Everyone’s got to take a hot shower every now and again, so most homes contain at least one, if not several, water heaters. Most people think of them as pretty straightforward appliances, but how much do you actually know about your water heater?
Not much, we bet – and you’re probably taking plenty of hot showers without the benefit of the water heater knowledge that you should have.
Keep reading for a quick guide to the most important things you need to know about water heaters.
1. How Water Heaters Work
A water heater is a vital appliance in any home; it has a tank that stores hot water and heats it up as needed.
Water heaters are usually powered by electricity, natural gas, or propane. They use a heating element to heat water to the desired temperature. The element is controlled by a thermostat.
Water heaters have a cold water inlet and a hot water outlet. Cold water enters the bottom of the tank and is heated by the element. Hot water rises to the top of the tank and is drawn off by the hot water outlet.
Some water heaters have a drain valve that can be used to drain the tank. This is handy if you need to do maintenance on the heater or if you’re moving and need to empty the tank.
2. The Benefits of Using a Water Heater
While there are many different types and models of water heaters on the market, they all have one common purpose: to heat water for your home.
Some of the many benefits of using a water heater are they provide a reliable and consistent source of hot water. They are very efficient, using less energy than other methods of heating water.
They are very safe to use, so say goodbye now to your water boiler. With the use of a water heater, it has built-in safety features to prevent accidental fires or leaks.
They are very durable and available in various sizes to fit your specific needs. Water heaters can also provide instant hot water, so you don’t have to wait for the water to heat up. However, water heaters require regular maintenance, and if they are not maintained properly, they can pose a safety hazard.
3. Things to Consider When Buying a Water Heater
Before purchasing a water heater, it is important to consider the need to decide what type of water heater you want. There are electric, gas, and solar water heaters, and each has its own benefits and drawbacks.
The next thing to consider is the size of the water heater. You need to ensure that your chosen unit is big enough to meet your household’s hot water needs.
The Energy Factor (EF) also matters as it measures how efficiently the appliance uses energy. The higher the EF, the more efficient the appliance is.
You need to decide how much money you’re willing to spend on a water heater. Water heaters can range in cost, depending on the size and type of water heater you want. The average cost of a water heater is between $600 and $900. However, if you want a tankless water heater, the cost can be upwards of $1,000.
Another thing to consider is the installation cost, which can be anywhere from $200 to $500, so you need to decide what you can afford.
The final thing to think about is the warranty. Water heaters can come with long-term warranties that will protect your investment for years to come.
Consider all of these factors when you’re choosing a water heater, and you’ll be sure to find the perfect one for your home.
4. Kinds of Water Heaters
All around the world, people rely on hot water. Whether it’s for cleaning, bathing, cooking, manufacturing, or laundering, “potable” water is critical.
Water heaters come in many different varieties these days, from solar-powered to electric. Knowing which type of water heater is best for your needs is important before making a purchase.
Storage Tank
They are relatively inexpensive and have a long lifespan. They store hot water in a tank and are less expensive; however, they are also the least efficient type of water heater.
Tankless
They heat water on demand and do not store hot water. They are more expensive than storage tank water heaters, but they are also more efficient.
Solar-Powered
They are environmentally friendly and are the most efficient type of water heater, but they are also the most expensive. They rely on the sun to heat the water, so they are not ideal for areas with limited sunlight.
Electric
They are suitable for those who do not have access to a natural gas line. They are less expensive to operate than gas water heaters.
Propane
They are similar to natural gas water heaters in terms of cost and speed. However, they are less efficient and have a shorter lifespan.
To see the prices of these water heaters, visit https://www.cnmonline.co.uk/instant-water-heaters-c-198.html.
5. Maintenance
One of the most important things you can do for your water heater is to maintain it regularly. By flushing the tank and keeping the anode rod in good condition, you can help extend the life of your water heater. The average lifespan of a water heater is 8-12 years, but with proper maintenance, it can last much longer.
If you have a gas water heater, make sure to have the vent pipe checked regularly for any blockages. A blocked vent pipe can cause the water heater to overheat and eventually fail.
If you have an electric water heater, be sure to keep an eye on the thermostat. If it starts to fail, it can cause the water heater to overheat and eventually fail.
Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s directions when performing any maintenance on your water heater. By taking good care of your water heater, you can help ensure that it lasts for many years.
Hot Water, Please
If your home doesn’t have a water heater or if yours is on the fritz, now is the time to learn about the importance of water heaters in your home. Knowing how they work and how to maintain them properly is important.
With its many benefits, there is no reason not to make the switch to a water heater. Following these tips will help to keep your water heater running efficiently for years to come.
For more kitchen, bath, and home improvement-related posts, keep browsing through our blog.
