[Magazine Article from LexpressProperty 70 (August - September)]
Everyone loves a hot shower, particularly when the temperature is dropping. Should you be looking to install a water heater in your home, here are the three available types on the market: solar, gas or electric.
The solar water heater
Known for its ecological aspect, the solar water heater boasts of using renewable, clean and inexhaustible energy.
Even if the initial cost seems expensive, ranging from Rs 35,000 to Rs 50,000 including installation, this type of water heater constitutes a good investment on the long run as solar energy is free and therefore has no impact on the monthly budget. Subject to the quality of the device and the accessories used, it requires very little maintenance. low maintenance.
However, in winter, when the sun is gone for a long period of time, the water temperature tends to drop quite significantly, especially on higher ground. This makes it less efficient. Combined water heaters also exist with an electric mode for use in winter.
Gas water heaters
This is the most commonly used type of water heater because of its affordability, ranging from Rs 4,550 to Rs 34,000, according to the brand and capacity. It is relatively easy to install, but requires the intervention of a plumber in several cases.
The gas water heater does not require any maintenance. However, over time, some parts may need to be replaced. It is readily available in retail outlets, department stores, hardware shops and electrical shops.
The electric water heater
There are two types of electric water heaters. Firstly, the resistance water heater, which is equipped with a mechanism to raise the water temperature to 55°C to prevent scalding. Secondly, the armoured models which have a simple switch mechanism, in which the heater is in contact with the water in the tank. These models are not very efficient.
The price varies according to the capacity. A 50 to 80-litre model costs an average of Rs 9,600 while a 100-litre model costs around Rs 11,500. It should be noted that electric water heaters naturally have a direct impact on the electricity bill.
