Choosing Between Instant Water Heaters vs Storage Water Heaters in Singapore [2022]
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There are generally 2 types of water heaters: Instant Water Heaters & Storage Water Heaters. In this article, we will go more in-depth looking into the difference between these water heaters to provide you with some knowledge on water heaters. If you have already decided between Instant and Storage heaters, please see this article for things to consider when buying a water heater to install in Singapore.
Instant Water Heaters
Instant heaters heat up the water as it flows through the heat exchanger before dispensing it immediately, instead of storing it within a tank. This is why it is also called a tankless or demand-type water heaters. Most of the instant water heaters in Singapore are powered by electricity, though there are some that run on gas. A reason to opt for instant water heater installation is that their relatively small size makes them a great fit within HDBs and condominiums since they do not require a storage tank.
Below are some examples of these types of water heaters:
Multi-Point Instant Heater
Run by: Electricity
Multipoint Instant Water Heaters are connected to multiple taps at various points in the apartment.
Gas Instant Heater
Run by: Gas
These heaters heat up water with gas.
Champ Vios Instant Heater – Economically designed
Champs water heaters are manufactured by a multi-disciplinary company that engages consumers in the design, development, manufacturing, and distribution of electric instant water heaters.
The modest-looking Champs Vios Instant Heater packs a punch with its user-friendly features that empower you with total control over its heating elements so that you can bring your focus back to doing the right thing – indulging in a healthy soak and the simple pleasures of life.
Mistral MSH303i Instant Shower Heater – High performance instant heating
The Mistral MSH303i is one of the best selling instant water heaters in Singapore. Budget friendly, this model comes with a shower head that provides a multi-massage spray sensation.
707 Compact Instant Water Heater – Showers from the heart
The Compact has been warming bodies and hearts for many years. Dependable, consistent and uncomplicated, the 707 Compact continues to be the unsung shower companion to countless families, and a source of everyday comfort.
Storage Water Heaters
What should you know about storage heaters are heaters that store the heated water within an insulated tank. When dispensed, the hot water is run through a mixer tap that makes it safer for use. Their larger size means that they are more likely to be chosen by landed and/or commercial property owners since there is enough space to house or conceal them.
Below are some examples of storage heater tanks:
Run by: Electricity
The conventional storage water heater, heats up the water in the tank, via electricity.
Digital Storage Water Heater
Run by: Electricity
These storage water heaters are able to perform more precise water heating due to its thermostat panel.
Solar Storage Water Heater
Run by: Solar energy
One of the top innovations of the century, the solar panel, is used to heat up the water in the tank in a more environmental friendly way.
Heat Pump Storage Water Heater
Run by: Electricity
This storage heater is accompanied by a heat pump unit, whereby is run by electricity. The heat produced is transferred to the water tank, heating up the water within. Heat pump storage heater are usually for industrial users, for example, heating up a jacuzzi.
Storage Water Heater Brands & Models
Did you know that electrical storage water heaters are the most popular out of all the storage water heater types? Before purchasing one, it is essential to know the electrical storage water heater elements so that you can make an informed decision. The top performing brands in this category are Ariston, Joven, and Rheem.
Ariston Andris LUX 15 Storage Water Heater 15L – Intuitive Designed
Italian in origin, Ariston water heaters are global specialists in water heating, providing people all over the world with an extensive range of innovative and energy-conscious water heaters.
Experience the stunning synthesis of form and function. The Ariston AN15 LUX is made with super-ecologic insulation materials and energy can be better conserved through its improved titanium-enamel tank. Its shell technology – a perfect balance of geometry and assembly – promises intuitive design and enduring performance. Its strong resistance to pressure and corrosion makes it a permanent fixture in the house.
Rheem 85VP6S Storage Water Heater 23L – Vertical design
Rheem water heaters originate from North America and are one of the largest manufacturers of instant water heaters. They are recognized worldwide by consumers for water heating needs.
Rheem 85VP6S comes with special features to ensure the heater is safer, more reliable, and works longer. Exclusive Rheemglas enamel tank protection against corrosion, UL approved combined temperature and pressure relief (TPR) safety valve, Adjustable thermostat with over temperature protection, Incoloy sheathed immersion heating element and many more.
Joven JSH 35 Storage Water Heater – Energy Efficient
Joven is a well-established Malaysian brand that started in 1983. They pride themselves on providing customer satisfaction with quality, safe, trendy, and innovative Joven storage heaters.
Joven JSH 35 is made up of CFC Free High-Density Polyurethane Foam for Maximum Insulation, comes with a new Quad Safety System, and also saves energy up to 20% with HE Technology.
Rainshower Compatibility
There are many reasons why rainshower sets are popular in Singapore. Full body coverage is one of them. But there are prerequisites to consider before you can install a rainshower. If you do not pair your rainshower with a suitable water heater, you may not be able to get the desired results.
Regular Instant Water Heater With Rainshower
Some instant water heaters may come with a rainshower set. However, these are not actually authentic rainshowers. Instead, they tend to function like instant heater shower heads that are shaped to resemble a rainshower. This is because the water pressure that a typical instant water heater can provide is usually insufficient to support a rainshower set.
Instant Water Heater With Pump
Other instant water heaters with a rainshower set are built with a pump. Examples would include the Rubine RWH-2388 Instant Water Heater and the Rubine RWH-3388 Instant Water Heater. The in-built pump do help in improving the water pressure. However, the effiency may vary from model to model. Some models may even have pumps that emit quite a bit of noise when in use. This would be one of the things to note before having an instant water heater installed.
Storage Water Heater
For those who are looking to install a 15cm type rain shower, you will likely want to match it with a storage water heater. Its higher water pressure allows you to enjoy the full capabilities of the rainshower. If you require a longer shower time, it is recommended to install a storage water heater with a slightly higher storage capacity. An example would include the Rheem Electric 40L EH-40M Storage Water Heater.
Which Is The Right Water Heater For You?
Consider the factors below when choosing the right water heater for your home.
Cost
The price of a water heater is a universal factor when it comes to choosing between instant and storage water heaters. At comparable quality, the instant water heater is typically cheaper than a storage water heater. This is because the storage water heater comes with a storage tank, which instant water heaters do not.
The product cost for the different water heater types typically range around:
Instant Heater – $100 – $200
Storage Heater – $200 – $400 (depending on tank size)
The additional component is not only more challenging to install, but also requires additional and/or reconfiguration of existing piping. This drives up the installation price for a storage water heater. You may wish to consult a storage water heater installation guide to ensure that the installation process is completed without a hitch.
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The major water heater brands like Ariston, Rheem, and Rubine offer storage water heaters with varying capacity sizes. Considering the smaller local family unit, most of these storage water heaters come in 20-litre or 30-litre models like the Ariston Andris 2 30 LUX Storage Water Heater AN2LUX-30L, Rheem Xwell XS-20 Slim Classic Plus Electric Storage Water Heater, or the Rubine MT-30B Matrix Storage Water Heater.
On the other hand, an instant water heater dispenses hot water immediately after heating. This means that it can effectively produce a constant and unlimited supply of hot water. As a user, you will likely not have to worry about the hot water running out in the middle of usage. That said, in the event of a power outage, the instant water heater will not be able to provide hot water.
Design/Space
The lack of a storage tank allows an instant water heater to be small and compact. Since it is relatively lightweight and does not take up much space, an instant heater installation/replacement service can be easily performed on the bathroom wall. Conversely, a storage water heater is typically bulky, since it has a storage tank to store the hot water produced.
To install a storage water heater, one has to demarcate a dedicated area for the storage water heater. Some homeowners with the luxury of a false ceiling can opt to conceal it within the structure, as exemplified by one of our past projects above. This allows for a more aesthetically pleasing look. Conversely, since an instant water heater is usually installed directly onto the wall, the device and piping is highly visible.
Some homeowners may be looking to engage multipoint water heater installation/replacement services to provide hot water to multiple water points (e.g., kitchen, shower tap, etc.). A storage heater like the Rubine Space SPH 30S SIN 3.0 (I) Storage Water Heater is able to satisfy those needs. Otherwise, you may wish to learn more about the differences between multipoint water heaters vs storage water heaters.
In contrast, installing an instant water heater can only provide hot water to one water point only. You can read more about the pros and cons of multipoint water heaters vs instant water heaters in order to make a more informed decision.
Space Requirements
The space requirement for the different water heater types can vary for different apartment types.
HDB BTO: Instant Water Heaters, and Storage Water Heaters up to 50 litres in storage capacity can fit a typical BTO toilet.
HDB Resale or Private Property: Personalized modifications to the bathroom size and layout can affect the space available for a water heater installation. It is advisable to provide relevant photos and measurements when seeking professional help.
Not sure if your apartment has enough space to house a storage water heater? Not to worry! Our team of professionals are ready to help you make the right decision that best satisfies your specific needs. All you need to do is to Whatsapp Water Heater City at +65 8241 0032 with your requirements and we will handle the rest, supply + installation included!
Temperature Control
An instant water heater usually comes with an easy-to-access user interface that allows you to adjust the water temperature directly. Some models even allow you to set the water temperature digitally, as compared to the more traditional knob.
A storage water heater, on the other hand, will typically have the temperature set at the point of installation. Adjusting the water temperature at the tap will be controlled by a mixer tap, which can only give a rough positional estimate.
While a water heater is designed to provide hot water at the stipulated temperature, there are reasons why you should lower your water heater’s temperature. This can help prevent accidental scalding, or even result in a lower utility bill.
Temperature Consistency
Temperature consistency refers to how well a water heater can maintain a steady flow of hot water throughout its usage.
Owners of an instant water heater may wonder why their instant water heater’s temperature is not consistent. This is because the instant water heater constantly draws water when in use. This means that the water pressure is vulnerable to fluctuation. Possible factors would include the temperature of the water that enters the water heater before heating. For example, instant water heaters that employ static heating heat the water at the same intensity. Therefore, the heated water that is produced can be colder than usual when it is raining heavily, or hotter when it is bright and sunny outside.
A storage water heater dispenses the water stored within its storage tank, meaning that the temperature will likely remain consistent during use (until depletion).
Time To Heat Water
An instant water heater heats up the water as it passes through its heat exchange unit, then dispenses it immediately. This means that it is only hitting up the incoming stream of water at any given time. Since the flow of water is typically lower in volume, it takes less time to heat up the water.
A storage water heater, on the other hand, has to heat up the entire tank of water, meaning that, it will take some time before it can dispense suitably hot water. The larger the storage tank, the longer time it will take to heat the water from room temperature. Therefore, it is recommended that you consult a storage water heater buying guide to ensure that you are getting a model that satisfies your usage needs.
For example, storage water heaters with a lower tank capacity, like the Rubine Space SPH 20S SIN 3.0 (I) Storage Water Heater, only needs 13 minutes to heat up the stored water. In comparison, larger models like the Rubine Space SPH 100B SIN 3.0 (I) Storage Water Heater can take up to 64 minutes to fully heat up the increased amount of water.
That said, a high quality storage water heater has good insulation capabilities, which allows it to minimize heat loss. This can help reduce the time needed to heat up the lukewarm water to the desired temperature.
Energy Consumption
Since an instant water heater only heats water during usage, it typically consumes little energy when the demand for hot water is low. A storage water heater, on the other hand, has to heat up the entire tank of water. This means that the same low amount of hot water, it consumes more energy.
That said, there are additional factors that can affect your water heater’s energy consumption. These would include the heater’s energy efficiency rating, size, age, and more.
Water Pressure
By design, an instant water heater operates as a system that reduces pressure – the flow restrictor slows down the incoming flow of water so that it can be heated up sufficiently before its immediate dispense. Additionally, since an instant water heater draws water constantly when in use, its water pressure will be dependent on the household’s overall water pressure. In Singapore, this is regulated by the Public Utilities Board.
A storage water heater draws water from its own storage tank, allowing for higher and more consistent water pressure. These storage units are typically installed at an elevated height like concealed above a false ceiling. This allows gravity to increase the water pressure.
This difference in water pressure means that, if you wish to install a rainshower, you will need to have a storage water heater to provide the sufficient water pressure needed.
Maintenance
An instant water heater does not come with a storage tank, nor its accompanying components. Thus, there are less parts that require regular maintenance, like water heater leaking services. Additionally, if a storage water heater is concealed above a false ceiling, the hassle of accessing it and the subsequent patching up handiwork can lead to a costlier maintenance bill.
Summary
| Factor | Instant Water Heater | Storage Water Heater |
| Product Cost | Low | High |
| Water Capacity | Unlimited | 15 to 100L – depending on the tank’s capacity |
| Design | Small & Compact | Bulky and takes up space |
| Temperature Control | Accurate | Dependent on mixer tap |
| Temperature Consistency | Inconsistent | Consistent |
| Time To Heat Water | Instant | Water needs to be preheated – timing is dependent on the tank’s capacity |
| Energy Consumption | Low – dependant on usage | High – need to heat up the whole tank |
| Water Pressure | Lower – Dependent on Household’s Water Pressure |
Higher, Consistent |
| Rainshower Compatibility | Low | High |
| Maintenance | Low | High |
Conclusion
Instant water heaters and storage water heaters both have their own advantages and disadvantages. Depending on the location and uses, either one would fit best. A small and compact instant heater would work great in an HDB or a Condo whereas a storage water heater can be fitted in a landed property or a commercial unit, depending on the preference of the end-user. Bearing in mind the things to consider when buying a new water heater, you would know which would be the perfect fit for your home.
Water Heater City Singapore offers complete water heater services for both storage and instant water heater tanks including water heater installation and replacement, and water heater leak. We can provide the supply and installation or replacement of Singapore’s most popular water heater brands like Ariston water heater, Rheem water heater, Joven water heater, 707 water heater, Rubine water heater, and Champs water heater. If required, we are also able to open a false ceiling, patch it back up and paint it to restore it to its original condition.
We have over 10 years of experience in the installation of water heaters and have done hundreds of water heater installation cases for landed, condos, and HDB, including complete one-stop installation above false ceilings, plastering, and resealing false ceilings. We are a highly recommended Water Heater Services Company in Singapore, with many delighted customers and reviews over the years on Google and Facebook. WhatsApp us at +65 8241 0032 for transparent quotations and honest pricing for all your water heater needs. We also provide fast and efficient service to solve any of your water heater needs!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Factors To Consider When Choosing a Water Heater
To select what type of water heater is the right one for your home, you should consider these factors:
- Installation Cost
- Purchase Price
- Operating Costs
- Energy Efficiency
- Performance
- Lifespan
- Water Capacity and Usage
- Design
- Time Taken To Heat Water
- Water Heater Placement
- Water Pressure
- Maintenance
What Are The Most Popular Water Heater Brands?
The 3 most popular water heater brands are Ariston from Italy, Joven from Malaysia, and Rheem from the US. Other well-known heater brands in Singapore are 707, Champs and Rubine.
What Are The Different Types of Water Heater?
A storage water heater heats up cold water and stores it in its insulated tank to keep it warm for a period of time. It also reheats occasionally when the temperature drops. As a result, a storage water heater typically uses up more energy than an instant water heater. Storage heaters also take up a lot of space due to their bulky size, capable of storing 30 to 100 litres of water.
Instant water heaters are more compact and heat up water on demand.
Whether you choose an instant or a storage water heater mostly depends on your budget, your household’s water consumption, your showering habits, and your preferred bathroom aesthetic.