Ariston: Electric water heating FAQs

Ariston’s hot water heaters are suitable for a wide array of applications, with the company offering unvented and vented products – each of which are easy to install and operate.

All Ariston water heaters boast an incredibly high-quality construction, utilising copper heating elements for advanced durability. Plus, the premium units in the range also benefit from the latest technology for optimum energy efficiency.

What are the differences between the Andris Lux Eco and Andris Lux units?

The Andris Lux Eco is the flagship product in Ariston’s hot water portfolio. This small unvented electric water heater encompasses leading Italian design, energy efficiency, durability, usability and safety. This premium model also boasts new features, including anti-legionella and anti-overheating functions.

Available in 10, 15 and 30-litre models, each with a 2.5kW element, Andris Lux Eco is perfect for a variety of locations, including commercial properties, building sites, kitchens, bathrooms or offices.

Complementing the Andris Lux Eco is its sister product, the Andris Lux. Another compact electric water heater, this unit is fully compliant with the latest ErP legislation (with units rated up to ‘A’ class), and available in three over-sink and four under-sink versions respectively. The 2kW and 3kW under-sink models have capacities of 10 and 15 litres, while the 3kW over-sink units are available with capacities of 10, 15 and 30 litres. (Note: These capacities refer to the volume of cold water each unit holds; the volume of hot water delivered may be slightly less.)

What’s the difference between a storage and instantaneous water heater?

A storage water heater has a tank of a defined size which heats up and stores water ready for use. This water is drawn off to a single or multiple outlet. It will take time for the unit to reheat the water.

An instantaneous water heater heats the water as needed. You will typically get lower flow rates with an instantaneous water heater than an unvented storage system.

What does the ‘E’ setting do on the Andris Lux?

This puts the unit into ‘Economy’ mode, which efficiently heats up the water in the tank to save energy.

Can units be wired to a 13-amp plug?

Both the Andris Lux and Andris Lux Eco can be wired to an appropriate fused spur.

Why do I need an expansion vessel?

The Andris Lux range is unvented (i.e. pressurised) and when the water is heated, it expands. If a system’s pipework does not have enough space to accommodate this, Ariston’s Kit A – expansion vessel – will need to be installed.

The expansion vessel comprises a metal outer shell with a rubber/latex membrane to accommodate water during the heating process. Although there is no specific requirement in terms of expansion vessel orientation, it is advisable to contact the local water authority, as they are sometimes particular about how this component is installed.

Are units suitable to run a shower/bath? Can I drink the water from the Andris Lux?

Although Andris Lux units can be used to feed a shower or bath, they are not designed to provide sufficient amounts of hot water; a typical shower would only last for a maximum of a few minutes.

While the water is safe to drink from Andris Lux units, this is not recommended, as it may contain traces of magnesium.

Are the units always on?

The element only operates when the water temperature is below the level set on the dial. If the temperature meets this requirement, the unit will switch off until such a time where it drops below the set point again.

What kind of cable is needed to wire the units?

Andris Lux units require heat resistant cable. Round 3 core, 1.5mm (to BS 6141 table 8) should be used to connect to the electrical supply, through either a 13-amp socket (to BS 1363) or a double pole fused isolating switch, with a contact separation of 3mm minimum on each pole.

How does the energy efficient ECO EVO function work on the Andris Lux Eco?

Andris Lux Eco hot water heaters feature Ariston’s ‘ECO EVO’ function – a new electronic control with automatic learning software, which enables users to achieve energy savings of up to 15%. Andris Lux Eco units also have an ErP ‘A’ rating across the range.

Once the function has been activated, it will monitor and ‘learn’ the user’s behaviour for seven days, after which the heating cycle will be tailored for maximum efficiency.

How does the anti-legionella function work on the Andris Lux Eco?

The Andris Lux Eco has a thermal disinfection cycle which, upon activation, will automatically raise the temperature of the water stored inside the unit to 60°C once a week –eliminating the risk of legionella bacteria developing.

What are the warranties?

Andris Lux units are supplied with three-year warranties on the tank, plus one year on the electrics. Warranties are subject to annual service and/or inspection.