How to choose a water heater for an apartment or house: the best water heater by capacity, type, and

Author : Vivarik Kiyev | Published On : 16 May 2026

Utilities periodically shut off hot water for repairs, and in the summer, they often do so for extended periods. No one wants to heat water in a pot and wash in a basin every time. In that case, it's worth considering purchasing a water heater for your apartment or house to avoid using the centralized hot water supply.

Main Types of Water Heaters

Water heaters are divided into electric and gas. Gas heaters are also commonly called "columns." They have become less popular in Kyiv and throughout the country due to their increased safety concerns. Electric water heaters, however, are very popular in Kyiv and throughout the country. They are also called boilers. They operate silently, are easy to install and use, safe, reliable, and durable if chosen correctly.

Depending on the heating type, a distinction is made between instantaneous and storage water heaters. The former are small in size and heat the liquid immediately. Water from the mains comes into contact with the heating element and then flows hot to the faucet. There is no mixing with cold water. Typically, these water heaters are used in homes with frequent interruptions to the centralized hot water supply. They are an ideal option for a single water intake point.

Storage water heaters are larger in size than instantaneous water heaters. This is because they include a tank of any size where the water is collected and heated. When the faucet is turned on, hot water from this tank mixes with cold water and then flows into the faucet. When the water from the tank is used up, the unit turns on again and switches to active heating mode.

What capacity electric water heater should I choose?

The price of an electric water heater largely depends on its capacity. This depends on the needs of the buyer. One person needs approximately 40-50 liters for bathing. However, it's important to keep in mind that hot water from the tank will be mixed with cold water. A shower requires less water than a bath. To choose the best water heater, you can use the following parameters:

• You can buy an inexpensive unit with a capacity of 50-80 liters. It's enough for a family of three (bathing and washing dishes). If you heat the water to the maximum temperature, it's enough even for a bath.
• 80-100 liter models are affordable. They're enough for a four-person apartment. However, keep in mind that the water in the tank will take longer to heat up than in the previous case.
• A 100-150 liter water heater is suitable for a large family of six. This amount of water is enough for a shower and sinks.
• Models with a capacity of over 150 liters are used in private homes. Keep in mind that they consume a lot of electricity.

A power outlet is required for connection, or they can be installed directly into the electrical network. In terms of shape, water heaters come in rectangular, round, or barrel-shaped forms, as well as slim models, which have one side smaller than traditional units. The units are usually white in color, although gray or silver options are also available. Based on their layout and design, there are vertical (take up a lot of space), horizontal (used when the bathroom is small) and universal (these can be installed in any direction without losing functionality).

Source shikhoapp.com