There is nothing better than a hot shower to start your day. And there are few things worse than stepping into a cold shower and realizing that it's not going to warm up. In this article, we will share the basics of understanding your hot water heater. We will share the types of water heaters that are available, the parts you need to understand, and how they work to keep you in hot water.
Conventional Water Heaters
There are two main types of water heaters: gas and electric. Gas water heaters use natural gas to heat the water, while electric water heaters use electricity. Both types of water heaters have their pros and cons, so it's important to choose the one that's right for your home.
Gas water heaters are typically less expensive to operate than electric water heaters, but they require a gas line and have the potential to leak carbon monoxide. Electric water heaters are more expensive to operate, but they're easier to install and don't have the same safety concerns as gas water heaters.
Tankless Water Heaters
The tankless water heater is a relatively new innovation. There are several benefits to choosing this option. Tankless water heaters only heat the water when you need it, so you're not paying to keep a tank of hot water on standby. They're also more compact and can be installed in small spaces. Finally, tankless water heaters have a longer lifespan than traditional water heaters.
If you're considering a tankless water heater, it's important to make sure that your home is equipped with the proper gas or electric service. Tankless water heaters require a higher flow of water than traditional water heaters, so your home's plumbing system will need to be able to handle the additional demand.
Tankless water heaters are also a bigger investment than a conventional system. Most homeowners choose the tankless only if they are sure they will be in the home for several more years. The expense of purchasing the tankless heater will not translate to a higher home sale price.
Water Heater Parts
There are three main parts to a water heater: the tank, the heating element, and the thermostat. The tank is where the water is stored, and it's typically made of steel or enamel-coated steel. The heating element heats the water in the tank, and the thermostat controls the temperature of the water.
Water heaters typically have a lifespan of 8-12 years, but with proper maintenance, they can last much longer. To extend the life of your water heater, be sure to flush the tank regularly to remove sediment build-up and replace the anode rod every 3-5 years.
Understanding how your water heater works is the first step in keeping it in good shape. By knowing the basics of water heaters, you can be sure to keep yours running efficiently for years to come.
How A Conventional Water Heater Works
A conventional water heater provides hot water for bathing, cooking, and cleaning. Without a properly functioning water heater, life at home would be much more difficult.
So how does a water heater work? Essentially, it uses an energy source (usually natural gas or electricity) to heat water in a tank. The water is then stored in the tank until it is needed.
When you turn on the hot water tap, cold water enters the tank and displaces the hot water. This process is known as "thermal conduction." The hot water then flows out of the tank and into your pipes, providing you with the hot water you need.
Reliability
Water heaters are typically very reliable appliances. However, like any appliance, they can experience problems from time to time. The most common issue is a loss of power, which can happen if the appliance is not properly maintained. If your water heater is having issues, it's important to call a qualified technician for help. Trying to fix the problem yourself could result in further damage to the appliance and in some cases, may void your warranty.
If your hot water heater is not working, please contact Linthicum Plumbing and Drain Cleaning today at (410) 768-5350.