How to choose a boiler

Since hot water is not always available in multi-storey buildings, as well as in private homes, many people have to use alternative means for heating. The water heater performs the task perfectly. At the moment, the equipment is not only modern in appearance, but also compact, easy to use and efficient. Despite this fact, anyone is at risk of buying a low-quality model that will last a short period or be ineffective. The article describes the basic rules on how to choose a boiler, as well as presents the possible types of equipment at the moment.

Heating element type

When deciding which boiler to choose for the house, you need to understand that the heating element is responsible for heating the water in it, which is divided into 2 types. The "wet" type is a copper piece that is immersed directly in water and functions like a conventional boiler. Such an element is installed on many devices, as well as on each flow type. A boiler with a similar heating element is characterized by a low cost, but as a result of constant contact with water, scale quickly appears on the surface, therefore, over the years, the capabilities of the boiler deteriorate and the user will need to increase the temperature, which affects the durability of the equipment.

It is worth noting that the higher the temperature is set for heating the liquid, the sooner scale will appear. Also, this version of the heating element is affected by electrochemical corrosion. It is recommended to make a choice towards such a system for people who have a water filter in their house or apartment. Otherwise, you will have to do the cleansing every quarter.

"Dry" heating elements are much better and more durable, since they include a protection in the form of a flask, which does not give direct contact with water, therefore scale does not appear. The heat output will be several times stronger, the operating period will increase, but the cost of the device will be approximately twice as much. Accumulative boilers can include 1-2 heating elements, and the second one will be used for large volumes.

The best water heater manufacturers

Before analyzing how to choose a boiler for heating water, it is necessary to study the best manufacturers of equipment. Quality, reliability and durability depend on the brand, so you should buy the product from trusted companies. The leaders in the water heater market are:

• ARISTON is an Italian company that produces equipment with a high degree of reliability and minimal electricity consumption. Many modern boilers are equipped with a fast heating function. The equipment itself from the brand is simple in terms of installation work, serves for many years and is characterized by an excellent ratio of cost and functionality.
• Gorenje is a Slovenian company that is in demand all over the world. Water heaters have many positive reviews, are simple to operate, unpretentious, affordable and wide range. The manufacturer constantly uses innovative developments and works to improve the level of safety.There is a choice of equipment with horizontal or vertical installation.
• Thermex is a large manufacturer from Italy, whose products are in demand all over the world. Water heaters differ in different capacities and a large selection of volumes coated with stainless steel with bio-glass porcelain. A high-quality security system of several stages is being implemented, and modern slim models can be found on sale.
• Bosch is a well-known German company that can offer customers a wide range of high quality boilers. Of course, the cost of equipment is higher than average, but this is justified, because the equipment has been working smoothly for years.
• Electrolux is a Swedish company that is constantly introducing new developments, improving its achievements and the level of safety in devices. All boilers look beautiful, there are many models to choose from, many of which are equipped with a "dry" heating element.
• AEG is a German company that can offer users flow and storage models from the premium category. Flowing options of different power within 3.5-27 kW, and storage options can be with a tank of 5-400 liters.
• ZANUSSI is a quality Italian manufacturer offering reliable and durable water heaters with different installation methods. All equipment is equipped with a magnesium anode, there are different degrees of protection and safety, and a minimum of current is required during operation, but the cost of the equipment is quite high.
• Stiebel Eltron is a German brand that makes expensive, but practical and functional instantaneous and storage models of boilers.
• ELDOM is a Bulgarian representative, characterized by the optimal quality of equipment with a different installation method. The range of products is very large, and the cost is affordable for any person. Often models with enamelled tank cover.

Types of boilers

At the moment, manufacturers can offer the consumer an indirect boiler and an electric option. The former work with a gas or other boiler that heats the house. The use of such models will be convenient in winter, since it is possible to reduce the costs of heating and obtaining hot water, in addition, the units are capable of simultaneously supplying heated liquid to several points. However, electrical devices that are installed in any room are considered much more popular. They work silently, are completely safe and durable, so they will be discussed.

Instantaneous water heaters

Such models are characterized by minimal dimensions and their main advantage is that you can get instant water heating. The principle of operation is quite simple, during the contact of water with the heating element, heating begins and the flow of hot liquid to the user. In this case, there is no mixing of cold and hot contents. Warming up is instant, which is caused by the high power of the equipment. Often, models of this type are installed in apartments, offices and other buildings where there are interruptions with centralized supply. The technique easily copes with the work from one point, but if you connect 2 or more sources, the device may not cope with the main task.

Everyone who does not understand how to choose a boiler for a flow-through apartment should focus on the power, which is in the range of 3-27 kW. For an apartment with 220V sockets, it is recommended to use devices up to 8 kW, but not more. The optimal indicator is 3-8 kW, which is enough to warm up 2-6 liters per minute. This is quite enough for a small family, 1-2 people. In a private house where a three-phase voltage of 380 V is used, you can buy installations with high power in order to eliminate problems with a lack of hot water.

Flow models are divided into 2 groups, including pressure and non-pressure devices. In the first case, the water heater is installed directly into the riser, which makes it possible to connect several points at once.The second type works with only 1 connection point, so the placement should be close to it, which is not always convenient for apartments, but for a summer cottage it is an excellent choice. Some manufacturers offer not a flow-through boiler, but a ready-made tap, which is a simplified option.

pros:

• Small size.
• Instant heating of water.
• Electricity consumption and heating is carried out when necessary, and not constantly. To do this, you just need to turn on the tap.
• There is always hot water and it will not end abruptly, and storage systems require a long warm-up if the entire tank is used.

Minuses:

• Powerful wiring is required in an apartment or house, otherwise problems may occur.
• Low savings due to the high power of the equipment.
• Overheating of running water is possible, since heating is very fast, and there is no mixing with cold liquid.

Storage water heaters

Such water heaters are always larger in size than instantaneous ones, since they include a tank for storing and heating water. Often these models are installed in residential buildings. When the tap is turned on with warm water, it is mixed with cold water through the mixer. After a certain period, water from the main tank begins to be consumed, it can cool down.

In this case, the device automatically turns on the heating elements, adds water to the top. The choice of volume is very different, often for apartments and private homes, models from 10 to 100 liters are used, but there are options up to 400 liters. Installation is carried out on the wall, it can be floor installation, but it all depends on the size and method of attachment.

Pros:

• Profitability. On average, a water heater for an ordinary family will have a capacity of 1.5-3 kW, and this value is only in the process of warming up the water in the tank, after reaching the set temperature, the device turns off, reactivates when the set value drops. The connection is carried out to a regular outlet with a power supply of 220 V.
• One water heater, even with a minimum volume, will be enough to supply hot water to the entire apartment.
• Durability.
• A large assortment.
• The presence of many additional features and functions.
• There are devices with a vertical or horizontal installation to choose from.
• Some manufacturers may offer a built-in type water heater to disguise it in furniture or a wall niche.

Minuses:

• As a result of heating the entire volume of the tank, at the first connection or full use of the liquid, you have to wait a long time until the water heats up. The larger the container, the longer the heating, on average 30 liters will be ready for use in 1-1.5 hours
• For a storage boiler, you need to find the right place in the house or apartment for installation. Installation is often done in a toilet or bathroom, so careful measurements must be taken before buying.

In addition to the boilers described, there are combined products on the market that combine the main advantages of both presented options. They are characterized by compact dimensions, the total weight is about 5-6 kg, and the liquid tank is 10-30 liters. The operation of such equipment is carried out in one of 2 modes: flow-through or storage. The main disadvantage is the small selection and difficult search.

How to choose an electric boiler - basic parameters

When choosing a water heater, any person should decide and familiarize themselves with several parameters. This will simplify the purchase and find a boiler that will fully fulfill its task.

Volume

If you choose storage models, then the volume depends on the number of people who will use the equipment, or rather hot water. To wash 1 person, on average, 30-50 liters is needed, but you need to take into account that this is a total value, in other words, mixing hot and cold. A shower consumes less volume than a bathroom set.

To simplify selection and orientation in numbers, the following characteristics are recommended:

• Water heaters 50-80 liters are suitable for families of 3 people, when everyone needs to take a shower and wash dishes. In addition, there will be enough volume for a bathroom set, but you will have to set a higher temperature for heating.
• Models designed for 80-100 liters will be optimal for a family with 4 people. The technique does not differ significantly in cost from the first, but the warm-up period will be longer.
• Devices for 100-150 liters are recommended for 6 users. The volume is enough to connect several sinks and toilets at once.
• Options with a tank of more than 150 liters are often mounted in a private house, cottage and their installation is floor-standing. Immediately you need to be prepared for a large current consumption to heat the liquid.

When choosing, it is important not to be mistaken with the volume of the tank, otherwise inconveniences appear during use, and if the capacity is larger than the prescribed one, then additional costs for electricity will appear and you need to expect more hot water.

Boiler lining

The inside of the tank is constantly under the direct influence of the liquid, which is not always of the best quality. In this case, it is necessary to provide reliable surface protection, which prevents the formation of corrosion. Manufacturers use different materials for processing the tank inside, among the main options should be highlighted:

• stainless steel;
• enamel;
• glass ceramics;
• titanium sputtering;
• plastic.

Some of the cheapest options are models with a plastic coating inside, but their reliability is not the highest. The highest quality types are made of stainless steel, so companies give a 10-year warranty period, and some companies can do additional passivation, which increases the warranty by 2 years. It is these tanks that are preferable to choose for a long time, they are very reliable, but the cost is high.

Among the most expensive water heaters will be titanium coated tanks. Enamel is an average option in terms of price and durability, which is one step below stainless steel. During manufacturing, manufacturers add substances to the composition that exclude the formation of cracks on the surface. Such a surface is constantly being improved and supplemented, so there are options for sale with a spray of silver ions. This gives excellent corrosion resistance and antibacterial properties.

Some experts believe that models made of plastic, enamel or ceramic can be deformed and damaged due to temperature changes, as well as in contact with solid particles that are in the plumbing system.

Even the strongest and most durable material inside has weak points that do not differ from the coating - welded seams. They are the first to corrode and rust. To eliminate this problem, anode protection is used for the water tank and the "wet" heating element. It is divided into several types:

• Magnesium.
• Titanium.
• Aluminum.

Such elements act as consumables, and it is recommended to replace them after a few years, together with cleaning the internal volume and heating elements. It is worth remembering that quality products made in accordance with all norms and requirements will always be expensive. If there is no guarantee during the purchase or its period is very short, then it is better to refuse the purchase.

Boiler shape

When choosing a boiler, you need to decide not only on materials, volumes and power, but also pay attention to external parameters. There are few tank shapes; manufacturers often offer cylindrical and rectangular models. The first options are often cheaper due to the simpler production process, but they take up more usable space. This option is considered the most popular. Rectangular devices make it possible to save a little space, because they are easily mounted in corners, niches, on the edge of walls, or completely hide in a closet. In addition, they have a large layer of thermal insulation.

There are also slim models on sale, they differ in diameter smaller than in classic devices. Before buying, it is worth deciding and allocating a place for installing a water heater, and from this comes the choice of forms.

Installation features

Based on the characteristics of the installation, water heaters are vertical and horizontal, and there are also universal models. All of them differ in design features and location of the heating element, which is installed at the bottom or on the side. It is not recommended to place vertical devices horizontally as this will affect performance. A similar rule applies to horizontal devices.

If there is very little space for installation, it is preferable to buy a boiler with a horizontal installation, since it can be placed directly under the ceiling. This will save space and will not stand out much, but the cost of the equipment is slightly higher and it is more difficult to carry out installation, maintenance. Universal products are recommended for installation by any method, without affecting performance and basic functions.

Control

To monitor the temperature and make certain settings for the entire water heating system, it is necessary to choose the right control system. Boiler manufacturers can offer 2 options:

• Mechanical control - distinguished by its simplicity and low cost, is considered a practical method for working. The water temperature is set using a pivoting lever located on the body. For control, a small window with an arrow and a number of degrees is installed. The control is very simple, therefore it is considered the most reliable. The main disadvantage is that it is impossible to make precise settings, as well as determine the temperature of the water at the moment.
• Electronic control is a functional system that includes a screen, as well as a button block, which can be mechanical or touch. A person is able not only to set and monitor the temperature with maximum accuracy, but also to use certain heating modes, diagnose malfunctions and use the mode to save money, and other functions. Among the disadvantages are the overpriced and sensitivity to fluctuations in the power grid.

Additional selection options

During the selection and purchase, you should pay attention to the configuration of the water heater, as well as the availability of additional functionality:

• The thermal insulation layer is an important element for storage systems. High-quality models that help keep warm inside the tank for a long time will be from 35 mm. The implementation of this type makes it possible to save money due to the rare activation of the boiler for heating. It is best to give preference to foamed polyurethane, since it is several times better than foam rubber.
• Overheating protection is a special option to improve safety.
• Frost protection - the function is especially important if the device will be used in places where it is not possible to constantly monitor it, for example, in the country. In this case, the equipment will automatically turn on and warm up so that the water does not freeze in the tank.
• Timer - the device helps to heat water at a specified time, for example, at night, when the electricity bill is less. Such boilers turn out to be a little more expensive than standard ones, it is advisable to buy them for people who have a meter for 2 tariffs.
• Protection against moisture - available in any water heater, but differs in the degree of protection. If the device is planned to be installed in a bathroom or other damp rooms, then you need to choose the IP44 technique, for other situations the minimum degree of protection IP23 will be sufficient.
• Often, manufacturers who value the client and their own name sell water heaters immediately with a power cable and a blast valve, which serves as an element to eliminate excess pressure. The installation of this part is carried out at the inlet of the water supply pipes to the water heater.The presence of fasteners in the kit will be useful, which will simplify the installation work.
• Attention should be paid to bushings for isolating stray currents.

Often, after purchasing the device, you will also have to buy pipes, taps, fittings for connecting elements, as well as fasteners. If your tap water is rich in salts, it is recommended to install a purification filter first.

It is better to entrust the installation of a water heater to a master who can fulfill all the necessary requirements, according to the instructions. This makes it possible to exclude problems in the future if a warranty case occurs. In addition, you should make the correct grounding, check the pressure in the water supply system and the boiler itself, if there is a difference, then install a reducer.

An improperly similar technique for heating water can cause many problems, as well as global leakage, which causes the risk of flooding of neighbors, water getting into sockets and other consequences. You should immediately buy a quality product that will have optimal reliability, long service life.