Electric water heater: decentralized, flexible and efficient

Electric hot water heating for individual needs

Domestic hot water is a basic need for which every home has its own solution. Examples include heating with a boiler, solar system, or electric water heater. An electric water heater offers many advantages: water is heated only when needed. This reduces energy costs without sacrificing convenience, as water is immediately available. Since the distance between the hot water system and the draw-off point is usually very short, heat loss is virtually eliminated. Other advantages of electric water heaters include virtually maintenance-free operation and a relatively low purchase price. Last but not least, heating domestic hot water with electricity is extremely convenient, with a wide range of models to choose from. Domestic hot water systems are available in a variety of power levels, sizes, and colors. In many cases, the water temperature can be precisely set to a desired temperature. The most common electric hot water systems include instantaneous water heaters and hot water cylinders.

What are the benefits of producing domestic hot water using electricity?

Efficiency depends primarily on various factors, including design considerations. If water drawoff points in a home are located far apart, decentralized hot water heating using electricity can prevent heat loss. This must be taken into account when transporting hot water over long distances. Even if water is needed infrequently or in small quantities at individual drawoff points, an instantaneous water heater is advisable.

Electricity consumption is an important criterion

In times of rising electricity prices, increasing attention is being paid to the energy consumption of appliances. Modern electric water heaters have significantly lower energy consumption than older models. If the energy demand is also covered by a rooftop photovoltaic system, the savings potential is even greater. This makes electric water heaters an effective solution for climate-conscious homeowners.

Electric hot water heating isn’t the only way to protect the climate. Heating can also be sustainable if it uses electricity from renewable sources. This is a priority for Viessmann and is reflected in our product range, which includes not only electric water heaters but also electric heating systems. Vitoplanar electric heaters offer flexible application options in new low-energy and passive house construction, as well as in modernization projects. In addition to electric heating mats for screed and under laminate, parquet, and tiled floors, Viessmann’s extensive portfolio also includes infrared heaters. These have step-by-step outputs and are suitable for both wall and ceiling mounting. A variety of surface finishes are available to suit individual applications. For example, the Vitoplanar EC4 wall-mounted manifold features a discreet design and a variety of sizes. Infrared heating with a mirror surface is also available for bathrooms or hallways.

Replacing old instantaneous water heaters makes sense

As with older heating systems, many instantaneous water heaters still in use operate inefficiently. They heat incoming cold water at a constant output, which is often too high. Furthermore, the outlet hot water temperature cannot be directly controlled. To achieve the desired temperature, hot water must be mixed with cold water. Modern electric water heaters with fully electronic controls, such as the Vitotherm EI2, operate entirely differently. Output is regulated based on the selected DHW temperature and water flow. As a result, instantaneous water heaters rarely use their full capacity and operate more efficiently. In terms of numbers, these units consume 20% less electricity and reduce water consumption.