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Learn about the basics of water heaters and how to avoid common problems
Understanding the working of a water heater and its different parts and elements, can extend its life expectancy and save the cost of repairs. Without understanding how a water heater works, you cannot determine the possible causes of certain malfunctions and disruptions. Despite the difference in models, all water heaters run on similar principles. Let’s have a look at the functions and various components of a water heater.
Dip Tube
- Water is stored in the storage tank of the heater which has the capacity to store hot and cold water at the same time. There are two supply lines attached to a water heater, one for hot water and another for cold water. The incoming cold water pipe attaches to the dip tube in the water heater.
The dip tube distributes the incoming water to the bottom of the tank to ensure that all of the water is heated thoroughly. It routes the cold water from the top of the tank to the bottom of the tank where heating elements heat the water. If the tube deteriorates and breaks, the incoming water stays near the top of the tank and it will not heat properly.
Continuous Supply of Lukewarm Water
- The hot water rises towards the top of the water heater and gets used up first. Any new water coming down gets routed towards the bottom of the tank through the dip tube. That way while you’re taking a shower the new water coming in does not go directly into the hot water. This results in a steady supply of hot water.
Shutoff Valve
- There is always a shutoff valve along the cold water line. Its purpose is to stop the water flow into the heater. The cold water comes in through, it gets heated up and it is distributed to the house.
Heating Elements
Most electric water heaters use two heating elements to warm the water in the tank. One of the heating elements is located near the middle of the tank and the other one near the bottom. Electric water heaters use 240 volts of alternating current to operate two heating elements.
The highest available setting is usually 150 degrees Fahrenheit. Most manufacturers recommend that the temperature should exceed 120 degrees Fahrenheit for safety purposes. The tank and the heating elements both affect how efficiently the water heater operates.
Anode rod
- There is an anode rod in the water tank that is used to attract corrosive minerals and chemicals, which would otherwise erode the tank.
Thermostat
- Each element is controlled by its own thermostat. A thermostat is a device that regulates water temperature. The thermostat maintains the water temperature inside the tank by opening and closing contacts that allow voltage to flow to the heating elements.
The elements are designed to cycle one at a time. The frequency of these cycles depends on how much heat is needed. When a designated water temperature is reached, the heating element cycles off.
The Valves
- A water heater normally has a drain valve at the bottom of the tank as well as a temperature and pressure-relief valve near the top. Over time mineral deposits collect in the tank. To avoid deposit buildup, the drain valve should be opened to flush out the water once every few years.
If the water temperature or pressure increases above proper operating levels, the temperature and pressure relief valve will open to stabilize the system. If at any time one of the valves begins to leak, then the valve has failed and needs replacement.
- Proline Plumbing provides a solution for the problems you may be experiencing with your water heater. Give us a call at 832-772-5501 to have your plumbing issues fixed. We are located in Houston, Texas.
