Every year, more and more families acquire such a device as a water heater. Unfortunately, in the 21st century, the lack of hot water is a very urgent problem. Somewhere the reason is poor-quality work of housing and communal services, somewhere centralized hot water supplies are completely impossible. For example, in remote suburban settlements or cottage townships, people rarely hear about such a miracle as hot water.
If the apartment has a boiler, there will always be hot water. But which company is better to buy a water heater? The choice presented on the shelves of outlets can confuse everyone. What to look for and which brand should you choose? This will be discussed further.
The best manufacturers of inexpensive models
Budget water heaters are in great demand in the modern market. Low power models are especially popular. Most often they are bought for installation in the country or as an additional device in case of a hot water shutdown. In such cases, the purchase of expensive models is not always justified. Here are some of the most popular companies that have good budget class models in their assortment.
Thermex
This manufacturer is often associated by consumers with models of an affordable price range. Although on store shelves you can find very expensive Thermex boilers. Almost all models have reliable corrosion protection and a built-in magnesium anode. The body of the latest units is made of stainless steel or coated with super-innovative bioglass porcelain. The brand offers a fairly wide range of models to choose from - from 10 to 300 liters. You can also choose the design to your taste. There are both traditional cylindrical appliances and modern flat rectangular boilers.
Advantages:
- wide range of tank volumes;
- easy and quick installation;
- excellent selection of compact models;
- decent technical equipment;
- a price tag that does not boggle the imagination.
Disadvantages:
- quality of materials - "budgetary";
- periodically there are complaints of leaks.
See also:
- Top 6 Hotpoint-Ariston Water Heaters
- The 8 best Zanussi water heaters of 2019
- The 8 best Thermex water heaters of 2019
- 10 best Timberk water heaters of 2019
- 10 best Gorenje water heaters of 2019
Novatec
This storage water heater is manufactured in Ukraine and complies with international standards ISO 9001. Reliable and inexpensive unit, which has been appreciated by users in more than 30 countries.
Pros:
- ease of installation;
- ease of use;
- versatility and wide range of models;
- profitability due to the use of the latest technologies;
- enlarged magnesium anode for better corrosion resistance;
- inner lining of a double layer of enamel;
- the presence of a safety valve for safe use;
- "AntiMix" system that prevents mixing of water flows, which leads to even greater savings in electrical energy;
- affordable cost.
Minuses:
- the appearance of the models is somewhat of the same type.
Ariston
If you decide to buy a budget boiler, you can choose a different model from this brand. Although Ariston also has very expensive models, the quality of inexpensive water heaters is really high here. This Italian manufacturer values its name and is responsible for the production of units of any price category.
In Russia, this is perhaps the most popular brand. A wide range of models is available to customers, with a capacity from 10 to more than 100 liters. All units are distinguished by a high-quality protection system, attractive appearance and intuitive control. Most of the tanks are made of stainless steel. Many popular models have a special inner coating with silver ions, which kills pathogens.
Advantages:
- more than enough choice;
- wide functionality;
- ease of installation;
- repairs can be made in common Indesit service centers;
- not too exorbitant cost.
Disadvantages:
- to maintain a long-term warranty on the tank, the magnesium anode must be replaced annually;
- many consumers complain about the lack of models with dry heating elements.
Garanterm
One of the leaders in the production of budget models. This manufacturer was the first to use a special twin tank technology. The stainless steel tanks are cold-welded in one body.
Tanks "Garanterm", in accordance with their name, have a longer warranty period, do not fade at the seams and are insulated with low heat-conducting polyurethane.
Pros:
- improved tank design;
- increased resistance to corrosion;
- automatic conveyor assembly minimizes waste;
- smooth and even enamel coating inside the tank;
- the production has a testing center using thermal shock;
- all boilers are acid tested;
- a control LED diode is used;
- affordable price of units.
Minuses:
- in some cases, the quality of the heating element leaves much to be desired;
- the indicator shows only the degree of heating, not the number of degrees.
See also - How to use a boiler to save energy?
The best mid-price firms
Our rating of manufacturers is continued by firms offering models of average cost. Those who are going to use the device constantly, but are not ready to overpay for the name and newfangled "bells and whistles" choose them.
Gorenje
Many consumers call the boilers of this company one of the best in the middle price segment. Moreover, this manufacturer from Slovenia is quite popular on the European home appliance market. Boilers from Gorenje have a wide range of volumes from 5 to 200 liters. Depending on the unit, the internal containers are made of stainless steel and protected with enamel spraying. For those who like interesting style solutions, we would like to highlight the Simplicity line. These boilers are in perfect harmony with any interior.
Advantages:
- the line includes devices with both dry and wet heating elements;
- excellent thermal insulation;
- high-quality European assembly;
- high functionality;
- ECO mode;
- reliable system of protection against overheating and freezing;
- affordable cost.
Disadvantages:
- the delivery set usually lacks a drain pipe;
- many devices are heavy.
Timberk
Not a bad brand specializing in climate technology. Despite the fact that the main facilities are located in China, this brand is considered to be Swedish. Whether this is true or not is not an easy answer. But Timberk's product quality is really decent.
The size range of models includes storage and flow-through devices with a variety of configurations, power and tank volume. The feature set and build quality are absolutely on par with more expensive eminent manufacturers. To ensure the reliable and trouble-free operation of these units, you just need to strictly follow the operating instructions.
The main advantages:
- good thermal insulation;
- the fastest possible heating of water;
- high performance;
- convenience and simplicity of installation work;
- well thought-out security system.
Disadvantages:
- taking into account the Chinese assembly, the cost may seem somewhat overestimated;
- the warranty period is not too long.
Electrolux
One of the most famous brands that have gained well-deserved popularity not only in Russia, but all over the world. The company is constantly improving the quality of its products, introducing new developments and bold innovations. Firm "Electrolux" produces a wide variety of climatic equipment. Some of the most successful are indirect water heaters and electric storage boilers. The latter have a volumetric range from 10 to 150 liters, so you can easily choose a model based on your needs.
Pros:
- stylish and easily recognizable design;
- aesthetic appearance;
- excellent functional content;
- a wide range of different climatic equipment;
- convenient electronic or mechanical control;
- high-quality assembly;
- wide coverage of service centers;
- there are units with both "wet" and dry heating elements;
- use of reliable materials.
Minuses:
- submersible heating elements in some models may be short-lived;
- most of the devices are assembled in China.
Bosch
Many consumers immediately associate this trademark with reliability and excellent quality. And it's hard to disagree with that. Thanks to these qualities, this German manufacturer has gained worldwide popularity.
Almost all models from this manufacturer have a lot of positive feedback. So if you are looking for a good quality water heater for not too exorbitant money, you should pay attention to Bosch.
A feature of the model range is practicality and functionality, convenient temperature setting and a long service life of the unit. The choice is quite large, you can pick up heating devices with a capacity of 10 to 150 liters.
Benefits:
- large selection of models;
- glass ceramic tanks;
- high-quality corrosion protection system;
- the presence of a magnesium anode;
- no special skills are required for self-installation;
- well-developed network of service centers.
Disadvantages:
- a sufficiently short power cord;
- sometimes the kit may be missing fasteners;
- in some units, the temperature controller is not very convenient.
Top premium manufacturers
Not everyone can afford the technique of trademarks, which will be discussed a little below. However, in most cases, overpricing is accompanied by an improvement in the quality and reliability of devices.
Stiebel Eltron
One of the most popular German manufacturers specializing in the production of high-quality HVAC equipment. The company's management believes that household appliances should be distinguished by their reliability, increased energy efficiency and absolute safety. And “Stibel” does it very well.
The units of this brand are distinguished by their durability, performance and strong appearance. The best models are assembled in Germany. The devices have electronic control and support a two-tariff energy saving system. So we can say with confidence that Stiebel Eltron water heaters are the best solution for those who do not like to waste money.
Main advantages:
- the presence of an "eternal" titanium anode for corrosion protection;
- low power consumption;
- optimal efficiency;
- excellent functionality;
- reliable insulation system;
- the highest level of security and control.
Disadvantages:
- awful high price.
Vogel flug
A popular Austrian brand, distinguished by impeccable quality and complete safety.
Pros:
- compliance with world-class quality standards;
- implementation of a full production cycle at our own facilities;
- the convenience of use;
- thermal insulation layer at least 3 cm;
- absolute safety;
- model range from 30 to 200 liters;
- the inner walls of glass-ceramic titanium enamel are completely non-corrosive;
- use of environmentally friendly materials in the construction;
- fast heating of water;
- profitability.
Minuses:
- some models have not very thick mounts;
- extremely high price, as with all products of the extra class.
AEG
Another famous brand that has in its assortment a wide selection of boilers and instantaneous water heaters. AEG is a premium vehicle and therefore costs a lot. But the boilers of this brand can boast of the highest build quality and high reliability.
Among the models of this company, you can find units with a volume of up to 400 liters. Internal drives are made of durable stainless steel and have reliable protection against corrosion and in the form of a multi-layer coating of high quality enamel.
The main advantages:
- excellent build quality;
- energy efficiency;
- multifunctional filling;
- fast heating of water;
- high quality thermal insulation;
- convenient and intuitive control.
Negative points:
- are expensive;
- accumulative models require annual replacement of the magnesium anode.
RODA
A popular brand known for the production of high-quality climatic and hot water equipment. It is in great demand in Europe, Asia and America. All products of the company pass the strictest quality control.
Advantages:
- a wide range of models, volumes, types of power supply and installation methods;
- pedantic German assembly;
- strict quality control;
- excellent functionality;
- application of innovative technologies;
- reliable system of protection against freezing, overheating and corrosion;
- high energy efficiency;
- use of materials of the highest quality.
Disadvantages:
- the power cord is short;
- very high cost.
See also - Instantaneous or storage water heater - which is better?
Which water heater to choose?
As you can see, the choice of brands is quite large, and we have not listed all of them. But which company is the best boiler? The water heater, in our opinion, cannot be assessed only by the name of the manufacturer. After all, every developer has masterpieces and outright failures. Therefore, first of all, you should focus on your own needs and pay attention - this is what:
Tank capacity
It depends on how you are going to use the hot water. For ordinary dishwashing, a “baby” of 10-15 liters is enough. If the apartment is home to 3-4 people who like to take a bath regularly, a unit with a volume of at least 120-150 liters is needed.
Power and type of heating element
Available in dry and wet heater models. The first option is much more expensive, however, it has its advantages. Less scale accumulates on it and can be replaced without draining the water from the tank. The second option is also not bad, but it requires mandatory annual cleaning.
Power should be selected based on the size of the tank. For a small volume, a heating element of 0.6–0.8 kW is sufficient, and for a full-size water heater, this indicator should not be less than 2–2.5 kW. Otherwise, you will wait a very long time for hot water.
Internal drive cover
It is worth noting here that the titanium case is considered to be of the highest quality, but also the most expensive. The enamel coating is much less reliable, but also the cheapest. To protect against corrosion, there is a magnesium or titanium anode in the tank. The first is cheap, but requires annual replacement. The second increases the cost of the model, but will work "forever".
Mounting characteristics
When choosing, you should pay special attention to the reliability of the fasteners included in the kit. Also, don't forget about the length of the power cord. Some models cannot be extended or replaced.
Dimensions
Before going to the store or to the manufacturer's website, think carefully about where the device will be installed and accurately measure the maximum allowable dimensions. Sometimes even the most advanced and high-quality model simply does not fit into the niche prepared for it.
And, of course, when choosing a water heater, you should focus on your own financial capabilities. You shouldn't reach for high-end premium models if you can't afford it. In the middle and budget price segment, you can also pick up very good options.
See also:
- 10 best instantaneous water heaters
- 11 best water heaters for home according to user reviews
- 12 best Electrolux water heaters of 2019
- 15 best electric storage water heaters
- 19 best indirect heating boilers according to customer reviews
