How to choose the right storage electric water heater?

City dwellers face hot water outages every year. Meanwhile, those living in the countryside must provide their own hot water year-round. In both cases, a storage electric water heater can solve the problem. Choosing the right boiler is important to avoid unexpected expenses later.

Operating principle

A storage water heater collects tap water in an internal tank, heats it, and then maintains the water temperature. When the hot water in the boiler runs low, it automatically refills with tap water.

Inner tank

Volume The size of the internal tank is an important parameter when choosing a heater. It's important to consider the number of people in the family. If the tank is too small, there won't always be enough hot water. If the tank is too large, you'll constantly overpay for electricity. An 80-liter tank is ideal for a family of two. This is enough for washing dishes, taking a shower, and bathing.

Inner coating. The inner tank is susceptible to corrosion because it constantly contains water. To avoid premature failure, choose a high-quality coating. Stainless steel and titanium are considered the best.

As additional protection A magnesium anode will prevent corrosion. It is installed inside the tank and works like a magnet, attracting all corrosion. The anode requires replacement once a year.

Thermal insulation layer The gap between the body and the tank should be at least 35 mm and made of polyurethane foam. This material will help retain heat inside the water heater longer, thereby saving energy.

heating element

This is a device located inside the tank that heats the water. Heating elements can be "wet" or "dry."

“Wet” heating element The heating element is in constant contact with water and is highly susceptible to corrosion. If it breaks, you'll first need to drain all the water from the boiler and only then replace the heating element.

“Dry” heating element It's located in a special container and doesn't come into direct contact with water. It's more expensive than a wet heating element, but much more reliable. If a dry heating element breaks, there's no need to drain the tank.

Some heaters are equipped with two heating elements and a “fast heating” function.

Safety

RCD — This is a residual-current device. An RCD prevents electrical current from leaking into the heated water and can detect even the slightest fluctuations in current. Using a water heater without this device is strictly not recommended.

Blow-off valve Installed at the junction of the water pipe and the water heater, this valve regulates the water pressure in the tank and maintains acceptable levels. If this device is neglected, an explosion will occur if the pressure rises.

Degree of protection against moisture. If the heater is to be used in a damp room, such as a bathroom, the moisture protection rating must be at least IP44; in other cases, IP23 is sufficient.

Overheat protection function It is necessary to prevent the water in the tank from boiling and the heater from breaking down.

It's a common misconception that water heaters are bulky and take up a lot of space. However, modern manufacturers produce heaters in a variety of shapes and sizes—horizontal, vertical, and even ultra-thin.
Installation of an electric storage water heater must be carried out by a specialist, otherwise the manufacturer may refuse warranty repairs.