Top 11 Water Heater Companies In Singapore (Prices, Reviews, Updated 2023)

Most of us crave a nice, warm shower at the end of the day or in cooling weather. A long day without hot water will make anyone appreciate having instant hot water from a dependable water heater. What type of water heater should I buy? Where to buy a water heater? How do I maintain a water heater? These are common questions Singaporeans ask when it comes to purchasing a functional and long-lasting water heater for their homes.

Choosing the right new water heater for your home depends on your needs — some may want the water to heat up fast, and others may wish for the system to be energy efficient and save their money in the long run.

11 Best Water Heater Installation Companies In Singapore (Our Top Picks)

Companies

Services

Address

Homees Concierge Service

Homees Concierge Service Team - tell us what you need and we'll help get it solved. Talk to us today by giving us a call or Whatsapp us now.

994 Bendemeer #03-04 Singapore 339943

A1 Handyman

- Tile Grout Cleaning
- Water Heater Repair
- Vanity Cabinet Installation
- Water Heater Installation

1090 Lower Delta Road #03-07L Singapore 169201

Mr Plumber SG

- Bathtub Repair
- Water Heater Installation
- Toilet Installation
- Bathtub Installation

-

Plumber Meng

- Water Heater Installation
- Water Heater Repair
- Toilet Repair
- Bathtub Repair

-

Everyworks

- Water Heater Installation
- Water Heater Repair
- Waterproofing
- Toilet Installation

1090 Lower Delta Road #03-07A Singapore 169201

Duncan of Decor Care Plumbing Services

- Water Heater Installation
- Water Heater Repair
- Waterproofing
- Toilet Installation

-

SGPlumbing

- Water Heater Installation
- Water Heater Repair
- Toilet Installation
- Toilet Repair

28 Senang Cres, 02-02, Singapore 416601

PS Plumber

- Toilet Installation
- Toilet Repair
- Plumber
- Water Heater Installation

Blk 884 Tampines ST 83 05-67 Singapore 520884

Tom Plumbing

- Water Heater Installation
- Plumber
- Water Heater Repair

10 Buroh Street #08-22, West Connect Singapore 627564

Elmark Marketing

- Ceiling Fan Installation
- Lighting Installation
- Water Heater Installation

3016 UBI Road 1 #03-143 Singapore 408706

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showerhead

Types of Water Heaters in Singapore

There are two types of water heaters in Singapore – instant water heaters and storage water heaters.

Instant Water Heater

Instant water heaters are common in any Singapore HDB.  They heat up your water on demand and do not require a storage tank. Compared to water storage, it saves space and users can enjoy warm water almost immediately. Should you be looking for common plumbing repairs, check out our plumbing costs and estimates in Singapore to make sure you do not pay exorbitant prices for easy jobs.

How it works

When you turn on the switch, water flows through the heat exchanger located in the water heater, heating the water to the right temperature. Since water is not stored in its tank, less energy is needed to maintain the same water temperature throughout the entire day.

Pros: As there is no water storage tank, it can protect precious space, especially for us living in smaller apartments in urban cities like Singapore.

Cons: Since it is mounted on the toilet walls, such heaters may affect the aesthetics of the home.

Gas or electric?

Instant water heaters (or on-demand water / tankless water heaters) can be either electric or gas-powered. 

As technology advances, the lines between these two are blurring. The addition of accessories and add-ons for water heaters improves user experience by increasing efficiency and more energy-saving

So what are the differences between gas and electric water heaters?

Electric Tankless Water Heaters

Gas Tankless Water Heaters

Maintenance

Annual maintenance not required

Requires annual maintenance

Venting

Not required and can be installed anywhere

Requires venting as part of the installation process

Environmental Effects

Lesser indirect greenhouse gas emissions and reduces the carbon footprint in manufacturing and disposal

Can create greenhouse gasses and is reliant on fossil fuels

Operating Cost

Subject to the cost of electricity

Subject to the cost of natural gas

Instant water heaters are best used for:

  • Households that do not consume water at more than one place at the same time.
  • Public bathrooms / remote hot tubs.
  • Supporting a solar water heating system.CTA 2

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Storage Water Heater

bathroom storage water heater

A storage water heater stores a supply of hot water that is ready to be used.

Its tanks usually hold over 100 litres of continuously heated water which will be distributed throughout the house. When switched on, water is heated and stored, then reheated till needed to maintain a constant temperature for the hot water.

How it works:

The storage water heater circulates hot water from the tank’s top while allowing cooler water to flow in from below and heating it, generating a convection current while keeping the tank full.

However, energy will be wasted when not in use since the stored water is continuously heated to maintain its temperature.

Electric, solar, digital or heat pumps?

For storage heaters, there are four main kinds, namely:

  1. electric- powered
  2. Solar-powered
  3. Digital
  4. Heat pump

For eco-friendly users, heat pumps and solar storage water heaters are the ones they should be looking for.

Water Storage Heaters are best for:

  • Places with a number of people using hot water simultaneously at the same time.
  • Large residential homes.
  • Homes and workplaces that rely heavily on hot water.

Instant Heater & Storage Heater comparison

indoor bathroom

The guide we provide is in no way exhaustive or conclusion but is based on our observation and research of what is in the market.

Below is a comparison between instant and storage water heaters.

Instant Heater

Storage Heater

Item Cost

Low

High

Water capacity

Unlimited, water is heated as and when you need

15L to 100L, depending on the capacity of the tank

Design

Small and compact

Bulky and takes up space

Utility

Low, but dependent on usage

High, need to heat up a whole tank and maintain a constant temperature 24/7.

Usage

Regular hand showers

Almost any type of shower fixture (e.g. Rain showers, massage jets, and bathtubs.)

Waiting time

~5 secs for the water to flow through and heat up

Needs to be preheated before use. The timing depends on tank capacity. A Smaller water heater tank heats up faster than a bigger tank.

Life Cycle

10 to 15 years, estimate

8 to 13 years estimate

Every heater has its differences, and it is best if you are able to talk to plumbers or water heater professionals for their advice.

Water Heater Type

Instant Water Heater Type

Brands

Average Price Range

Instant

Electric

$120 - $350

$85 - $300

$120 - $300

$180 - $300

$100 - $200

$80 - $380

$150 - $200

Gas

$640 - $1,000

$180 - $990

$350 - $1,800

$330 - $340

Storage

$250 - $600

$150 - $500

$300 - $350

$330 - $340

$230 - $400

$250 - $700

$270 - $300

1. Types of water heater

There are 2 main types of heaters available- instant heater and storage heater. Instant water heaters heat up water that passes through the heat exchanger of the unit. On the other hand, storage water heaters contain an insulated tank that stores a reservoir of hot water which is preheated. There are pros and cons to using each type of water heater.

2. Cost

The price of a water heater does not influence the decision to purchase. The total cost of using an instant heater tabulates to a lower price compared to the storage heater. The instant water heater consumes energy only when you are using hot water. This helps you to save on electricity. However, an instant water heater has a shorter lifespan and requires more maintenance compared to a storage heater. When your instant water heater breaks down, you can hire a technician to assist you with the repair of your water heater. In addition, there are many different brands in the market with some being more economical than others. It is best to do your research before your purchase!

3. Installation

Instant water heaters tend to be small and compact and only take up a small space while storage heaters take up a large area to hold a large amount of water. However, a storage heater will be able to provide hot water to multiple locations. As a result, instead of installing multiple instant water heaters, it would be ideal if you want hot water in multiple areas of your home, like the kitchen and bathroom. In addition, instant water heaters are much easier to install than storage heaters. Storage heaters, on the other hand, are installed in areas where they are hidden from view, making them the more aesthetically pleasing option.

4. Water pressure and temperature

Bad water pressure and inconsistent temperature can be frustrating especially when you crave a hot, long shower at the end of the day. For instant water heaters, the flow of water into the heating chamber of the instant heater is regulated by an in-built flow restrictor.

This results in lower water pressure. However the amount of water being heated at each time is controlled, and you will get a consistent flow of hot water. Storage heaters, on the other hand, are non-pressure reducing systems. Water can flow at high pressure, about 10 lit/min compared to 4 lit/min for instant heaters. In addition, storage water heaters require a longer time to heat up water.

Water Heater Buying Guide

When selecting the most suitable water heater, it will be helpful to consider these factors below: 

  • Water Pressure: When compared to storage tanks, instant heaters have limited outflow and so cannot meet high usage needs.
  • Consistent hot water: Based on the table above, instant water heaters cannot deliver hot water consistently due to factors like flow rate
  • Compatibility: which type of water heater is suitable for your shower system?
  • Maintenance: You’ll need to check for the heater’s maintenance requirements and fees in the long run
  • Initial cost: The price you buy your heater at
  • Running cost: the cost of providing the hot water consistently.
  • Aesthetics: Instant water heaters might affect your overall bathroom aesthetics as they are not hidden
  • Position of water heater: Traditional storage water heaters are located at the service yard or bathroom ceiling. New HDB BTO flats have a designated place for storage water heaters.
    Instant electric water heaters will be located beside shower fixtures while gas water heaters are located at the service yard, balcony or Aircon ledge as ventilation is required.
  • Family Size: Depending on the size of your household, the size of your storage water heater varies.

Household Size

Storage water heater tank size

1-2 people

15-40 Litres

3-4 people

40-80 Litres

5 and more people

80+ Litres


Accessories for Water Heaters

Water heaters are becoming more efficient and easier to control. We have highlighted a few accessories which can be used to boost the efficiency of your water heater further and bring you more cost savings.

  • Water alarms. Usually placed beside the heating unit, the alarm will sound if it detects that there is a leaking problem or too much water in the system.
  • Pressure regulators. Regulators are used to preventing excessive water outflow that can lead to a spike in water pressure and cause leakages. Regulators can be attached to the outlets on a heating unit.
  • Expansion tanks. Designed to hold additional water supplies while the primary tank heats up cold water. They’re linked to water heaters.
  • Insulating blankets. These blankets are developed to go over a water heater. They will increase insulation and reduce heat loss, allowing lesser energy loss due to heat loss.
  • Timers. Timers are connected to the power supply of water heater devices, enabling you to save energy and reduce heating expenses by deferring the process until it is required.
  • Water heater pans. It is designed to catch the water that leaks from the heat tank. These pans are installed beneath the units and linked to drain hoses.

Some accessories can be bought online while others are sold exclusively by water heater companies. Check with your professional if you’re looking to purchase these accessories.

Accessories available online:

  • Water Alarm / Water Leak Detector: $6-$60
  • Pressure Regulator: $3 – $30

Signs of a Troubled Water Heater

indoor bathtub

As water heaters are used frequently, problems will still occur despite having regular maintenance. 

We highlight some signs of a faulty water heater:

  • A sudden surge in utility bills: If your heater is operating harder than usual to accomplish its basic operations, there could be leaks or inefficiencies in the system.
  • Leaks and rust. To get the most out of your water heater, hire a skilled plumber and have it inspected on a regular basis for symptoms of wear and suffering. If you notice water seeping onto the floor or corroding the heater, it is likely that the heater has to be repaired.
  • Contaminated or dirty water. If you detect brown water streaming out (evidence of rust) or your tap water becoming rancid, it could be due to water heater issues
  • Unusual sound from the heater. If you hear popping or cracking sounds emanating from your heater, the heating components may be under stress.

Maintenance of Water Heater

water heater repair

Instant water heaters have a life expectancy of five to seven years while storage water heaters last at least a decade. 

Check out the guide below if you’re looking to increase your tank expectancy, reduce energy expenses, or minimize water leakage damages.

  1. Placement of water heaters

It is critically important to know where your water heater is located. Having clear access to it saves time, especially in case of emergency or any plumbing needs.

  1. Determine water heater type

You should be aware of important details regarding your water heater (e.g. instant or storage water heater, electric or gas heater). Furthermore, take note of the product number and serial code of your water heater as its capacity and date of purchase is coded in it.

It saves time and is necessary for warranty purposes the next time you hire a plumber or set up plumbing maintenance.

  1. Make sure the area surrounding your water heater is clear

There are several causes for this:

  • A gas-fired machine requires an adequate supply of oxygen for combustion. Inadequate oxygen in the air can reduce the effectiveness of the combustion process and result in carbon monoxide leaks.
  • If the unit begins to leak, you may not notice it quickly if the location is hidden from view. This could result in more serious water damage and even energy waste since the water heater has to reheat the water more frequently.
  • Having anything surrounding the heater is a fire threat.
  1. Draining and flushing your water heater

Depending on the heater you are using, you may want to drain it regularly (at least once a year). Be aware of the hot water flowing out, which may cause damage to properties around it.

A full flush is necessary if you observe a significant amount of sediment or debris. You have to lower the temperature and drain the tank. The water is then turned back on while the drain is open. Water is allowed to flow for a minute or so to help remove any remaining sediment or debris.

After the tank has been replenished, return the thermostat to the appropriate setting.

As this may pose a danger to users, it is wise to engage a professional plumber to complete the task for you.

  1. Yearly inspection of your water heater

Our recommendation is to start engaging in a regular inspection by a professional. Professionals can observe tell-tale signs of a malfunctioning heater. In the long run, you may even save more money due to the prolonged lifespan of the heater.

If you have a gas heater and notice black residue, soot, or burned metal, this is a warning that you may be experiencing combustion troubles and should have the unit serviced by a professional. Turn off the gas supply and call a professional if you smell gas. 

For electric water heaters, look for rust stains or residue around the top and bottom panels that enclose the tank’s electrical parts.

It is advisable to clean the tank of your storage water heater every five years. The wiring of instant water heaters should be inspected every three to five years. 

  1. Valves that regulate pressure

High water pressure can impact the system, pipes, and appliances, as well as cause the water heater to malfunction. A pressure regulating valve controls the flow of water throughout the plumbing system and should be fitted by a trained plumber.

  1. Water softeners

Water softeners help to remove the residue from hard water deposits which could harm the system. Get your water tested, and consider a softener system to avoid corrosion on the inside of your water heater.

Problems that can Arise with Different Water Heaters

Instant water heater

1. No hot water

When your heater does not supply heated water, it could be due to several factors. One possible factor is faulty parts within the heater that delays the supply of heated water. You should hire a professional to diagnose the problem and have the faulty parts replaced.

2. Leaking water

Leaking water at the base of your water heater could be due to different reasons. It could be due to excess pressure, overheating or even corrosion. Hire a professional to fix the respective issues.

3. Noises

If there are weird noises when you use your heater, this could be due to substances accumulating on the heating element.

4. Discoloured water

When you see an unusual colour of water, this possibly indicates a rusty or faulty heater anode rod that needs to be replaced.

Storage water heater

1. No hot water

When you find that it is taking a ridiculously long time to get hot water out of your tap, it could be that there are built up sediments collected at the bottom of your tank which restricts the flow of water. This results in a longer time needed to fill the tank up and hence a longer time needed to heat up the water. One solution is to flush water out of your storage water heater as the sediments will be flushed out at the same time. When you do not get hot water completely, it is possibly due to an electric fault or a malfunctioned heating element. In this scenario, you will need to get a replacement.

2. Noises

Hearing weird rumbling noises coming from your heater is not normal. It is important to first pinpoint the exact source of the noise. If the noise is coming from your pipe, it could be attributed to built up sediments in the storage tank. Other possible causes might be due to high pressure or the expansion and contraction of pipes which should be looked into by a professional.

3. Discoloured water

This is a sign for you to get your heater tank checked. Less serious causes such as sediment built up can be resolved by doing tank flushing. More serious causes such as rusty pipes will have to be replaced.

4. Low water pressure

A low water pressure could be due to a small piping that hinders the water supply, limiting the output pressure. Alternatively, it could be caused by built up sediments within the pipes that will need to be flushed out.

5. Leaking water

Leaking water could be normal depending on the cause of it. As such, it is important to assess the leakage carefully. Leakage from either the top or bottom of the storage water heater is possibly due to normal condensation when your heater relives pressure and temperature. However, if you notice puddles of water, it could be a sign that a part of your tank has cracked. You should approach a professional to replace it immediately.

6. Smelly water

In most cases, smelly water occurs due to growth of bacteria within the storage tank in the water heater. The storage tank will have to be flushed out and chemically treated. If this doesn’t work, it could indicate a more serious issue and you should call your plumber for help.

In conclusion, many problems can arise when it comes to your water heater. Water heaters need regular maintenance to function properly. In times of need, when the problem is unsolvable on your own, contact an expert from our consolidated list for help.


What are the warranties for water heater installation?

In Singapore, the warranties for water heater installation can vary depending on the brand and installer. Typically, such a warranty includes parts and labour ranging from one to five years. In some cases, brands present a warranty for the tank and heating element, with a leaking warranty of up to five years. That’s why it’s crucial to check the contract the manufacturer or installer provided before purchasing a water heater. That way, you’ll verify the coverage provided and ensure the installation meets the PUB standards and specifications.

How to maximise my cost-savings when buying a water heater?

Installing a water heater in your home is a must-have but expensive purchase. Still, there are many ways to reduce your costs without compromising quality. Here are several tips to maximise your cost-savings when buying a water heater:

  • Choose the right type: There are several different kinds of products on the market, including heat pumps, instant water heaters, and storage tank heaters. Instant alternatives are usually the most economical choice because they only heat water when necessary.
  • Consider energy efficiency ratings: Consider purchasing a higher energy efficiency rating water heater, like one with the National Environment Agency’s Energy Label (NEA). As a result, your electricity costs will be less expensive.
  • Size matters: Choose a product that is suitable in size for your household’s requirements. Although a larger water heater may seem like a good idea, the energy necessary to heat the water will be higher, leading to increased electricity costs.
  • Compare prices: Do your homework and compare pricing between brands and merchants. While looking for potential sales and discounts, be cautious about hidden fees.
  • Maintenance: With proper maintenance, your water heater can live longer and experience fewer malfunctions, saving you money over time.

What questions should I ask when buying a water heater?

Purchasing a water heater might seem like a small addition to your home. Still, it’s an integral part of your bathroom and kitchen. That’s why asking the right questions is essential to choosing the most suitable model. Here are some must-have questions to ask:

  1. What type of water heater is best for my home?
  2. Do you provide a warranty period?
  3. What is the energy efficiency rating?
  4. What is the product’s capacity?
  5. How much will the installation cost?
  6. Are there hidden costs that you will charge?
  7. How do I maintain your product?

Can I DIY install a water heater in Singapore?

Yes, you can DIY install a water heater in your home. However, doing so isn’t recommended because incorrect installations can be dangerous. Moreover, water heaters must adhere to technical requirements, safety, water quality, and water conservation guidelines by the PUB. In this regard, hiring a professional to install your water heater will ensure proper and safe installation.

Cost of Other Home Improvement Areas

You can check out the cost of hiring professionals for other aspects of your home improvement project. Some of the general cost guides can be found below:

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