Guide to Choosing Electric Water Heaters

When it comes to ensuring a consistent supply of hot water in your home, electric water heaters have emerged as one of the most popular choices. Whether you are building a new home or upgrading an old water heating system, understanding what to look for in an electric water heater can make a significant difference in efficiency, cost, and performance.

In this comprehensive guide to choosing electric water heaters, we’ll walk you through the essential factors to consider before making your decision. This will help you make an informed purchase that aligns with your needs and budget.

Why Choose an Electric Water Heater?

Electric water heaters are known for their ease of installation, energy efficiency, and low maintenance. Unlike gas heaters, they don’t require venting or a gas line, making them ideal for urban homes or HDB flats in Singapore where space is limited.

Key Benefits:

• Clean energy: Electric heaters produce no emissions.
• Compact design: Many models are wall-mounted, freeing up floor space.
• Quiet operation: No noisy burners or combustion.
• Ease of use: Simple to install and operate.

Types of Electric Water Heaters

Before diving into technical details, it’s important to understand the two primary types of electric water heaters:

1. Storage (Tank) Water Heaters

These units heat and store water in an insulated tank. They are available in various sizes, typically ranging from 15 to 100 liters.

Pros:

• Suitable for families with higher water usage.
• Hot water is readily available.
• Multiple outlets can use hot water simultaneously.

Cons:

• Bulky design.
• Consumes electricity to keep water hot even when not in use (standby heat loss).

2. Instant (Tankless) Water Heaters

These heaters warm water on demand. Water passes through an electric coil, heating it instantly.

Pros:

• Energy-efficient as there’s no standby heat loss.
• Compact and ideal for small bathrooms.
• Endless hot water supply for single-point usage.

Cons:

• May struggle with simultaneous use in multiple outlets.
• May require a higher electrical load (amperage).

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Electric Water Heater

Now that you know the types, here’s what you should consider before making a purchase:

1. Household Size and Water Usage

The size of your household directly affects the water heater capacity you need.

• 1–2 people: A 15–25 liter storage heater or an instant heater may suffice.
• 3–4 people: Opt for a 30–50 liter storage heater.
• More than 4 people: Consider 50+ liter storage heaters or multiple instant heaters for different bathrooms.

2. Installation Space

Check your bathroom layout. Instant heaters are compact and wall-mounted, ideal for small bathrooms. Storage heaters, on the other hand, require enough space to accommodate the tank and its fittings.

3. Water Pressure Compatibility

In Singapore, many HDB flats use low water pressure systems, which may not be suitable for certain instant heaters. Always ensure the model supports the water pressure of your home. You may also need a pressure pump in some cases.

4. Energy Efficiency

Look for models with high energy efficiency ratings. Some modern electric heaters come with digital thermostats and smart timers to reduce energy waste. Efficient models can significantly reduce electricity bills in the long run.

5. Safety Features

Safety should be a top priority, especially in wet areas like bathrooms.

Key safety features include:

• ELCB (Earth Leakage Circuit Breaker): Prevents electric shock.
• Thermostat Cutoff: Stops heating once the set temperature is reached.
• Anti-scald Protection: Prevents sudden bursts of hot water.
• Durable Tank Lining: Prevents rust and corrosion.

6. Warranty and After-Sales Support

Choose a reliable brand that offers a solid warranty (5 years or more is ideal for storage tanks). Also, consider the availability of customer support and spare parts in Singapore.

7. Budget

Prices vary widely depending on the type, size, and features. Instant heaters are generally more affordable than storage heaters. However, always weigh the upfront cost against long-term savings from energy efficiency and durability.

Popular Electric Water Heater Brands in Singapore

Here are some trusted brands you can consider:

1. Ariston

Known for stylish designs and high efficiency. They offer both instant and storage options suitable for various needs.

2. Joven

A well-known Malaysian brand that specializes in budget-friendly and durable water heaters.

3. Rubine

Offers modern designs with strong emphasis on safety and energy efficiency.

4. 707

Popular among Singaporean households for their reliable instant heaters.

5. Champs

Affordable yet durable models, with a good range of safety features.

Instant vs. Storage Heater – Which is Right for You?

Let’s break it down in a quick comparison chart:

Feature	Instant Heater	Storage Heater
Size	Compact	Bulky
Heating Time	Instant	Takes a few minutes
Water Supply	Endless but limited to one outlet	Limited by tank size
Energy Use	Lower (on-demand)	Higher (standby losses)
Cost	Lower upfront cost	Higher initial cost
Installation	Easier, faster	Requires more space and effort

Choose Instant Heater if:

• You live alone or in a small household.
• You have space constraints.
• You want a quick, efficient heating solution.

Choose Storage Heater if:

• You have a large family or need to supply multiple outlets.
• You prefer consistent hot water without pressure drops.
• Your home has enough installation space.

Installation Tips

• Hire a Licensed Electrician/Plumber: Always ensure proper wiring and plumbing for safety.
• Ensure Proper Ventilation: Even though electric heaters don’t emit gases, moisture buildup should be managed.
• Use a Certified Product: Ensure the model has been certified for use in Singapore (e.g., PUB and Safety Mark certifications).