Every HDB and condo bathroom needs one of three water heater types: gas, storage electric, or instant electric. The right one depends on how much hot water your household actually uses, not just the price tag.
Instant (tankless) electric heaters
Heats water on demand as it passes through, so there is no tank and no standby heat loss. Best for single-point use and smaller households. Lower upfront cost, but flow rate drops if you are running two outlets at once.
Storage electric heaters
Heats and holds a tank of water, commonly 15L to 30L for HDB bathrooms, so pressure and temperature stay steadier even with two outlets running. Takes longer to heat from cold and needs ceiling or wall space for the tank.
Gas water heaters
Common in older HDB flats with existing gas piping. Heats water fast and can serve multiple bathrooms from one unit, but needs proper ventilation and a gas supply. Not an option in every unit, and not a DIY installation.
Which one for a HIP upgrade or a new BTO
For a single bathroom with one shower point, instant electric is the simplest and cheapest to install. For a household running a shower and a basin at once, or two bathrooms off one system, storage or gas usually holds temperature and pressure better.
Get the right size for your bathroom
Bring your bathroom layout to either Homus showroom, and we will match wattage and tank size to your household, not just sell you the display model. Browse our instant heaters and storage heaters ranges.
Frequently asked questions
What size storage heater do I need for an HDB bathroom?
15L to 25L suits single usage. 30L and above suits family usage.
Can I install a gas water heater in any HDB flat?
Only where gas piping and ventilation are already in place. Not every unit qualifies, and it needs a licensed gas fitter, not a DIY job.
Is instant electric enough for a family bathroom?
Yes for one outlet at a time. If two people shower back to back or you run a shower and basin together, storage or gas holds temperature more consistently.
