The Basics About Water Heaters: Types, Parts and How They Work
Your water heater is one of the most important components of your plumbing system – and understanding how it works, the different types available, and what its essential parts are is necessary to keep your home comfortable. When it comes to selecting the right type of water heater for your home, there are several factors to consider. Learn more about water heaters here.
In this article, we’ll take a look at water heaters and the various types available. We’ll also discuss the different parts that make up a water heater, and how they all work together to provide hot water for your home.
What is a Water Heater?
A water heater is a device used to heat water either by using electricity, natural gas, or propane. It’s an essential part of any home plumbing system and can be used for many different purposes, such as providing hot water for showers, washing dishes, and more.
When it comes to selecting the right type of water heater for your home, there are several factors to consider. This includes the type of fuel used, the size and capacity of the heater, and the climate in which you live.
Types of Water Heaters
The three most common types of water heaters are electric, gas and tankless water heaters.
Electric Water Heaters
Electric water heaters are the most common type of unit used in homes. They are powered by electricity, which is readily available. They are also a relatively affordable option. However, they can be expensive to run. Generally, electric water heaters come in two varieties: storage tanks and tankless units.
Gas Water Heaters
Gas water heaters use natural gas or propane to heat the water. While they tend to be more expensive than electric water heaters, they can be more energy-efficient and cost less to operate over time. They are also available as storage tanks or tankless models.
Tankless Water Heaters
Tankless water heaters are becoming increasingly popular in homes, due to their energy efficiency and space-saving design. These units do not use a storage tank but instead heat the water on demand as it is needed. This makes them an ideal choice for those who want to save on energy costs and space.
Parts of a Water Heater
Every water heater consists of several components that work together to provide hot water. These include the tank, heating elements, thermostat, pipes, and more.
Tank
The tank is a steel or glass-lined vessel that holds the hot water. It is insulated to keep the hot water from cooling off quickly after it has been heated.
The Burner
This is the part of the water heater that is responsible for providing the heat. The burner can be powered by either natural gas or propane, depending on the type of water heater you have.
Thermostat
The thermostat is an important component of any water heater. It measures the temperature of the water and activates or shuts off the heating elements as needed to maintain a desired temperature.
Pipes
The pipes are responsible for bringing in cold water from your home’s main line and transporting hot water out into your home’s plumbing system. They can be made of copper, plastic, or other materials.
Heating Element
The heating element is the part of the water heater that produces the heat, using an electric current. It is usually located at the bottom of the tank and can be accessed for repair or replacement when necessary.
Other Parts
In addition to the above components, water heaters will also include several other parts such as a safety valve, sediment trap, and drain valve. These are all necessary for the proper operation and maintenance of your water heater.
How Water Heaters Work
Water heaters generally work in two ways.
Electric Water Heaters
When you turn on a hot water tap in your home, cold water enters the water heater through an inlet pipe. The cold water is then heated by the heating element(s). As it heats up, a thermostat senses the temperature and shuts off the heat when the desired temperature has been reached. The hot water is then stored in the tank until you need it again.
When you turn on another tap, hot water moves out of the tank.
Gas Water Heaters
Gas water heaters work similarly to electric water heaters, but instead of an electric heating element, they use a burner powered by natural gas or propane. The gas heats up the tank and the thermostat controls the temperature. As with conventional electric water heaters, hot water is stored until you need it again.
Contact Ohio Buckeye For Professional Water Heater Service
When it comes to water heaters, professional service is key. If you need help with installation, repair or maintenance of your water heater, contact Ohio Buckeye today for all the services you need! Our knowledgeable team will be happy to assist you and answer any questions that may arise. When it comes to your home’s water heating system, Ohio Buckeye has you covered. Contact us today at (440) 283-9377 to get started!