Sealed-chamber outdoor water heaters

What is an outdoor sealed-chamber water heater?

The outdoor sealed-chamber water heater is a gas appliance designed to be mounted outside the home, on balconies, terraces or exterior walls. The sealed chamber fully isolates combustion from the room: the air is drawn from outside and the flue gases are expelled through a dedicated duct, without drawing oxygen from an indoor room. It is the ideal solution when you do not have a flue or you want to free up space at home.

Why install it outdoors?

Moving the water heater outside the home frees up space in the indoor rooms and removes the need for air vents and a flue in the room. It is the most practical choice in flats, detached houses and second homes where building an indoor duct is not possible or not worthwhile. The work of a qualified installer remains essential for a proper gas and plumbing connection.

Weather resistance

Outdoor models have a protective casing designed to withstand rain, wind, sun and temperature swings. Many include an anti-freeze function that protects the appliance when temperatures drop below zero, preventing damage to the water circuit on winter nights. For the coldest areas it is still worth checking the temperature limits stated by the manufacturer.

Safety of the sealed chamber

By isolating combustion from the room, the sealed chamber removes the risk of flue gases returning into the living spaces and is considered the safest technology for gas water heaters. Electronic ignition and flame-control systems round out reliable operation, even with the appliance exposed to the elements.

The best brands available

You will find the leading manufacturers with official warranty and available spare parts: Rinnai, Chaffoteaux, Baxi, Vaillant, Beretta, Ariston and Ferroli. Rinnai and Chaffoteaux are among the most requested brands for outdoor installations thanks to their wide range of flow rates.

How many litres to choose

The flow rate in litres per minute should be chosen based on the water points served. For one bathroom a modest flow rate is enough, while to supply several taps at once it is best to pick a model with more litres per minute. Correct sizing guarantees stable hot water even when opening the shower and kitchen together.

Alternatives and related solutions

If you are after lower consumption, consider a heat pump water heater or an electric water heater. To combine hot water and heating in a single appliance, look at the wall-hung boilers, while for the best prices check all the offers or the entire range of water heaters.

Frequently asked questions