Rating of TOP 10 storage gas water heaters. Tips on how to choose a reliable model

What are gas storage water heaters? Which companies make the best models? Rating of storage gas water heaters depending on tank volume.

Gas is one of the most inexpensive sources of thermal energy. Therefore, many people prefer to buy gas water heaters to provide themselves with hot water.

The household appliances market offers many models with such characteristics.

Let's look at the best gas storage water heaters and what to look for when purchasing.

Rating of the TOP 10 best storage gas water heaters

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What is a gas storage water heater?

Keep in mind! Operating principle of gas storage structures:

1. At the bottom of the housing there is a burner, which releases heat when burning gas. Its task is to generate heat and direct it into the flame tube.
2. The walls of the heated pipe come into contact with cold water to convert it into hot water - heat exchange occurs.
3. The heated water is located in a tank covered with thermal insulation material. This ensures that the temperature remains high for a long time.

The first heating is carried out within half an hour, then the energy is directed to maintaining the temperature.

Where and how to place a gas boiler

Gas heater with a closed combustion chamber
A gas boiler should be installed based on its design, weight, dimensions, and requirements of regulatory organizations. It is strictly recommended to place devices with an open combustion chamber in specially designated rooms: boiler rooms, utility rooms. The boiler will require a chimney and sufficient ventilation to supply oxygen.

Modern devices with a closed combustion chamber can be installed in ordinary premises, provided that the coaxial or combined chimney is led outside the building. Such installations are quite safe; with modern means of control, they do not harm human health and well-being, since they do not take oxygen from the room or emit combustion products into its volume.

Wall-mounted boilers must be installed in compliance with the requirements of regulatory authorities. Their list includes the distance to the nearest heat source, vertical elements of the gas supply route, and the meter. Before installation, a project is drawn up, which must be approved by the gas industry. Floor-standing boilers are located on a reliable foundation; in private houses it is not recommended to install such installations on the second or third floor of the building.

The most difficult situation is with combined gas boilers. Their purchase and installation should be made taking into account the following factors:

1. It is advisable that the heating boiler and boiler be from the same manufacturer, since products of a single brand will not necessarily be compatible with the equipment of another.
2. The boiler power consumption level should not exceed the heating system reserve. Failure to comply with this requirement can lead to troubles and malfunctions in the operation of the main boiler.
3. If the house uses a low-temperature heating system, for example, underfloor heating, a combined condensing type boiler will be required.

The listed requirements are known to manufacturers of water treatment systems. A good certified combination boiler will definitely have information in the documentation about which brands of equipment it is compatible with. The instructions will also contain recommendations for heating boiler parameters and other useful information.

Top brands manufacturers

For your information! High quality storage gas water heaters are produced under the following brands:

1. Ariston. A company that produces equipment in Italy. Manufactured products are sold in more than 150 countries around the world. Water heaters from Ariston are made of stainless steel, enameled, coated with silver ions for reliable protection against corrosion.
2. BOSCH. A German manufacturer that occupies a leading position in the sale of household appliances. Water heaters of this brand are not only of high quality and wear resistance, but are also characterized by the speed of heating water.
3. Electrolux. Heating equipment is characterized by a modern exterior and a large number of additional functions.
4. A.E.G. Another German brand. The equipment has simple and convenient functionality, comfortable to use.
5. Timberk. A Swedish manufacturer that specializes in the production of climate control equipment. Water heaters are characterized by high heating speed and safe operation.

Typical breakdowns and how to fix them

Repairing a gas water heater is an activity for highly qualified specialists. However, some breakdowns can be fixed with your own hands. Before starting work, you need to close the water and gas supply taps. After this, you need to unscrew the mounting screws and remove the handles and speaker housing.

Here are some examples of when a gas water heater won't light up:

• Water heaters with automatic ignition systems may run out of batteries. All you need to do is replace the batteries.
• For water heaters that have a built-in generator, the piezoelectric element, electrode or power cable may malfunction. It is necessary to clean the contacts of the automatic ignition system, check the electrodes and wires for malfunctions. If all these steps do not help, you need to check and replace the power button and the piezoelectric element.
• If there is no draft, you need to clean the ventilation; to do this, you should call a specialist.
• If the pressure is insufficient, you should pay attention to the water supply or heater assembly. All that is needed is cleaning the pipes, washing or replacing filters.
• If the gas water heater does not turn on, you should check and, if necessary, replace the membrane of the water unit. To do this, remove the water-gas block and, by unscrewing the screws, separate its water part. Before removing the rubber plate, it is important to remember its location. Then you need to clean the inside of the cap and install a new rubber part on the plate with the stem. It is better to replace the membrane with silicone, which lasts longer. Finally, you can tighten the screws (preferably diagonally).
• Some gas devices have a knob for adjusting the water flow. If the column does not light up, you need to check how the mechanical switch is located. If the pressure is not large enough and the column does not start, you should set the knob to the leftmost position and switch to the right until the device turns on. You need to adjust the jet at startup.

Key parameters when choosing

Important! When purchasing a specific model, you should pay special attention to the following characteristics:

1. Tank material. Leading manufacturers offer water heaters made of stainless steel, enameled, and titanium coated. Stainless steel is the best option, providing long service life and protection from corrosive damage. Enameled models are budget equipment and are easily subject to mechanical damage. Titanium coating is similar to stainless steel and also provides good wear resistance to the device.
2. Burner type. There are atmospheric and closed ones. The choice depends on the technical conditions in the room.
3. Volume of the tank. It is calculated based on the number of people living in the house.
4. A type of ignition. Automatic - runs on mains power or batteries. Piezo ignition - performed manually, the wick is constantly working.
5. Power. The higher this indicator, the faster the water heats up.

Conclusions and useful video on the topic

How to choose a gas water heater for a cottage or apartment? What should you focus on? The specialist gives detailed instructions:

To choose a reliable and high-quality geyser, make a personal list of important technical characteristics.

The fundamental indicators when choosing will be performance and power, and all the rest depend on the situation and user needs.

Are you thinking about purchasing a flow-through model of a gas water heater, but still doubt the safety of the model you like? Ask your questions under this article - our experts and other site visitors will dispel your doubts.

Have you been using a gas water heater included in the ratings discussed above for more than one year and want to share your impressions? Write comments, add photos of your model, leave tips on the safe use of equipment.

The best models with a volume of 50 liters

A fairly compact variation for obtaining uninterrupted hot water supply . Let's consider the best models designed to heat 50 liters.

2 best models in this category.

Ariston S/SGA 50

An indispensable device in homes where there are frequent interruptions in the supply of hot water.

The model is easy to operate. Has an enameled surface on the inside.

Operational safety is ensured by gas control and protection against overheating/freezing.

Specifications:

• thermal power - 2.9 kW;
• type of ignition - piezo ignition;
• control type - mechanical;
• dimensions - 495x675x495 mm;
• weight - 27 kg.

Advantages

• reliability;
• long service life;
• ergonomics;
• stylish exterior;
• simple and comfortable control.

Flaws

• not always high-quality assembly;
• high price;
• short warranty period - only 1 year.

Ariston SGA 50

A simple and easy-to-use model that dynamically heats water.

The design is quite easy to install and does not require much space.

The inside of the tank is covered with enamel, which provides protection against corrosion.

The only caveat is that you should protect the outer surface from mechanical damage.

Specifications:

• thermal power - 2.9 kW;
• type of ignition - electric ignition;
• control type - mechanical;
• dimensions - 495x495x315 mm;
• weight - 26 kg.

Advantages

• reliable design;
• high-quality assembly;
• comfortable control;
• fast water heating;
• good equipment.

Flaws

• high price;
• not available in all stores;
• makes noise when heating.

The best models with a volume of 100 liters

Water heaters with a 100-liter tank will be a good alternative to central hot water supply. Let's consider the best models with this parameter.

Ariston SGA 100

This device is very powerful, thanks to which it heats a full tank within 30 minutes.

The device has a classic design, so it will be a good addition to a modern interior.

Economical to maintain, does not require special technical skills to configure and manage.

Specifications:

• thermal power - 4.4 kW;
• type of ignition - electric ignition;
• control type - mechanical;
• dimensions - 495x635x495 mm;
• weight - 26 kg.

Advantages

• efficiency;
• compact dimensions;
• reliability;
• Beautiful design;
• quiet in operation;
• water pressure at a stable temperature.

Flaws

• high price;
• some consumers complain that the device leaks after 1-2 years of operation;
• weak equipment.

BAXI SAG3 100

An economical and durable device that provides a large supply of hot water.

The water heater can fully function with reduced gas and water pressure.

Stably maintains a high temperature regardless of the current flow rate.

The system is equipped with an adjustable thermostat.

Specifications:

• thermal power - 5.3 kW;
• type of ignition - piezo ignition;
• control type - mechanical;
• dimensions - 440x1140x440 mm;
• weight - 39 kg.

Advantages

• high build quality;
• fast heating;
• uniform water temperature;
• efficiency;
• works quietly.

Flaws

• subject to corrosive damage;
• high price;
• bulky design;
• heavy weight.

Principle of operation

Diagram of the smoke removal principle

The operating principle of a storage water heater is as follows:

1. Cold water enters the boiler.
2. The sensors are triggered and the burner turns on.
3. As it heats up, the hot water rises, from where it enters the internal water supply system.
4. When water is drawn from the tank, the pressure changes. Thanks to this, the check valve is triggered - it opens and a new portion of cold water enters the tank. It is heated again.
5. When the liquid temperature reaches the set temperature, the thermostat will turn off the heater.

If we are talking about a geyser, then cold water is supplied to it, and a pipe comes out of it through which hot water enters the hot water system. A pipe from a gas main or a cylinder is also connected to the device.

The design of a gas water heater is quite complex, but the main role is played by the burner, which heats the copper heat exchanger. Due to this, the temperature of the water passing through it increases. The system also contains a control unit and sensors that regulate the operation of the device.

The best models from 150 to 300 liters

Models with such a large volume can be used for both household and industrial purposes . Let's look at the best options.

TOP-6 rating of the most popular devices from 150 to 300 liters in terms of price and quality ratio.

American Water Heater PROLine GX-61-40T40-3NV

A premium unit with appropriate quality and functionality.

The reliability of this device is ensured by a heating temperature limiter.

This makes it possible not to use it to the maximum, which significantly extends its service life.

It should be remembered that sudden changes in temperature must be avoided, since the internal coating is made of glass ceramics.

Specifications:

• tank volume - 151 l;
• thermal power - 10.2 kW;
• type of combustion chamber - open;
• highest heating temperature - 70 degrees;
• dimensions - 457x1530x457 mm;
• weight - 55.4 kg.

Advantages

• reliable assembly;
• rapid heating of water;
• efficiency;
• strength;
• long service life.

Flaws

• requires special conditions of use so that the internal coating does not deteriorate;
• high price;
• noisy work.

American Water Heater PROLine G-61-50T40-3NV

A device with a modern design and non-bulky design.

Ideal for houses with a large number of residents, since the tank volume allows the use of hot water in unlimited quantities.

This also makes it possible to maintain the temperature for a long time.

Specifications:

• tank volume - 190 l;
• thermal power - 11.7 kW;
• type of combustion chamber - open;
• highest heating temperature - 70 degrees;
• dimensions - 508x1450x508 mm;
• weight - 67.2 kg.

Advantages

• dynamic heating;
• long warranty period - 6 years;
• long period of operation;
• reliability;
• ergonomics;
• simple controls.

Flaws

• installation difficulties;
• uninformative instructions;
• makes noise during operation.

Ariston SGA 200

A reliable unit that is economical to maintain.

The water heater is easy to control and configure.

Difficulties may arise during installation, so it is better to entrust this matter to professionals.

Produces water at a comfortable temperature.

The large tank volume completes the pleasant impression of the device.

Specifications:

• tank volume - 195 l;
• thermal power - 8.65 kW;
• type of combustion chamber - open;
• highest heating temperature - 75 degrees;
• dimensions - 495x1700x495 mm;
• weight - 61 kg.

Advantages

• produces a large amount of hot water in a short time;
• reliable assembly;
• wear resistance;
• reasonable cost;
• equipped with power and heating indicators for added comfort;
• Retains temperature for a long time.

Flaws

• There is no thermometer included;
• the outer surface is easily subject to mechanical damage;
• prone to breakdowns.

Ariston SGA 150

The ideal combination of price and quality, perfect for a large family.

This unit heats the water quickly enough and maintains a high temperature for a long time.

Relatively compact dimensions do not require a separate space for installation.

This model is easy to operate.

Specifications:

• tank volume - 155 l;
• thermal power - 7.22 kW;
• type of combustion chamber - open;
• highest heating temperature - 75 degrees;
• dimensions - 495x1450x495 mm;
• weight - 53 kg.

Advantages

• easy installation;
• good build quality;
• beautiful appearance;
• durability;
• simple controls.

Flaws

• no thermometer included;
• there is no damper for the exhaust pipe, with it the temperature would remain longer;
• high price.

Ariston NHRE 26

A very large device that can be installed not only in residential buildings, but also for public premises.

The tank volume is 275 liters.

This amount can provide hot water to many people.

Despite this scale, the device is economical and easy to maintain.

Specifications:

• tank volume - 275 l;
• thermal power - 28.9 kW;
• type of combustion chamber - open;
• highest heating temperature - 75 degrees;
• dimensions - 700x1840x781 mm;
• weight - 171 kg.

Advantages

• efficiency;
• large supply of hot water;
• comfortable control;
• wear resistance;
• reliable design.

Flaws

• high price;
• very noisy when heating water;
• bulkiness.

BAXI SAG3 300

Floor standing water heater with large-scale performance.

A mechanically controlled unit that does not require technical knowledge and skills to operate.

Allows you to heat water to a temperature of 70 degrees.

It is possible to connect to several points in parallel.

Specifications:

• tank volume - 300 l;
• thermal power - 29.3 kW;
• type of combustion chamber - open;
• highest heating temperature - 70 degrees;
• dimensions - 650x1680x650 mm;
• weight - 137 kg.

Advantages

• provides a large volume of hot water;
• low cost;
• simple controls;
• efficiency;
• makes virtually no sounds.

Flaws

• unreliable design - the water heater leaks after several years of operation;
• bulkiness;
• weak equipment.

What to choose - boiler or column

The first thing that worries the average user when choosing any product is the price. But an electric storage water heater and a gas water heater are completely different devices in terms of operation. This means that their cost can be compared only on one basis - the ability to provide hot water to a family of 3 people.

As an example, let’s take fairly reliable devices in the mid-price category - a flow-through heater from the NEVA brand and a 50-liter Gorenje boiler. That's what came out of it:

Notes:

1. If we take a geyser from the Gorenje brand for comparison, it will cost even less than the Neva - about 135 USD. e.
2. The table shows the electrical power of the boiler, but it is almost equal to the thermal power.

Conclusion. In terms of the price of the equipment, the hot water heater running on natural gas clearly wins.

Comparison of installation and connection complexity

This criterion plays an important role because it is associated with certain costs – financial and time. When comparing, we will not take into account the cold and hot water supply; it is present in both cases. The installation features of different water heaters are described in the comparison table:

Conclusion. Although some difficulties arise when installing a heavy and large boiler, in general it is much easier and cheaper to install and connect it than a gas water heater. If desired, you can install the storage heater yourself.

Ease of use

Having analyzed all the pros and cons of operating household water heating devices, we will collect them in one list:

1. The column heats the water immediately after opening the tap, which is very comfortable. The boiler takes time to prepare water - from 1 to 3 hours, depending on its temperature and tank volume.
2. The storage device produces a high flow rate and supplies several consumers at once. When drawing water at 2-3 points, the column does not have time to heat the water and its temperature drops.
3. A flow-through gas heater heats water indefinitely. The duration of supply from the boiler depends on its capacity.

Over the years of operation, scale accumulates in the tank and on the surface of the heating element, and the magnesium anode is destroyed

Speaking about operation, we should not forget about equipment maintenance. In this regard, a storage electric water heater is more reliable, since it only requires periodic cleaning of the tank and replacement of the anode. Gas water heaters are complex devices and not everyone can maintain and repair them.

Conclusion. It is still more convenient to use flow-through devices, provided that they have enough thermal power for all needs. Another thing is maintenance and repair; in this regard, maintaining the boiler will be cheaper.

Maintenance work on a gas-fired hot water heater should be entrusted to a specialist.