Different Types of Water heater systems
There are many types of water heater systems in the market today, depending on the fuel used to heat the water. Such commonly used fuels include; gas, electric and solar. Therefore, the following types of water heaters are commonly available in most homes.
- Gas powered water heater.
- Electric water heater
- Solar water heaters
- Tank less and solar water heaters.
Types of water heater Systems
Gas-powered water heater
As the name suggests, gas powered water heater uses gas as the fuel for heating water. It plays a great deal in saving money and time due to its high speed while heating water faster. Its speed of heating water is much slower than that of an electric water heater.
Electric water heater
This is the most popular water heating units.it is consistence and faster. While using the electric water heater, it heats water faster leaving no cold-hot gap. More so water heater is used to heat water in such areas a washing dishes, laundry and bathing or showering.
Tank less water heaters
Though new in the plumbing market, tankless water heaters are found to be more efficient, instant and compact. They uses either electric or gas fuels for water heating. There high demand in the market is as a result of their ability to save money for the homeowners. This is because, unlike the traditional heating units, tankless system home users do not have to spend any money while heating a full water tank. The only disadvantage experienced while using a tankless system is that they are not capable of heating enough water for all household requirements.
Solar water heaters
The sun is the fuel used in this form of a heating unit. Heat panels are installed mostly on the roof top, so that they can capture the heat used for heating water. Solar water is more preferable as it cheap and does not cause pollution to the environment. By using the solar water heater systems, a homeowner is able does not have to depend on the expensive gas and electric water heater systems. However, to be able to enjoy the solar water heater system, one should incur higher installation costs.
Maintenance
Well maintained water heater systems may last for as long as 10-15 years. However, poorly maintained water heater systems provide poor services and may last for a very short while, after which you shall be required to replace it. Following are signs that water heater requires to be replaced;
- Smelly water
- Noises
- Hot water lasting only for a short time
- Leaking system
- The system not able to provide hot water.
Minor problems on a water heater system emanate from a faulty thermostat. You should contact a local plumber for an immediate action before causing problems to the entire system. They might either decide to repair or replace it depending on its condition.
A sign of a noisy electrical appliance means that the system has a problem. A humming low sound is deemed to be normal hence may not raise an immediate alarm. However, when the noise is loud and banging, an immediate repair or replacement should be done.
Smelly or old or metallic tasting water heater systems is a sign that the water being heated is tainted. Most people will complain that the water ha a metallic smell. This is a sign that the water heater system is poorly maintained or has aged.
Replacement
Upgrading a water heater system to new one is necessary in case the old one is completely worn out. New water heater systems are more efficient and will require less maintenance. To buy a new water, the following factors should be keenly observed.
- Required size
- Power source or type of fuel to be used
- Place of installation
Choosing an over-sized system than what require may end up consuming more energy hence more expense. Providing adequate space for your system assist to ensure that no extensive damage risks that may cause leakages. Moreover, your power choice should be reliable and affordable. A propane line or a dedicated electric line should be available in case you choose an electric or a gas as your fuel.