Our catalog is ready to help you choose the right storage water heater. Other useful information about storage water heaters and articles in the TOP-5 format are presented here.

How to install an electric storage water heater in an apartment?

Ideally, the installation of the storage water heater should be delegated to professionals who know all the subtleties and nuances of the installation. If you need to do the work yourself, then first of all it is recommended to study the instructions for the device and choose a suitable place for an electric storage water heater.

When determining the optimal location for installation, it is important to remember the accessibility of the storage water heater for maintenance and repair. So, even if it hides in some kind of niche, care must be taken to ensure that the device can be approached without taking apart false walls or other laborious dismantling. The second key criterion when choosing a place is reliability. So, if we are not talking about floor standing storage water heater , then you need to choose a strong wall that is guaranteed to support the weight of the device with a full tank of water.

The most suitable place for mounting a storage water heater in an apartment is considered to be a bathroom. Water pipes and important water intake points are located near, which simplifies installation and reduces heat loss. Another popular installation location is a lavatory (usually above the toilet bowl). If installation is not possible in these rooms, then alternative locations may be considered, including a corridor, a kitchen, a storage room.

To prevent the storage water heater from taking up useful space, it can be installed under the ceiling.

Also, the basic rules for the successful installation of a storage water heater include confidence in the quality of electrical wiring and water pipes. When a place for the device is selected, the main installation steps are:

  • marking the wall and drilling holes for mounts;
  • installation of hooks and suspension of the storage water heater;
  • plumbing connection. For proper tapping, follow the manufacturer's recommendations. For integration into the home water supply system, you will need fittings and tees, which are located after the taps that block the water. Before the cold water enters the heater, a check valve is installed: it will prevent the reverse movement of water. In addition, you need a drain valve (in case you need to forcibly empty the tank) and filters that protect the device from mechanical impurities (rust, large mineral particles, etc.);
  • connection to the mains. For the storage water heater, it is recommended to allocate a separate circuit breaker on the electric panel, perform grounding and use a high-quality copper wiring cable. If a model is chosen without electrical protection, then it is additionally worth installing a residual current device (RCD) on the electric panel;
  • test run, checking for leaks and the absence of problems with electrical wiring.
Popular 100L Storage Water Heaters

In what mode does the storage water heater work more efficiently?

Modern storage water heaters often provide several modes of operation. Among them, usually, there is also a separate efficient (Eco) or a range of the least wasteful values in terms of energy consumption is indicated on the rotary temperature selector.

To reduce energy consumption, it is worth using the eco-mode of the storage water heater.

If there is no such mode or visual indication, then you can achieve a reduction in energy consumption by choosing a balanced temperature. So, the maximum heating values are an effective way to get hot water quickly, but at the expense of efficiency. In addition, intense water heating in the tank increases the temperature difference with the environment, which automatically increases heat loss. To reduce energy consumption, it is worth setting the operating mode from 50 to 55 °C. We can recommend adding another 5 degrees Celsius – up to 60 °C, since at lower values the probability of active reproduction of bacteria in the tank increases.

Many models of heaters are not equipped with displays or temperature scales. In this case, it will be possible to choose an eco-mode of operation only by experience. A special thermometer will help to set the temperature around 60 °C.

Storage Water Heaters with Programmers

Do I need to turn off the storage water heater at night?

Modern storage water heaters have good thermal insulation of the tank, so turning it off at night in order to save electricity is not a particularly practical step. During this time, the water will cool down by just a few degrees, and additional energy consumption for heating to a given temperature will be minimal. Usually, if you turn off the storage water heater in the evening, then the subsequent morning energy consumption for heating when turned on will be even higher.

It is advisable to turn off the device when it has not been used for a sufficiently long period (more than a day), for example, while you are in the country house, on vacation or on a business trip. And models with programmers can set up operation even more flexible. They will allow you to turn on the storage water heater a few hours before returning home, and when you return, you will immediately be able to use hot water.

An alternative to the programmer in the storage water heater can be a remote control function from a smartphone.

Why do water heaters take longer to heat water in winter?

The reason lies in the lower temperature of the water that enters the storage water heater. In summer it can be slightly cool (up to 25 °C), and in winter it can be icy (about 5 °C). These 20 degrees of difference result in a longer heating.

It should also be taken into account that in the cold season, the water in the storage water heater can cool faster, because of seasonal differences in room temperature. In summer, the apartment is often above +25 °C, and in winter – about +20 °C (or even less).

Do I need to turn the water heater on and off while heating water?

No, there is no such need. It is advisable to turn off the device only when it is idle for a long time (usually more than a day) – for safety reasons and to reduce energy consumption.

Sometimes there are recommendations for turning off the storage water heater from the mains while taking a shower or even washing dishes. In this case, the user eliminates the risk of electric shock. This advice is only relevant for housing with dilapidated wiring and old appliances with a “wet” heating element without additional electrical protection and proper maintenance. If the heating element has not been descaled for years, then deposits can destroy the metal and cause a "breakdown" of the insulation. But in such a situation, it is more important not to turn off the storage water heater before the shower (although theoretically it is safer), but perform the maintenance.

How much electricity does a storage water heater use?

Storage water heaters are one of the main consumers of electricity in modern housing.

The numbers are very individual and are determined by different variables. Many models of storage water heaters have an energy efficiency label that indicates the annual consumption. But this is an average value with possible deviations. In practice, electricity costs depend on the volume of the storage water heater, the temperature of hot water, the power of the tubular heater and, of course, the needs of the household. It should also be remembered that the device usually works in 2 scenarios – directly for heating and for maintaining heat. In the first case, the energy consumption is higher, and in the second case, it is lower.

Let's calculate the approximate consumption for specific storage water heaters.

Let's take the Gorenje GBF 80 UA model for 80 liters with a 2000-W heating element. The company specifies a heating time of 185 minutes (about 3 hours). Accordingly, to get 80 liters of hot water, you need to spend 3 x 2000 W = 6000 or 6 kWh. The manufacturer also provides information on heat loss in standby mode, which is 1.63 kWh/24h. If we assume that the family consumes on average about 80 liters of water daily, and the device works all month, then during this time the storage water heater will consume (6 + 1.63) x 30 = 228.9 kWh.

Let's look at another example – Atlantic Steatite VM 50 D400-2-BC for 47 liters with a 1500 W heating element. Here, too, the manufacturer gives information about heat loss – 0.95 kWh/24h and heating time at 50 degrees Celsius – 100 minutes. Accordingly, to get 47 liters of hot water, you need 1.5 kWh + 1.5 kWh x (40/60) = 2.5 kWh. The daily consumption will be 3.45 kWh, and the monthly consumption will be 103.5 kWh. But if a family consumes not 47 liters per day, but, say, 2 times more, then the energy consumption indicators will be 5.95 kWh (2.5 + 2.5 + 0.95) per day and 178.5 kWh per month.

Most often, in terms of cost, the use of a water heater in Ukraine costs at least no more than the use of hot water. In other Western European countries, storage water heaters are even more efficient, as water tariffs are higher. And in some places water heaters have no alternative at all: for example, in the UK there is no centralized heating and hot water supply. Here you have to choose only between an electrical appliance and a gas water heater.

How often should the magnesium anode rod be changed?

The service life of a magnesium anode rod can vary greatly and typically ranges from 1 to 5 years. Specific figures depend on the manufacturer of the storage water heater and the quality of the water (its hardness). For example, in Atlantic water heaters, this consumable is recommended to be changed every 3 years.

The magnesium anode rod is a consumable that evaporates as the storage water heater is used.

Indirect signs that the time has come to replace the magnesium anode rod are:

  • decrease in the rate of water heating;
  • the appearance of a smell of rust;
  • protection from overheating triggered – probably, the heating element is heavily covered with scale;
  • hissing sounds during device operation;
  • the body of the water heater may give you an electric shock.

An alternative way to protect from corrosion is water heaters with an titanium anode rod, which do not wear out, therefore, unlike the more common magnesium consumables, they do not require replacement.

Storage Water Heater with Magnesium Anode Rod

Is it necessary to install a pressure reducer at the water inlet to the storage water heater?

If a pressure reducer is not installed at the water supply inlet to your apartment (house), then its incut in front of the water heater is not only desirable, but mandatory. It will protect the safety check valve from leaks and eliminate the risk of tank deformation due to the so-called water hammer – a pressure surge in the water supply system. Even if the manufacturer of the storage water heater declares the readiness of the device for such force majeure, it is better to play it safe. In practice, on the lower floors of apartment buildings, the pressure can increase up to 10 atmospheres, while water heaters usually withstand no more than 8.

The pressure reducer is not such an expensive part to risk a storage water heater performance (and not only) due to its lack.

To what temperature is the water heated in the storage water heater?

Modern electric storage water heaters support high-temperature operating conditions, up to 95 °C. But most storage water heaters in the domestic segment are designed for less impressive maximum values in the range from 75 to 80 degrees Celsius. For comparison, the standard temperature for hot water supply is 60 °C, and just this figure is considered optimal for a water heater, as we have already discussed above.

Is it possible for a tank to explode when overheated?

The explosion of the storage water heater tank due to overheating is an emergency situation that, in theory, can occur when the device fails. In modern storage water heaters, the thermostat is responsible for temperature control. If this part breaks, then either an overheat protection system with additional sensors, or another thermostat (usually provided in models of leading brands) with factory settings of 94 °C can prevent the problem. If the heating of water reaches such values, the device will automatically turn off.

If you suspect an overheating of the tank, it is recommended to turn off the power and call a repair specialist. At the same time, it is not recomended to drain a very hot water from the tank, because due to a drop in pressure, the temperature of the remaining water will increase, up to its boiling, and the excess of the formed steam is also dangerous by explosion.

Why does water from storage water heater smell bad?

The main reasons for the bad smell of water in the storage water heater:

  • the water stagnates during rare operation of the device (even if it constantly warms up the water, but it is not consumed);
  • low heating temperature (less than 60 degrees Celsius), which cause the growth of bacteria;
  • anode rod wear (there is a smell of rust or metal);
  • specific composition of water with a high content of sulfates;
  • other external factors (for example, clogged pipes, use of water from a well).
Often the bad smell of water in the storage water heater is a consequence of the growth of bacteria.

If the cause is related to bacteria, then, usually, the water smells of hydrogen sulfide. In this case, it is recommended to increase the heating temperature (up to the maximum), which will eliminate pathogens and unpleasant odors. If the water smells off rust, then most likely it's time to change the magnesium anode rod.

Why did the storage water heater take longer to heat water than before?

Most often, this situation is associated with the coating of the heating element with scale and a decrease in the efficiency of the device. Slightly more prone to the problem of deposits are devices with a "wet" heating element, which are directly in the water. To protect them from hardness salts, it is necessary to perform maintenance every year (or at the frequency specified in the manufacturer's instructions). When the heating element in the literal sense of the word "overgrows" with scale, the first thing it does is heat it, and then the water.

"Dry" heating element suffers from deposits to a lesser extent. But if you do not perform regulated service work (usually needed every 2 years), then the heating efficiency may also fall.

If the storage water heater is new or you have recently performed maintenance, then the reason for the increase in the duration of heating may be related to the season (in winter, the water entering the tank is colder and takes longer to warm up) or other malfunctions (for example, the failure of the thermostat, which turns off the device before reaching desired temperature).

Storage Water Heater with

Why is water running from the back pressure valve?

The valve leaks when the pressure is really high, or it is faulty.

This valve is activated when the pressure rises and bleeds water from the tank in order to normalize this value (to prevent water hammer and body deformation). Accordingly, if water drips or flows from here, then this may indicate:

  • normal operation of the valve and increased pressure in the tank. And in this case, up to 3% of the tank volume can be bled per day, which is still considered the norm;
  • failure of the part, for example, due to defect, contamination with hard particles, mechanical wear of the spring, which helps to drain the water.

You can check the pressure in the water supply system using a pressure gauge, and thereby verify the exact cause of the leak.

More questions with quick answers

Can I install the storage water heater myself?

Yes, if you follow the instructions and have the skills to work with plumbing fixtures. If your tap leaks after installation, then you should not deal with the installation of a water heater.

Which heating element is better: "wet" or "dry"?

A "dry" heater is more reliable and durable. It is preferable if you have hard water.

Dry heating elements are more reliable, and wet ones are cheaper.

How often should the storage water heater be serviced?

It all depends on the manufacturer's recommendations. Usually models with a “wet” heating element – once a year, and with a “dry” one – once every 2 years.

What is the best storage water heater – for 1500 or 2000 W?

A more powerful model will heat the water faster, and a lesser one will be suitable for housing with not the newest wiring. At the same time, the efficiency does not directly depend on the power consumption (if the efficiency is identical). So, they have different energy consumption per unit of time (hour), but the same – for a specific volume of water.

Can I descale my water heater myself?

Yes, the procedure is not very complicated. But usually the condition for maintaining the guarantee for the device is its maintenance by the specialists of the official service. Accordingly, it is better to clean the heater yourself after the end of the warranty.

How fast does the water in the water heater tank cool down?

It all depends on the quality of the thermal insulation, but usually it is from 5 to 10 °C per day. For example, the Atlantic declares 6 degrees Celsius in 24 hours.