Are instantaneous electric water heaters any good?
Are instantaneous electric water heaters any good? Instantaneous electric water heaters give you endless hot water on demand and save space by eliminating large storage tanks. However, these electric water heaters draw a significant amount of electrical power to achieve satisfactory flow rates, typically requiring a 3-phase power supply; if they are not sized correctly, they may struggle to maintain a good water flow rate for multiple simultaneous demands.
The advantages (pros) of instant electric water heaters
• Energy saving / cost savings: With electric instant water heater systems, you can expect around 25% energy savings compared to an electric storage water heater system.
• Endless supply: During a shower, you will never run out of hot water.
• Energy savings: They don’t squander standby energy by continuously heating an entire water tank.
• Compact size: They fit into a little cabinet or mount directly on a wall.
• Less risk of leaks: No large water storage tank means no catastrophic tank floods.
The drawbacks (cons) of instant electric water heaters
- High electrical demand: Your property may require an expensive electrical panel or wiring upgrades because whole-house electric tankless water heaters require high power (often 18kW to 36kW).
- Restricted flow rate: Operating a shower and a washbasin simultaneously can reduce water flow rate, especially if the water heater is undersized.
- Not really instantaneous: You have to wait a few seconds for the cold water to flow out because it is still in the pipes between the heater and your hot water tap or shower.
- No power, no hot water: If the electricity goes out, the system stops working completely and gives you no hot water.
