How to choose a gas water heater for a private home with low pressure

A gas water heater, or instantaneous water heater, is a convenient (and often the only possible) solution for those who are deprived of the joys of central plumbing and heating. Not everyone is familiar with this device, but those who lived in an old house connected to a gas supply know very well what a gas water heater is.

Fortunately, modern gas water heaters are significantly different from those that were installed in homes several decades ago. Now these are not large-sized, noisy and foul-smelling “monsters”, but very compact and practical devices that practically do not remind anyone of their presence in the apartment.

However, some things have remained the same. For example, problems with water pressure. Modern geysers suffer from this no less than their predecessors. We will talk about the reasons for low hot water pressure and ways to solve this problem in today’s article.

Why is the water pressure not strong enough?

Let's look at the most common factors that affect the water pressure in a instantaneous gas water heater.

• Device power. To ensure that there is good water pressure in the gas water heater, you need to purchase a device of appropriate power. A gas water heater with a power of less than 8 kW can produce poor water supply. It is better to purchase a water heater whose power ranges from 8 to 10 kW.
• Presence of blockages. Any pipes through which water flows are susceptible to blockages. If we are talking about a geyser, then the problem is most often in the mesh filter, which becomes clogged with particles of lime and rust. If water does not pass through the filter well, then the pressure will be low.
• Scale formation. Scale often appears in metal containers intended for boiling water. In a gas water heater, the function of such a container or tank is performed by a heat exchanger. If the tap water is too hard, over time a layer of scale forms on the walls of the heat exchanger, which gradually makes its way into the pipes - hence the weakening of the hot water pressure.
• Consequences of technical work. This factor is associated with scale that settles inside the heat exchanger. When the water in the pipes is shut off and then its supply is resumed, a so-called “water hammer” occurs, as a result of which scale particles enter the mixer. As a result, a blockage forms in one part of the mixer.
• Preventative work. Like any other gas equipment, the water heater needs careful maintenance, one of the important components of which is regular prevention of blockages and other problems. Often the cause of poor water pressure is neglect of maintenance of the device.

Heat exchanger clogged

A clogged heat exchanger can also be the reason why your Bosch, Neva, or Indesit column produces boiling water at the outlet. There are many ways to eliminate this problem using purchased or self-prepared cleaning mixtures. The simplest is without removing the heat exchanger using hydrochloric acid 3-5% solution.

Unscrew the casing from the device, turn off all taps, open the hot water taps and remove any remaining water from the system. Disconnect the pipes from the heat exchanger, water may leak out, prepare a bucket. You will need two pipes, which you will connect to the inlet and outlet of the radiator, attach one of them above the level of the column, and seal the joints. Using a funnel, pour the reagent into the device.

Carry out the procedure until you get good pressure. Clean the heat exchanger thoroughly and reconnect everything.

What to do?

Problem

Solutions

The mesh filter is located “at the inlet” of the heat exchanger. You can remove the blockage by removing this part and cleaning it with a stiff brush under running water. If during the cleaning process you notice that the filter is damaged, replace it with a new one.

Scale in the heat exchanger

It is not recommended to use special products that are designed to remove and prevent the formation of scale in geysers. They have an aggressive chemical composition that destroys metal surfaces. “Folk” remedies, for example, simple citric acid dissolved in hot water, are much more effective and safer.

Blockage in pipes

If a blockage has formed in the pipe through which hot water flows, you can try to remove it by running the cold water back. To do this, you need to remove the plug, place a container under the column to collect water and open both taps. Then pinch the spout with your finger. There is a chance that cold water, moving in the opposite direction, will push the clog forward.

If small debris has penetrated further than the gas water heater pipes, it may well get inside the mixer. The most susceptible to blockages are the filter, the axle box and the thin rubber hose. You can fix the problem if you disassemble the mixer and visually inspect each part for the presence of foreign objects. Accumulations of dirt are usually easily washed off with running water.

Our article will help you choose the best geyser: powerful, compact and functional - so that there is always hot water in the tap.

Thermostat problem

REASON: Besides the higher temperature setting, you may also experience problems with your thermostat that can cause the water to overheat. If the thermostat is faulty or malfunctioning, it will not show the red light sign that usually indicates the water has warmed up. This way, you won't know if the water is getting hotter than your needs, and therefore, it results in you getting overheated water.

SOLUTION. Thermostats can be easily replaced, and if so, then you need to replace them to solve the problem.

Which gas water heater is better to buy?

The choice of heater depends on the number of water points that the boiler will serve and the required volume of hot water, taking into account the needs of the family. But there are a number of technical characteristics that you should also pay attention to when purchasing.

The power of the geyser determines how much hot water and to how many points it can supply:

• Up to 20 kW – one consumer, 11 l/min;
• From 21 to 25 kW – for two points, up to 15 l/min;
• From 26 to 31 kW – for three points, more than 16 l/min.

Operating principle of the device

To make the right choice, you need to understand the structure and operating principle of the column. It is also called a flow heater.

Two tubes are connected to the body. One supplies gas, the other water. When water is supplied to the mains, pressure arises, which acts on the membrane. She bends and opens the gas valve. The burner fires and heats the water, which passes through the heat exchanger coil. The flow comes out when the mixer is opened.

In order to choose the right device for your cottage or home, you need to take into account the parameters of the equipment and the condition of the water supply line. The correct setting of the device will depend on the pressure in the system. Read how to set up and adjust the gas water heater in the previous article.

How to choose a geyser

Instantaneous gas water heaters most often have small dimensions; they are an ideal choice for a small apartment. The device is connected directly to the cold water supply system and runs on both natural and liquefied gas.

The principle of operation of the column is very simple: water enters the heat exchanger, where it is heated by the combustion gas, and is immediately supplied to the mixer.

If the water cools down, the column automatically heats it up to the desired temperature. The water container is well insulated, so the water stays hot longer.

Depending on your needs, you can choose a gas water heater with a liquid tank of 50 liters or more.

Basic selection options:

• Power. Depending on how much liquid is heated, a geyser can have a power from 6 to 30 kW.
• Type of ignition - can be automatic or semi-automatic. The automatic type of ignition is triggered when the water supply is turned on or when the water in the container has cooled.

The semi-automatic type of speakers works only if you press the piezo ignition button. Such a device increases gas consumption, since the pilot flame must always be burning.

• Burner type - can be with constant or modulated power. Devices with constant power are less convenient in places where the water pressure and, accordingly, the heating temperature often change.

• Type of exhaust of combustion products. A chimney column is installed if the corrugated hose can be routed into an existing chimney.

Turbocharged devices are less popular because there is a risk of the outlet paths freezing at low temperatures. In this case, it is necessary to drain the accumulated water frequently to prevent the heat exchanger from exploding.

• Safety – a geyser is a dangerous device, so you need to pay attention to the presence of protective sensors and relays.

Secondary parameters:

1. Dimensions - if this point does not matter, you can select a column, taking into account only the main characteristics and requirements. If the room does not allow you to install a large storage column, you can choose the most compact flow-through one.
2. Shape – if you will hide the device in a kitchen unit, it is better to choose a square shape of the required size.

What parameters should you use when choosing?

Before choosing the best geyser option for an apartment or private house, you need to decide on the volume of water that comes from the tap. You need to determine how many liters per minute flows out of the tap. To do this, the easiest way is to use a water meter if it is installed on a pipe in the apartment.

To do this, you need to record the readings on the meter. Next, you need to note the time and open the tap at full power, draining the water for exactly one minute. After this, you need to close the tap and record the readings on the meter again. Then it is necessary to subtract the primary indicators from the final indicators. The resulting number will help you choose the model you need in terms of performance.

If the resulting value is less than 10 liters, then there is no point in buying models with a capacity of 13-15 or more liters. If the house has old pipes in which the pressure often decreases, then a model with a reduced threshold is needed, otherwise the water heater will turn off when the water pressure decreases.

For regulation of water and gas supply

According to the method of controlling the water temperature, geysers are divided into manual and automatic. Models with a manual setting method are cheaper than models with an automatic one.

Manual regulation implies the presence of two valves on the body of the geyser. An increase in gas supply leads to more intense combustion and heating of water. If increasing the gas supply is not enough for optimal heating, it is possible to reduce the pressure of water entering the column.

The disadvantage of these models is the lack of flame modulation in the heating pad. When two water intake points are used simultaneously, the water temperature will change. This is uncomfortable, especially if a person is taking a bath at this time

Models with electronic ignition maintain the temperature set by the user. This is achieved by modulating the flame in the burner, depending on the pressure of the water used. The maximum deviation from the set temperature range is from 1 to 3 degrees Celsius.

It is very important that the water is heated smoothly when turned on, without sudden jumps. If the burner first heats up very much and then lowers the temperature, you will have to wait for the water temperature to normalize. This increases water consumption.

Guidelines for gas ignition method

Speakers that are lit by a piezoelectric element are more reliable than their automatic counterparts. Models with a piezoelectric element allow you to manually control the gas supply to the column, unlike automatic igniters. These models have the ability to leave the flame on the pilot burner in normal mode.

This allows you to avoid re-igniting the column each time you use it. The flame is maintained in the pilot burner and ignites the main heating element when the sensor detects water flow.

The location of the ignition button differs in speakers from different manufacturers. In some models, in addition to pressing the button, you have to move the slider

Water heaters that receive a spark from a battery-powered igniter cannot be installed in rooms with high humidity. Condensation forms inside the plastic battery case. Over time, metal parts become damp and need to be completely replaced.

It is advisable to change the batteries themselves as needed. With constant use of the device, the frequency of replacement increases. It is better to use high-quality batteries, they last for a year or more

Columns fired by a hydrogenerator are noisy. They make a small whistle, reminiscent of the wind. In expensive models, this problem is solved by soundproofing the case. These water heaters also turn on when the hot tap opens. Visually, the hydrogenerator does not stand out, as it is installed in the water heater housing.

According to the method of removal of combustion products

Flow-through gas heaters require combustion products to be removed. The safest way to remove carbon monoxide is a chimney with a pipe outlet to the street.

The more powerful the geyser model, the wider the diameter of the chimney pipe. If a water heater is purchased to replace a failed device, then you need to measure the diameter of the installed pipe so that there is no need to dismantle the old one.

On the Russian market you can find models of instantaneous gas water heaters without a chimney. Placing them in a confined space is hazardous to health. It is highly undesirable to install them in rooms without ventilation holes in the walls.

Their installation in the bathroom is prohibited, as there is a risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. A distinctive feature of these models is low power. Our recommended article will introduce you to the rules for installing speakers.

According to the method of oxygen supply

In budget models of geysers there is no bottom cover on the body, or there are ventilation holes on the body of the device.

The disadvantage of this device is that combustion waste partially enters the apartment through these openings. In addition to carbon monoxide, propane may leak

In expensive models, a different oxygen supply device is used. It is a pipe that comes out of the column at its bottom. Additionally, the speaker body is closed with a bottom and top cover, which prevents carbon dioxide from entering the apartment. The effect is achieved through convection.

How to determine the required power?

Low power water heaters (17-19 kW) are designed for systems with low water pressure and serving only one point of consumption. They are installed in houses with old pipes.

There is no point in purchasing a more powerful column if the system flows less than 10 liters of water per minute. It's a waste of money

If the apartment has good water pressure (10-14 liters per minute), then you can choose a gas water heater for two hot water supply points. Medium power water heaters (20-24 kW) may react poorly when the pressure in the system decreases if it is not enough to turn on the automatic gas ignition system.

High power geysers (28-31 kW) are not intended for apartments. They are used in private country houses. Some manufacturers produce modular columns that are specifically designed to work as a single water heating system.

The best gas water heater with a closed combustion chamber

The Zanussi GWH 10 Fonte
instantaneous gas water heater can be installed in a private or multi-storey building.
The device was created using modern technologies and materials. Characteristics:

• The design is made in a classic style.
• There are models with additional patterned glass on the front panel; this solution allows you to gently fit the device into any design.
• The Zanussi GWH 10 Fonte geyser operates silently, consumes gas and water economically, and is equipped with a multi-level security system.

Pros:

• the Zanussi water heater is equipped with electronic ignition, which uses two standard batteries;
• the presence of an LED display that reflects the temperature of the liquid upon exit;
• the device operates smoothly at low pressure and supplies water under even pressure;
• the burner and heat exchanger are made of stainless steel, which will significantly extend the service life;
• closed combustion chamber;
• low cost.

Minuses:

• The batteries in your electronic lighter need to be changed frequently.

The best geyser with automatic water temperature control

The domestic gas water heater Neva 4510-M has many advantages, the main one of which is an affordable price.
Characteristics:

• The device is made in a classic style and has no special frills.
• The speaker has compact parameters, so it can be installed in a small apartment or in a private house.
• The column operates quietly and uniformly supplies liquid at the desired temperature even with sudden pressure changes.

Pros:

• The water heating column starts at a liquid pressure of 0.15 bar.
• Availability of two-stage flame modulation.
• The presence of an ionization sensor, due to which the gas supply stops when the burner goes out.
• Compact dimensions allow the speaker to be installed in a small bathroom or kitchen.
• Quite low cost.

Minuses:

• The water heater is not equipped with smooth flame modulation, which will not allow the use of this device at two water supply points.
• The column has a power of 17.9 kW, which allows you to heat only 9 liters per minute.

The best geyser for an apartment

Mora Top Vega 10 is a fairly popular water heating device on the Russian market.

Characteristics:

• The device heats more than 10 liters per minute.
• The geyser weighs about 2.5 kilograms.
• The device is designed for one water intake, so it can be used separately in the kitchen or bathroom.

Pros:

• Use of high quality spare parts and materials in production.
• An effective and multi-level security system, or more precisely, protection against starting without water supply and against backdraft in the chimney, the presence of fuses against water overheating.
• Robust and practical design of the device.
• Attractive appearance.
• The heat exchanger is made of copper with an efficiency of up to 93%.

Minuses:

• High price.
• Designed for one water intake.
• This model is sometimes difficult to find in stores due to the fact that the product is instantly sold out of stores.

Important parameters of a capacitive gas water heater, what to pay attention to

The first important point of our small study has been completed. But, asking the question “How to choose a gas water heater?”, one cannot ignore such a section as technical and operational characteristics. Let's take a closer look at the most important parameters:

Power and performance

For almost any household appliance, the most important indicator that reveals its full potential is the rated power. As in the case of an electric water heater, the hero of our review has a value measured in kilowatts.

In practice, another important characteristic—performance—depends on power. To more clearly confirm these words, we suggest that you familiarize yourself with the table of the dependence of two characteristics.

NOTE!

Performance also has its own important parameter, and its name is storage capacity. Having studied the instructions, you can notice a direct relationship between how many liters the heater can hold and how long it will take for the water to be heated to a certain temperature.

Incorrect selection of the boiler volume will lead to a queue in the bathroom and conflicts in the family. Don't let this happen, use the table!

Materials used + type of internal coating of the tank

Today, there are two most common materials for the manufacture of the internal tank of the device - ordinary steel coated with a layer of enamel, or “stainless steel”. The first option is cheaper and more durable, but is subject to rapid destruction due to corrosion. The second variation has good durability, but is more damaged by pressure drops in the system, and is also high in cost.

For geysers, the most common type of tank body material is copper.

For the internal coating of the container, either the previously mentioned enamel is used (models with glass porcelain are also found), or spraying of various corrosion-resistant metals (titanium, molybdenum). Each version has its own useful life, and depends primarily on the intensity of use and heating temperature.

Unfortunately, enameled tanks quickly fail due to periodic loads of water - anti-corrosion coatings are much more effective

Combustion chamber type

As we said earlier, there are units with an open and closed combustion chamber, and each has its own strengths and weaknesses. The wrong choice of device will entail unnecessary costs, and may also completely fail to meet your goals and expectations. If you are not completely sure, it is better to give preference to a classic flow-through geyser - the risk will be minimal.

Visually distinguishing the types of combustion chambers is not so difficult; the principle is inherent in the name itself

Ignition starting method

If you only have a modest amount of money or you want to completely control the operation of the water heater, it is better to take a model in which the gas is ignited with matches, a lighter or a piezoelectric element. If you want to save time and energy costs, then you should take a closer look at models with automatic start/shutdown.

Manual ignition is characterized by a direct igniter circuit, while automated ignition is characterized by an igniter

Presence of sacrificial anode

To extend the service life of the device and improve its corrosion resistance, many manufacturers equip their “brainchildren” with a zinc or magnesium anode. During use, this element gradually “evaporates”, dissolving and preventing damage to the integrity of the tank. It is better to check in advance with the seller or on the manufacturer’s website about the presence of such “bells and whistles”.

If there is hard water and the boiler is used very actively, the anode will quickly fail, and its replacement will require the services of qualified specialists

The best geyser with turbo hood

The Hyundai H-GW2
gas water heater is made of durable and high-quality materials, which has a positive effect on its operation and extends its service life.
The small and compact device is easily installed in a small kitchen or bathroom. Characteristics:

• The water heater has a classic appearance and weighs about 8 kilograms.
• The device is made of durable, high-quality and resistant materials, which allows it to be used in any conditions.
• The column has an automatic ignition system, which has a positive effect on its performance and safety.

Pros:

• The presence of an LED display allows you to control the outlet temperature, as well as recognize errors and breakdowns when they occur.
• The device is equipped with a 4D-quard security system.

Lack of draft sensors in the turbo exhaust shut off the gas in case of danger and also prevent reverse draft. The flow sensor regulates the presence and level of liquid in the water heater.

The ionization sensor shuts off the gas in the absence of flame and in case of overheating.

Minuses:

• Cannot operate on bottled gas;
• Requires frequent battery replacement;
• Designed for one water intake.

Winter mode enabled

One of the frequent reasons why the device heats the water too much is the failure to switch it to the mode corresponding to the time of year, that is, the change from winter to summer. In the warm season, the temperature in the central pipeline rises, and, as a result, less gas is required to heat it.

If you have not changed the seasonal operating mode of the device, naturally, at the outlet you will receive a higher temperature of the heated water. To solve this problem, simply set the operating mode of the device according to the season.

The best geyser for low water pressure

Ariston Fast Evo 11C is a natural gas instantaneous water heater. The water heater has compact parameters and operates at a pressure of 0.10 bar.

Characteristics:

• The geyser is triggered by automatic ignition, which is connected to the mains.
• This water heater can be installed in an apartment or in a country house, since its productivity is 11 liters per minute, the water heats up to 65-70 degrees.

Pros:

• The main advantages of this model include its power, which is 19 kW.
• The presence of an LED display allows you to find out the exact temperature of the outlet liquid, as well as correct a breakdown or error thanks to the appearance of special codes on the screen.
• The safety system includes a flame sensor, overheat protection and a draft sensor.

Design and principle of operation

A classic geyser is a wall-mounted instantaneous water heater that operates using the energy released when natural gas is burned. In its simplest configuration, such a device consists of several basic elements:

1. Steel body;
2. Burners;
3. Igniter;
4. Supply pipes and fittings;
5. Gas valve.

Before choosing a specific model of a geyser, let’s consider the operating principle of this unit.

When you open the tap, water begins to circulate through the water heater circuit. Upon reaching a certain pressure in the system, the gas valve is activated, which opens the fuel supply to the gas burner. The igniter starts the gas combustion process. The hot combustion products pass through a heat exchanger through which water from the plumbing system circulates.

As a result of this process, the water is heated and enters the water supply system, and combustion products are discharged through the chimney into the atmosphere.

The best geyser for a private home

In terms of versatility, the Bosch WRD 13-2G is considered one of the best due to its fairly high power and performance.

Characteristics:

• This model can be used to supply two water intakes.
• The manufacturer offers the possibility of replacing the burner for liquefied gas.
• Compact parameters, classic shape and color allow you not to hide the water heater without spoiling the overall design of the room.

Pros:

• It has a built-in hydrodynamic generator, thanks to which automatic ignition is carried out.
• The outlet temperature corresponds to the readings on the LCD display.
• When the water pressure changes, the water heater maintains the set temperature.
• The copper heat exchanger prevents heat loss and also significantly extends the service life.

Minuses:

• The lowest pressure this model can operate with is 0.35 bar.
• High price.

The best gas water heater for bottled gas

Mora Vega 13 geyser can supply hot water to two points.

Characteristics:

• The model is presented in several variations, which allows you to choose the shape and size that best fits your design and space.
• It runs on natural and bottled gas, which allows it to be used in apartments and private houses.

Pros:

• A high-quality heat exchanger supplies water without changing its temperature parameters.
• The diameter of the outlet pipe can be connected to the chimney with minimal neck parameters.

Minuses:

• Very high price.
• It is difficult to find spare parts in case of breakdown.

First aid

Before looking for a breakdown and calling a repairman, check that all conditions for normal operation of the column are met.

What to look for:

• If the water is not hot enough, check the temperature regulator and, if necessary, turn it to the desired value;
• If the device is working at maximum, the pressure is very good, but you need to make the water hotter, open the tap halfway;
• Check whether the gas tap is fully open, especially if you recently turned off the gas due to repairs or departure;
• If the dispenser operates on liquid gas, call a technician to inspect the cylinder and check its serviceability;
• Check to see if the cold water is turned on anywhere;
• Compare the temperature of the hose at the dispenser and the mixer. If it is different, the tap needs to be cleaned;
• Check if the filters are clogged.

The best gas water heater with piezo ignition

The Bosch WR 10-2P gas water heater has a lot of advantages regarding its performance and external characteristics.

Characteristics:

• The geyser has a classic shape and small parameters, making it almost invisible in the room.
• This model can be easily converted from natural gas to liquefied gas, so it is practical both in a city apartment and in a rural house.

Pros:

• Silent operation and compact parameters.
• This model can operate even with very low water pressure.
• Automatic ignition turns on when the tap is opened and turns off when the flow is turned off.
• Piezo ignition allows you to avoid purchasing an endless number of batteries, which can fail at the most inopportune moment.
• The security system includes a fire intensity regulator and a temperature sensor to prevent overheating.

Minuses:

• The disadvantages of this model include sensitivity to liquid quality.
• In the event of a breakdown, spare parts are very difficult to find, as is a specialized service center.
• To clean the water heater, you need to completely disassemble the device.

Pressure relief valve problem

REASON: Another possible cause of geyser overheating is a problem with the pressure relief valve. If your pressure relief valve is bad or stuck, it will prevent steam from venting or escaping when the unit overheats. This can cause damage to the tank and can even lead to accidents and injuries to homeowners.

SOLUTION: If you hear boiling sounds from the speaker, it is recommended that you contact a specialist as soon as possible to solve the problem.

Overheating of a geyser is not only problematic, but also dangerous, so they should be checked and repaired as soon as you notice a problem. You can contact our specialists, and they will promptly come to you, advise, and repair your gas water heater.

The best gas water heater, semi-automatic

The Bosch Therm 2000
instantaneous gas water heater has many advantages, including the ability to easily switch to liquefied gas. Characteristics:

• The classic shape, small parameters and soft shades allow the device to be used in any design.
• An electric type of burner that is powered by standard batteries.
• The presence of a copper heat exchanger significantly improves operation and performance properties.
• To use liquefied gas, manufacturers offer the use of an additional kit with a burner.
• The device operates at a minimum fluid pressure of 0.15 bar.

Pros:

• The presence of two separate handles for adjusting water pressure and power.
• The water heater has high performance and heats more than 10 liters of liquid per minute.
• The minimum diameter of the device's chimney is 11 cm.
• The use of European components, which significantly affects the service life.

Minuses:

• Availability of Chinese components, which often fail.
• Automatic ignition is too loud.
• Expensive spare parts made in Europe.

Bosch WTD 18

Thermal power - 31.6 kW Heating volume - 12 l/min Input pressure - up to 12 atm Control type - electronic Ignition type - electric with open chamber

Convenient and modern gas water heater with average performance. Among the features of the model are the presence of an information display, automatic adjustment of operating parameters, electronic control of water temperature and the presence of a gas control function. Users cited ease of control, reliable operation of the security system, and the ability to operate on liquefied gas cylinders as advantages.