An in-depth guide to water heater components

A water heater is a home appliance that produces hot water using an energy source, such as gas, electricity, or solar energy. It is among the easiest ways to get hot water either for immediate use or for later. The hot water produced by a water heater is usually dispensed for dishwashers, washing machines, showers, baths, and even sinks.

While it is absolutely crucial to invest in the right option, it may be difficult to choose from the various types of water heaters available in the market. One of the ways to make that decision easier is by knowing the various components of a water heater. Whether you are bringing home an instant water heater or a storage water heater, here is a look at their anatomy.

Water heater components: Anatomy of water heaters

The two main types of water heaters are instant water heaters and storage water heaters. In this article, we will look at the components of each of these types.

Instant water heater components

An instant water heater is among the most efficient types of water heater that provides hot water only when needed and eliminates the standby heat loss associated with storage water heaters. It achieves its efficiency by relying on a necessary set of components. Here’s a look at them:

1. Heat exchanger:

This component is used to rapidly heat the water by passing it through coils. While electric units rely on heating elements, gas tankless heaters use a burner to achieve the same effect.

2. Flow sensor:

An instant water heater also houses a flow sensor to monitor the rate of water flow and signals the heating element to activate when there is a need for hot water.

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3. Temperature sensors:

The use of temperature sensors is to maintain the precise temperature of outgoing water so there is consistency and overheating is prevented.

4. Control panel:

This panel acts as the brain of the appliance where users get to set and adjust the desired water temperature. Some models use a control panel with features such as digital displays, timers, and diagnostic functions.

5. Safety:

There are safety measures in place including a pressure relief valve and automatic shutoff to prevent overheating and other malfunctions.

Storage water heater components

A storage water heater is a tank-type water heater that is commonly found in Indian households. It works by heating a predetermined volume of water within an insulated tank. Here are the components that help the storage water heater to function.

1. Tank:

This is the core component of a storage water heater that is usually made with nano-polymer or glassline coating and it serves as the reservoir for hot water.

2. Heating element:

A powerful copper heating element is used to heat the water faster to the desired temperature.

3. Thermostat:

This device is used to monitor and regulate the water temperature by triggering the heating element to maintain the preset temperature.

4. Valve:

There is also a multi-functional value to ensure that the tank does not build up any excess pressure and to ensure the safety of the consumer.

5. Anode:

In order to prevent corrosion within the tank, there is an anode rod made up of aluminium or magnesium.

Geyser buying guide: Which one to choose?

Now that you know all the components that make an instant or storage water heater, here is your guide to choosing the best geyser. The first thing to consider is where you will be installing your geyser. If you are looking to install the geyser in your bathroom then a storage water heater will be ideal since they can be fixed at a certain height and receive proper ventilation.

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Next, you need to choose the right capacity for your geyser. For a family of around 4 members, a geyser with a storage capacity of 10 to 15 litres will be ideal but this capacity will vary depending on the daily requirement. In addition to these parameters, you should also look for energy efficiency labels and other features like digital displays.

Once you have made the decision based on these parameters, the next obvious thing to consider is after-sales service. Since they include a heating element and there is hot water flowing through them, water heaters or geysers are prone to wear and tear and a good after-sales service will help keep it working across any weather condition.