How to choose the right water heater

Choosing a water heater starts with your household's needs and existing connections. The number of users matters, but so do shower duration, simultaneous demand and whether the appliance supplies only domestic hot water or also space heating.

Electric or gas?

An electric appliance does not require a gas connection or flue, but the electrical installation must support its power rating. A gas appliance requires a suitable gas supply, combustion conditions and flue system, together with professional installation and maintenance. Neither option is automatically cheaper in every home.

Capacity and flow

For a storage heater, compare usable hot-water capacity, reheating time and available space. For an instantaneous heater, check the rated flow at the temperature rise you need. Two simultaneous showers may exceed the appliance's capacity. Do not choose tank size solely by the number of people in your household.

Storage or instantaneous?

• Storage heaters hold hot water in a tank. Once it is used, reheating takes time, and heat is also lost while the water is stored.
• Instantaneous heaters heat water as it is used. They have no large tank, but hot-water output per minute is limited by appliance power and incoming water temperature.

Efficiency and total cost

Compare energy labels for the same demand profile, manufacturer specifications, current tariffs, installation and servicing costs. Control features can help, but do not guarantee a specific saving. Ask for a quotation that includes necessary changes to connections and removal of the old appliance.

Before ordering

Show a professional the existing connections, any flue, available dimensions and points of use. Check service availability, warranty terms and the maintenance plan. Leave installation and safety checks to appropriately qualified professionals.