Electric Water Heater - Installation Price and Requirements Overview
Many households install electric water heaters at home. These heaters operate by passing electricity through internal heating elements, raising the water temperature. Once the water reaches the set temperature, the heater enters a standby mode, reheating only when the temperature drops. The convenience of having hot water at the turn of a tap makes electric water heaters a popular choice.
Key Points:
- Instant Electric Water Heaters
- Storage Electric Water Heaters
- Installation Price Differences
- Safety and Installation Considerations
Instant Electric Water Heaters
Instant electric water heaters heat water on demand. When activated, cold water flows through the heating element and is delivered directly, with no storage tank involved. This compact design allows for installation in bathrooms, kitchens, or balconies. While instant heaters provide hot water quickly, they have a lower output since there's no storage tank, making them suitable for showers but not for baths or simultaneous use by multiple people.
Storage Electric Water Heaters
Storage electric water heaters, on the other hand, fill a large storage tank with cold water and heat it to a specified temperature, maintaining it until needed. Due to their larger size, these heaters can deliver more hot water, suitable for various bathing methods. However, the larger size requires more installation space.
Installation Price Differences
The primary difference between the two types of water heaters lies in the storage capacity. Retailers usually offer basic installation services for an additional fee, which varies based on the heater type, model, and required parts. Generally, instant electric water heaters are cheaper to install, costing around HK$380 - HK$580. In contrast, storage electric water heaters, being larger, have installation fees ranging from HK$380 - HK$990.
Additional costs may apply for extending electrical wiring, removing old units, or installing additional plumbing fixtures. Moreover, installations in remote areas such as Tung Chung, Ma Wan, Discovery Bay, or outlying islands might incur extra charges from some technicians.
Safety and Installation Considerations
Some people believe installing electric water heaters outdoors is safer. However, electric water heaters use electricity, not gas, eliminating the risk of incomplete gas combustion and indoor carbon monoxide buildup. Therefore, they are safe for indoor installation.
When installing an electric water heater, it's important to note their high power consumption and 220V voltage requirements. They should not share the household electrical circuit to avoid overloading, which could cause power trips and appliance malfunctions. Ensure your home has a dedicated 220V circuit for the water heater. If not, hire a certified electrician to install a new circuit.
Understanding the different types of electric water heaters and their installation requirements can help you make an informed decision for your home. If you have any questions about smart home devices, feel free to contact Moorgen for more information. Additionally, you can visit Moorgen’s showroom in North Point, Hong Kong, to experience the benefits of smart home technology firsthand.
