The April issue of CHOICE also releases results of the latest safety test on electric water heaters:
The test covered a total of 10 samples including 3 unvented storage types, 5 shower storage types and 2 instantaneous types. Their retail prices ranged from HK$1,290 to HK$5,160.
4 samples failed to pass some of the safety test items:
- One sample did not meet the safety standard of abnormal operation. During the simulated situation when no water was in the sample's water tank and the thermostat was not functioning, the sample failed to stop the abnormal temperature build-up thus causing damage to the electrical insulation.
- 4 samples did not come with draining holes or the design of the holes did not comply with the safety requirements.
- 2 samples were not properly earthed.
- One sample had inadequate insulation distance on the current carrying parts of the printed circuit board.
To ensure safety, consumers are advised to take note of the followings when using electric water heaters:
- The installation or conversion of electric water heater must be carried out by registered electrical worker.
- Electric water heater should be connected to stand-alone power socket with its own on/off switch.
- The shower head of shower type electric storage water heater should be kept unblocked at all time. Never install on/off device on the shower head, or connect the shower head to washing basin faucets.
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