The problem of lack or interruption of hot water supply in industrial and residential premises does not lose its relevance at any time of the year.
This issue can be solved by making living conditions in poorly equipped apartments or private houses much more comfortable by installing an electric water heater - a device that will allow you not to depend on a centralized supply.
To find a model that suits all parameters, you should familiarize yourself with the basic selection criteria and learn more about manufacturers, new products and popular devices.
Rating of the TOP 16 best electric instantaneous water heaters
Place | Model | Price |
Low output up to 3 liters per minute | ||
#1 | Electrolux NPX6 Aquatronic Digital 2.0 | |
#2 | Thermex Balance 6000 | |
#3 | Stiebel Eltron IS 60 E | |
Average productivity from 4 to 10 liters per minute | ||
#1 | Stiebel Eltron DDH 8 | |
#2 | Electrolux NPX 8 Flow Active 2.0 | |
#3 | CLAGE CEX 9 | |
#4 | Electrolux NPX 12-18 Sensomatic Pro | |
Large capacity from 10 liters per minute | ||
#1 | Thermex Topflow Pro 21000 | |
#2 | Stiebel Eltron PEY 18/21/24 | |
#3 | Electrolux NPX 18-24 Sensomatic Pro | |
Pressure models (for several water points) | ||
#1 | CLAGE CEX 11/13 | |
#2 | Stiebel Eltron HDB-E 12 Si | |
#3 | Electrolux NPX4 Aquatronic Digital 2.0 | |
With faucet and shower head | ||
#1 | Electrolux Smartfix 2.0 3.5 TS | |
#2 | Zanussi 3-logic 3.5 TS (shower+faucet) | |
#3 | Timberk WHEL-3 OSC |
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The best manufacturers
When choosing an instantaneous water heater, experts advise giving preference to equipment from trusted brands whose equipment is famous for its durability and reliability.
Among the best manufacturers are the following companies:
- Electrolux is a Swedish developer, one of the world's leading manufacturers of professional and household appliances.
- Thermex is a commercial and industrial company specializing in the development of high quality water heating structures.
- Stiebel is a German company that has been producing electric heating equipment for many years.
- CLAGE is a well-known German company that produces quality products at affordable prices.
- Zanussi is an Italian brand that specializes in the production of household appliances for a comfortable life.
What affects the price of equipment
Instantaneous water heaters seem to have a simple design, but there can be a big difference between their models, which is also reflected in the cost. For example, a Chinese heater without any electronic frills can cost only 2–3 thousand rubles. And technically more advanced devices from brands such as Stiebel Eltron, Electrolux or Vaillant can cost several tens of thousands of rubles. What differences can there be between cheap and expensive models?
- Technique
How to extend the operation of a heater in a boiler: 3 important tips
How to choose an instantaneous water heater for an apartment?
Having decided which devices from which companies are worth paying attention to, you can move on to analyzing the main technical characteristics of flow-through equipment.
Keep in mind! In order not to make a mistake, it is worth considering such parameters as:
- rated power consumption . A decisive criterion that influences the amount of water heated over a certain period of time. Models with a power of up to 6 kW are best installed in dachas, but for a house or apartment, the best option would be a device with a rating of 20 kW;
- performance. The choice depends on the specific purpose for which the structure is purchased. For example, a device with a rate of 4 l/min is suitable for taking a shower, but if the user wants to take a bath regularly, the required water flow rate is 8-10 l/min;
- heating element type. Tubular electric heater or heating coils. Heating elements take up more space, and scale forms faster on their surface, while the spiral elements remain clean due to high-frequency vibration;
- additional functions. In addition to the basic set of options, the device can be supplemented with a power-on and heating indication, a temperature limit program, and a programming function. A hard water protection system and remote control may be available;
- safety. The electrical appliance must be equipped with an overheating protection system. Working with such a device will not only be comfortable, but also absolutely safe;
- dimensions and weight of the structure. Despite the fact that water heaters are quite compact and easy to install, it is worth asking a consultant about these parameters. This will help you understand how best to install the structure.
Installation features
To know which model to give preference to, it is necessary to take into account the conditions for successful installation and subsequent operation. Ubiquitous hot water supply units require compliance with installation rules, because the safety of the owners using such devices is paramount. The installation of the equipment should be carried out by a specialist who will take a balanced approach to the capabilities of the electrical network of the apartment or house, assessing whether it can withstand the additional load. The wizard will help you choose a three-phase or single-phase method of connecting the device. It should be noted that the three-phase version is designed for a device with a power from 11 to 27 kW. Grounding for the water heater is mandatory. Copper wiring is recommended and the connection of aluminum and copper conductors is strictly prohibited. To do this, you need to select the right cable of the required cross-section: for power 6, a cable with a cross-section of 4 mm2, 11 kW - 10 mm2 is used. A three-phase unit cannot be connected without grounding. In addition to the cable, a prudent owner will pay close attention to the socket, because Chinese fittings are not designed for such a load and will begin to melt instantly.
Water heater installation diagram
When installing a household instantaneous heater, specialists will take care of a surge protection circuit breaker to avoid short circuits. A 32 A automatic fuse is required. This device guarantees the safety of household members. Installation takes place in the bathroom or kitchen, because the device does not take up much space. The yellow-green wire is intended for grounding, blue goes to zero, and white goes to phase. To choose the right model of water heater with a heat pump, you should focus not only on the cost, but also on the connection system. For electric water heaters, installation is most often used to the faucet in the bathroom through the hose from the shower. You can conveniently place the device in the kitchen by hiding it under the sink. If desired, non-pressure heaters can be connected independently, following the instructions exactly.
Preparation for installation
We fix the case to the wall
Connecting to the network
Connect to the water supply system
Popular models
Note! An informative review and rating of popular models will help you understand the advantages, disadvantages and features of modern electric instantaneous water heaters.
All proposed devices are reliable, easy to control and have a high level of security - an ideal solution for the home.
Low output up to 3 liters per minute
Models of water heaters with modest performance indicators are a good solution for kitchen needs.
With such a device it will be convenient to wash hands, but taking a shower will be extremely uncomfortable for the user.
Rating of the TOP 3 best models of small productivity according to customer reviews and ratings.
Electrolux NPX6 Aquatronic Digital 2.0
Electric water heater with high technical performance, characterized by a long service life.
A device that perfectly combines compactness, high performance and efficiency.
For convenient visual control and independent temperature adjustment, the device is equipped with an informative display and touch buttons.
Overheating protection is provided by a special thermostat.
Specifications:
- power consumption – 5.7 kW;
- productivity – 2.8 l/min;
- maximum heating temperature – +50 °C;
- weight – 1.67 kg;
- Dimensions – 19.1×14.1×9.5 cm.
Advantages
- convenient temperature setting;
- high degree of protection against water;
- heating and switching indication;
- heating temperature limitation;
- acceptable cost of the model.
Flaws
- plastic flow restrictor insert;
- inability to use several points simultaneously;
- cable is not long enough.
Thermex Balance 6000
A classic device that does not require special skills to operate effectively.
A unit with a built-in spiral heating element that can operate efficiently even with low water pressure.
The equipment has compact dimensions and an elegant appearance, which allows it to be installed in any convenient place.
The electrical appliance turns on and off automatically.
Specifications:
- power consumption – 6 kW;
- productivity – 2.5 l/min;
- maximum heating temperature – +50 °C;
- weight – 1.4 kg;
- Dimensions – 19×15.7×9.8 cm.
Advantages
- unobtrusive design;
- stainless steel heating element;
- elementary control system;
- several water points;
- system of protection against switching on without water.
Flaws
- inconvenient assembly of the structure;
- work with an increased level of sound;
- easily soiled white body.
Stiebel Eltron IS 60 E
A worthy model from the mid-price line, guaranteeing fast and uniform heating of water.
Highly efficient instantaneous water heater, presented by a proven German company.
The device has a long warranty period and can serve without the slightest failures or breakdowns for many years.
Installation will not require much effort on the part of the owner - you can install the structure yourself.
Specifications:
- power consumption – 6 kW;
- productivity – 2 l/min;
- maximum heating temperature – +50 °C;
- weight – 2 kg;
- dimensions – 21x35x9.6 cm.
Advantages
- long warranty and operational period;
- high level of security;
- the model provides a power-on indication;
- intuitive control system;
- The set includes a shower head.
Flaws
- only one water point;
- you will have to buy a separate cable;
- the price is a little high.
Average productivity from 4 to 10 liters per minute
Medium performance devices are good for installing in the kitchen or bathroom.
It is worth noting! The electrical appliance will produce a fairly powerful jet, however, the unit will not be suitable for those who like to take a bath, but it will be just right for a shower.
The best models with average productivity from 4 to 10 liters per minute in terms of price and quality.
Stiebel Eltron DDH 8
Powerful device with built-in overheating protection for absolute user safety.
A pressure-type model, which is a miniature structure for supplying hot water to several water distribution points.
The unit is easily mounted in a vertical position, so there should be no problems with its installation.
The manufacturer also took care of safety - the device provides automatic protection against overheating.
Specifications:
- power consumption – 8 kW;
- productivity – 4.3 l/min;
- maximum heating temperature – +60 °C;
- weight – 1.9 kg;
- Dimensions – 22×27.4×9.5 cm.
Advantages
- convenient wall mounting method;
- automatic overheat protection;
- sophisticated design;
- instant heating of running water;
- three power adjustment options.
Flaws
- poor equipment;
- the cost is slightly higher than similar models;
- bends for connecting to water supply made of plastic.
Electrolux NPX 8 Flow Active 2.0
An innovative development with which you don’t have to worry about the problem of heating water at all.
A device with a simplified electronic control system, equipped with a high-power spiral heating element made of stainless steel.
The design automatically maintains constant water heating.
Thanks to this, the user will be able to carry out water procedures at any time convenient for him.
Specifications:
- power consumption – 8.8 kW;
- productivity – 4.2 l/min;
- maximum heating temperature – +60 °C;
- weight – 2.5 kg;
- dimensions – 22.6x37x8.8 cm.
Advantages
- informative instruction manual;
- long warranty period;
- ease of management and maintenance;
- presentable appearance;
- high heating rate.
Flaws
- many plastic elements;
- easily contaminated housing;
- poorly thought out package.
CLAGE CEX 9
Compact design, the power of which will be quite enough to provide hot water in large volumes.
Decent equipment that stands out among the variety of models on the modern market with increased productivity and build quality.
A special feature of the model is the possibility of remote control - a small remote control is included with the device especially for this purpose.
Specifications:
- power consumption – 8.8 kW;
- productivity – 5 l/min;
- maximum heating temperature – +55 °C;
- weight – 2.7 kg;
- Dimensions – 18×29.4×11 cm.
Advantages
- well thought out equipment;
- stainless steel heating element;
- possibility of temperature blocking;
- possibility of remote control;
- stylish design.
Flaws
- complex equipment setup;
- questions for the instruction manual;
- duration of the warranty period.
Electrolux NPX 12-18 Sensomatic Pro
An easy-to-use electrical appliance equipped with everything necessary to instantly heat water.
An electric water heater with simple touch controls, which is suitable for installation in a private home, city apartment, office or cottage.
The device is capable of providing several water collection points, maintaining the heating temperature within 30-60 degrees.
Thanks to the presence of a protective thermostat, overheating of the device is impossible.
Specifications:
- power consumption – 18 kW;
- productivity – 8.6 l/min;
- maximum heating temperature – +60 °C;
- weight – 4.4 kg;
- dimensions – 22.6x47x9.5 cm.
Advantages
- intelligent control system;
- absolute safety of use;
- wide functionality;
- the presence of a children's regime;
- water filter element included.
Flaws
- dimensions and weight of the structure;
- Installation may require professional assistance;
- noisy operation of the device.
Large capacity from 10 liters per minute
You should know! Powerful water heating equipment is the best solution for a large family.
The device can easily handle heating a large amount of water, doing it in a matter of seconds.
The device will be a good assistant both in the kitchen and in the bathroom - quickly, comfortably and extremely simply.
Thermex Topflow Pro 21000
High-performance equipment that will be an excellent solution for your home.
Instantaneous electric water heater with high power and heating speed.
The unit has several water collection points, a simple electronic control system and can automatically maintain the set temperature.
Specifications:
- power consumption – 21 kW;
- productivity – 11.8 l/min;
- maximum heating temperature – +60 °C;
- weight – 4.5 kg;
- Dimensions – 25.5×47.2×11.5 cm.
Advantages
- versatility of use;
- pleasant appearance;
- heating temperature limitation;
- high degree of protection against water;
- high performance.
Flaws
- impressive dimensions and heavy weight;
- inconveniently located wire entrance;
- overcharge.
Stiebel Eltron PEY 18/21/24
A well-designed device that guarantees high comfort of use.
A premium new product with microprocessor control, a sophisticated security system and a high-power spiral heating element.
The device is equipped with two modes: “eco” and “contrast shower”, and also has an automatic shut-off function.
Specifications:
- power consumption – 24 kW;
- productivity – 12.3 l/min;
- maximum heating temperature – +60 °C;
- weight – 3.6 kg;
- Dimensions – 22.6×48.5×9.3 cm.
Advantages
- presence of a remote control included;
- automatic overheat protection system;
- long warranty period;
- pre-installed self-diagnosis system;
- simple design.
Flaws
- dimensions of the structure;
- work with increased sound power levels;
- equipment.
Electrolux NPX 18-24 Sensomatic Pro
A universal device with touch control that stands out for its high performance.
A water heater with an intelligent control system that automatically responds to all basic operating parameters and maintains the optimal water heating temperature.
The device is equipped with a spiral heating element, completely isolated from water.
Specifications:
- power consumption – 24 kW;
- productivity – 11.5 l/min;
- maximum heating temperature – +60 °C;
- weight – 4.4 kg;
- dimensions – 22.6x47x9.5 cm.
Advantages
- Possibility of use in children's mode;
- simple wall mounting method;
- water filter element included;
- ability to program individual temperature;
- reliable protection against overheating.
Flaws
- sensor is too sensitive;
- easily contaminated housing;
- meager equipment.
Pressure models (for several water points)
Reference! A pressure instantaneous water heater is a small volume storage tank operating under water supply pressure, equipped with an inlet and an outlet.
The unit is capable of supplying hot water to several taps simultaneously (washbasin, bathroom, kitchen). Additional nozzles are not provided in the design.
CLAGE CEX 11/13
An ultra-modern three-phase device for quickly heating water, perfect for a family of four.
Pressure model with a repairable spiral heating element, designed for wall mounting.
The unit belongs to energy efficiency class A, which means that the user will not have to overpay.
Specifications:
- power consumption – 13.5 kW;
- productivity – 7 l/min;
- maximum heating temperature – +60 °C;
- weight – 2.7 kg;
- Dimensions – 18×29.4×11 cm.
Advantages
- stainless steel heating element;
- possibility of remote control;
- unobtrusive design;
- self-diagnosis function;
- presence of a thermometer.
Flaws
- display without backlight;
- the need to carefully study the instructions;
- complex installation.
Stiebel Eltron HDB-E 12 Si
An improved model characterized by a high degree of resistance to various external factors.
A pressure-type electric water heater with the ability to simultaneously supply several points of consumption.
The unit is powered by a three-phase network, has a simple electronic control system and a connection located at the bottom.
Reliability, high quality, safety – everything for comfortable operation.
Specifications:
- power consumption – 11 kW;
- productivity – 5.4 l/min;
- maximum heating temperature – +55 °C;
- weight – 3.6 kg;
- dimensions – 22.5x47x11.7 cm.
Advantages
- convenient vertical installation;
- several water points;
- presentable design;
- reasonable cost of the device;
- Detailed instructions included.
Flaws
- the snow-white body quickly becomes dirty;
- Noisy operation of an electrical appliance.
Electrolux NPX4 Aquatronic Digital 2.0
A reliable device that effectively combines high performance, power and ergonomics.
A simplified model with reliable overheating protection, a heating temperature limitation function and a small display.
The model contains spiral elements made of stainless steel - they have a long service life.
Included with the device, the buyer will find a set of fastening elements.
Specifications:
- power consumption – 4 kW;
- productivity – 2 l/min;
- maximum heating temperature – +50 °C;
- weight – 1.69 kg;
- Dimensions – 19.1×14.1×8.5 cm.
Advantages
- reasonable price;
- stable and silent operation;
- compact and ultra-ergonomic;
- no need for special maintenance;
- easy installation of the structure.
Flaws
- quite long water heating;
- low bandwidth;
- complex setup of an electrical appliance.
With faucet and shower head
Models with a built-in shower and tap.
Electrolux Smartfix 2.0 3.5 TS
A well-thought-out model, which is one of the best-selling on the domestic market.
A nice device from the budget line for one water collection point, equipped with a mechanical control system.
If necessary, the device can be connected to a stationary device, which will be an excellent solution during a hot water outage.
Specifications:
- power consumption – 3.5 kW;
- productivity – 2 l/min;
- maximum heating temperature – +50 °C;
- weight – 1.5 kg;
- Dimensions – 27×13.5×10 cm.
Advantages
- optimal power and performance indicators;
- conciseness and elegance;
- economical energy consumption;
- automatic shutdown function;
- convenience and ease of use.
Flaws
- The kit does not include a cord with a plug;
- flimsy crane design;
- delicate plastic body.
Zanussi 3-logic 3.5 TS (shower+faucet)
Decent equipment at an affordable price, with high technical characteristics.
The unit has a highly reliable copper heating element, a water filter element, and a mechanical control system.
On the body of the electrical appliance there is an indication of switching on and heating, which simplifies the process of use.
In addition to the main device, the package includes a faucet and a shower head.
Specifications:
- power consumption – 3.5 kW;
- productivity – 3.7 l/min;
- maximum heating temperature – +40 °C;
- weight – 1.5 kg;
- Dimensions – 27×13.5×10 cm.
Advantages
- simple horizontal installation;
- compactness and light weight;
- presence of a heating temperature limitation function;
- connection to a standard outlet;
- extended equipment.
Flaws
- work with high noise levels;
- short wire for connecting the device;
- unfinished switch valve.
Timberk WHEL-3 OSC
A presentable device whose functionality will pleasantly surprise even experienced users.
A model designed specifically for comfortable use in the summer, which will be appreciated by people who prefer to spend time in the country.
The unit comes in an extended configuration, so there is no need to purchase additional structural elements.
Specifications:
- power consumption – 3.5 kW;
- productivity – 1.9 l/min;
- maximum heating temperature – +85 °C;
- weight – 1.35 kg;
- Dimensions – 27.2×15.9×11.2 cm.
Advantages
- mounting hardware and shower head included;
- presence of a filter in the sealing ring;
- convenient connection to a standard outlet;
- almost silent operation;
- fast heating of water.
Flaws
- there is no power-on indication;
- wire of insufficient length;
- there is no adjustment valve.
conclusions
When you decide to purchase an electric instantaneous water heater for home use, you should listen to the recommendations of experts and remember a few important points:
- the basic criteria for choosing equipment are the rated power consumption, performance and type of heating element - it can be tubular or spiral;
- increased attention should be paid to the protection system - ideally, the unit should be equipped with overheating protection, which will significantly increase the level of safety;
- also to take into account the maximum temperature of water heating and the presence of additional functions - they will increase the cost of the device, but it will be much more convenient to use;
- Additionally, it is worth asking your consultant for information about the dimensions and weight of the structure, as well as the possibility of remote control using a remote control or smartphone ;
- The optimal solution for your home would be a unit from a trusted manufacturer of household appliances, the power of which will be sufficient for both washing your hands and taking a shower.
Differences between free-flow and pressure devices
The difference between a non-pressure device is that the pressure inside it does not exceed atmospheric pressure, while a pressure water heater always experiences the pressure of the main water.
The non-pressure device protects the tap installed at the inlet from tap water pressure. Models of this type have low power (2-6 kW), do not provide sufficient water heating and are most often used in dachas or temporary residences.
Non-pressure models are designed to serve one point, therefore they are equipped with a watering can, tap or a tap + shower set. The load is small and replacement of the wiring with a more reliable one is not required
The pressure device does not have attachments and is a mini boiler with an inlet and an outlet. One device can be simultaneously connected to several analysis points at once.
Their power is enough to provide hot water to a kitchen sink, a shower, and a couple more taps. There are 2 categories of pressure devices - single-phase (3-12 kW) and three-phase (3-30 kW).
The location of the pressure water heater is under the sink, on the wall or in a cabinet. It is able to maintain a set water temperature and has an automatic on/off function
The disadvantages of a pressure device are a higher price and increased electricity consumption, however, during a period of hot water outage in a city apartment in which a large family lives, one cannot do without it.