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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Reviews

Ivan, Moscow : “An Ariston water heater with a capacity of 195 liters was installed in our private house. Hot water was always available and in sufficient quantities. Worked for 15 years, then broke down. But we did not carry out any maintenance. Just set it and forget it. We plan to replace it with a similar one.”

Oleg, Moscow : “There was an Edisson speaker. I installed it as a temporary option. Now I don’t have enough, and I’m thinking about buying a boiler so that I always have a supply of hot water. I haven’t chosen a model yet, but I’m thinking of picking up something from Baxi or Ariston. In my opinion, these manufacturers have the most reasonable prices and quality.”

Nikolay, Moscow : “I have never dealt with gas boilers. At home there is a regular electric Thermex of 80 liters. But recently, I finally built a dacha, and the question arose about heating and hot water supply. I'm studying this topic closely now. I’ll probably buy an Ariston – everyone praises this model.”

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.

Combination boiler

Combined installation
In places where the gas supply may be temporarily interrupted or in the presence, for example, of a solid fuel heating boiler, a combined heating installation shows good results. It consists of two circuits:

• a direct heating gas boiler, the task of which is to ensure the temperature of the water during its intensive selection;
• an indirect heating boiler, the heat source of which is the liquid supplied by the main heating boiler or the exhaust gases generated during its operation.

Combined heating systems show significant cost savings. It is rational to use them if there is a sufficient supply of boiler power in the heating system. With a significant capacity, they are able to meet the hot water needs of a large family even without starting a direct heating circuit. Also, if the gas supply is interrupted, the combined boiler will perform its functions using the energy of the heating system.

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.

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.

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.

How to install and connect a gas boiler

Installation of the structure

Unlike electric boilers, the installation of which is often done by hand, the connection of the heater to the gas main must be carried out by a certified technician. At the same time, to install a boiler, you must obtain permission from GorGaz. If such gas equipment has not been installed before, the permitting procedure will take longer.

Before installing the boiler, you need to complete the list of necessary documents:

• report on the condition of the chimney;
• technical passport of the device (or you need to indicate its main characteristics);
• equipment installation project (if the boiler is installed in a new location).

Then a specialist from the Gorgaz service should come, who will insert into the gas pipeline, install a meter, and install a water supply system. Only then can you install the water heater yourself. The procedure for replacing an old unit with a new one is as follows:

1. Dismantling the old device.
2. Connection to a gas pipe.
3. Connection to the water supply system.
4. Installation of a chimney (hood).

You need to remove the old column carefully, turning off the gas and water supply systems. The nut from the gas hose is unscrewed using an adjustable wrench. Then disconnect the hose from the gas pipeline, then from the column. If the hose is worn out, you need to buy a new flexible corrugated stainless steel liner.

The new boiler is installed on the existing brackets (if they have sufficient load-bearing capacity and are not damaged) and connected in the reverse order. First to the water supply using PVC pipes, then to the gas pipeline. All connections are carefully checked, the nuts are tightened with moderate force. To seal joints, flax, FUM tape, thread, and special sealant are used.

The wall on which the boiler is installed must be made of non-combustible materials, and it is also protected with a thermal insulation coating. The distance between the wall and the boiler is no more than 15 cm.

Having installed the water heater, it is connected to the chimney pipe using a flexible corrugation. The gas pipe is attached to the column or boiler using a fitting and a union nut.

Water must first pass through a coarse filter. It is advisable to use a magnesium filter, which protects the water from scale.

Floor-standing boilers cannot be installed in residential buildings. For these purposes, it is necessary to allocate a separate room with good ventilation. The basement of the house is most often used. The floor must be made of non-combustible materials. Wall-mounted gas boilers can be installed in residential premises. They are placed in niches and furniture cabinets.

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.

What to do if a malfunction occurs

Typical breakdowns of gas boilers:

• the gas burner does not light up;
• the burner turns on, but turns off after a while;
• The main burner does not work, but the pilot burner functions;
• the pilot burner flame goes out;
• a whistle appeared from the burner nozzle;
• the spark disappears.

The causes of the malfunction are sometimes not directly related to the device. The most common:

• there is no draft in the chimney;
• batteries are discharged;
• insufficient water pressure;
• filters are clogged;
• low gas pressure.

If the problem cannot be fixed on your own, you need to call the gas service and call a technician.

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.

Security systems

The safety group protects against overheating.
Gas is a high-energy, dangerous fuel. Installation of gas equipment must be carried out in strict compliance with the requirements of the relevant control authorities. To ensure operational safety, it is necessary to choose a model equipped with a certain list of automatic regulation and control devices.

1. For direct-heated gas boilers, the key systems are pressure control in the supply line, overheating protection, and steam release valves. The presence of a sensor that stops dry operation is welcome.
2. For storage-type gas boilers, in addition to the listed means, modes that set operating parameters in different seasons (summer, winter) are necessary. Safety systems are complemented by valves and sensors designed to control the liquid in the tank. These are systems for resetting, diagnosing pressure indicators, and preventing boiling.
3. Combined type boilers must have the systems listed above. The best models can monitor the parameters of the coolant or gases coming from the main heating boiler, and also exchange data with its control systems.

It is impossible to imagine a modern gas boiler without a certain list of required systems. This is automatic ignition, monitoring the presence of flame. For models with a closed combustion chamber and equipped with a turbine, it is necessary to control the operation of the fans responsible for supplying air to the firebox and removing exhaust gases.

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.

Criteria for choosing a geyser

In order not to make a mistake in your choice, before purchasing you should pay attention to a whole set of basic and additional characteristics of the water heater. This will help you choose really high-quality and functional equipment that suits your needs.

Key technical indicators

This category includes power, performance, material and quality of the heat exchanger and the number of sensors.

Characteristic #1 - combustion chamber type

According to the type of combustion chamber, all water heaters are divided into two categories: with an open chamber or atmospheric, and with a closed chamber or turbocharged.

Atmospheric ones are considered more durable, since such devices do not have complex automation. Turbocharged ones operate using electricity and turn on even with minimal gas pressure, but they are more expensive.

Method of removing combustion products:

1. Through the chimney . It is appropriate if the column is atmospheric. It is necessary to have the chimney cleaned from time to time by appropriate services.
2. Gas is forced out through the coaxial channel For this purpose, the column has a fan powered by the mains. This option is suitable for new buildings, since there is no chimney.

Owners should check the traction condition as often as possible. It is best to check with paper. This test should never be carried out with a lighter or match, otherwise an explosion may occur.

A double coaxial pipe is used to remove carbon dioxide. Through the inner pipe, recycled gas goes outside, and through the outer pipe, fresh air enters the kitchen

Characteristic #2 - device power

The amount of heated water you can get directly depends on this indicator. There is useful and consumed power. When choosing a device, pay attention to the usable power.

The optimal power indicator ranges from 17 to 50 kW. To be able to simultaneously turn on several water consumption points, the power must be at least 21 kW. For a large house, you should choose a speaker with a power of 25 kW or more

Feature #3 - Performance

Productivity is the amount of water heated by the column per minute. To correctly calculate the required performance, you need to know the pressure force.

This is quite easy to do. It is necessary to write down the number of cubes on the meter, turn on the water for 1 minute. After this time, tighten it, and then record the readings again. The difference between the second and first values ​​will be the desired value.

If there is no meter, substitute a large container. Today there are columns with a capacity of 5-6 liters. They are suitable for apartments with low pressure and old pipes. For two or three people, 12-14 liters will be enough.

Feature #3 - heat exchanger

The durability of the column depends on the quality and thickness of the material of this part. Steel ones are durable, but heavy. Such heat exchangers are inexpensive, but are susceptible to corrosion.

Regular copper ones are short-lived. Heat exchangers made of highly purified copper have, compared to steel, greater efficiency.

Such parts should be cleaned carefully and only with special products. If you choose the wrong detergent, the part may become unusable. For example, acid corrodes copper products and they subsequently begin to leak.

The rules and methods for manually servicing the dispenser are discussed in detail in this article.

To ensure safe use for boiler users, special parts are used:

• The water overheating sensor will protect you from boiling water, and the safety valve is responsible for the emergency release of water if there is high pressure in the pipes.
• The hydraulic valve will protect the column parts from overheating.
• The ionization and combustion sensors are triggered if gas is still flowing after the burner goes out.
• The flow sensor turns off the water heater if the hot water tap closes.
• The draft detector goes off if the chimney is clogged with debris to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. And if there is no required water pressure, the low water pressure sensor is activated and the column will not turn on.

A lot depends on their quality. All these details will protect not only the device itself from breakdown, but also your health.

Additional information about the technique

Also, when choosing a gas water heater, you should pay attention to additional characteristics. For example, the appearance of the front panel is important, since a black speaker will not fit into a white kitchen.

On the front panel of the speaker there is a small LED screen displaying temperature indicators and three operating knobs. For Winter-Summer mode, as well as flame and temperature controls

The area of ​​the bathroom or kitchen and the dimensions of the speaker itself. If the kitchen is small and 3 people use the water, then it’s worth finding a place in the bathroom or sacrificing space.

Gas type . Pay attention to what gas is supplied to the house. If liquefied gas is supplied to the cottage, then it is strictly forbidden to install a water heater that runs on natural gas. Such an oversight can cause an explosion or poisoning.

If there is little space in the kitchen, then a compact water heater can be installed in the bathroom. Turbocharged speakers are not suitable for this purpose, otherwise there is a risk of carbon monoxide poisoning

Ignition type. Old speakers are turned on using a match, which lights the wick. Today the following types of inclusion are used:

• piezo ignition is performed using a button on the device panel;
• electronic ignition - a spark from the battery occurs when the water is turned on;
• from a hydrogenerator - when turned on, the turbine is activated, which generates electric current. And he creates a spark.

This indicator is not the main one, but the comfort of using the speaker depends on it.

We provided more detailed recommendations for choosing a gas water heater in the next article.

Many speakers do not come with batteries. Find out in advance which batteries are suitable. Experts recommend using alkaline batteries, they are more powerful

Before installing a gas water heater, it is important for specialists to assess the condition of the gas pipes, the pressure level and eliminate faults, if any. Such precautions are necessary to avoid gas leaks and poisoning of residents.

In addition, installation should only be ordered from professionals, because not only your health depends on it, but also the possibility of obtaining a warranty on the gas appliance.

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.