An electric boiler designed to heat water only is a compact and self-contained heating system that uses electricity to heat water for domestic use. These boilers are modern, convenient, safe, and ecological heat generators that can be used as a stand-alone heating device or paired with other devices in a centralized heating system.
Key Features and Benefits
Compact Design
Electric boilers are designed to be compact, typically measuring around 60-80 cm in height and 40-50 cm in width, allowing for easy installation in small spaces such as closets, airing cupboards, or utility rooms. Their plug-and-play design and simplified programming make them a hassle-free option for homeowners.
Efficiency
Electric boilers are generally more efficient than fossil fuel boilers, with an efficiency rating of up to 99%. This is because they do not lose energy through flue gases, as the heat is directly transferred to the water. The best electric combi boilers can provide almost 1kW of heat for every 1kW of electricity used.
Low Maintenance
Electric boilers require less maintenance than gas or oil boilers, with fewer moving parts and no need for annual servicing. This can save homeowners time and money on maintenance costs over the lifetime of the boiler.
Eco-Friendly
Electric boilers do not produce any direct carbon emissions, making them a great option for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint. Their environmental impact is further reduced when paired with renewable energy sources, such as solar panels or wind power.
Flexibility
Electric boilers can be used with hydronic space heating systems in low-temperature residential applications, such as hot water radiators or in-floor radiant heating. This allows for a versatile and customizable heating solution that can be tailored to the specific needs of the home.
Types of Electric Boilers
Electric Combi Boilers
These boilers provide both hot water and central heating. They heat water on demand and do not require hot water storage cylinders, making them suitable for homes with limited space. Typical output ranges for electric combi boilers are 8-24kW.
Electric Heat-Only Boilers
These boilers heat water and store it in a hot water tank for use when needed. They are best suited for larger properties with higher demands for hot water, with output ranges typically between 12-24kW.
Electric System Boilers
These boilers combine the external components of a heat-only boiler system into a single unit, making them more compact and efficient. They are designed to be paired with a hot water cylinder for storage, with output ranges from 9-18kW.
Technical Specifications
Output Ranges
Electric boilers come in a wide range of output capacities, from as low as 4kW for small apartments to as high as 24kW for larger homes. This ensures that most residential applications can be covered by an appropriately sized electric boiler.
Efficiency
The best electric combi boilers on the market today can achieve efficiency ratings of up to 99%, meaning that almost all the electrical energy input is converted into useful heat output. This is significantly higher than the efficiency of traditional gas or oil boilers, which typically range from 80-90%.
Installation
Electric boilers are relatively simple to install, as they do not require any gas connections or flue systems. The installation process typically involves connecting the boiler to the electrical supply, the hot water system, and any heating circuits. This can often be completed in a single day by a qualified electrician.
Considerations
Running Costs
While electric boilers are highly efficient, the cost per kWh of electricity is currently higher than the cost of gas in many regions. This can result in higher overall running costs for homeowners, especially in areas with high electricity prices.
Power Supply
Properties must have a sufficient electrical power supply to accommodate the power requirements of an electric boiler. This should be assessed by a competent electrician before installation, as upgrading the electrical system can be a significant additional cost.
Brands and Models
Electro Industries
Electro Industries offers a comprehensive range of electric boilers, including the Electro-Boiler, EZBoiler, Mini-Boiler, TS Midsize Series, TS Standard Series, and TS Commercial Series. These boilers are designed for residential and light commercial applications, with output ranges from 4kW to 24kW.
Viessmann
Viessmann provides the Vitotron series of electric boilers, which are specifically designed for low-temperature residential applications. These boilers are available in output ranges from 6kW to 18kW and can be integrated into hydronic heating systems.
EHS
EHS offers a range of electric combi boilers with outputs from 8kW to 24kW, making them suitable for small flats or homes with one bathroom. These boilers are compact, efficient, and easy to install, providing a convenient heating and hot water solution.
References
- Electro Industries. (n.d.). Electric Boiler – Electro Industries. Retrieved from https://electromn.com/electric-boiler/
- The Underfloor Heating Store. (2024). Electric Water Boilers | The Underfloor Heating Store. Retrieved from https://www.theunderfloorheatingstore.com/collections/water-boilers
- Viessmann US. (n.d.). Electric Boilers – Heating Without Fossil Fuels – Viessmann US. Retrieved from https://www.viessmann-us.com/en/products/electric-boilers.html
- Thermosphere. (2022). Electric boilers: An introductory guide for homeowners. Retrieved from https://www.thermosphere.com/blog/electric-boilers-an-introduction
- EHS Heating. (n.d.). EHS Electric Combi Boilers. Retrieved from https://www.ehs-heating.com/electric-combi-boilers/