What is an electric water heater and how does it work?
An electric water heater is a hot water storage tank that heats water using an electric heating element and keeps it warm inside an insulated tank. Unlike a gas boiler or gas water heater, it requires no flue, chimney or gas supply, making it the ideal solution for flats without gas installation, holiday homes, commercial premises or any space where hot water is needed in a simple and self-contained way.
An internal thermostat regulates the water temperature (typically between 45°C and 75°C) and only activates the heating element when needed, allowing for controlled and efficient energy consumption.
What capacity do I need?
Choosing the right capacity is key to avoiding cold showers and unnecessary electricity bills.
15 – 30 litres: ideal for single-person use, office washrooms or a single point of consumption.
50 – 80 litres: recommended for one or two people with regular shower use.
100 – 150 litres: the most common choice for families of 3 or 4 people.
200 litres or more: for large families, residential communities, commercial premises or installations with high and continuous hot water demand.
At JAG Alcaide we advise you on the exact capacity based on your consumption habits and the available space in your home.
Vertical or horizontal water heater: which one suits you?
Vertical water heaters are the most common. They take up less floor space and are typically installed in bathrooms, utility rooms or storage rooms. Their thermal performance is slightly better because hot water stratification is more efficient in a vertical position.
Horizontal water heaters are installed on the ceiling or in spaces where there is no suitable wall for a vertical unit. They are ideal for small bathrooms or when the heater needs to be placed above the bathtub or in a space with limited height.
Junkers Elacell electric boiler
Available for capacities between 35 and 100l
Junkers Elacell Smart electric boiler
With capacities up to 200l
In JAG Alcaide we offer different ranges and electric boilers programs with different capacities: From 15 to 500L.
Electric boilers are perfect for places where the periods of use are not uniform, such as holiday apartments, town houses … and they also have great advantages such as having a thermostat that regulates its temperature, their simple installation and the protection they held against corrosion.
We actually offer digital and analog electric boilers and will help you choose the one that suits your use and needs more.
We work, among others, with Junkers, Fleck, Neckar and Ariston electric boiler brands.
We have a large experience with the installation of electric boilers, since, for example, we’ve installed most of the ones that can be used in BSM public parkings in Barcelona.
Electric water heater installation and repair in Barcelona
At JAG Alcaide we don’t just install new water heaters — we also carry out preventive maintenance and repairs on existing electric units. If your water heater is no longer heating properly, is leaking, making unusual noises or has simply reached the end of its lifespan (typically between 8 and 15 years), our technical team can diagnose the fault and offer you the best solution.
The most common jobs we carry out include:
- Full installation of a new electric water heater (removal of the old unit included)
- Replacement of the electric heating element
- Magnesium anode replacement (preventive maintenance recommended every 2–3 years)
- Repair of leaks in connections and valves
- Thermostat inspection and temperature adjustment
- Tank draining, cleaning and bleeding
We cover Barcelona city and the metropolitan area, with a strong presence in the neighbourhoods of Gràcia, Eixample, Sant Gervasi, Sarrià, Horta and Nou Barris.
Frequently asked questions about electric water heaters
How much electricity does an electric water heater use? It depends on the capacity and usage, but an 80-litre water heater consumes approximately 1,500 to 2,000 W during the heating cycle. Once the target temperature is reached, consumption drops significantly as the unit only works to maintain the heat. Scheduling the heater to run during off-peak hours (night-time tariff) can significantly reduce your electricity costs.
How often should the magnesium anode be replaced? We recommend checking it every 2 years and replacing it every 3–5 years depending on water hardness. In Barcelona, where the water is notably hard, this is especially important to prevent internal corrosion of the tank and extend the lifespan of the unit.
How much does it cost to install an electric water heater in Barcelona? The price varies depending on the tank capacity, brand and installation conditions (whether an old unit needs to be removed, plumbing adaptations required, etc.). Contact us and we will prepare a no-obligation quote tailored to your specific situation.
How long does an electric water heater last? With proper maintenance, the average lifespan is between 10 and 15 years. The magnesium anode is the key component to inspect regularly to avoid shortening that lifespan.
Can I install an electric water heater if my flat has no gas supply? Yes — in fact, this is one of the main advantages of an electric water heater. It only requires a water connection and an electrical outlet. No flue, chimney or gas pipework is needed.