Ask a Plumber: How Does a Water Heater Work?
Nothing feels better after a long day at work than a hot shower. But have you ever wondered how a water heater works? Whether you’re a first-time Indianapolis homeowner or considering an upgrade, it’s helpful to know how a hot water heater works so you can make educated decisions on what’s best for your space. Here’s a quick overview of three types of water heaters from the pros at Mister Water Heater.
Tank-Style Water Heaters
The tank-style water heater is the most common type found in homes today. It continuously heats water stored in a tank, typically ranging in size from 30 to 80 gallons. This ensures hot water stays available whenever you need it. Let’s break down the process:
1. Cold Water Enters
When you turn on your hot water tap, cold water enters the tank from the bottom via a dip tube. This causes the hot water to be pushed out of the top of the tank and into your pipes, supplying your faucet.
2. Heating Process
A gas or electric-powered heating system heats the water inside the tank. This process is controlled by a thermostat, which regulates the temperature of the water, usually maintained at around 120-140°F.
3. Hot Water Exits
When you turn on the hot water tap, the hot water gets drawn out from the top. As it exits, it makes room for more cold water to enter, heating up once more.
Tankless Water Heaters
Tankless water heaters, also known as ‘on-demand heaters,’ provide hot water only when required. This innovative approach leads to significant energy savings since you only heat the water you use. Here’s how they operate:
1. Demand for Hot Water
When you turn on the hot water tap, cold water travels through a pipe into the tankless unit, activating the heater’s water flow sensor.
2. Instant Heating
Electric coils or a gas burner heat the water through the heater. The result is a continuous supply of hot water without storing and keeping a tank of water heated.
3. Controlled Temperature
Tankless water heaters use modulating gas valves to control the heat output, adjusting to flow demands. This keeps a consistent water temperature, even during the use of multiple fixtures at the same time.
Hybrid Water Heaters
Hybrid water heaters, also known as heat pump heaters, combine the efficiency of heat pumps with the storage capacity of tank-style heaters. Rapidly gaining popularity, hybrids are considered environmentally friendly because of their reduced energy use. Here’s how they function:
1. Heat Exchange
A heat pump absorbs heat from the air or ground and transfers it to the water stored in the tank. This method uses less energy than traditional heating elements.
2. Supplementary Heating
When there’s a high demand for hot water, an electric element supplements the heat pump to keep a consistent water temperature.
Picking the Right Water Heater
Understanding how a water heater works helps you make an educated decision when choosing a new water heater for your home. Consider factors like these:
- Your home’s available space
- Household hot water usage
- Long-term energy consumption and costs
- Upfront budget vs. energy savings over time
Now that you’re equipped with a basic knowledge of how a water heater works, it may be time for a new water heater for your home. If you’re considering a new installation or need water heater repair services for your residential or commercial space, Mister Water Heater can help.
Trust our plumbing experts to provide timely service and to help answer questions about which water heater is the right fit for your Indianapolis or Fishers area space. What are you waiting for? Contact Mister Water Heater at (833) 270-8502 or request service online today!