[WGB]

Fitting an 3kw immersion in a flat 500l tank in next couple of weeks. Just wondering what length of immersion would be best. Have a Screwfix close by which sells few different sizes.

[Splash & dash]

Fitting an 3kw immersion in a flat 500l tank in next couple of weeks. Just wondering what length of immersion would be best. Have a Screwfix close by which sells few different sizes.

3 kw will require a 16 amp fused supply and special cable , be careful most use a 2 kw as it’s far safer especially in a flat tank

[WGB]

3 kw will require a 16 amp fused supply and special cable , be careful most use a 2 kw as it’s far safer especially in a flat tank

Getting an electrician to sort my electrics for me so everything is going to be ok that end, want 3kw to be more efficient at heating the water but see there is 11-27 inch elements some not sure which would be best for my tank

[Ched]

3 kw will require a 16 amp fused supply and special cable , be careful most use a 2 kw as it’s far safer especially in a flat tank

Getting an electrician to sort my electrics for me so everything is going to be ok that end, want 3kw to be more efficient at heating the water but see there is 11-27 inch elements some not sure which would be best for my tank

Just so you know a 3Kw immersion is no more efficient than a 2Kw one, although the 3Kw will heat water faster!
It might be worth asking your electrician the difference in cost between an installation capable of 3Kw vs 2Kw.

[windowswashed]

If using a 3Kw make sure you unwind the cable completely as unwound cable will be a fire hazard., (unwound 13amp cable is 3120watts and unwound is around 700w limit on cable which users don't take into account).  Safer opting for a 2Kw with 16 amp cable.

[AuRavelling79]

I used a 3kw to start with and looked for a 16amp option as 13 amp plugs would scorch and extension leads had to be unwound.

I changed to 2kw, made an extension lead the 'right length'  and use a timer to turn the power off for half an hour every 2 hours.

I don't want very hot water - no more than 40 degrees in the tank as I use cold water brushes hoses and connectors.

I have fitted to four different tanks and always use a flat tank and a 27" fitted within arm's reach of the filling hole as low down as possible at least 100mm from any tank side or baffle.

Personally I did an immersion after a sharp winter in 2010/11 in Bristol for frost protection and supple hoses.

If you want hot water for first cleans, occasional cleans  etc., I would stump up for oil fired.