Instantaneous electric water heater: how to choose, list of models

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Have you ever thought that there is a boiler that heats water without first storing it in a tank? No, this is not fiction or another marketing ploy. An instantaneous water heater is designed specifically for this situation - it is a portable device that heats the liquid when the tap is turned on and water is supplied. Its simplicity and versatility allow it to compete with large boiler installations, winning in some situations, which we will discuss later.

Operating principle of the equipment

Since the water heater’s dimensions do not exceed the size of an ordinary tea cup or medicine box, there are few elements in it:

1. box in which all the filling is packed;
2. set of heaters;
3. temperature and water supply indicators;
4. circuit breakers.

In proper mode, the entire system operates according to the following scheme:

• When the tap is turned on, water enters a small tank, activating the device’s sensors.
• The pressure sensor activates the heating element system - their number varies depending on the desired outlet temperature.
• The liquid absorbs heat flows from the elements.
• Water at the required temperature is removed through tubes from the heater and supplied to the consumer.

In more expensive models, you can find a more complicated design - the heaters are covered with a layer of heat transfer material, which extends the life of the device and improves heat transfer.

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Device options

Before moving on to the question “how to choose an instantaneous water heater,” it is worth talking about their varieties in general. Your head will “explode” if you come to the store, and there are several dozen protochniks with their own characteristics and modes. With such diversity, it is difficult to make the right choice.

The main parameters of variability are the design and method of adjustment. Based on how the heaters work, the following models are distinguished:

• Pressure. They are mounted on a pipe, thereby providing water heating for several outlets at once. This system requires knowledge to install and is an order of magnitude higher than competitive types.
• Non-pressure. They are installed on the mixer and heat water only for it. One thing - you need additional installation of a thermostatic tap, but you may be lucky - water heaters are often equipped with a mixer.

According to the method of setting and control there are:

1. Hydraulic. A simple design with a minimum of settings - on/off modes and temperature modes (or maybe even without them).
2. Digital. A well-coordinated adjustment system for water pressure, electricity consumption and desired temperature.

Keep in mind that each type varies in cost: the more functions, the more expensive.

How to choose an electric instantaneous water heater

In this section, we will talk about the criteria for selecting a device and introduce several brands of “exemplary” instantaneous water heaters.

The main thing you should pay attention to first is performance. For example, for a washbasin, 3 l/min is sufficient, for washing dishes - 5 l/min, and for a comfortable shower, the indicator will be from 8 l/min. The temperature may also vary.Before going to the store, immediately decide what you will use the device for.

Extra options:

1. safe mode against overheating;
2. overvoltage protection;
3. automatic switch when closing the mixer;
4. activity sensors;
5. various filters for rust and sediment.

Among all the brands, it is worth highlighting models from Electolux, Thermex, Ariston, Stiebel. They have products with manual and electronic control, their devices have proven to be reliable and durable, and the price varies in a wide range from 2-3 to 25 thousand rubles - you can choose both a budget and premium option to suit your needs.