Water heaters

How to choose the right water heater

A water heater produces the domestic hot water (DHW) for your kitchen and bathroom, and it is a choice that affects the energy use of the whole home. Three factors matter when deciding: the type of power source, the capacity in litres and the energy class. Our catalogue holds 474 models, almost all in stock, priced from around 60 to 8410 euros, for every installation need and budget.

The types of water heater

There are several technologies, each suited to a specific use:

• Gas water heater: produces instant or storage hot water by burning gas, ideal where a lot of DHW is needed with contained running costs.
• Electric water heater: simple to install and versatile, perfect for bathrooms and kitchens without a gas connection.
• Heat pump water heater: the most efficient solution, it draws energy from the air to heat the water with low electricity use. Explore the full range of heat pump water heaters.
• Storage water heater: keeps hot water in an insulated tank, so it is ready the moment you open the tap.

Capacity in litres: how much do you need?

Capacity in litres is chosen based on the number of people and the household's hot water use. Here is a general guide for storage models:

• From 10 to 15 litres: a single water point, such as a basin or a small kitchen.
• From 50 to 80 litres: one or two people with one bathroom.
• From 80 to 100 litres: families of three or four people.
• Over 100 litres: large households or homes with several bathrooms.

Energy class and running costs

The energy class shows how much energy is needed to heat the water: the higher the class, the lower the running costs. Heat pump water heaters reach the best classes and clearly cut spending compared with a traditional electric model, especially in families with high domestic hot water use. For a complete system you can also consider condensing boilers, which produce hot water and heating together.

The best brands available

You will find the sector's leading manufacturers, with official warranty and available spare parts: Ariston, Ferroli, Bosch, ISEA, Rinnai, Bandini, Vaillant, Baxi, Chaffoteaux and Atlantic. The choice is wide, so you can find the model that suits your home and your budget.

Tax incentives and reduced VAT

Buying and installing a water heater, especially the heat pump models, may qualify for tax incentives where applicable, such as reduced VAT for renovation work. The conditions depend on the type of work, so it is worth checking the current requirements before purchase.

Related categories

• Heat pump water heaters
• Condensing boilers
• Heating
• All offers

Frequently asked questions