After a hard day’s work, you want to go home and take a hot shower or bath to relax. There are many different water heaters available on the market including Instantaneous, rapid heating and others with different features. Before you shop for a water heater, find out the functions of each and the things you need to look out for. The following is an overview with some recommendations.

Major Types of Water Heater

1. Instantaneous

Turn it on and get hot water instantly. You don’t have to store water in advance as hot water is supplied constantly. A internal thermostat controls the temperature of water. With no water tank, this type of water heater is generally more compact.

A 6,000-watt single-phase instant hot water heater is sufficient to supply hot water for washing your hands or cleaning the dishes in the kitchen. If you need hot water for a bath or a shower, you will need a more powerful water heater.

2. Water Storage

For this type, you need to turn it on around 15-25 minutes before you need the hot water to give it time to heat the water in the tank. Actual waiting time depends on the capacity of the heater and weather conditions. Once the hot water starts to come out, cold water is replenished automatically in the water tank. You can choose between a high pressure or shower type release.

3. High Pressure

As this type has a larger water storage capacity you can connect it to multiple water outlets. It is equipped with a Pressure & Temperature Relief Valve (PTV).

4. Shower

This has a lower water storage capacity so it can only connect to one outlet pipe. Most users connect this type of water heater to the shower for bathing. Generally more compact in size.

Hot brands: RASONIC , STIEBEL ELTRON , Jenfort , HOTPOOL

Hot products: RASONIC RWHCT21LPTL Rapid Heating Unvented Type Electric Water heater , STIEBEL ELTRON DHM6 Instantaneous Water Heater , Jenfort JN5S Water Heater , HOTPOOL ST65E Water Heater

Water Heater Shopping Tips

1. Energy Label

The Electrical and Mechanical Services Department (EMSD) introduced a mandatory labeling scheme for storage-type electric water heaters. The energy efficiency is classified into five grades to help consumers choose the most energy-efficient products. Grade 1 is the most most efficient while Grade 5 is the least efficient.

2. Water Temperature

The in-built thermostat automatically turns off the heating circuit when the water temperature reaches a preset level to prevent burns. Most water heaters are equipped with a temperature adjustment switch or dial. This allows users to adjust the water temperature to what they want. Different brands offer different preset water temperatures. If you prefer hotter water for showering or taking a bath, consider a water heater with a higher temperature setting.

3. Electrical Supply

The electrical supply of most buildings can support water heaters of 7,000 watts or less. A three-phase power source is needed for water heaters of 7,000 watts or above. This requires a “three-phase four-wire” circuit system. Check the electricity supply of your building to ensure the water heater is supported before you shop.

4. Shape and Size

Three main shapes of water heaters are available: vertical rectangular, horizontal cylindrical and vertical cylindrical. Different shapes take up different spaces. Consider the most suitable water heater according to the size of your bathroom or kitchen.

[Safety instructions for installing electric water heaters]