Electricity consumption of water heaters occupies 5.7% of amounts of that in Hong Kong, which is ranked fifth in household electricity consumption in Hong Kong. Therefore, it is necessary to purchase a proper water heater. Most people would feel confused in purchasing while facing various water heaters on the market. Sometimes BBE also receives message inquiring how to choose a proper water heater. Therefore, we provide explanation herein of product style and matters needing attention in purchase of a water heater for you specially.
Introduction to product style of water heaters
There are two types of water heaters available on the market: electric water heater and constant-temperature water heater. Electric water heaters are diversified in category, being mainly classified as water-storage ones and instant-heating ones. Its types would be introduced one by one hereinafter.
Eletrical heater
Water-storage heater
With a water tank, a water-storage heater can provide hot water when water in the tank heated. Therefore, you have to wait for a while after powering it up. On the other hand, water heater of such type cannot be connected to multiple water exit points.
Instantaneous Water Heaters
Just as its name implies, an instant-heating water heater is able to provide hot water as soon as it is powered up. Due to lack of water tank, its size is reflected in its electric power, generally, the higher the electric power, the bigger the size.
Constant-temperature gas water heater
Constant-temperature gas water heater can supply hot water instantly because of rapid heating ability by gas. Almost all constant-temperature gas water heaters on the market can do so.
Based on introduction to various types of water heaters above, you can choose a proper heater according to you own needs. If you are satisfied with a heater, you have to pay attention to matters hereinafter before purchasing.
Matters needing attention for purchasing water heater
Water pressure
A water heater can only be used normally with water pressure required. Less water and lower water pressure could cause heat-generating line being broken or even danger due to over-heated water. On the other hand, both instant-heating water heater and constant-temperature gas water heater are equipped with hydraulic brake. Therefore, you shall understand whether the water pressure of your building is high enough for a heater before purchasing. Otherwise, it is likely that you would buy an useless equipment.
Electric Supply
During selecting, you have to notice electric power of such heaters. For example, an electric water heater with electric power over 70000 W should be used with three-phrase supply; however, some old building may not provide such electricity supply system. If people living in such buildings want to buy a heater, they have to ask electric power company for three-phase four-wire power supply. Additionally, as high-power electrical appliance, water heaters have more power consumption. If electric wire cannot operate with load of current intensity of water heater, it is likely to cause a fire. Furthermore, it is advisable to buy a water heater with energy label so as to saving more energy and electric charge.
GU Mark
If you want to purchase a constant-temperature gas water heater, you have to buy a heater approved by EMSD (Electrical and Mechanical Services Department) and marked with GU. The reason is that such heater is approved by safety supervision of EMSD, which means the heater not only meets the requirements of the gas law, but also its safety is guaranteed, avoiding the risk of explosion.
Heater installation
Besides purchasing a proper and well-operating water heater, you have to pay the same attention to installation. In accordance with waterworks regulation, the installation should be conducted or be supervised by a licensed plumber. Wire for most heaters must be connected directly between the main switch and the heater. Power-up with a common socket or a universal plug are forbidden. It is said by EMSD that a constant-temperature gas water heater could be put into use only after being installed and tested by registered gas installers who are employed by registered gas contractor. It is really necessary to notice that any improper installation of water heater could endanger users’ life.
If any breakdown occurs on your water heater, it should be suspended and you have to call for a technician to check and repair it. As users, you should regularly contact a technician for safety check of your water heater. By doing so, you can enjoy a water heater without any worries.
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