Electric water heaters

What is an electric water heater?

An electric water heater is an appliance that produces domestic hot water using an electric element, with no need for a gas connection. It's the simplest and most common solution for those who don't have a boiler or want an independent draw-off point, for example in a second bathroom or in the kitchen. In our catalogue you'll find 214 models, all available, split into the two main families: storage and instantaneous.

Storage or instantaneous water heaters?

The difference concerns the way the hot water is produced. The storage water heater, or boiler, heats and stores the water in an insulated tank, so you find it ready when you open the tap: it's ideal for the shower and for those who use hot water regularly. The instantaneous water heater, on the other hand, heats the water only at the moment of draw-off, with no tank: it takes up little space and is perfect for the basin or for limited use. If you're after a more efficient solution for the whole home, also consider heat pump water heaters or the full range of water heaters.

What litre capacity is needed?

On storage models, the litre capacity is the most important figure and is chosen according to the number of people and the use:

• from 10 to 15 litres: small under-sink units for kitchen or basin, for a single draw-off point.
• from 30 to 50 litres: one or two people, ideal for a bathroom with moderate use.
• from 60 to 80 litres: a family with average consumption and daily showers.
• 100 litres and above: large households or high demand for hot water.

A capacity that is too large needlessly increases consumption, while one that is too small leaves you without hot water, so it's wise to size it carefully.

Energy class and consumption

Electric water heaters also have the energy label, which indicates efficiency based on the quality of the insulation and the management of the element. A model in a better class loses less heat and keeps the water hot longer, reducing waste. Many modern models offer an adjustable thermostat and eco functions that limit consumption without giving up comfort. For even greater savings on electricity consumption, heat pump water heaters remain the most efficient solution.

Installation

Electric water heaters are generally simple to install: all you need is the plumbing connection and a socket or an electrical connection to standard. Storage models are wall-mounted, vertically or horizontally depending on the version, while instantaneous units and small under-sink models take up very little space. For fitting and the electrical connection, it's always best to rely on a qualified technician, to ensure the safety and durability of the appliance.

When an electric water heater is worthwhile

An electric water heater is worthwhile when there is no gas connection, when you need a hot-water point independent of the boiler, or for a second bathroom or a seaside home used occasionally. The purchase cost is modest, with prices starting at around 60 euro, and installation is quick. If instead the demand for hot water is high and constant, it may be worth comparing it with a wall-hung boiler or with a heat pump to reduce consumption over time.

The best brands available

You'll find the leading manufacturers in the sector, with official warranty and spare parts available: Ariston, Ferroli, ISEA, Bandini, Atlantic and Bosch, with prices reaching up to 1430 euro for the higher-capacity solutions.

Frequently asked questions