A Quick Reference Guide to What’s Inside Your Water Heater

Have you ever wondered what makes the water heater in your Indianapolis area home tick? At Mister Water Heater, we believe that understanding the components of a water heater can help you make informed decisions when it’s time for a professional to repair or replace the water heater in your home. So, let’s break down the main parts of a residential water heater.

The Tank

If you have a water heater with a tank, then the tank is the heart of your system. Typically insulated and lined with material to prevent corrosion, it stores hot water until you're ready to use it.

Dip Tube

A dip tube is designed to direct incoming cold water to the bottom of the tank, allowing the water to heat up before it rises to the top to be accessed. Tankless water heaters and units with cold water access at the bottom of the tank don’t require a dip tube.

Heating Elements

In electric water heaters, heating elements are responsible for warming the water. These components are usually made of metal and are placed inside a water heater or in a tank. A new water heater can have two heating elements: upper and lower. These work together to ensure your water reaches the desired temperature.

Thermostat

You can control the water temperature through the thermostat inside a water heater. This acts as a regulator, maintaining the set temperature and ensuring the heating elements are activated when the water falls below the set level.

Gas Burner and Pilot Light

For those using gas water heaters, the gas burner and pilot light are crucial components. The pilot light ignites the gas burner, which heats the water in the tank. This system is controlled by the thermostat, providing efficient operation.

Anode Rod

The anode rod is a metallic rod placed in the tank to prevent corrosion. It attracts corrosive elements in the water, sacrificing itself to protect the steel tank. Regular inspection of the anode rod can extend the life of your unit.

T&P Relief Valve

The Temperature and Pressure (T&P) relief valve is a safety device designed to release water if the temperature or pressure inside the tank becomes too high. This helps prevent accidents. 

Exhaust Flue

In gas water heaters, the exhaust flue properly vents out harmful gases produced during the heating process, which keeps you safe. This flue runs through the center of the tank and exits your home via a chimney or vent.

Understanding these key components can give you a better grasp of what's inside a water heater. If you live in the Fishers, Brownsburg, or Indianapolis area and need help with water heater repair or replacement, Mister Water Heater is here to help! Contact us at (833) 270-8502 or request service online today.

Richard Trethewey, “Types of Water Heaters,” This Old House, accessed Sept. 30, 2024, https://www.thisoldhouse.com/heating-cooling/22713608/types-of-water-heaters.

Sara Elliot and Talon Homer, "How to Turn Up Hot Water Heater," howstuffworks, updated Nov. 29, 2023, accessed Sept. 30, 2024, https://home.howstuffworks.com/water-heater.htm.