How to Choose an Electric Water Heater: Best Buyer's Guide

Choosing the right electric water heater for your home or project is not only a matter of convenience, but also of efficiency and energy saving. In this guide, we offer you a detailed overview of the most important aspects to consider when making an informed and satisfactory purchase, from selection to home delivery.

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What should you look for when choosing an electric water heater?

Choosing the perfect electric water heater depends on a clear understanding of your specific needs and the characteristics of your space. Below we explain the most important factors:

Capacity and dimensions

Before you wonder how to choose an electric water heater, consider the size of your home or installation and the need for hot water. Electric water heaters are available in a variety of capacities, usually between 30 and 300 liters.

For small families, a 50 to 80 litre model will usually suffice, while larger households or rooms may need one with 150 litres or more. It's important to measure the room where you plan to install the water heater to make sure it's a perfect fit.

We tell you more about it in this post 👉 How many liters should an electric water heater have?

Energy efficiency

Energy efficiency is a crucial aspect when choosing an electric water heater. Models with an energy efficiency class A or higher guarantee lower energy consumption and thus long-term savings on the electricity bill. Look for water heaters with high-quality insulation to minimize heat loss.

If you want to know more about this topic, we recommend that you pay attention to our post on how to save with an electric water heater and the most important steps.

Durability and maintenance

The lifespan of an electric water heater and its maintenance requirements are also important considerations. Models with enameled or stainless steel tanks offer greater corrosion resistance and durability. In addition, some water heaters have anti-limescale systems, which are especially useful in areas with hard water.

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Type of heating

The type of heater is a crucial factor in the efficiency, durability, and maintenance of the electric water heater. There are mainly two types:

• Submerged heater (protected): This heater is in direct contact with the water and allows efficient heating. However, it can be more susceptible to limescale, especially in areas with hard water. It is ideal for soft water regions or for those who prefer higher energy efficiency and are willing to carry out more frequent maintenance.
• Ceramic heater (dry): It is insulated from direct contact with water by a cover. This reduces limescale build-up and makes maintenance easier, making it the preferred option in areas with hard water. Although it may be less efficient than the immersed heater in terms of heat transfer, its longer lifespan and ease of maintenance make up for this aspect.

The choice between a submerged or ceramic heater depends on the water quality in your area, your personal preferences in terms of maintenance and efficiency, and the desired durability of your electric water heater.

Additional features

Some electric water heaters offer advanced features such as digital temperature control, eco modes, and timer programming, which can improve the comfort and efficiency of use. WiFi connectivity, although not essential, allows you to remotely control and adjust your water heater, a modern convenience that many appreciate.

Price and warranty

Price is undoubtedly a factor to consider, but it shouldn't be the only one. A more expensive electric water heater can offer better features in terms of energy efficiency and durability. Also, check the manufacturer's warranty, as this can give you peace of mind and protection from possible defects.

Installation

The installation of your electric water heater should be carried out by a qualified professional to ensure proper operation and compliance with safety regulations. Some manufacturers offer installation services, or you can opt for a local trusted installer.

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Result

Choosing an electric water heater requires consideration of several important factors, from capacity and energy efficiency to installation and maintenance. By following this guide, you can make an informed decision that suits your needs and ensure comfort and efficiency in your home.

For more information and personalized advice, do not hesitate to contact our team of experts at GroupSumi. We are happy to help you find the perfect electric water heater for your home.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I determine the capacity of the electric water heater I need?

The ideal capacity depends on the number of people in the household and their consumption of hot water. As a rule of thumb, about 30-50 liters per person applies.

What maintenance does an electric water heater require?

Regular maintenance includes checking the magnesium anode for corrosion protection, cleaning sediments, and checking pressure and temperature.

What are the most common malfunctions in an electric water heater?

The most common malfunctions in an electric water heater are usually:

• Limescale deposits: Affect heating efficiency and can damage the heater.
• Heating failure: Prevents proper heating of the water.
• Problems with the thermostat: Can cause the water not to reach the desired temperature or overheat.
• Water loss: Leaks at the connections or in the tank due to corrosion.
• Electrical failures: Include problems with power, wiring, or internal electrical components.

These disturbances can be minimized through regular maintenance and the use of equipment adapted to the water quality of your area.

How long does an electric water heater last?

A well-maintained electric water heater can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years, depending on water quality, usage, and maintenance.

How do I know if I need to replace my water heater?

This requires attention to certain signs that indicate that its efficiency, performance or safety are no longer optimal. Here are some key indicators:

• If your electric water heater is more than 10-15 years old, it might be time to replace it, even if it still works, due to advances in efficiency and technology.
• An inexplicable increase in electricity consumption can be a sign that the water heater is losing energy efficiency.
• Longer heat-up time.
• Excessive noise: Sounds such as knocking or cracking can indicate sediment build-up or problems with the heating elements.
• Any sign of water leakage around the water heater clearly indicates that it may need to be replaced.
• Water does not reach the desired temperature: If the water is not heated properly or there are temperature fluctuations, the thermostat or heater may be defective.
• Visible corrosion: The presence of rust or corrosion in the tank or on the water connections indicates that the integrity of the water heater is compromised.

If you have any of these symptoms, it is advisable to have a professional evaluation carried out to determine whether it makes more sense to repair the existing water heater or replace it with a new one. Choosing a new electric water heater can improve energy efficiency, provide better performance, and ensure home safety.