Are you considering options that allow you to enjoy domestic hot water in your home? Then this article is of interest to you. Why? In ParaTuReforma we want to analyze the energy efficiency of an electric water heater in order to allow you to find out if it is really the appliance you need. Do not miss it.
Electric water heaters
A electric boiler is a water tank with a certain capacity that contains a set of heating elements. These elements are in charge of raising the temperature of the water so that, later, it comes out through the faucets of the sink, the shower, the sink and the bidet according to the user’s demand.
Undoubtedly, it is a device that offers many advantages, which is why it has become one of the preferred options for users. Let’s take a look at them:
- Immediacy. Once the faucet is turned on, the water comes out hot almost instantaneously.
- Ease of installation. Simply drill a series of holes in the wall using a drill, attach the hooks and hang it up. It is then connected to the water mains and a plug and is ready for use.
- Sustainability. This type of water heater does not use fossil fuels to heat water, such as butane gas or natural gas. This means that their level of pollutant gas emissions is practically zero.
- Low maintenance. Electric heaters only require annual replacement of the magnesium anode to reduce water hardness. The safety valve and the heating element must also be checked.
To all this we must add that an electric boiler does not require a minimum flow of water. This makes them ideal for environments where the liquid reaches the house with very little pressure due to the lack of its own group.
Consumption
The energy consumption of an electric boiler is very difficult to determine exactly. This is mainly due to the fact that many factors come into play. Most of them are related to the characteristics of the appliance itself, as you will see below:
- Capacity. Obviously, the larger the capacity of the water tank of the boiler, the more energy the heating elements require to reach the desired temperature. Currently, almost all models on the market range from 50 to 200 liters. The choice will depend on the number of people living at home.
- Tank insulation. Depending on the materials from which it is made, the heater will preserve the temperature of the water stored inside better or worse.
- Type of resistance. There are two types. Armored electric heaters are in direct contact with water and therefore heat it faster. However, they are very sensitive to limescale and have a relatively short service life. On the other hand, sheathed ceramic electric heaters are less sensitive to this element, but require more effort to increase the temperature.
Now, how do you calculate the energy consumption of an electric boiler? To do this, it is essential that you take a look at the technical data sheet of the device in search of two pieces of information: the power in kW (if it appears in watts, you only have to divide the figure by 1000) and the time in hours. Then multiply both figures and you will have the result in kWh.
Experts estimate that, according to the criteria discussed above, electric water heaters consume between 400 and 3000 kWh/year. As you know, the price of electricity has been very volatile for some time now, which makes it difficult to make an accurate calculation.
However, for reference, we can tell you that an electric water heater requires between €0.20 and €0.80 to heat one liter of water for a whole month. This is why it is so important to look at the energy efficiency label on the appliance.
Operation of electric water heaters
The operation of an electric water heater is extremely simple. Once installed and connected to the mains, the tank is filled with cold water. At that moment, the thermostat detects the temperature of the liquid and then proceeds to turn on the heating elements until the temperature indicated by you is reached.
Once the water temperature reaches this value, the heating elements turn off. They will only switch on again if you use hot water or if there are thermal losses.
Energy saving strategies
As is obvious, the electric boiler will have a significant impact on your electricity bill. However, by following the tips we are going to give you below, you will be able to optimize its operation and reduce it considerably. Pay attention:
- Choose a suitable location. Do not make the mistake of installing the heater in the basement or garage for the purpose of keeping it out of sight. Currently, there are models with very nice designs that are easy to fit into the decor. In this regard, it is vitally important that it is as close as possible to the kitchen and, above all, to the bathroom. This will reduce heat transfer losses when the water passes through the pipes.
- Turn it off if you are going on a trip. Even if it’s just a three-day getaway, it pays off. However, you should not turn it off if you are at home. home and have a constant need for hot water. Keep in mind that heating a large volume of cold water all at once requires more effort than doing it progressively.
- Select the temperature you need according to the time of the year.. Obviously, in winter you will need hot water at a higher temperature (between 60 °C and 80 °C). In summer, on the other hand, you can have enough by setting the thermostat between 30 °C and 40 °C.
How to find an efficient electric water heater
This is all you need to know about the energy consumption of an electric water heater. As advice we can tell you that you should always choose one that has the highest possible energy efficiency certificate, as you will amortize it quickly through your electricity bill.Contact ParaTuReforma if you have any doubts!
