greatest length. Because short heating element is different high temperature surface heating and rapid scale formation.

Fastening is carried out either with a ¼ nut or a flange (diameter 42-72 mm, thread M4, 5, 6 or 8).

Conclusion: for installation in an apartment, it is better to choose a water heater with a heating element with a power of 2 kW, a large surface area, made of copper or “dry” (with a bulb of steatite).

Service

Boilers require periodic maintenance:

• cleaning the internal tank and heating elements from scale;
• magnesium anode replacement.

Depending on the quality of the water, maintenance is recommended once every 1-2 years.

1. Estimate your budget and frequency of use of the device. Expensive equipment lasts longer, but there is no need to spend a huge amount on a water heater that will be used 2-3 days a year.
2. Consider where you will install the water heater. Measure the wall with a tape measure and check if it can support the weight of the device. The dimensions of the water heaters are indicated in the instructions. The position and type of wiring are selected based on the free space in the room. Flat horizontal devices are aesthetic and compact, while vertical ones in the form of cylinders are cheaper. The volume of the water heater should be chosen based on the number of users.
3. Pay attention to everything specifications. Specify the power of the heating element, the material of manufacture of the parts, the thickness of the thermal insulation (for boilers), the type of coating, the heating time, etc.
4. The interface should be clear, and the control should be convenient. The best water heaters equipped remote control and have an electronic panel on the body.
5. Purchase equipment of famous brands with a significant warranty period. Do not forget to find out about the service center, installation and cost of spare parts.

We remind you that a water heater is purchased for many years. Take your time with the choice, compare prices and water heaters.

Video - Choosing a water heater

When buying a device that supplies you with hot water, you need to take into account many different factors: the number of people living in the apartment, the size and configuration of the room, the purpose of using hot water, daily consumption, the ability to connect to the apartment's electrical network. Based on this, you can choose either storage water heater(boiler), or flow.

storage water heater

This device is a storage tank for water with a built-in electric heater - heating element. The consumer sets the desired temperature, the built-in thermostat turns on the heating element, and the water is heated to the desired value. The temperature is automatically maintained in the set mode, so the water does not actually cool down.

The rate of water heating directly depends on the size of the storage tank. Small containers with a volume of 30-50 liters are heated in 40-50 minutes, and large ones, with a capacity of up to 500 liters, can be heated up to 4 hours or longer. For a standard family of 4, a 150-litre heater is usually sufficient if, among other things, you plan to take a bath.

Storage water heaters can be vertical and horizontal, wall or floor mounting.

What are the advantages of a storage water heater?

• One of the undoubted advantages is the low power consumption - no more than 3 kW. The boiler can be installed in any house where there is running water, without fear of electrical wiring - all models can be operated from a 220 V outlet.
• The storage heater supplies hot water to all draw-off points. One boiler can serve the bathroom, kitchen and shower.
• The heated water maintains a stable temperature due to automatic heating and the "thermos" effect due to the high thermal insulation of the tank.
• It is always possible to choose a model that is most suitable in configuration and aesthetically fits into the design of the room.

What are the disadvantages of a storage water heater?

• The main disadvantage of the boiler is that it takes up quite a lot of space. There may be problems with the placement of the device, especially in small rooms.
• The storage water heater constantly uses electricity to maintain the temperature in the tank, even when the water is not in use.
• If the water suddenly turned out to be insufficient, you will have to wait until it heats up.
• To install the device, you need reliable wall, as well as massive fasteners with special hooks and brackets for hanging, in case it is a horizontal placement model. Of the other options - the availability of free space for installing a floor structure.
• Boiler service is required from time to time. Tens over time tend to become covered with scale, especially with poor-quality purified water.

Instantaneous water heater

A flowing water heater is fundamentally different not only in appearance, but also on the principle of operation from the accumulative. In this compact design, water coming from water supply network, passes through the working thermal elements and instantly heats up. A high-power heating element is installed in the body of the device, due to which cold water instantly converted to hot, without a storage step.

The flow heater has a hydraulic switch that controls the flow rate. When the water supply is increased, it turns on maximum amount heat elements, when weakened - reduces their number.

What are the advantages of an instantaneous water heater?

• The device has small size and is convenient for mounting in small apartments.
• Provides unlimited hot water at any time.
• The device is built directly into the water riser, which is convenient in conditions in a city apartment.

What are the disadvantages of an instantaneous water heater?

• To install an instantaneous water heater, you will need a separate power cable from the shield, because the device consumes a large number of energy - from 8 to 20 kW.
• In the cold season, the boiler may produce not hot, but warm water due to the low temperature in the system.
• The appliance cannot control the heating power, electrical circuit closes only when a certain flow level is reached, after which the heating is turned on.
• The design of an instantaneous water heater does not allow distributing water to several water points at once.

The ideal solution to the problem of hot water is an instantaneous storage water heater that combines best performance both devices and provides an ideal balance between comfort and cost of operation.