The Basics About Water Heaters: Types, Parts and How They Work

Water heaters are one of the most essential appliances in your home. They provide hot water for showers, dishes and laundry and can also help keep your home warm in the winter. There are many different types of water heaters available on the market today, so it's essential to do your research before you purchase one. This guide will teach you the basics about water heaters, including how they work and what types are available.

If you're planning on getting a water heater and you don't know which one is best suited for your needs, consult a plumber Brisbane Northside professional.

How Water Heaters Work

Water heaters work by using a fuel source to heat water. The most common fuel sources for water heaters are electricity, natural gas or propane. The fuel you use will determine how much your water heater costs to operate. Electric water heaters are the most expensive to operate, while natural gas and propane models are cheaper.

There are two types of water heaters: storage tank and tankless. Storage tank water heaters have a tank that stores hot water until it is needed. Tankless water heaters heat water on demand, so they don't require a storage tank. Both types of water heaters are available in electric, natural gas and propane models.

The size of your home will determine the size of the water heater you need. Smaller homes can get by with a smaller water heater, while larger homes will need a bigger model. It's important to choose the right size water heater for your home to ensure that you have enough hot water for your needs.

Water Heater Parts

There are several parts to a water heater, including the tank, thermostat, heating element and anode rod. The tank is where the water is stored and comes in a variety of sizes. The thermostat controls the temperature of the water in the tank. The heating element heats the water in the tank. The anode rod helps prevent corrosion in the tank.

Water heaters also have a cold water inlet and hot water outlet. The cold water inlet is where cold water enters the tank. The hot water outlet is where hot water leaves the tank. There is also a temperature and pressure relief valve on most models that releases excess pressure and heat from the tank to prevent it from exploding.

How to Maintain Your Water Heater

It's important to maintain your water heater to ensure that it lasts for many years. The most important maintenance task is to flush the tank once a year to remove sediment that has built up over time. This will help prevent corrosion and extend the life of your water heater. You should also check the temperature and pressure relief valve to make sure it is working properly.

If you have a gas water heater, you should also check the pilot light to make sure it is lit. If the pilot light goes out, you will need to relight it according to the manufacturer's instructions. You should also have your gas water heater serviced by a professional every few years to ensure that it is operating safely and efficiently.

Electric water heaters don't require as much maintenance as gas models, but you should still check the anode rod and heating element to make sure they are functioning properly. You should also have your electric water heater serviced by a professional every few years.

Types of Water Heaters

There are two main types of water heaters: storage tanks and tankless. Storage tank water heaters are the most common type of water heater. They come in a variety of sizes and can be powered by electricity, natural gas or propane. Tankless water heaters are becoming more popular because they are more energy-efficient than storage tank models. They only heat water on demand, so they don't require a storage tank.

Storage Tank Water Heaters

Storage tank water heaters are the most common type of water heater. They come in a variety of sizes, ranging from 20 to 80 gallons. The size you need depends on the number of people in your household and the amount of hot water you use. Storage tank water heaters typically have a life expectancy of 8 to 12 years.

Electric Storage Tank Water Heaters

Electric storage tank water heaters are the most expensive to operate, but they are also the most convenient because you don't have to worry about fuel costs. Electric models are available in a variety of sizes, so you can choose one that meets your needs. Electric water heaters typically have a life expectancy of 10 to 15 years.

Natural Gas Storage Tank Water Heaters

Natural gas storage tank water heaters are less expensive to operate than electric models, but you will need to have a natural gas line installed in your home. Natural gas models are available in a variety of sizes, so you can choose one that meets your needs. Natural gas water heaters typically have a life expectancy of 8 to 12 years.

Propane Storage Tank Water Heaters

Propane storage tank water heaters are less expensive to operate than electric models, but you will need to have a propane tank installed in your home. Propane models are available in a variety of sizes, so you can choose one that meets your needs. Propane water heaters typically have a life expectancy of 10 to 15 years.

Tankless Water Heaters

Tankless water heaters are becoming more popular because they are more energy-efficient than storage tank models. They only heat water on demand, so they don't require a storage tank. Tankless water heaters are available in electric and gas models. Electric models are less expensive to operate, but you will need to have a dedicated circuit installed. Gas models are more expensive to operate, but you won't need a dedicated circuit. Tankless water heaters typically have a life expectancy of 20 years or more.

Now that you know more about water heaters, you can choose the right model for your home. Be sure to have your water heater serviced by a professional every few years to ensure that it is operating safely and efficiently.