A water heater or boiler is a device for continuous heating of water connected to a water supply system. Structurally, this is a large tank equipped with a heat source in various configurations. In another way, boilers are called storage water heaters. The use of such devices is advisable in rooms where there is no connection to the hot water supply line.
In specialized stores, each buyer can find gas or electric water heaters, combined or indirect heating boilers. It is difficult to say which of them are the most popular and preferred for use in homes and apartments. Here, as in many other cases, everything depends on the tasks imposed by the consumer on the object.
In order to facilitate your choice, a rating of the best boilers was compiled based on user reviews, comparison of the characteristics of a large number of models and popularity among buyers.
unique templates and modules for dleThe best gas boilers
Installation and start-up of such heaters is carried out mainly in large-scale buildings and cottages, since they allow heating a large number of water from minimal cost time with low fuel consumption. Considering that natural gas prices are relatively low, even in this case, it can always be replaced with alternative fuels.
The heater power is controlled by built-in regulators, which eliminates the occurrence of emergencies. Of the minuses, it should be noted that the installation of such a boiler requires the permission of the competent government agencies that regulate both the correct installation and the presence of a separate hood for exhaust gases.
3 American Water Heater PROLine
Reliable floor standing gas boiler
The best electric boilers
Electricity is the most accessible form of energy resources. Based on this fact, the idea arose to create water heaters that use electricity as a heat source. The principle of operation of electric boilers is simple: a thermoelement is placed inside the body, which heats the water in the tank to the desired temperature, and then turns off under the action of the installed thermostat-fuse.
Of the advantages of the system, one should highlight the relatively low cost relative to other types of water heaters. Power is supplied from a two-phase network. In addition, it is possible to distribute hot water to several objects at once. The main disadvantage of electric boilers is their inefficiency. High-power, they slowly heat water, consuming a large amount of electricity.
3 Thermex Sprint 80 SPR-V
Reliable wall-mounted electric heating boiler
The best indirect heating boilers
Economical and efficient, indirect heating boilers are used for installation in rooms with central heating. At its core, it is a tank connected to the DSP network, mixing, heating and distributing water through several water systems. A heating boiler can also be connected to it, the thermal element of which will become a heater for the water circulating in the storage tank.
The main advantage of such boilers is efficiency. Consumption electrical energy consistently low. However, their cost can hit the wallet of the average consumer.
3 Gorenje GV 200
Sometimes, for reliable and stable operation, you do not need to buy expensive equipment with bloated functionality, because additional options often become the main reason for its breakdown. Obviously, the Gorenje specialists, who created the Gorenje GV 200 boiler model, adhered to the same opinion. It has a very limited set of functions, which has a beneficial effect on both the price and the duration of operation. Heating of water in a tank with a volume of 200 liters occurs due to a heat exchanger made of stainless steel. The maximum heating temperature is limited to 75 degrees Celsius and is mechanically regulated.
The large capacity of the tank makes it expedient to distribute and supply water to several points of water intake. Otherwise, this is a standard model, the price for which fluctuates around 22-23 thousand rubles.
2 Protherm FE 200/6 BM
Reliable and popular indirect heating boiler
The best combined boilers
The operation of combined water heaters is based on the combination of several types of heating. Since the capacity of the tank is no different from other types of water heaters, and the combination is implemented mainly in indirect heating boilers, such capacities are quite enough to quickly heat water. Thermal insulation in them retains for a long time high temperature liquids. For more reliable operation, it is necessary to provide for the installation of a boiler, at least a single-circuit one.
They are ideal for installation in private homes, as well as in large, spacious apartments. The expediency of their installation in small spaces is doubtful, since such a heater will occupy a large space.
3 Gorenje GBK 150 RNB6/LNB6
The best heating temperature. Best functionality
And reviews
Country: Slovenia
Average price: 26,214 rubles.
Rating (2017): 4.5
The honorable third place goes to the Gorenje GBK 150 RNB6/LNB6 boiler, which has good performance in terms of functionality. An installed heat exchanger and two tubular electric heaters, the total power of which is 2 kW, are responsible for heating 150 liters of water to a temperature of up to 85 degrees Celsius. The heating time to the maximum point is 345 minutes, after which the system equipped with a thermostat turns off all heating elements and puts the indirect heating combi boiler into keep warm mode. The installed temperature sensor is also responsible for preventing freezing.
With a fairly large size, the weight of such a Gorenie model is 72 kilograms. Its installation is preferable for large houses or cottages, since the volume of water is enough even for increased consumption.
2 Thermex Combi ER 100V
The best combination of compactness and reliability. Best price
And reviews
Country: Italy
Average price: 24,230 rubles.
Rating (2017): 4.6
As can be seen from the name of the characteristic, the second place went to Thermex Combi ER 100V for a combination of small dimensions and reliability, noted by numerous buyers. A glass-ceramic tank with a capacity of 100 liters is placed in the body of the boiler, the total weight of which is only 46.4 kilograms. It combines indirect and electric ways heating, which are implemented using a heat exchanger and a tubular electric heater with a power of 1.5 kW, respectively.
There is one good feature in the Termex model. The pre-installed magnesium anode, which protects the inside of the storage water heater from corrosion, is double, and not single, as on the vast majority of other models. The cost of such a boiler is relatively low and ranges from 23-25 thousand rubles.
1 Drazice OKC 160/1m2
The best ratio of price and quality
And reviews
Country: Czech Republic
Average price: 26,180 rubles.
Rating (2017): 4.7
The capacious combined water heater Drazice OKC 160/1m2 rightfully deserves the title of "best". It seems that this model is devoid of cons. It is not as bulky as other boiler options, and weighs almost 72 kilograms. Equipped with a tank of 160 liters, the water in which is heated by a heat exchanger and an installed dry-type ceramic tubular electric heater, the power of which is 2.2 kW. The maximum power of the heat exchanger is limited to 24 kW. This is enough for a noticeable heating of the full volume of water in just 7-10 minutes.
For correct operation, this model of the Dražice boiler is equipped with protection against overpressure, overheating, as well as an anti-corrosion magnesium anode. The average cost is 23 thousand rubles, which is an acceptable price for storage water heaters of this type.
A boiler is a device for heating water, which is also called a storage water heater. The main feature that distinguishes it from flow heaters is that it can also be used as a reservoir, and this makes it possible to always have a supply of hot water at hand. The growing popularity is due to interruptions in water supply, which regularly occur every season.
Principle of operation
To understand how to choose a boiler in an apartment, and what aspects to pay attention to when buying, you need to understand the principle of its operation.
Cold water enters the tank, where it is heated to a predetermined temperature with the help of heating elements - heating elements. The heating element can be dry and wet.
- Wet - in contact with water during operation.
- Dry - is in a special sealed flask.
On wet heating elements, scale begins to form very quickly, which must be removed annually. In this regard, dry heating elements are more reliable, but at the same time they cost one and a half to two times more. For example, a wet device with a standard capacity of 80 liters will cost 1.5 thousand rubles, and its counterpart with a dry heating element will cost more - from 2.2 thousand.
When the water temperature reaches the desired level, the device is turned off by the thermostat. If the water cools down by at least 1 degree, the heating turns on again. The user himself sets the desired temperature using a rotary mechanism, but more modern models are equipped with electronic controls that regulate the intensity of heating depending on the time of day.
A significant disadvantage of the boiler is the heating of water even when it is not necessary, which is why energy is not spent economically. To save money, many turn off the device when not needed or set the minimum temperature regime(in this case, before taking a shower, you will have to wait a little while warming up).
Boiler use
Boiler is not a heating boiler
Boiler water heaters are capable of providing a permanent supply of hot water to several points at once, and heat losses are minimized to the maximum. From the inside, the devices are coated with an enamel-based composition or “stainless steel”, which not only prevents corrosion, but also prolongs the life of the device.
Note! Do not confuse a boiler with a heating boiler (apparently, the misconception is related to the etymology of the word "boiler", translated from English meaning "heater"). Boilers are used to heat domestic water, and boilers heat process water.
Varieties of water heaters
By way of placement TENA water heaters happen direct or indirect heating.
- Direct heating devices are characterized by the fact that water heating in them is provided by a heating element, which is installed under the tank or directly in it. They are functional and easy to use, as they are completely independent of the auxiliary heat source.
- Under indirect heating means a process in which the container is heated by technical fluid coming from a centralized heating system or from a boiler. Boilers with indirect heating are used mainly in private homes. The devices are autonomous from any energy source, which means the constant availability of hot water.
Note! Direct heating devices can operate on electricity and on gas (in the second case, a gas burner acts as a heating element).
By installation method devices can be:
- vertical installation;
- horizontal installation;
- wall;
- floor.
Also, water heaters are divided depending on the material used (we already mentioned this).
The most popular and at the same time the cheapest anti-corrosion coating is enamel in all its variations. But the durability of this material is very doubtful, one has only to remember the enameled pots - with temperature changes, cracks form on them, and this is a direct path to the spread of rust. Of course, you can somewhat extend the life of the boiler without heating the water above 50–60 degrees, but on the other hand, such water is an ideal breeding ground for bacteria. There are, of course, modern models with an antibacterial coating based on silver ions, but with the same standard volumes of 80 liters, they will already cost more than 5 thousand rubles.
Bucky out "stainless steel" least susceptible to corrosion, which is why their service life is at least 10 years. We would attribute only the high cost of such models to the disadvantages - about 10-15 thousand.
Video - Which boiler tank is better - stainless steel or enamel?
Now, armed with knowledge about the principle of operation and the main types of boilers, you can safely proceed to the selection of a suitable model. It remains only to consider the main selection criteria.
Product shape
Most often in apartments there are vertical boilers. cylindrical shape, which have several advantages at once:
- firstly, such devices are more compact;
- secondly, this shape provides the maximum area of contact between hot and cold water in the tank, as a result of which the water cools down more slowly.
But water heaters are not only cylindrical, there are also slims- thinner and more elongated. They are more efficient, since they give more hot water at the outlet due to the smaller cross-sectional area, and they will take up little space in the apartment. But, as you know, you have to pay for pleasure - the minimum cost of a slim is about 6 thousand rubles.
There is a third version of the form of water heaters - rectangular. Their tank volumes are almost the same, but at the same time, rectangular boilers can fit into any interior due to the tightest possible contact with the wall. In short, this is an ideal solution for small apartments, where, as you know, there are problems with free space. Rectangular boilers can even be installed in kitchen wall cabinets. Their specifications the same as the slims, but they cost a little more.
And if you are already very tight with free space, you can choose for yourself horizontal boiler - it can be installed under the washbasin, on the shelf in the bathroom and even under the ceiling. But such space savings entail other problems - low hot water output, which increases energy costs.
Volume of the tank
The next thing you should pay attention to when buying is the volume of the water heater. If you are the only user, then a 40 liter boiler will be enough for you (it will take about 2 hours to heat this volume of water). A pair of users spends from 80 to 100 liters per day (they heat up in 4-5 hours). Finally, if a full-fledged family with children lives in the apartment, then even a maximum volume of 120 liters will only be enough for them in the morning (this amount of water will warm up for about 7 hours).
Ease of use
The more expensive the water heater costs, the more it is “stuffed” with various options. So, budget models do not even have an external thermostat, with which it would be possible to regulate the temperature (the degree of heating is set during the factory assembly). Middle-range appliances have thermostats, and even more expensive boilers are equipped with a much larger set of functions:
- eco-heating (water in the tank is not heated from scratch, and the set mode is maintained permanently, which reduces energy costs);
- express heating;
- a digital indicator showing how much time remains until the next warm-up;
- work without water;
- frost protection.
In a word, the more expensive the device, the more convenient it is to use it and the more “bonuses” you will receive.
thermal insulation
In the "advanced" models of water heaters there is a built-in thermal insulation of the tank: the heated water practically does not lose the temperature gained. This provides several advantages at once:
- the consumption of electricity is reduced;
- the service life of the electronic control system is extended (the device turns on / off much less often).
Often, polyurethane is used for thermal insulation, a layer of which even 3 cm thick can reduce heat loss by up to 25 degrees per day. More voluminous devices, in which the insulation layer is larger (about 8 cm) and completely demonstrate record figures - heat loss is not more than 5 degrees per day.
Protection
If the pressure in the water supply is not constant in the apartment (the pressure periodically increases and weakens), then it is advisable to choose a model that can withstand a pressure of at least 9 bar.
Note! If you have not found such a model or you cannot afford it, then it is recommended to purchase a gearbox worth about 2.5 thousand.
When installing the boiler, you should take care of new wiring and a tube to drain excess water (it must be installed from the heater to the sewer) in case of pressure drops.
Corrosion and scale
The main scourge of any boiler (except for devices with a gas burner) is the formation of scale on heating elements. This problem is especially relevant if the water circulating through the system has increased hardness. Therefore, water must be softened.
The most effective way is to cut into the pipeline ferromagnetic tube in combination with powerful permanent magnets. They will perfectly soften the water, their service life is unlimited, and no special care is required for them.
There is another way - the temperature in the tank should not exceed 50-55 degrees. Be that as it may, the operation of the water heater must be constantly monitored. Already a year after the purchase, invite a master to your place, who will determine how quickly scale forms and whether it is necessary to clean. That is why it is recommended to buy more expensive modern models, the heating elements of which are able to self-clean. You will not have such problems with them.
If you decide to purchase a device with an enamelled inner surface, then additionally take care of protecting the tank from corrosion. As soon as the first crack appears on the enamel, albeit a small one, the tank will begin to collapse. To avoid this, install a special magnesium rod. With the appearance of the slightest flaws, the rod will begin to rust instead of enamel. Its service life depends on the quality of the water heater. In budget models, it can last a year, in more expensive models - from 5 to 7 years.
Note! During operation, regularly check the condition of the heating element. The fact is that not in all cases it is advisable to change the magnesium rod, it happens that it is more profitable to buy a new heating element. Judge for yourself: a new rod costs about 150–250 rubles, while a new heating element costs 450 rubles.
Video - How to choose a water heater?
Conclusions. What is more profitable - a boiler or hot water supply?
The average cost of a cubic meter of hot water today is 87 rubles, more than in previous years. Let's try to find out what is more profitable: to install a boiler in the apartment and pay big money for electricity (which, by the way, has also risen in price by 20–30%), or to use the services of public utilities and pay the tariffs?
The average family of three needs 12 cubic meters of hot water per month. To warm it up, you need 400 kilowatts or about 600 rubles. And if you consume the same amount of water according to the meter, then you will pay 900 rubles for it. The benefit is obvious, so if you had any doubts about buying a water heater, then after that they should completely dissipate.
Today, storage electric water heaters are very popular among owners. country houses and dachas, as well as among urban residents who want to make their water supply independent and uninterrupted.
In this article, we'll take a look at the top ten this moment storage water heaters with a volume of 30 to 100 liters, which is the best option for installation in an apartment or country house.
What parameters to pay attention to when choosing a storage water heater
Tank volume
The most compact models up to 30 liters are perfect for giving, a small kitchen or bathroom. It is difficult to think about taking a shower, but to cope with the dishes, to wash yourself is no problem.
50-liter water heaters are already capable of providing quite a comfortable single wash, but the next user may have to wait for the time set for reheating.
For a family of 2-3 people, an 80-liter boiler is perfect. However, if there is an irresistible desire to take a bath or the cell of society consists of 4 or more active users, it makes sense to think about buying a model for 100 or even 120 liters.
There are water heaters and larger volumes up to 300 liters, but these are not household, but industrial devices.
Power
Everything is clear here. The more, the faster the heating. Usually varies in the range from 1 to 2.5 kW. You just need to decide on the capabilities of your network.
Type of heater
The heaters can be:
- Classic submersible, in direct contact with water;
- "Dry", placed in a special capsule.
The first option is simpler and cheaper, the second is reliable, durable and eliminates scale build-up.
tank material
There are two main options - enameled or stainless steel.
- High-quality enamel has anti-corrosion properties, may contain silver ions for disinfection, but you are unlikely to feel it somehow (it's more like marketing).
- "Stainless steel" is traditionally strong, reliable, but also more expensive. Manufacturers often give the same warranty for tanks made of both materials, then the difference is leveled.
Anti-corrosion anode
Protects the tank from leaks and prolongs its "life". The material of the tank does not necessarily matter, because welds are often a problem area, and stainless steel can be different.
Among the huge number of models of boilers on the market, it is quite difficult to decide on the choice of a suitable unit. How to choose the right water heater among this multitude?
Before choosing a boiler, you need to decide on your needs, and think about what needs the unit will be used for. All devices are divided into several types:
- electric, flow type;
- electric storage type;
- flow gas;
- storage gas;
- devices of indirect type.
Electric flow units
A distinctive feature of flowing electric water heaters is their compact and easy to install. This is the perfect option for country house. Also, such a unit is easy to place in the bathroom, in the kitchen cabinet or under the sink.
The water in this device is heated by a built-in powerful heating element located in a small tank through which the liquid passes. When water comes into contact with the heating element, it quickly heats up and goes to the place of consumption. The only drawback of such boilers is that they have more power up to 8 kW and above: not every wiring in the house can withstand such a load. Therefore, for the flow unit, it is necessary to pull a separate cable from the electrical panel, and select the wire cross-section taking into account the load in a particular situation.
The disadvantages can also be attributed to the high consumption of electricity.
Electric storage boilers
This is the most common and popular view apparatus. The choice of such a water heater for an apartment can be considered the best option. An electric storage water heater not only heats the liquid to the required temperature, but also keeps the water hot for a long time, like in a thermos. Heat is retained by thick thermal insulation between the reservoir and the external tank of the device. Heated water is enough for use at several points at the same time. As a heat source in the unit, a heating element (tubular electric heater) is used. Warm water rises and exits to the consumer through a drain pipe, the fence of which is located in the upper part.
For storage devices, there are several recommendations on how to choose the right boiler, based on design features:
- tank material;
- types of heating elements - “wet” and “dry”.
Inner tank material
Modern boilers are equipped with an internal tank with glass-ceramic coating. Such a coating protects the tank from corrosion, but is very sensitive to temperature changes, as a result of which microcracks can form. But there are also devices with containers made of of stainless steel, or from it, but covered with a layer of titanium enamel. Since water is constantly in the tank, corrosion of the welds is inevitable over time. To extend the service life of the internal tanks, the units are equipped with magnesium anodes(metal rods coated with magnesium). Therefore, before choosing a water heater, pay attention to the material of the tank and its internal coating.
Considering that models with stainless steel tanks are guaranteed for 7-10 years, then the choice of such a water heater for an apartment is preferable.
Varieties of heating elements
“Wet” heater looks like a normal kettle. It consists of a copper tube, into which a nichrome spiral is embedded, filled with a dielectric.
During operation of the heater, as in the case of a boiler, the accumulation of scale is inevitable. And if the water in the line has increased hardness, then the surface of the tube will very quickly overgrow with plaque, as a result of which heat transfer will be lost. The heating element will start to overheat, and eventually burn out. Consequently, in areas where water has high hardness indicators, it is not recommended to install boilers with open heaters. Therefore, before choosing an electric boiler for an apartment, you should consider chemical composition water. In addition, the exposed parts of the heater enter into a galvanic reaction with the internal tank, from which it is subjected to electrochemical destruction.
"Dry" heating elements have no contact with the liquid in the tank. They can be different in design, but they are united by the fact that the heaters are installed in special tubes soldered to the flange, or a protective flask, also installed on the flange, which is hermetically attached to the bottom of the tank.
As a result, boilers with “dry” heaters have a longer service life when working with hard water. Although scale is also collected on protective covers, it takes more time compared to open heating elements. Therefore, preventive maintenance and descaling is required every 2 years. Also due to reduction of electrochemical corrosion, the internal tanks of the devices are longer in working order, provided that the magnesium anode has not been exhausted (it is required to check during maintenance).
Flow gas
Flow type gas heaters ( geysers), are most often used in the private sector, where there is a gas and water supply and the house has a chimney. But before you choose a boiler for the house, in this case gas, you should consider that you will have to contact the gas service for obtaining permission, and then to connect the device. It will also be necessary to make wiring for water.
The liquid in such a device is heated by passing it through a heat exchanger located in the gas column housing. In turn, the heat exchanger is heated by the gas burning in the chamber.
Accumulative gas
As an alternative to a gas water heater for a private house, you can purchase a storage gas unit. The only difference between them is that there is a container for liquid in the water heater (accumulative). The water in the tank is heated in the same way, from the combustion of gas. heating temperature thermostat controls, which turns off the gas supply if the liquid has heated up to the desired temperature.
The advantage of such a device over a flow one is that heated water is constantly present in the system, and it is not necessary to turn on the heating column every time, which ensures more economical gas consumption.
Indirect heating units
The indirect heating device does not have built-in heat sources. The water in the tank is heated from external sources. Most often, liquid from the heating system is used as a source, which, passing through the heat exchanger (coil), gives off energy to the water in the tank.
Due to the use of external heat carriers, the choice of an indirect heating boiler for the house will be an economical option, since gas and electricity are not consumed. But it should be noted that this type of device has a high cost. And their volume can reach up to 1000 liters. An indirect heating boiler is rational to use in big houses(if the number of households is more than 6 people), institutions, cafes, canteens and restaurants, where a considerable consumption of hot water is expected.
In the indirect, it is possible to install a heating element, after which it turns into a storage electric device.
Unit power
From what power the heater is used in the device, the time of heating the liquid in the tank to the required indicators depends. Before you choose an electric water heater, you should know what is leading in this matter gas heating devices. They tend to heat water 2 times faster than analogues with heating elements. Not to mention indirect water heaters, the liquid in which heats up even more slowly.
In an electric storage water heater, 2 heating elements of lesser power are often built in to increase the speed of operation, or one, but powerful. The total recommended power should be 2 kW. It takes an average of 2 to 4 hours to heat water to 50 degrees, depending on the volume of the tank. This means that low-power devices should be bought if the need for hot water is not high.
Water heater tank volume
What water heater, and with what volume to choose for the house? Addressing this issue should be a top priority. Many people make the mistake of choosing a large-volume unit when buying, guided by the idea “the more the better”. But, in fact, you will receive an unjustified consumption of electricity, since the device will spend more time heating water than a similar one of a smaller size. In addition, the dimensions of such a device will take up more space, and therefore you should be guided by your needs. The figures below show approximate indicators that should be followed when choosing the size of the unit. They depend on how many people will use hot water.
Also for a large family of 7-8 people, if it is a private house, it would be more rational to choose a water heater (accumulative) of indirect heating. Among floor models you can choose a unit with the desired capacity, capable of providing hot water to the whole family. Buying a home indirect heating device can solve the question, which water heater is better to choose for a private house? For a better understanding of how much water is consumed per day, you can use the table below.
Water heater shape
The shape of storage boilers are: cylindrical and square (flat).
Cylindrical
Most buyers, when choosing a water heater for an apartment, opt for cylindrical models for vertical placement. They have these advantages:
- devices are compact and do not take up much space;
- the cylindrical shape has the maximum contact area.
There are also narrow devices, in the form of a cylinder, the so-called slim water heaters(from the English "slim" - thin). They differ in diameter (from 38 cm and less) from standard units with a circumference of 45-52 cm. At the same time, in order to increase capacity, the manufacturer increased their height.
The slim unit is very convenient in small apartments of an old building, in which the bathrooms are very cramped and the space in the kitchen is limited. This parameter is convincing in order to choose a small diameter electric water heater for such housing. However, it can handle the same power as the standard one and has the same capacity by converting usable space into height.
The disadvantage of slim units is that some manufacturers, in order to increase the volume of the internal tank without increasing the outer diameter, reduce the thermal insulation layer. Because of this, the liquid in the container cools faster, and the device is forced to turn on more often.
flat
Flat models are no different from slims in their parameters. The storage water heater of a flat shape takes up little space, has a pleasant design, and fits well into the interior. Because such devices hide in lockers in the kitchen or in the bathroom, you can easily choose the thickness of the device required for this.
There are also models for horizontal placement. But the cost of such devices is higher than vertical ones. This placement allows you to maximize the use of free space, especially if it is limited to a small room.
When choosing the right unit for home use, it is important to find a compromise, based on rationality, so as not to compromise convenience and financial savings.
It's no secret to anyone that during the summer period, interruptions in hot water in apartment buildings- The usual thing. The reason lies in carrying out planned repairs, for which utilities are responsible. They can last several weeks. At this time, most citizens have to forget even about the primary comfort. In such cases, the boiler will be the salvation. The reviews of many homeowners speak in favor of the presence of such a unit in the house.
General information
Few are ready to put up with a long absence of hot water. In this case, it is advisable to purchase a special unit. Reviews will help you navigate the existing range. The boiler has become an indispensable household item for many. However, a large part of consumers do not understand the features of these devices at all. it is necessary to acquire such that its work ensures the implementation of all the household needs of the family.
Classification
Currently, there are two types of the device: storage and flow boiler. In order to finally decide on the model of the unit, it is necessary to take into account all the features of each type. Next, we will figure out how to choose a boiler in an apartment.
Appearance
All water boilers are similar to each other in this parameter. As a rule, devices have a cylindrical or rectangular shape. A special handle is located on the front surface. It regulates the temperature. The accumulative boiler differs in impressive dimensions. According to many consumers, this is a big drawback of such units. Indeed, in some residential premises there is not enough space for its installation. The size depends on the size of the model. Many homeowners buy a flow-accumulative unit. This preference is understandable. Reviews speak about the advantages of such devices. The combined type boiler combines the advantages of products from the first two main groups. Next, we consider in more detail the features of devices from each category. 
Flow type device: general information
This one is quite compact. This is a definite advantage of the product. It can heat water very quickly, and in unlimited quantities. As many buyers note, such a device has high performance. Cold water that enters the device instantly heats up to 45-60 degrees. At the same time, it passes through the flask and a special element - a heating element. It is built into the device. Speaking about how to choose a boiler in an apartment, it should be said about the speed of operation and the power of the unit. Preference should be given to models with copper heating elements. According to consumers, flow-through water boilers do their job well. However, one condition is necessary. The operation of the device is carried out when only 1 draw-off point is in operation.
Life time
Such equipment does not require careful and frequent maintenance. At the same time, the service life is several years. Thus, it is advisable to use flow modules in case of a short-term absence of hot water supply in apartments and houses. This also applies to catering establishments, schools and other socially significant facilities.
It is important to know
How to choose a boiler in an apartment? High power is an important technical parameter of any flow model. It is in the following range: 3-27 kW. It should be noted that not every electrical wiring can withstand the operation of such equipment. Thus, when choosing a model, you should pay attention to the power of the device. 
Operation features
Which have a power of 3-8 kW, can be connected to ordinary sockets with single-phase voltage. It is 220 watts. Models with higher power can be used in apartments with electric stoves that are equipped with three-phase voltage outlets. It is 380 watts.
Volume
Models of heaters differ in this parameter. In particular, this refers to the volume of hot water that can be heated in 1 minute. During this time, flow models with a power of 3-8 kW give out from 2 to 6 liters. The heating period is no more than 20 seconds. This volume will be quite enough for important hygienic and domestic needs. Before choosing a boiler in an apartment, you should assess the needs of its inhabitants. It is also worth taking into account the technical possibilities of electrical wiring. You can see the rating of manufacturers. It is based on sales results. Now the leaders are such brands as Electrolux and Bosch. However, there are other popular models. For example, "Termex" products are also presented in a wide range.
Pressure and non-pressure flow models: installation features
They are built into the plumbing. This allows you to alternately carry out several household procedures. It is recommended to install these devices in urban apartments. Installation of non-pressure models of units has its own characteristics. They are located strictly near the water supply point. Thus, these devices are advisable to use in the country. 
Additional Information
Many consumers indicate in their reviews one significant disadvantage flow structures - a large consumption of electricity. Not every homeowner is willing to spend a large amount on paying bills. To minimize costs, it is necessary to greatly reduce the consumption of hot water. For this reason, for those people who are not going to limit themselves in this regard, such a model will not work. Flow models are not used in homes that have autonomous water supply and heating systems. The reason again lies in the high consumption of electrical energy.
Second group
It includes storage units. These devices have their advantages. Their volume can reach up to 500 liters. For operation in residential buildings models that have a smaller tank are selected. Its value may vary depending on the number of residents in the apartment. The main volumes are 10-150 liters. Such devices take up a lot of space on the wall or on the floor. It depends on the parameters of the selected model. Despite this, many consumers prefer this particular type of unit. With such devices in the house there will always be a sufficient amount of hot water.
Principle of operation
The device in question is an oblong or round heat-insulating tank. In it, with the help of a heating element, water is heated to the required temperature. It varies in the following range: 35-85 degrees. This temperature can be maintained for up to three hours. After the water has cooled down, the heater will automatically turn on and warm it up. To do this, the temperature should fall by only 0.5 degrees. After heating, the device will turn off automatically. Thanks to this mode of operation, electricity is consumed more economically. This is the main advantage of the devices. The set temperature is maintained by a thermostat. It is included in the design of each storage device. Some models can be additionally equipped with the following items:
Features of work
A clear advantage of this equipment, according to buyers, is that all such models can be connected to conventional sockets with a voltage of 220 volts. Also pay attention to power. It does not exceed 2-3 kW. This power can be compared with electric kettles, which are used in almost every home. At the same time, the performance of the device does not decrease even from low power consumption. can simultaneously provide hot water to each draw-off point in the apartment. Appliances equipped with large tanks allow you to take a bath for all family members, as well as satisfy other household needs. For example, washing dishes or cleaning.
In most cases, buyers do not know how to choose a boiler for an apartment so that its volume is optimal. It is necessary to accurately calculate the needs so that later there is no shortage of it. In addition, the device must not be idle. Heating the excess volume of water is completely useless. It is worth paying attention to the fact that a large tank will warm up longer. For example, a 10-liter container of water will heat up to 45 degrees in about 10 minutes. It is easy to calculate how long it will take for the same thing to happen with a 100-liter tank. In many cases, a 50 liter boiler is the optimal solution. Here the question arises of which model to purchase. Many consumers buy an Ariston boiler. One of the undoubted advantages of these units is the presence of an autoclave flange. Due to its presence, the possibility of water leakage through the gasket is prevented. The seal in such models is pressed due to pressure head. The higher it is, the stronger the gasket fits accordingly. In addition, the Ariston boiler with an average tank volume is a fairly compact model. Experts recommend purchasing units with a simple design sensor - in the form of an arrow.
Calculation
It is necessary to take into account the number of water points that are in the house. Thus, it is possible to calculate the approximate water consumption per family member. The result obtained must be multiplied by the number of residents in the apartment. The result will be the approximate volume of the tank that is required in a particular case. 
Accommodation features
Before choosing a boiler in an apartment, it is necessary to take into account the availability of free space in the toilet or bathroom. These devices are in most cases located in these rooms. Many people want to save valuable space. In this case, it is more expedient to purchase a horizontal boiler. It is installed under the ceiling. It is necessary to give preference to the device, the case design of which will be well combined with the interior of the room. Embedded models are also now available. They can be hidden in a niche under the sink.
Popular firms
Many consumers have a question about whether there is a better boiler. It is hardly possible to answer it unambiguously. Currently, the following brands are popular on the Russian market:
- Ariston;
- Electrolux;
- "Termex".
Installation
The wall-mounted boiler for 50 liters, 100 or 150 is equipped with special brackets on the housings. In this case, preliminary markup is required. Hooks are driven into the wall at these places. Then the device is hung on them. It is worth noting that models that assume a vertical type of placement cannot be placed horizontally. Also vice versa. If the boiler is horizontal, then mount it that way. Those floor-standing units whose volume exceeds 150 liters must be installed on a flat, hard surface. In this case, additional fasteners are not provided. The device is connected to the water supply using It is usually easy to figure out how the tank is filled and how the boiler works in general. The manual contains all the necessary information. The unit is connected to the network after the tank is full.
Features of combined models
These devices are universal water heating devices. They have absorbed all the best features of other types of related equipment. These water heaters can operate in two modes. They are quite compact. In addition, these devices have a relatively small weight - up to 6 kg. Their installation is very simple. Due to the above advantages, these devices have earned the attention of buyers. They are very often installed in private houses or cottages. The size of the tanks of such heaters is 10-30 liters. This is quite enough for those who went to rest in the country.
Leaders of sells
The Electrolux boiler is a rectangular tank. The material of the inner tank is glass enamel. There are two independent heating elements. A magnesium anode is provided. Models are available both vertical and horizontal. Different units are equipped with tanks of different sizes. Boiler Electrolux can have a capacity of 15 to 200 liters.
Design features
The device features two independent heating elements. They are part of the X-feat system. Heating elements do not have direct contact with water. From the inside, the tank is covered with fine glass enamel. This material protects it from corrosion. Thanks to him, the device will last much longer. The hardening process of fine glass enamel occurs at a temperature of 850 degrees. This material has unique properties. This glass enamel is incredibly smooth and hard. Among its advantages, one can also distinguish a certain elasticity. Thanks to it, the tank of the device is reliably protected from corrosion. However, not only high-quality enamel fights rust. In particular, this applies to the magnesium anode of increased mass.
Technical specifications:
- Power - 220 V.
- The maximum allowable pressure is 5 bar.
- Temperature - 30-70 degrees.
Before buying, it is important to know how much such boilers cost. The prices of small compact models are less than 2000 rubles. More voluminous models cost from 5-7 thousand rubles.
Boiler "Termex"
Products are made using high quality materials and modern technologies. Any boiler "Termeks" is equipped with a protective shutdown device. It provides complete electrical safety during operation. Many, of course, are interested in how much such boilers cost. Product prices vary. Quite a good model, for example, can be purchased for 2400 rubles.
Application area
This electric water heater is designed to provide hot water to industrial and domestic facilities. In this case, the pressure in the water supply system must correspond to the following range: 0.5-0.6 MPa. The device must only be used in heated and closed rooms. This equipment is not designed for continuous flow operation.
Maintenance
Models equipped with mechanical control have function keys (I and II) on the control panel. They allow you to select the required power. Built-in indicator lights. Turning on the I button corresponds to the following power: 1.3 kW, while both of them in working condition give 2 kW. This or that intensity of operation is selected by the user. It depends on the season and specific hot water needs. In models equipped with an electric panel, control is carried out using a digital display. Thanks to him, the user can turn the device on and off. The button on the control panel, which is located on the left of the display, is responsible for this. There is a display of the set heating temperature. All related information is displayed in a few seconds. Thus, the user can be constantly aware of the current water temperature. The choice of power is carried out using the middle button, which is also located on the control panel. The initiation of the pilot lamp L2 accompanies the 2 kW mode, while L3 - 1.3 kW, respectively. During operation of the device, the heating temperature can be adjusted by the user.
Control Features
Models with a mechanical regulator are produced. It is located on the corresponding panel. The device will be disconnected from the mains if the knob is turned counterclockwise as far as it will go. At the same time, when the procedure is reversed, the temperature will gradually increase. It can reach 75 degrees. It is worth noting that in some devices of water heaters of this company it is impossible to adjust the temperature manually, since this possibility is not provided. In particular, this applies to the RZB10 model. Electronically controlled instruments are equipped with a display. The user can configure the device using three touch keys. All modes are easy to control thanks to the information that is displayed on the display. There is also an indication of the three corresponding lamps. The choice of heating temperature is carried out by pressing the right button. To switch to the desired mode, you need to do this several times. The temperature change step is 5 degrees. If the device is turned on for the first time or started working after a power failure, the default setting is 75 degrees.
