How to choose an instantaneous electric water heater for an apartment, which one works best. What instantaneous water heaters are optimal for apartments

In one of the previous publications, we have already considered the pros and cons of electric storage and flow-through water heaters.

As you now know, DHW cylinders require quite a lot of space for their installation. After all, the minimum recommended volume of such a heater for a family of three with a small child is at least 80 liters.

Instantaneous water heaters, unlike their capacitive counterparts, are very small in size and the availability of free space is not at all critical for them.

Let's consider in this article what kind of flow-through electric water heaters are, what is their power, principle of operation, and we will analyze the main recommendations for choosing a flow-through type heater.

Pros and cons of instantaneous electric water heaters

The undoubted advantages of instantaneous water heaters include:

• compactness;
• placement in the immediate vicinity of the draw-off point, which reduces the heat loss of hot water;
• Unlike a capacitive heater, in a flow heater, electricity is consumed only immediately at the time of water intake. In a storage heater, electricity is also consumed to maintain the temperature of hot water in the tank;
• the amount of hot water is not limited by the volume of the tank, like in the storage heater;
• more aesthetic appearance;
• the presence of heating control systems depending on the water flow rate, as well as protection against pressure surges and water boiling when the flow rate decreases.

As you can see, the pluses are quite significant. So, living in small apartment where every square centimeter is worth its weight in gold, it is not so easy to choose a place to install a 100-liter barrel, which is a capacitive heater.

And fixing a small box of an instantaneous heater next to a kitchen sink or in a bathroom will not be a problem.

A noticeable disadvantage of instantaneous water heaters can be considered a very large consumption electrical power, which actually allows you to heat water "on the fly". Due to the high electrical load, the instantaneous water heater must be connected with a special cable from the electrical panel on the staircase. Such a heater cannot be simply plugged into any outlet.

It is this disadvantage that most often holds back many buyers who prefer to donate. living space in his apartment for the installation of a storage-type heater.

Instantaneous water heater device

An instantaneous water heater consists of a body, heating elements, usually consisting of several stages, a temperature controller, a flow sensor and a safety automation.

The flow-through water heater diagram is shown in the figure below:

The numbers in the figure indicate:
1 - cold water supply; 2 - hot water outlet; 3 - electronic control unit; 4 - heating elements; 5 - remote control remote control(optional).

Water entering the water heater from the water supply first passes through the control unit, which, depending on the water flow, turns on the right amount heating elements or turns them off completely in the absence of water in the heater.

Using the control knobs (or the remote control for more advanced models), you can set the required water temperature at the outlet of the water heater.

Characteristics of instantaneous water heaters

All flow-through water heaters can be divided into two large groups- pressurized, working under pressure, and non-pressurized.

Pressure heaters can serve several draw-off points at the same time, the main thing is that the necessary pressure is provided for this.

Non-pressure heaters, as a rule, are installed directly on the water tap or have their own watering can in the kit. Such a heater can provide hot water only one draw-off point.

According to the type of heater operation control, all devices are divided into heaters with hydraulic and electronic control.

Hydraulically controlled heaters have more simple design and the heating element either has no power regulation or has a step switching capability.

Electronic control controls heating much more flexibly depending on the amount of water flowing through the heater and the set temperature.

How to choose the performance of an instantaneous water heater?

To choose an instantaneous water heater, you will need to determine its optimal performance, which is expressed in liters per minute and is determined by the formula:

V = 14.3 W / (t2 - t1),

where V is the volume of heated water, l / min;
W is the power of the water heater, kW;
t2 is the temperature of the water leaving the heater, ° С;
t1 - water temperature at the heater inlet, ° С.

The temperature in winter can be as low as 5 ° С, and in summer it can reach 10-15 ° С.
A comfortable temperature for taking a shower is about 40 ° C, for washing dishes - 45 ° C.

To take a shower, you need a water flow of approximately 4 l / min. Then in winter period time to ensure water heating up to 40 degrees, a heater will be needed

4 = 14.3 W / (45 - 5)

That is, W will be approximately 11 kW.

Below is a table that allows you to roughly calculate the required parameters of hot water supply for various purposes:

You can also use a simpler calculation of the power of the instantaneous electric water heater. To do this, multiply the required flow rate in l / min by 2.

Which instantaneous water heater is better?

When choosing an instantaneous water heater for your apartment, one should proceed not only from the values ​​of the provided flow rate and heating temperature, but also pay attention to the ease of use and safety of the device.

All other things being equal, it is better to choose a heater that will have overheating protection, indication of switching on and heating, a water filter, as well as a good complete set, including the necessary fittings, electrical wire with a fork, shower head or spout.

Below are summary tables of models of instantaneous water heaters, which are quite suitable for hot water supply during the period when hot water is turned off in the house.

The tables show the dimensions of the heaters, power and price.

Water heatersThermex Sistem

Regular is a real headache for many of our compatriots. Deterioration of networks and frequent repairs lead to the fact that even in the middle of winter you can be left without hot water.

That is why they are so popular Electrical Reviews about them are very diverse, and therefore we decided to analyze the most common, making final conclusions about the advantages and disadvantages of this kind of equipment.

Principle of operation

Judging by the reviews, fans of the "flowers" are especially impressed by their ability to instantly heat water. I came home, plugged the plug into the socket ... and you can wash or wash the dishes right away! Agree, with cumulative models in this regard, it is much more complicated.

The fact is that in such heaters a powerful heating element is installed, which can immediately heat the water passing through it, even under the condition of decent pressure (in theory).

Among other things, flow-through devices consume a relatively small amount of electricity, since they work strictly for the required time. If we talk about storage varieties, then they spend a lot of energy to maintain a given water temperature.

Other remarks

In general, the power range of the "flow pipes" ranges from 5 to 27 kW. Reviews show that for taking a shower and washing dishes, a “modest” 8 kW device is often enough. Such a flowing electric water heater, the price of which starts from 2-3 thousand rubles, is available to almost everyone. But only if you intend to splash in a bathtub, which is filled from such a water heater, you will need a 380 V network and specialists who will stretch it.

Moreover, one should not save on the latter: wiring for such a powerful consumer should be done only by qualified electricians with normal experience, and not by "Uncle Vasya" from the next doorway, who once screwed light bulbs in one of the many state-owned enterprises.

So for what purposes can electric instantaneous water heaters be used? Testimonials from people who actually use them point to several areas of application.

• If sources of hot water supply in the city are constantly unavailable, and the wiring allows the connection of such powerful consumers.
• As a backup for short-term outages of hot water.
• In the event that you will use a water heater to provide hot water to the builders of a country house.

In the latter case, an electric flow-through water heater, the price of which is low, may well serve as an excellent disposable "heating pad", which is not a pity to send to a landfill after completion of construction. Considering that in the evening and in the morning (when there is a need for hot water) the network at the facility under construction is free, the wiring must withstand.

The reviews in this case are positive, since it is the rate of heating water for domestic needs that is extremely important for builders.

The aesthetic side of the issue

What else are electric instantaneous water heaters good for? Reviews indicate that their other attractive feature is compactness: such a device can be placed anywhere in the corner of a bathroom or kitchen, and it will be completely invisible. Compare that to the huge storage tank of a storage boiler!

Oddly enough, but this is where the main wave of enthusiasm ends. The fact is that the very principle of their operation makes flowing electric water heaters unacceptable for many houses and apartments in our country. Reviews of people say that at best, before starting their operation, it will be necessary to completely change the wiring, which is far from affordable for everyone.

The fact is that for the most primitive model you need at least 5 kW, and if you want to wash yourself not under a weak stream of water, but under a normal shower, it would be better to provide at least 10 kW. Needless to say that she is electrical network there is not every new cottage village.

In most villages, people do not think about buying instantaneous heaters at all, since the local network does not hold more than 3 kW.

Consumers unanimously say that you should not buy cheap Chinese models, the electronic components of which rarely last longer than a year. If it fails, you can expect a lot of not too pleasant surprises, up to rinsing with boiling water.

Combined solutions

It is advisable to buy an electric one complete with a storage water tank. The pages of the Internet are full of sad stories that tell of a sudden cutoff of water right in the middle of a "bath day". If you have at least a small reserve of water in such a tank, then you can wash off the foam. Of course, it will not be very pleasant to complete procedures when complete absence hot water, but in any case it is better than "soap races" around the apartment.

Thus, an ideal flowing electric water heater for summer cottages. Of course, if you have the opportunity to make a separate tap from the meter, as well as change the wiring to copper (if it has not changed for a long time). Reviews indicate that these devices are extremely useful, "eat" relatively little electricity, and therefore are simply irreplaceable in some situations.

A huge plus is the fact that scale on the heating element of such equipment simply does not have time to be deposited, so these water heaters almost do not need maintenance.

Choosing the best model

Now you know what an electric instantaneous water heater is. How to choose the most optimal model that will fully meet your needs?

Of course, for this you need to analyze your requirements, since without this you will waste your own money worthlessly. First, why do you need a "flute"? If for a short-term supply of hot water to the house, then take a closer look at the models from ELECTROLUX or ATMOR lower and middle price category.

They cost in the range of 1600-2500 thousand rubles, which makes them affordable even for buyers with a very limited budget. The power of such models ranges from 2.5 to 5 kW, which allows them to be used in most apartments and rural houses without the need for serious modernization of the wiring.

In addition, in this price category, you can even find a relatively good flowing electric water heater with a shower. However, customer reviews immediately warn that one should not flatter himself especially: the pressure of the jet is so-so, and when you try to add it, the water temperature drops significantly. There is little pleasure in washing with cool water.

Would you like a bath?

Thus, if you want to have something more essential, you will need a normal instantaneous electric water heater for a shower. The models from THERMEX have proven themselves very well. Their cost is approximately 6-7 thousand rubles, which is not so much. As a rule, they are equipped with a mechanical temperature controller, their power is within the range of 5-8 kW.

In this case, all buyers already say that it is highly desirable for a more reliable one. In addition, consumers are advised to use the services of a professional electrician, since for such a power it is highly desirable to make a separate outlet from the meter in order to avoid different kinds trouble.

Most powerful varieties

Finally, instantaneous heaters for constant and unlimited supply of hot water to the whole house - we strongly (!) Do not recommend saving on such a purchase. The list of well-established manufacturers is wide: Bosh, ELECTROLUX, THERMEX, LG ... They are united by one thing - exactingness to operating conditions.

Despite the power of 10-15 kW, the wiring must withstand all 20 kW. The network is needed for 380 V. In addition, self-assembly This kind of technique is strongly discouraged, as the consequences can be dire. In a rural setting wooden houses it is generally undesirable to use such a powerful technique, since this correlates poorly with fire safety requirements relevant authorities.

In this case, it is better to purchase a more or less voluminous storage boiler, which is much safer in this regard.

In what cases is it undesirable to buy flow heaters?

Having dealt with all the positive aspects and recommended manufacturers, let's discuss those situations in which the use of flow heaters is not only meaningless, but also simply dangerous.

Firstly, it is better not to buy them if you need hot water regularly and in significant quantities, but even the meter in your apartment is designed for a maximum of 10-16 A. This is often found in our country. You can put a maximum 3 kW heater (!), Which, even in the most optimistic case, can only provide you with warm water for washing dishes.

We talked about the fact that flow models are not too sensitive to hard water. This is true, but if your tap often leaks turbid water with impurities, it would be better to buy a regular boiler. Even a filter will not save the situation in this case: reviews indicate that flow-through heaters extremely quickly clog up with the smallest organic impurities, after which their heating elements fail. Replacing them is unrealistic.

A little more about wiring ...

In addition, if your house has at least one joint of aluminum and copper wiring (which is very bad in itself), and even located close to the place where you are going to connect the "protochnik", the idea of ​​buying it is not very good. In this case, there is a high probability of the formation of a galvanic pair and destruction of the wire, which will almost certainly lead to a fire.

Buyers of instantaneous heaters confirm that, during their operation, cheap Chinese outlets can heat up to such an extent that they begin to melt. What this is fraught with, you can guess for yourself. So before installing such equipment, be sure to change not only the wires, but also other accessories, since it is not recommended to joke with such things.

Instead of a conclusion

In general, reviews of instantaneous electric water heaters are quite the same type. As a rule, buyers are attracted by the opportunity to heat water almost instantly, they really like their compactness and extremely low cost.

But almost all of them agree that in most cases you have to pay a tidy sum for full replacement wiring and installation of more powerful machines. In addition, there is no water reserve (you can buy an additional hydraulic accumulator), which is very important for countryside and small towns, where water supply cuts are not so rare to deal with.

However, instantaneous water heaters electric, the price (reviews are also very good) of which is so low, deserve their share of the market as small and compact sources of hot water in case of it sudden disappearance from the tap.

In addition, no one will forbid you to combine two types of heaters: put a flow-through model in the kitchen, which is quite enough for washing dishes, and for the bathroom, get a large boiler, which will additionally play the role of a water tank.

Is the boiler unable to heat the required amount of hot water or is it always needed immediately? The only reliable and affordable source of energy - 220 or 380 V network? No desire, opportunity, conditions for the installation of bulky equipment? Not sure how to choose an instantaneous electric water heater? The information in the article will give answers to all questions.

Installation of instantaneous heating of water is arranged quite simply. The foundation engineering solutions- heat transfer area. It contains a heating element of one type or another.

1. The classic solution is a heating element, inside which there is a wire spiral.
2. A more modern heater is tubular. It is a moisture-proof inductor with good efficiency and high temperatures.
3. The most technologically advanced solution is the system induction heating... It consists of an electromagnetic coil and a core, which is heated by Foucault currents.

To allow the user to adjust the temperature of the fluid flowing through the instrument loop, heater manufacturers offer a range of control circuits. Among them are security systems. They prevent water from heating to boiling point or above a predetermined maximum value, idling, short circuits and other emergencies.

The flow heater has impressive list merits. They make it a very convenient product for getting hot water quickly, in seconds. For example, future owners are attracted by:

• compact size;
• no special installation requirements;
• the ability to work with any flow of water;
• clear adjustment mechanics;
• a complete set that allows you to immediately select a model that meets your needs.

But a flow-through electric water heater also has drawbacks that can create problems in an average apartment or house. For instance:

• a powerful device, with a consumption of 7 kW or more, will easily overload weak wiring;
• the number of liters of water that the unit is able to heat up to a comfortable temperature per minute may not be enough to meet the needs of the family;
• the wrong type of water heater can be used ineffectively.

An accurate assessment of all parameters will allow you to choose flow heater for a house, summer house or apartment, the characteristics of which will be very attractive. Let us dwell in more detail on those features of the device that should be taken into account when buying.

Types of flow-through electric heaters

As mentioned above, all flow-through devices are built on the same basic circuit. Deciding which one is better to buy an electric water heater is worth, first of all, according to its performance characteristics and design. On the market there are:

• appliances wall mounting with vertical orientation of the body, with lower piping. They can supply water to the shower through a flexible hose, to a gander or to a water intake line;
• wall mounted heaters with side connection. They are optimal for placement behind a partition or wall. Unregulated models work perfectly: water, when taken in an amount that does not exceed the performance indicator of the device, always has an exactly set temperature;
• appliances with top piping are optimal for the kitchen. They are easy to install under the worktop, inside the furniture set;
• tube-type flow heating systems. Their connection is done directly inside engineering systems, installation is carried out directly in the line of the pipe. The inlet and outlet of the liquid are located at the ends of the heater, and the control systems are either not provided, or are designed for a single setting of the heating mode. A separate segment of products is compact water heaters manufactured in the format of a rack for a kitchen sink tap.

The last type of flow heater can be optimal solution if the owners chose it for installation in the apartment. Such a device can be paired with a storage class boiler through a three-way mixing valve. This ensures the constant availability of hot water, the possibility of intensive withdrawal and a constantly comfortable temperature of the liquid.

What you need to consider when choosing a device

Let us dwell in more detail on the complex of characteristics of a flow-through electric heater, the choice of which will make it possible to obtain a device that does not create troubles and provides a sufficient amount of hot water. Let us immediately note several features that make it possible to better evaluate the device.

1. The specified performance of the instantaneous heater is the amount of water that it is capable of delivering in a constant flow at the maximum (specified in the passport) temperature.
2. Unregulated devices or equipped mechanical systems controls always have a clear energy consumption specified in the characteristics of the device. At the same time, electronically controlled instantaneous heaters consume as much energy as needed to heat water to a specified temperature.
3. Devices equipped with a shower head are not always suitable for summer cottages. The nozzle has very small holes. It is suitable for washing dishes or hands, but will be inconvenient if the water heater is placed in the shower.

Devices designed for one point of water sampling are called gravityless. A safety valve is installed at the inlet, which provides an internal fluid pressure of 1 atmosphere. Such a water heater cannot supply water more than its design allows, even if it gushes with an intense flow from the "cold" tap.

Devices designed for several points of water sampling are able to withstand pressures up to 10 atmospheres. They can be installed directly at the entrance to the apartment and select a performance sufficient for all household needs.

Selecting an electric instantaneous water heater by power

Before going to the store, you should consult with an electrician. The calculation of the average wiring in a modern house is based on the ability to connect several powerful consumers. This washing machine, oven, electric grill. Therefore, a small instantaneous heater with a power of 4-6 kW can be safely used if it is switched on for a short time (up to half an hour).

If the house is old, the wiring is weak, it is recommended to make a separate input to the apartment, from which the instantaneous water heater will be powered. The perfect solution- lead the tires to the flat panel directly from the basement or from the central distribution point. In this case, one more problem can be solved: to provide a neutral wire, which is in modern houses, is necessary to connect the device, but is absent in old buildings.

It is recommended to make a separate input in any case. However, realizing that no one will do serious repairs with wall chasing or opening the wire laying channels without special need, it is worth carefully assessing the capabilities of the existing wiring and choosing a water heater that can work in existing conditions without accidents.

Selection by water consumption

As mentioned above, the nominal performance is indicated in the passport for the heater. The water flow produced by the device is always diluted. Therefore, if 3 liters of sampling per minute with a temperature of 55 degrees is declared, such indicators are enough for a comfortable shower.

The second factor that needs to be taken into account is the difference in the performance of the device by the seasons. The water in the supply pipe differs in temperature. It is warmer in summer and very cold in winter. For example, in the summer, a water heater with a capacity of 8 kW will provide 3.1 liters of water with a temperature of 55 degrees (18 at the inlet). And in winter, when water is supplied at 6 degrees, only 2.3 liters of hot liquid will be obtained at the outlet.

To successfully choose a device, you should focus on its class and the declared performance indicators. For example, for a non-pressure device that is mounted at one sampling point (kitchen sink, bathroom, shower stall), a capacity of 3-4 liters will be sufficient (it can be less if there is no habit of taking a shower with a good water flow).

For a pressure water heater with several tapping points, a minimum indicator of 3 liters per minute for one consumer is taken. Each subsequent tap must add 1.5-2 liters to the recommended capacity of the device.

Heating element features

Class heating element can be a decisive factor and determine which company to choose a water heater. For instance:

• the simplest devices use one or more heating elements. They can be anodized or copper sheathed;
• more advanced devices are equipped with ceramic tube heaters. They are durable, expensive, efficient;
• the most best heaters- glass-protected spiral blocks. They do not require maintenance, they slightly change the rate of heat transfer during the formation of scale.

Spiral induction heat exchangers are the most technologically advanced solution. During their operation, very little scale is formed, since Foucault currents, in addition to heating, cause vibration of the central core and the current spiral. Some water heaters of the Swedish brand Electrolux are equipped with such heaters.

Heater material

The heater body is the last thing worth evaluating. Each customer has a personal rating. For instance:

• practical people will prefer plastic. It is easy to care for it, but over time, scratches, roughness, collecting dirt inevitably appear;
• enclosures covered with enamel look rational. They are durable, the surface is durable, wear-resistant, looks aesthetically pleasing;
• anodized body parts look stylish and effective. However, the coating may wear down to the substrate over time. Excellent strength characteristics of the titanium layer. Such a case is an expensive solution, but it looks extremely attractive;
• fully metal, polished, stainless steel or alloy water heaters are the height of perfection in the eyes of some buyers. But there is one factor to consider. On smooth mirror surface metal will constantly show streaks and other visual imperfections. Careful, constant care will be required.

Which company is preferable

Knowing how to choose an instantaneous electric water heater, one cannot fail to mention the companies that are leading in consumer preferences. At one end of the scale are simple, inexpensive and reliable solutions. The Polaris brand can be noted as an outstanding representative. Here are classic, simple heating elements, moderate power consumption, maintainability and availability of spare parts.

At the other end of the scale are Electrolux products. Here are used technological innovations... For example, induction heating units, glass-protected spirals. The price of water heaters is high, but the reliability is even higher, the products will not require maintenance or repair for many years.

Rating of the best instantaneous electric heaters

It's time to get acquainted with the best representatives of the instantaneous water heaters market. In order not to repeat the same indicators: electricity consumption, productivity, the number of take-off points (type of device) and others, they are summarized in a table. And the rating will introduce you to the main features of the devices.

A solution that can be considered universal. The water heater is electronically controlled, you can set a temperature threshold, there is an accelerated heating mode. The setting of the required parameters is carried out with convenient rotary knobs. The water heater belongs to the non-pressure class (one tapping point), it is completed with a hose with a shower head.

A flow-through electric water heater, which is suitable for an apartment where a family of two lives. The performance is enough to take a shower, for household needs. The device can withstand up to 10 atmospheres of water supply, can be installed at the entrance of an apartment, it is powered by a single-phase 220 V. Its design is simple, the supply of pipes is standard, 0.5 inches, so even installing it yourself will not cause any difficulties.

Representative of simple, reliable solutions for small apartment or at home. Having a good performance for its power, the water heater offers a simple scheme for setting modes by pressing one button. Installed at the entrance to the apartment, it is able to provide water analysis at several points. The convenient shape of the case allows you to install it in the bathroom, and the equipment (hose and shower head) allows you to use the device to create comfort in the country.

The representative of the market segment of the most reliable and unpretentious devices. This water heater is made in an enamelled casing, equipped with copper heating elements, supplied with its own inlet water purification filter, offers setting the operating mode by pressing one button. Designed for one point of consumption (non-pressure class), this appliance will be very effective in the kitchen or bathroom. For installation in a bathroom, the manufacturer offers a gander faucet that comes with the device.

A product ideal for a private home. The device operates on a three-phase network, has sufficient capacity to provide hot water for a family of 3-4 people. It can be installed at the entrance to the house, withstands up to 10 atmospheres of water pressure and offers an accelerated water heating mode. Temperature regulation is carried out by a single regulator on the body.

Compact, designed for use in apartments (water inlet pressure up to 6 atmospheres), this water heater will appeal to many. It is equipped with a regulator that will balance the water intake and the load on the wiring. This device will be convenient both in the kitchen and in the bathroom, where it can be mounted directly above the bathtub or washbasin. A gander crane is offered with the device.

An excellent solution for a private house where a large family lives. This rugged, unregulated instrument boasts a range of record-breaking performance. First, it is equipped with an induction heating system. Secondly, it has the maximum outlet temperature limit in its class of 60 degrees. Thirdly, it can provide good performance for its power. The device is powered by a three-phase network, can be installed at the water inlet to the house, weighs less than 4 kg.

A good and reliable bathroom solution. There is everything that is required of a high-quality instantaneous non-pressure type heater: average power, performance sufficient for an intense shower, simple mechanical switches for the operating mode. The device is completed as if it was specially designed for a bathroom: the manufacturer offers a gander tap and a flexible hose with a shower head.

A unique device from the Swedish brand was developed for the kitchen. Here is the upper connection for mounting the device under the countertop, moderate energy consumption and performance sufficient for domestic needs. In this case, the water heater is designed for several consumers. Therefore, it can be positioned to supply water to the sink and the bathroom sink at the same time.

The device is very reliable. The heating element is of a spiral type with special operating mechanics: it vibrates when energized. This prevents limescale deposits from settling, resulting in a very long service life of the appliance.

Completes the rating convenient device for singles or a family of two. This water heater will fully satisfy the needs of such a target group. There is everything for universal application... For example, you can install this device for hot water supply to a bathroom or install it at the entrance to an apartment (several consumers are allowed). Reliable copper heating elements will ensure durability, and setting the outlet water temperature with a simple movement of the circular regulator is a very convenient option.

As a conclusion

There is a lot of talk about instantaneous heaters, but always one-sided. The attitude to this device can be described in one phrase: “don’t love? you just don't know how to cook it. " Whatever modern species flow heaters have not been considered, each will require an integrated approach. It is enough to provide the device with a reliable power source, estimate the water consumption and select the appropriate model, and also connect it where it will be most effective. And then the acquired heater for many years of work will never make you feel disappointed in yourself. You just need to go to the store and know what to look for when buying.

Many homeowners are thinking about how to choose an electric instantaneous water heater. Such models are smaller in size and almost instantaneous heating of water. In contrast, the boiler is more large installation... With this device, you can avoid the inconvenience of turning off hot water during maintenance work.

What is a continuous flow electric heater?

An instantaneous heater differs from a conventional boiler primarily in the absence of a storage tank. Water heats up only at the time of use. You can regulate the temperature of water heating by changing the pressure in the desired direction. In addition, flow-through heaters consume less energy, since they do not waste it on maintaining the temperature. Thanks to its characteristics, the instantaneous water heater saves free space, energy and time.

The water heater is a box small size, inside which is placed a tubular heating element - heating element. Water heater operates in the following way: Water enters the device and then into the compartment where the heating device is located. Washing it, the water gradually heats up, and then enters the taps hot.

The water temperature, however, cannot be higher than the temperature heating device so you don't have to expect scalding hot water.

Expensive devices have a control panel with various sensors and timers. Inexpensive models equipped with a thermostat for setting the heating temperature. Some devices do not have a regulation system - they only work in automatic mode.

To install an electric instantaneous water heater, you need a wire that goes separately from the shield. A switch capable of automatic operation is also required. The wire must be of a strictly defined cross-section.

A flowing storage device requires a sufficiently powerful network to function. Otherwise, you will have to choose a device whose power does not exceed 8 kW.

Types of flow type heaters

Before choosing an instantaneous electric water heater, it is worth finding out the varieties of this device. This will determine which heater to choose for use.

A flow-through electric water heater can be of the following types:

• pressure head;
• free-flow.

Pressure, or system, can be used in different conditions, that is, from any tap that is in the house. Pressure water heaters cut into hot and cold water pipes. Such devices have only an outlet and an inlet for water. The device is controlled by the water pressure. System heaters are convenient to use during scheduled summer shutdowns.

Free-flow ones are characterized by low power (up to 8 kW) and energy consumption. They work from only one water intake point. These heaters are suitable for showers or country use. The maximum heating temperature is 30 ° C, which makes them useless for winter use.

All year round, such water heating devices are used only in warm countries, where temperature fluctuations are not so significant.

The cost of such devices is usually low. The set may include shower heads and faucets. If the water intake point is far from the heater, then it is better to install another one nearby - this will significantly save money.

Calculation of heater power and selection criteria

Having decided on the type of device, choose the optimal power. To do this, you will need a table that indicates all the necessary parameters depending on the type of daily needs: flow rate and volume of water, required temperature, etc. Calculation according to such a table can cause difficulties, therefore it is recommended to use a simpler method: just look at the heater power in the documents and divide this figure by 2. As a result, you get the flow rate of water heated to 30 degrees.

For clarity, you can use an example. If the power of the vending flow heater is 16 kW, then the water consumption will be 16/2, that is, 8 m / min. That is, for a shower, this value is sufficient. Thus, a lot of hot water can be obtained only if the indicator is more than 8 kW.

If hot water is needed not only for a shower, but also in other points, then when choosing a heater, you need to take into account the indicators in the most powerful of them. If you plan to use water at these points at the same time, then the power of the heater must be increased by at least 1.5 times.

Heater selection criteria

Before buying an instantaneous heater, you need to decide for what purposes it will be used and where it will be installed.

If you need a water heater for seasonal use in the country, then a device with a power of 3.5 kW will be enough. For permanent use, a heater with a power of 5 kW or more, capable of heating even cold water in the winter.

When choosing a heater, it is important to pay attention to the quality of the material from which the body is made. The device is constantly exposed to high temperature. The best way- a flow-through heater with an enamelled body. Such a device will withstand the temperature and exposure to aggressive substances contained in the water.

A copper case is also a good option, since it has a solid case and protection of the heating element from scale. In hard water conditions, this protection will last more than 5 years. The fact that it is time to replace the protection will be signaled by a light bulb. Such devices with a copper body are very expensive.

Instantaneous water heater manufacturers

Having decided on the parameters, you can proceed to the choice of a specific model. Instantaneous water heaters are produced by the following manufacturers:

1. Electrolux is a well-known Swedish manufacturer that produces several lines of flow heaters. The performance of the devices may vary. All models have a high-quality anti-scale heating element. Models of the high price segment are equipped with an intelligent control system.
2. Kospel. Distinctive feature water heaters of the Polish company Kospel is stylish design, thanks to which the devices always fit harmoniously into the interior. The heating element is made of high quality copper. Kospel produces mainly flow-through type pressure heaters. There are two lines of gravity heaters. The service cost is quite low.
3. Thermex. The bulb of the heating element in the heaters of this company is made of high quality copper.

When choosing a brand, it is also necessary to take into account the purpose of the device. If an instantaneous heater is purchased for use in the country, you should take a closer look at the models of the Electrolux or ATMOR brands. Appliances with low power (from 3.5 to 5 kW) will perfectly cope with heating water for the kitchen or shower in the country. In this case, you do not have to carry out major repairs to the wiring. The cost of heaters of such brands ranges from 1.5 to 2 thousand rubles, but in any case, they are available even to buyers with a very limited budget.

Most home-friendly models

Appliances from Thermex are suitable for home use. They are not so expensive, within 7 thousand rubles, they are equipped with a temperature regulator. For reliable work the heater, it will be advisable to upgrade the wiring.

When choosing a heater for active use throughout the year, you should not choose the cheapest option.

All expensive models have only one requirement - operating conditions. House wiring must be able to withstand at least 20kW. The network is needed for 380 V, therefore, before connecting the water heater, serious wiring repairs have to be made. It is not recommended to mount the heater yourself.

When we choose a flow-through type water heater, first of all, we need to find out the capabilities of the electrical network and clarify whether additional equipment is needed to install the device.

When a model is selected, it is worth clarifying whether there are spare parts on sale, it is necessary to assess the scope of work.