The basics about water heaters: types, parts and how they work
5/20/20242 min read
Water heaters are an essential appliance in our homes, providing us with hot water for showers, washing dishes, and doing laundry. But how do they work? What are the different types of water heaters and their parts? In this blog, we'll cover the basics of water heaters, including types, parts, and how they work.
Types of Water Heaters
There are four main types of water heaters:
Conventional storage tank water heaters
Tankless water heaters
Heat pump water heaters
Solar water heaters
Conventional storage tank water heaters are the most common type, using a tank to store and heat water. Tankless water heaters, on the other hand, heat water on demand without the use of a tank. Heat pump heaters use electricity to move heat from the air or ground to heat water, while solar water heaters use energy from the sun to heat water.
Parts of a Water Heater
Regardless of the type of water heater, all have similar parts. These include:
Tank (for storage tank water heaters)
Heating element or burner
Thermostat
Dip tube
Anode rod
Pressure relief valve
Drain valve
The heating element or burner is responsible for heating the water inside the tank. The thermostat regulates the temperature of the water, while the dip tube delivers cold water to the bottom of the tank. The anode rod prevents corrosion inside the tank, while the pressure relief valve releases excess pressure. The drain valve is used to empty the tank for maintenance or replacement.
How Water Heaters Work
Water heaters work by heating and storing water inside a tank or heating it on demand. For conventional storage tank water heaters, cold water enters the tank through the dip tube and is heated by the heating element or burner. The hot water then rises to the top of the tank, where it can be drawn from the hot water outlet.
For tankless water heaters, cold water flows through a pipe and is heated by the heating element or burner as it passes through. The hot water is then delivered to the faucet or appliance.
Heat pump water heaters use electricity to move heat from the air or ground to heat water, while solar water heaters use energy from the sun to heat water. Both of these types of water heaters also store hot water in a tank.
Conclusion
Water heaters are an essential appliance in our homes, providing us with hot water for our daily needs. Understanding the basics of water heaters, including types, parts, and how they work, can help you choose the right water heater for your home and ensure it's working properly. If you're experiencing any issues with your water heater, don't hesitate to call a professional for assistance.