Electrically powered water heaters, often referred to as geysers in some regions, work by using electricity to heat water for domestic or industrial use. There are two main types: storage water heaters and tankless (on-demand) water heaters. Let's explore how each type functions:
Storage Water Heaters:
These are also known as tank-type or storage tank water heaters. Here's how they work:
Water Tank: Storage water heaters consist of an insulated tank where water is stored and heated. The tank can range in size from a few gallons to several tens of gallons, depending on the model and intended use.
Heating Element: Inside the tank, there are one or more electric heating elements (usually made of metal like copper or stainless steel). These heating elements are submerged in the water and are responsible for heating it.
Thermostat: The water heater is equipped with a thermostat, which monitors the water temperature. When the water temperature drops below a certain set point, the thermostat signals the heating element to turn on and start heating the water.
Temperature and Pressure Relief Valve: For safety reasons, storage water heaters have a temperature and pressure relief valve. If the temperature or pressure inside the tank exceeds safe levels, this valve releases excess pressure or hot water to prevent explosions.
Insulation: The tank is well-insulated to minimize heat loss and keep the water hot for longer periods, reducing the frequency of heating cycles.
Usage: When you turn on a hot water faucet, cold water from the supply line enters the tank, displacing the hot water that's used. The heating element heats the incoming cold water, ensuring a continuous supply of hot water.
Tankless (On-Demand) Water Heaters:
These heaters, as the name suggests, heat water on-demand rather than storing it in a tank. Here's how they work:
Heat Exchanger: Tankless water heaters have a heat exchanger that heats the water as it flows through the unit. The heat exchanger can be made from materials that conduct heat efficiently, such as copper or stainless steel.
Flow Sensor: When you open a hot water faucet, a flow sensor in the water heater detects the water flow and activates the heating element.
Heating Element: In tankless water heaters, there isn't a continuously active heating element like in storage water heaters. Instead, the heating element heats the water as it passes through the heat exchanger.
Temperature Control: Tankless water heaters also have a thermostat to control the water temperature. The heating element adjusts its output to achieve the desired temperature based on the flow rate and incoming water temperature.
Energy Efficiency: Tankless water heaters are often considered more energy-efficient because they only heat water when needed, eliminating the energy losses associated with keeping water hot in a storage tank.
Both storage water heaters and tankless water heaters provide hot water for various applications, but they differ in terms of energy consumption, installation, and continuous supply. The choice between the two depends on factors such as your hot water usage patterns, available space, and energy efficiency preferences.