Essency water heaters have been gaining attention in the market for their innovation and unique features, particularly in the realm of instant hot water and energy efficiency. Here’s a comprehensive review of the key aspects that users and experts typically highlight:
1. Performance & Technology
- Instant Hot Water: One of the standout features of Essency water heaters, especially models like the EXR Series, is their tankless-like performance with a storage tank. Unlike traditional heaters, Essency uses patented DHeTR (Direct Heating Technology) that heats water instantly, providing on-demand hot water while maintaining a reserve in the tank.
- No Mixing Required: Essency water heaters do not require mixing valves to regulate temperature. They heat the water to the desired temperature without blending it with cooler water, resulting in consistent temperature at every use.
2. Energy Efficiency
- Highly Efficient Design: These units are designed to be extremely energy-efficient, with insulation that significantly reduces standby heat loss. Essency water heaters can maintain a large reserve of hot water while consuming less power than traditional models, making them ideal for homeowners looking to cut utility costs.
- Smart Monitoring: Equipped with Wi-Fi connectivity and smart controls, users can monitor their water heater’s performance and energy consumption through a mobile app. This also allows for remote temperature control, and usage tracking, and even notifies users about potential issues before they become major problems.
3. Durability & Maintenance
- Long-Lasting Design: Essency heaters are built to last, with stainless steel tanks that resist corrosion, unlike traditional glass-lined tanks. The lack of an anode rod in the design also means less maintenance is required over the life of the unit.
- Low Maintenance: Users have reported that maintenance is minimal compared to traditional heaters. The absence of anode rods and better tank material contributes to a lower risk of rust and corrosion.
4. Ease of Installation
- Straightforward Installation: Installation of Essency water heaters is typically described as user-friendly, especially for plumbers. Since they are pre-plumbed for recirculation and use standard connections, setup is quicker than more complex systems, especially for those upgrading from older units.
5. Smart Features
- Mobile App Integration: Through their Wi-Fi-enabled system, users can remotely control temperature settings, monitor hot water availability, and receive alerts on potential issues like leaks or temperature changes. This makes Essency heaters convenient for busy homeowners who want more control over their system.
6. Drawbacks
- Higher Initial Cost: While Essency water heaters offer high-end features, the upfront cost is on the higher side compared to traditional models. However, users generally report that the energy savings and long-term performance justify the expense.
- Limited Availability: Some customers have mentioned that Essency units are not as widely available as more established brands, and finding certified technicians for installation and repairs might be more challenging in certain areas.
7. User Feedback
- Positive: Users often praise the continuous hot water, energy savings, and low maintenance requirements. Those who opt for the smart features enjoy the ability to remotely control their water heater and receive real-time notifications.
- Negative: Some users have noted that Essency heaters are more expensive upfront compared to conventional models. Additionally, while the technology is advanced, it may not be necessary for smaller households or those with lower hot water needs.
Conclusion
Essency water heaters are ideal for homeowners who want a high-efficiency system with advanced technology, such as instant hot water and smart controls. Though the initial investment may be higher, the long-term savings on energy bills and the reduced maintenance requirements make it a solid option for those looking for a premium solution.