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15 Best Water Heaters in Malaysia 2024 - Goodbye, Cold Showers!

Your ultimate warm and soothing pampering experience

Having a nice, warm and heating shower after a long day of work not only helps to de-stress your body but also offers numerous benefits. In that case, you should highly consider a water heater as they offer instant access to hot-warm water, which has muscle-soothing benefits include improving blood circulation and even minimises headaches.

No doubt, installing an electric water heater for your shower is definitely a good (and important) investment, which typically comes in a tank or tankless variety to lessen any electricity impacts on the earth.

For more info on choosing the right water heater, please read the guide after our list. Otherwise, for a quick read, here are our reviews on the best water heaters that we highly recommend.

15 Best Water Heaters in Malaysia 2024 - Brand Reviews

Best energy-saving water heater
Rubine SSE891D Instant Water Heater
From
RM618.00
Check Rubine SSE891D Instant Water Heater price below:
add_circle Eco-friendly pump
add_circle Options to choose from
add_circle Low-noise operation

Overview

The Rubine SS891D Instant Water Heater uses a low-noise operation when using the inverter pump, which will ensure you can shower silently with your thoughts and not disturb others as you decide to take a late shower. You will also have a choice to choose between a rain shower and a hand shower to better suit your preference as you shower. 

Lastly, you can use the pump without having to worry about the power bill because it uses an eco-friendly pump that saves up to 60% of power while you use it. 

Rubine SSE891D Instant Water Heater Specifications

  • Flow Rate: 2.0L/Min
  • Power Rating: 3.8kW
  • Inverter Pump: Yes 
  • Dimensions: -
  • Weight: -
  • Booster Pump: No

Who Is This For? 

With the Rubine SS891D Instant Water Heater saving up to 60% of power, you can save some money while using this water heater. At the same time, you can have a nice, peaceful shower with your thoughts thanks to its low-noise operation.

Best small water heater
ELBA Heater EWH-K3420 (Non-pump)
From
RM199.00
Check ELBA Heater EWH-K3420 (Non-pump) price below:
add_circle UL-approved High-Quality heating element
add_circle IP25 standard splash-proof cover
add_circle Lightweight

Overview

If you want to upgrade your home's water heating setup without sacrificing space, the ELBA Heater EWH-K3420 (Non-pump) is a compact powerhouse with a power rating 3.8kW. Designed with a UL-approved heating element from the UK, this sleek water heater delivers a consistent, splash-proof performance.

its electronic temperature control feature ensures you get the warmth you need, while the included 3-spray pattern hand shower adds a touch of convenience to your daily routine.

Details

  • Flow Rate: 2.0L/Min
  • Power Rating: 3.8kW
  • Frequency: 50Hz/60Hz
  • Inverter Pump: -
  • Dimensions: 250mm x 263mm x 87mm (Width x Height x Depth)
  • Weight: 1.2kg
  • Booster Pump: -
  • 3-spray hand pattern hand shower

Who is this for?

The ELBA Heater EWH-K3420 (Non-pump) is perfect for those who want a reliable and space-saving solution for hot water needs. And of course, this product is ideal for those with a tiny bathroom where a small and lightweight water heater is needed. 

Another best energy-saving water heater
DEKA Aquas 88TRS
From
RM698.00
Check DEKA Aquas 88TRS price below:
add_circle Built-in DC inverter silent pump
add_circle IP25 Splash proof
add_circle Premium shower accessories set

Overview

Are chilly mornings making your shower experience less than ideal? The DEKA Aquas 88TRS is designed to be energy-efficient showers with up to 60% of energy savings! Besides, it is made with a sleek and modern design to add elegance to your private space. 

For safety features, the 88TRS comes armed with double safety thermostats, a double pole ELCB cut-off, and a coveted IP25 Splash-proof rating.

Besides that, the pump has a feature for low-pressure start-up and is a certified worldwide heater. Also, it comes with a premium shower accessories set that will enhance your shower experience!

Details

  • Flow Rate: 2.0L/Min
  • Power Rating: 4.5kW
  • Voltage and frequency: 240V, 50Hz
  • Inverter Pump: -
  • Water Connection: 15mm diameter
  • Dimensions: 425mm x 216mm x 87mm (Height x Width x Depth)
  • Weight: 4.14kg
  • Booster Pump: -

Who is this for?

For those seeking a spa-like home experience with great safety, the DEKA Aquas 88TRS is a water heater to consider. It's the ideal fit for anyone wanting a soothing shower that doesn't just save energy but makes you enjoy your relaxing daily shower!

Another best water heater with safety features
Toshiba TWH-38EXPMY(T) Instant Water Heater DC PUMP
From
RM484.00
Check Toshiba TWH-38EXPMY(T) Instant Water Heater DC PUMP price below:
add_circle Splash-proof protection
add_circle Safeguard system (Real-time Monitoring the Earth Connection)
add_circle It has a strong leakage protection
add_circle 99.9% free from bacteria spiral flow heating system

Overview

Toshiba’s TWH-38EXPMY(T) Instant Water Heater DC PUMP prioritises safety for users greatly. For starters, it has a built-in ELCB, real-time earth connection monitoring, and a splash-proof shield.

With a powerful 3.8kW, it effortlessly delivers a flow rate of 1.5L/min, ensuring a constant, comforting stream. Plus, it has robust leakage protection with ECB, which means it continuously detects any electric leakage. With that, it directly cuts off the current flow, making all indicators off for warning to protect the consumers. 

Besides that, Toshibas has designed the water heater with three modes: Cool, morning, and evening, which can be set according to your liking!

Details

  • Flow Rate: 1.5L/Min
  • Power Rating: 3.8kW
  • Inverter Pump: -
  • Built-in ELCB: Yes                                                  
  • Dimensions: 210mm x 84.5mm  x 210mm (Width x Depth x Height)
  • Weight: -
  • Pump: Yes
  • Three water modes: Cool, morning, evening
  • Constant Temperature System

Who is this for?

Are you seeking a water heater with an assurance of safety while you shower? This water heater by Toshiba is an ideal option as it gives an efficient water heating system with additional safety features such as a safeguard system. The water heater will activate once the wire is well connected. If the connection is disconnected, the power will be cut off automatically.

Another Best low-noise water heater
Cornell CIS-E7999DC Water Heater (With DC Pump)
From
RM299.00
Check Cornell CIS-E7999DC Water Heater (With DC Pump) price below:
add_circle Double thermal safety protection
add_circle Splash proof casing
add_circle Anti-leak plastic tank
add_circle 3 in 1 compact stop, flow, and filter valve design

Overview

Sometimes, you need a water heater that delivers whisper-quite operations in the hustle of mornings or late-night showers. And guess what? The Cornell CIS-E7999DC Water Heater (With DC Pump) is a winner in the category of low-noise water heaters.

The water heater’s DC booster pump improves efficiency while operating without too loud of a noice, ensuring a peaceful and consistent flow for your shower moments. With a power rating of 3.6kW, it seamlessly balances high and low water pressures, ensuring a steady stream for your refreshing moments. This energy-saving product also has a highly reliable heating element and an anti-leak plastic tank.

Details

  • Voltage: 240V
  • Power Rating: 3.6kW
  • Inverter Pump: -
  • Working pressure: 0.1-6 bar
  • Built-in ELCB: Yes                                                  
  • Dimensions: 340mm x 220mm x 101mm (Length x Width x Height)
  • Weight: 2.5kg
  • Booster Pump: Yes
  • Suitable for high and low water pressure
  • Stylish 5 spray pattern hand shower

Who is this for?

Are you tired of noisy water heaters disrupting your peaceful mornings or quiet evenings?  Look no further than this water heater by Cornell! Plus, its electronic variable power temperature control ensures you get the perfect warmth every time.

Best electric water heater with pump
Deka Pro 600 RSP Water Heater
From
RM799.00
Check Deka Pro 600 RSP Water Heater price below:
add_circle Rain shower that provides comfort
add_circle Decent pump

Overview

You can feel the comforting sensation entering your soul when you shower with this water heater as the Deka Pro 600 RSP Water Heater uses a premium multi massage shower with a rain shower, massaging your entire body. Besides that, it uses a DC inverter pump that will allow you to enjoy your shower.

Details

  • Flow Rate: 2.0L/Min
  • Power Rating: 4.2kW
  • Inverter Pump: Yes
  • Dimensions: 395 x 230 x 85mm
  • Weight: -
  • Booster Pump:  No

Who is this for?

For those who enjoy staying in the rain without having the side effects of being in the rain for far too long, the Deka Pro RSP is suitable for you. With a pump included in the water heater, you can look forward to your showers being as comfortable as possible. 

Best digital water heater
Panasonic
Panasonic Digital ModelSiri U DH-3UDP1MZ
From
RM653.00
Check Panasonic Digital Model/Siri U DH-3UDP1MZ price below:
add_circle Built with 9 safety features
add_circle Protects against bacteria with Ag+ Crystal Material
add_circle Water-splash proof
add_circle Sleek and modern design
add_circle Pre-set personalised profiles with U-Memory

Overview

Want a water heater with the perfect temperature everytime without going through unexpected cold shocks or scalding surprises? The Panasonic Digital Water Heater with Pump, Model DH-3UDP1MZ offers a customised shower experience with U-memory, U-mode, and a 3-way shower.

Weighing just 2.8 kg, it prioritises safety with 9 protective features, ensuring a worry-free shower every time. Other than that, it can protect against hazards and bacteria with its Ag+ antibacterial material.

Details

  • Max water pressure: <387 kgf/cm²
  • Power Rating: 3.6kW
  • Power supply: 240V, 50 Hz
  • Inverter Pump: -
  • Dimensions: 385mm x 210mm x 78mm (Height x Width x Depth)
  • Weight: 2.8kg
  • 3-way Shower Head: Normal, Wide, Spot

Who is this for?

If you’re constantly trying to find the right temperature due to Malaysian’s monsoon season, or your mood, opt for this water heater as it is designed with customisable profiles and gradual temperature changes. Moreover, the low-noise DC pump ensures peaceful late-night showers without disturbing the household.

Best affordable water heater
PANASONIC DH-3RL1 WATER HEATER (Non pump)
From
RM279.00
Check PANASONIC DH-3RL1 WATER HEATER (Non pump) price below:
add_circle Built In Earth Leakage Breaker ELB
add_circle Non-flammable Material Compliance
add_circle Ag+ Crystal - antibacterial shower head
add_circle Auto Thermal Cut-Off

Overview

Are you looking to upgrade your shower experience without breaking the bank? The Panasonic DH-3RL1 Water Heater is a reliable and budget-friendly addition to your home. Designed with a power supply of 240 V and a power consumption of 3.6 kW, this non-pump water heater ensures a cosy and warm shower every time.

Besides, it has a user-friendly on/off power knob, and you will get to experience a consistent water temperature controlled by its water control valve. It is also compact, weighing 1.6kg, and that its sleek grey design fits with any bathroom. Basically, it’s a no-frills water heater for any home.

Details

  • Water pressure: Max 380kPa, min 9.8kPa
  • Power Rating: 3.6kW
  • Dimensions: 380mm x 190mm x 93mm (Height x Width x Dimension)
  • Weight: 1.6kg
  • Booster Pump: -
  • Type of shower way: 1-way

Who is this for?

This water heater is ideal for individuals or families seeking a low-cost, efficient water heating solution with safety features. The Panasonic DH-3RL1 Water Heater ensures a comfortable shower experience with its easy-to-use controls and compact design. Bid farewell to chilly mornings and enjoy a warm, soothing shower with this budget-friendly water heater.

Best smart water heater
ALPHA SMART 18 (With Pump)
From
RM550.00
Check ALPHA SMART 18 (With Pump) price below:
add_circle Customisable pump control
add_circle It has a compact design
add_circle The casing can safeguard against water seeping

Overview

Offering both comfort and convenience, the  ALPHA SMART 18 is an intelligent water heater that boasts a 55W DC pump, ensuring your showers are not only cosy but also eco-friendly. Thanks to the feature of the 55W DC Pump, it’ll enhance your showers with more power while maximising energy and water savings.

It is also equipped with features like a Line Fault Indicator, detecting false electrical connections with a simple red/green light. With the Pump Activator, you can amplify water pressure even at low flows, and the Pump Control allows you to fine-tune the pressure to your exact liking.

Details

  • Pump Rating: 55W
  • Power Rating: 3.6kW
  • Pump type: DC pump
  • Noise level: <40dB
  • Dimensions: 230mm x 413.5mm x 91.3mm (Width x Length x Height)
  • Weight: 2.0kg
  • Booster Pump: -

Who is this for?

This smart water heater is perfect for those seeking more than just warm water. If you need showers that allows you to tweak the power and pressure control, the ALPHA SMART 18 is a good choice. The fact that it doesn’t have such a loud operation makes it comfortable for your ears and inner peace too.

Best water heater with tank
Alpha
Alpha Water Heater LH-5000EP
From
RM368.00
Check Alpha Water Heater LH-5000EP price below:
add_circle Affordable
add_circle IP25-rated splash-proof casing
add_circle Anti-leak water tank design
add_circle Uses AC pump
remove_circle Uses AC pump

Overview

Here’s another recommended water heater from Alpha that doesn’t come with a hefty price tag. Sure, the heater uses an AC pump but it sure packs a slew of features, making this option quite a value-for-money deal.

The features include a built-in thermal cut off, which automatically turns off the water heater in the event of an unusual spike in temperature. For further peace of mind, the water heater comes equipped with Double Relay ELCB to prevent unwanted power surges.

The heater is also encased with an IP25-compliant splash-proof casing so that every water splash does not seep into the internal mechanism. If that’s not enough, the water tank has an anti-leak design.

Details

  • Flow Rate: Minimum 3.0L/min
  • Power Rating: 3.60kW
  • Inverter Pump: No
  • Dimensions (W x H x D): 250 x 365 x 112mm
  • Weight: 3.68kg
  • Booster Pump: No
  • Anti-leak water tank
  • IP25-rated - dust and splash-proof
  • Double Relay ELSD - guards against electrical surge
  • Nylon fibre internal - provides electric-shock insulation
  • Automatic and Overload Temperature Control System - prevents scalding

Who is this for?

This water heater by Alpha is ideal for individuals seeking a reliable water heating solution without the need for an inverter pump or booster. Further, it is fuss-free and splash-proof, ensuring a consistent and comfortable shower experience.

Another best electric water heater with tank
Toshiba
From
RM348.99
Check Toshiba DC PUMP Inverter Silent Instant Shower Water Heater DSK38S3MW price below:
add_circle Budget-friendly price
add_circle Uses a durable DC pump
add_circle Low-noise operation
add_circle 5-year warranty
remove_circle Non-adjustable shower holder

Overview

Another great tank water heater is the Toshiba DSK38S3MW. It has plenty of features at its price point.

Interestingly enough, the maker behind this water heater uses a DC pump commonly reserved for pricier models. Not only does the use of a DC pump mean long-lasting durability but the heater is also up to 60% more energy efficient compared to AC pump varieties.

Other highlights include Whirl Water Flow technology which keeps the temperature in check while preventing scalding. Not forgetting, the water heater has a surge protector as well as an anti-leak tank design and a double relay system to prevent electricity leakage.

Details

  • Flow Rate: Minimum 1.5L/manpower
  • Power Rating: 3.80kW
  • Inverter Pump: Yes
  • Dimensions (W x H x D): 200 x 400 x 97mm
  • Weight: 2.3kg
  • Booster Pump: No
  • Anti-leak water tank
  • 5-spray handheld shower
  • Energy-saving and silent DC pump
  • IP25 standard - dust and splash-proof
  • Whirl Water Flow technology - deters scalding
  • Double Relay Safety Protection - shields against electrical surges
  • Safeguard system - allows any current leakage to flow through the earth connection

Who is this for?

The anti-leak water tank, 5-spray handheld shower, and safety features make it an ideal option for those who prioritise both comfort and security in their daily shower routine. Plus, you can enjoy showering with its low-noise operation which is rated at 38db.

And that is not all; the showerhead can be adjusted accordingly to your personal preferences. There are five modes in total - Standard, Soothe, Combo, Massage and Jumbo. They are all designed to give you a different feel of shower sensation.

Another best tankless water heater
Panasonic
From
RM828.00
Check Panasonic DH-3NP2MS Water Heater with Jet Pump price below:
add_circle Powerful jet pump
add_circle Silent operation
add_circle Good build quality
add_circle Easy-to-use on/off large switch
add_circle Built-in temperature sensor

Overview

The Panasonic DH-3NP2MS water heater comes equipped with a jet pump that helps to boost your water pressure up to 380 kPa. Said jet pump utilises a durable DC system, that operates silently.

Panasonic’s DH-3NP2MS water heater has quite a good build, coupled with an IP25-rated splash-proof case cover and a water-resistant design between the front and rear plate. All of this helps to prevent unwanted fire or electricity surge for a peaceful shower with the water heater.

The Panasonic DH-3NP2MS has numerous safety features, namely a manual reset thermostat that cuts off the power supply in case of a component malfunction and a built-in ELB (earth leakage breaker) to prevent electric shock. Finally, it has a water flow sensor that prevents overheating if it gets too low.

Details

  • Flow Rate: Not available
  • Power Rating: 3.60kW
  • Inverter Pump: No
  • Dimensions (W x H x D): 200 x 380 x 89mm
  • Weight: 2.6kg
  • Booster Pump: Yes
  • Low-noise DC pump
  • 1-push on/off shower button
  • Tankless - constant hot water supply
  • IP25-compliant - splash and dust-proof
  • Earth Leakage Breaker - to avoid electrical shocks
  • Temperature sensor - consistent water temperature
  • Water Flow Sensor - impedes overheating when water flow is insufficient
  • Auto Thermal Cut-Out - stops water from reaching scalding temperatures
  • Manual Reset Thermostat - cuts off power if continuous heating is abnormal
  • 3-spray handheld shower - selector button is built into the grip for easy switching
  • Shower head made with antibacterial, silver ion (Ag+) - hinders mould generation

Who is this for?

Worry about the possible mould accumulated in the shower head due to the humid environment of a bathroom? With the built-in Ag+ (silver) antibacterial material, it deters the growth of mould and bacterial while keeping the shower head clean all the time.

The Panasonic DH-3NP2MS has a streamlined operating system with its easy-to-use On/Off switch on the main unit. Turning the water on or off is said to be convenient, thanks to the large button located at the bottom of the main unit. You can easily press the button without having to look at it.

Another highlight is the 3-way shower selector which has a built-in temperature sensor in the main unit and is specially designed to maintain a consistent shower temperature. In other words, you can enjoy showering without having to change temperature in between.

Best water heater for low pressure
Joven SL30iP
From
RM429.00
Check Joven SL30iP price below:
add_circle Booster pump for improved water pressure
add_circle Customisable of 5-spray handheld shower
add_circle It has safety features like thermal cut-out and flow sensor

Overview

Not exactly a silently-operated water heater but considering how budget-friendly it is, the Joven Instant Water Heater SL30iP does offer a few standouts that you can look forward to.

First, it has a built-in DC pump with 4x booster power that gives you sufficient water pressure every time you use it. Not only that, it conserves up to 50% of energy while providing a quiet, comfortable shower at a noise level of less than 35dB.

Just like other Joven water heater models, this option has numerous built-in safety features. The list includes an IP25 splash-proof casing cover, a Double Poles EELS for preventing current leakage, and a surge protector that will disconnect itself instantly in case of a power surge.

With anti-scalding technology, you can shower without worry, whereas the built-in combination of nylon fibre tank and swirl technology provides better heat insulation, which in turn, prevents electric shock.

Details

  • Flow Rate: 2.0 - 8.0L/manpower
  • Power Rating: 3.00kW - 5.50kW
  • Inverter Pump: Yes
  • Dimensions (W x H x D): 237 x 358 x 70mm
  • Weight: 3.5kg
  • Booster Pump: Yes
  • 5-spray handheld shower
  • 1-push on/off shower button
  • Thermal Cut Out - averts scalding
  • IP25 standard for splash and dust protection
  • Three layers of hose reinforcement and insulation
  • Safety Flow Sensor - checks for sufficient water flow to curb dry heating
  • DC pump with 4x booster power, 50% energy savings and <35dB noise level
  • Nylon fibre tank with swirl technology - better heat insulation and reduces thermal shock respectively
  • Single Pole EELS System detects and stops current leakage; electrical surge protection is also present

Who is this for?

For anyone who's tired of lacklustre showers due to low water pressure, the Joven SL30iP is your trustworthy companion. 

Besides, there’s the easy-to-operate knob located in the middle of the main unit. You can simply turn the knob accordingly for your preferred water temperature setting. In the meantime, the showerhead comes equipped with 5 adjustable massager spray patterns so you can enjoy a spa-like shower experience.

Best electric water heater without pump
Midea
Most affordable water heater
From
RM149.00
Check Midea MWH-38Q Water Heater price below:
add_circle Low price point
add_circle Has Whirlflow technology for faster heating performance
add_circle IP25 splash-proof casing
remove_circle No built-in pump

Overview

Despite its low price point, the Midea Water Heater MWH-38Q doesn’t skimp much on its features. For instance, you get most of the usual features such as an IP25-rated splash-proof casing cover and a built-in auto flow sensor. Plus, the latter automatically starts up the heater system with just as low as 1.2 litres of water per minute.

That is not all; this model also utilises the Whirlflow technology for faster heating performance while the dry heating prevention works to shut off the water heater if water flow reaches lower than 1.2 litres.

It’s also not without numerous safety features such as a precise thermal cut-out if the water temperature reaches above 55°C. Moreover, electricity surges are prevented by the built-in Double Relay system.

Details

  • Flow Rate: Minimum 1.2L/min
  • Power Rating: 3.80kW
  • Inverter Pump: No
  • Dimensions (W x H x D): 224 x 330 x 93mm
  • Weight: 1.6kg
  • Booster Pump: No
  • Nylon glass fibre
  • Whirl Flow - faster heating
  • Power and ELCB indicators
  • Thermal Cut-Out - prevents scalding
  • Silver ion (Ag+) antibacterial material
  • IP25 standard - splash and dust-proof
  • Auto Flow Sensor - safeguards against overheating
  • Earth Leakage Circuit Breaker (ELCB) with double relay - cuts off circuit in the event of electrical current leaks

Who is this for?

Need a water heater but are on a tight budget? Perhaps this budget-friendly Midea Water Heater MWH-38Q might be the right one for you. Its compact design and features like Whirl Flow and antibacterial materials make it an excellent choice for those who wants efficient and safe water heating solutions.

Best elegant water heater
Livinox LWH-TS-DC-RMB Water Heater
From
RM728.00
Check Livinox LWH-TS-DC-RMB Water Heater price below:
add_circle DPDT Protection
add_circle Slim and elegant design

Overview

For those who seek a relaxing shower experience that combines elegance with efficiency, this Livinox LWH-TS-DC-RMB Water Heater offers just that kind of an experience. This water heater boasts an Inverter DC Pump, ensuring a quiet experience featuring DPDT Protection for added safety.

It comes in two different colours: Black and White, and has a 4.5kW, 240V powerhouse that gives you instant warmth when you shower!

Details

  • Flow Rate: -
  • Power Rating: 4.5kW
  • Voltage: 240V
  • Inverter Pump: -
  • Dimensions: -
  • Weight: -
  • Colour: Black, white
  • Booster Pump: -

Who is this for?

If you seek an elegant addition to your bathroom that warms your water efficiently and enhances the overall aesthetic in your bathroom, this water heater is the perfect option. Not only does it have an elegant design- the brand also prioritises safety as the water heater is equipped with a DPDT Protection feature.

FAQ:

- How To Choose the Right Water Heater?

Consider the type of machine that you’ll need

The very first step is to look at the features that you'll need. If you're always facing low water pressure, then you'll need to look for a water heater unit that has a built-in AC booster pump. This feature will help boost water flow by up to five times.

A noisy shower heater will take away that relaxing feeling you're looking for after a long day of work. Look for one with a built-in silent pump that will stay quiet even while boosting the water pressure. If you experience regular power shortages at your home or apartment, it's safer to look for one with Mechatronic ELCB.

They should be within your budget

There are plenty of shower water heater units with sleek and innovative designs. However, they usually come with a hefty price tag. You should always put aesthetics last, and the functions needed first on your list.

Measure your bathroom's wall

Always measure the wall of your bathroom where you might be placing your new shower heater. That should also narrow down your searches and choices. Most shower heaters come in a standard size unless you prefer a fancier design. Then a contractor from that store will need to make the measurements for you after your shopping.

- Tank vs Tankless Water Heaters

Earlier, we mentioned the two main types: tank and tankless water heaters. To understand more about these two, here are the differences that you should know:

Tank Water Heaters

Otherwise known as storage water heaters or tank storage water heaters, these types of units hold a certain amount of hot water ranging from 75 to 300 litres in a storage tank. They typically use fuel or electricity to heat the water, where hot water will be released from the top of the storage tank upon turning on the faucet or fixture.

The only significant setback about tank water heaters is the sufficient space needed to install the bulky storage tank in the likes of your basement or utility closet.

Tankless Water Heaters

Unlike tank water heaters, tankless water heaters are more compact and take up lesser space by comparison. This is why the convenience of installing a tankless water heater happens to be a favourite among many local households.

Tankless water heaters only heat water on demand using electric coils. This helps to save energy and provides a longer lifespan compared to tank water heaters. A few drawbacks to installing a tankless water heater, however, would be paying above-average upfront money for the equipment and installation costs.

- Should You Buy A Water Heater With Or Without Pump?

Water heaters generally come with or without a pump system. Long story short, water heaters with pumps improve the water flow when in use. It also gives you instant hot water whenever you need it the most. Those without pumps, however, rely heavily on the existing water pressure to heat the water.

DC vs AC Motor

Depending on the model and price range, some water heaters operate on a DC motor while others utilise the AC varieties. Water heaters with DC motors are typically available in pricier models, even though you may find some budget-friendly varieties as well. They usually operate silently with a maximum noise level below 35db. Not to mention, they are more durable and energy-efficient too.

Water heaters that run on an AC motor are more cost-friendly by comparison. In other words, they are normally available in cheaper models. Alas, such water heaters have a shorter lifespan and have a high-noise level upon using the unit.

- How Do Water Heaters Work?

There are two types of water heaters: storage water heaters and tankless water heaters. They work quite differently from one another but rest assured, they both heat water, as the name suggests.

Storage Water Heaters

After installation, the water supply should be attached to the inlet of the water heater, enabling unheated water to flow into the tank for heating. The warm water will then remain in the insulated tank, ready to be used whenever you need it.

However, the next person in line will have to be patient before they can enjoy a hot bath, as this type of water heater will take some time to heat a new batch of water.

Tankless Water Heaters

As the name implies, these water heaters do not store heated water in a tank. Instead, they heat the water on demand, for instant and constant flow of hot water.

But there is a trade-off. In the event of an electricity outage, users will not be able to relish the warm sensation of heated water. This is because their heating elements are electricity-powered, rendering the water heater useless during that period.

- Why is the Water Heater Not Working/Hot?

There are many reasons your water heater might not be working the way it should be. Here are a few of them.

Failure of Thermostat and/or Heating Element(s)

Water heaters are typically equipped with two heating elements attached to a thermostat. If water is not heating up, it could mean that one or both of its heating elements have failed or that the thermostat itself is malfunctioning.

A faulty thermostat can even turn off a heating element even though the latter is in full working order, leading to shortages of hot water supply as well as long waits for sufficient hot water.

Low Water Pressure

Ironically, low water pressure can be the result of overly high water pressure, though it is not always the case.

The sensitive Temperature and Pressure Relief (TPR) valve allows pent-up steam produced under immense pressure or heat to be released. When the valve opens and liberates highly-pressurised steam, it can easily over-correct, causing a drop in water pressure. This might warrant the installation of an expansion tank to reroute the steam, subsequently relieving the TPR valve of its duty.

There can be a simpler problem too; the water heater might simply have some loose parts. Loose fittings or even a hole in the water tank can cause pressure to seep out.

A more complicated explanation to low pressure would be that the water pipes themselves are clogged up. Deposits of minerals such as magnesium and calcium can accumulate over time. These deposits will eventually decrease the diameter of the pipes, thus creating slower water flow.

Cold Weather

The cool morning weather can be why your first shower is not so warm, especially if you have a tankless water heater. As such heaters warm cold water coming directly from the not-yet-heated-by-the-sun pipes, which may result in lukewarm showers.

Since we can’t adjust the weather, we’ll just have to adjust the water heater. Turn up the heat to combat the cold, but do be cautious when as you won’t want to end up with a burn that early in the morning.

- How Long Do Water Heaters Last?

Though the information varies regarding this question, there is a general consensus that tankless water heaters last longer than their storage siblings. Many sources also agree that electric water heaters generally have a life expectancy of 10 to 15 years whereas gas water heaters last about 8 to 12 years.

As an added note, water heaters will have a better chance of being on the lasting end of the spectrum with proper maintenance and service. This rings especially true when you might have underlying factors that can affect its durability.

We can easily overlook things such as water quality when we think about a water heater’s life expectancy. Hard water contains dissolved compounds, primarily magnesium and calcium. Not only will they clog up the piping system, they can also affect the heat exchanger of a water heater, decreasing its lifespan.

While a flush of vinegar every 500 hours will do the trick for hard water-prone areas, it also depends on how often the water heater is used. It will suffer from wear and tear, but a higher usage frequency will no doubt accelerate its expiry.

- How Much is a Water Heater?

The overall cost of a water heater depends on its range and quality of features as well as its installation fees. The more attributes a water heater has, the costlier it would be. The incorporation of high-quality materials plays a part in increasing its price too.

Not to mention, DC pumps tend to be pricier compared to AC pumps, though the former is certainly more energy-efficient and quieter than their AC counterparts.

Installation fees, on the other hand, depend on the individual plumber plus the complexity of the water heater’s fixture; a tankless water heater can rake up a higher installation fee than a storage water heater.


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