Electric Water Heaters: Operation, Models, and Prices

As winter approaches, choosing an efficient and suitable water heater is essential to ensure a reliable supply of hot water without wasting energy. In this article, we will guide you through the workings of an electric water heater, the differences between various models, and the market prices. Whether you're a professional or a private customer, you'll find useful tips to make the right choice.

How Does an Electric Water Heater Work?

An electric water heater consists of an insulated tank that keeps water at the desired temperature. This is achieved by an electric heating element, usually made of copper, which heats the water through the "Joule effect" when electrical energy passes through the element. The built-in thermostat regulates the temperature by turning the device off once the set threshold is reached and turning it back on if the temperature drops too low.

For optimal performance and to reduce energy consumption, it is recommended to keep the water temperature around 60°C. Additionally, a safety valve prevents risks from excessive pressure buildup inside the tank.

Types of Electric Water Heaters

There are two main types of electric water heaters: storage heaters and instant heaters. Let's look at the characteristics of each to help you find the one best suited to your needs.

1. Storage Water Heater

   The storage water heater has a tank that keeps the water hot and ready to use at all times. This model is ideal for large households or situations where a large amount of hot water is required. However, it takes up more space than other models due to the size of the tank.

   For example, an 80-liter water heater with a 1.2 kW heating element can take up to 3.5 hours to heat the water to 60°C. It is essential to choose the right tank size for your family's habits to avoid wasting energy and optimizing costs.

2. Instant Water Heater

   If you have limited space or use hot water sporadically, an instant water heater could be the ideal solution. This model heats water only when needed, eliminating the need for a storage tank. Its compact size makes it easy to install in small spaces.

   However, the instant water heater requires a higher electrical power capacity than a storage heater, which can be problematic for households with a standard 3kW meter. Additionally, energy consumption tends to be higher, especially during winter when cold water needs to be heated quickly.

Prices and Purchase Tips

The cost of an electric water heater varies depending on the model, tank capacity, and brand. In general, storage water heaters are more affordable than instant heaters, but the long-term usage costs can be higher if the device is not well insulated.

For those seeking a good balance between quality and price, Ariston offers a wide range of efficient, energy-saving electric water heaters. Investing in a high-quality model will reduce energy consumption and extend the life of your appliance. We recommend choosing water heaters with enameled tanks to prevent damage from lime scale and corrosion.

Storage or Instant Water Heater: Which One to Choose?

Choosing between a storage and an instant water heater depends on several factors, including the number of people in your household, the available installation space, and how often you use hot water. If you use hot water frequently and have enough space, a storage water heater is the best choice. On the other hand, if space is limited and you don't need a large volume of hot water, an instant water heater might be more suitable, but be aware of the power requirements.

In conclusion, carefully evaluating your needs and choosing an efficient model will ensure you always have hot water available without any unpleasant surprises on your energy bill.