Best Water Heater Singapore: A Complete Guide to Choosing the Right System

A reliable water heater is essential for any home in Singapore, whether you’re in an HDB flat, condominium, or landed property. From morning showers to late-night clean-ups, having consistent access to hot water impacts daily comfort and convenience. But with so many brands and types available, how do you choose the Best Water Heater Singapore?

This guide will help you make an informed choice by comparing types of water heaters, top-performing brands, pricing, energy efficiency, installation tips, and FAQs—all tailored to Singapore’s housing context and needs.

Why a Good Water Heater Matters in Singapore

With Singapore’s humid climate, hot water may seem unnecessary at first glance. However, many households depend on hot water for:

• Comfortable showers, especially during rainy days or early mornings

• Efficient cleaning and sanitization

• Hair and skincare routines

• Soothing sore muscles after workouts

The right water heater ensures safety, performance, and cost-efficiency—all important factors in the long run.

Types of Water Heaters in Singapore

Understanding the various water heater types is the first step toward finding the best solution for your home.

1. Instant Water Heaters

Also known as tankless heaters, these units heat water on demand and don’t store hot water.

Pros:

• Compact and space-saving

• Lower upfront cost

• Energy-efficient (heats only when needed)

Cons:

• Limited to one outlet

• Water flow may decrease with low pressure

Best For: HDB flats, small bathrooms, and minimalist renovations.

2. Storage Water Heaters

These heaters store a fixed amount of hot water in a tank, typically between 15L to 35L for residential use.

Pros:

• Can serve multiple bathrooms

• Consistent water temperature

• Suitable for families

Cons:

• Larger footprint

• Higher standby energy consumption

Best For: Larger households, condos, and bathrooms with bathtubs.

3. Gas Water Heaters

Though less common, some landed properties and condominiums use gas water heaters connected to a centralized gas supply.

Pros:

• Lower running costs

• Continuous hot water

Cons:

• Requires gas pipeline setup

• Higher installation complexity

Best For: Landed properties or homes with existing gas infrastructure.

4. Smart Water Heaters

Modern electric storage or instant heaters with digital control panels, timers, and mobile app connectivity.

Pros:

• Schedule heating for off-peak times

• Enhanced safety features

• Precise temperature control

Cons:

• Higher price point

• May need rewiring or stronger circuit support

Best For: Tech-savvy users looking for energy savings and control.

Best Water Heater Brands in Singapore

Below are the most reliable and widely used water heater brands in Singapore, known for quality, safety, and support.

1. 707

A homegrown Singaporean brand known for reliable instant heaters with a strong after-sales network.

Popular Models: 707 Compact, 707 Princeton
Best For: HDB and small condo bathrooms
Price Range: $130 – $400

2. Ariston

An Italian brand with sleek designs and models for both instant and storage systems.

Popular Models: Ariston Andris Lux, Ariston Aures Smart
Best For: Aesthetic-focused bathrooms and eco-friendly users
Price Range: $150 – $500+

3. Joven

A Malaysian brand with solid performance and value-for-money pricing.

Popular Models: Joven SA Series, Joven SB Series
Best For: Basic to mid-range installations
Price Range: $100 – $350

4. Rheem

Well-known for its high-quality storage heaters used in condos and landed homes.

Popular Models: Rheem EHG, Rheem EH Series
Best For: Larger bathrooms and households with high water usage
Price Range: $250 – $650

5. Champs

Offers both instant and storage water heaters with safety features.

Popular Models: Champs Vios, Champs Legend
Best For: Practical homeowners needing efficient heating
Price Range: $120 – $350

Water Heater Price Guide in Singapore

Installation Fees (estimated):

• Instant Heater Install: $80 – $120

• Storage Heater Install: $120 – $250

• Old Heater Removal: $30 – $60

• Additional Electrical Work (if needed): $100 – $300

Always engage a licensed plumber or contractor to ensure compliance with HDB/URA standards.

How to Choose the Best Water Heater in Singapore

1. Consider Your Household Size

• 1–2 people: Instant heater is sufficient

• 3–5 people: Storage heater is more efficient

• More than 5: Consider gas or multiple systems

2. Check Your Bathroom Layout

Measure space availability. Storage heaters may require ceiling or high wall installation.

3. Water Pressure Compatibility

Some instant heaters require strong water pressure. Older flats may need a low-pressure compatible model or a pressure pump.

4. Energy Efficiency

Look for models with energy-saving features or timers. Smart models allow you to heat only when needed.

5. Safety Features

Choose models with:

• Anti-scald protection

• Thermal cut-off

• Pressure relief valves

• Splash-proof casings (IP25 or above)

6. Design and Aesthetics

Modern heaters come in stylish finishes and slim profiles. Consider units that match your bathroom theme or can be concealed neatly.

Maintenance Tips to Extend Lifespan

• Annual servicing for storage heaters to prevent sediment build-up

• Check for leaks or pressure drops regularly

• Descale instant heaters if using hard water

• Replace pressure relief valve and sacrificial anode (for storage units) every few years

With proper care, water heaters in Singapore typically last 8 to 12 years.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the best water heater for a small HDB bathroom?

A: An instant water heater from 707, Joven, or Champs is ideal. They are compact, affordable, and efficient for light to moderate usage.

Q2: How do I know if I need a storage or instant water heater?

A: If you need hot water in more than one bathroom or enjoy long showers, a storage heater is recommended. For quick showers and single use, instant is sufficient.

Q3: Can I install a water heater myself?

A: It is not advisable. Proper electrical and plumbing knowledge is required. Always engage a licensed plumber for safety and warranty protection.

Q4: Are smart water heaters worth the investment?

A: Yes, if you want to save energy over time and prefer advanced features like timers, WiFi control, and digital temperature settings.

Q5: How much electricity does a water heater use in Singapore?

A: Storage heaters consume about 1.5–3 kWh per use, while instant heaters use 2–8 kW per session, depending on duration. Energy-efficient models and smart usage can significantly reduce your bills.

Q6: How long does it take to install a water heater?

A: Installation time ranges from 1 to 3 hours, depending on the model, existing pipework, and electrical readiness.

Conclusion

Choosing the best water heater in Singapore depends on your household size, bathroom layout, usage habits, and energy preferences. Whether you opt for a space-saving instant heater or a powerful storage unit, prioritize safety, efficiency, and professional installation.

Top brands like 707, Ariston, Rheem, Joven, and Champs offer a wide range of models suited to every need and budget. Take the time to compare features, read specifications, and consult with a reliable supplier or installer to ensure a smooth, safe upgrade for your home.