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To choose the right equipment for your house or apartment, you need to understand the device of the water heater, as well as understand the principle of operation. In the article, we will answer in detail the main questions: what does the boiler consist of, how does it heat water, how to choose the appropriate tank volume.
How does a water heater work
Accumulative models are designed to heat water and maintain the set temperature for as long as possible. For this, a tank with double walls is provided. Between them is a layer of thermal insulation, most often made of polyurethane. The denser it is, the less energy is spent for heating.
For most models, the outer tank is made of metal, and the inner bulb can be made of titanium, copper, or glass porcelain.
Other components:
- TEN. In some models “Termex” brands place two heaters. This is convenient because you can save energy by turning off one of them. If the heating element breaks, then the second one will continue to work.
- magnesium anode. Installed to protect the heater from scale and corrosion. Magnesium prevents the oxidation of iron, so over time it gradually settles to the bottom. It also attracts scale, so the heating element remains clean. Recommended replace the anode once a year. As soon as the part is destroyed, the tank begins to rust.
- Cold water inlet.
- The hot water pipe is located so that the intake comes from the top of the tank.
- Safety valve. Regulates the pressure inside the tank.
- Thermometer. His readings are visible on the outside of the case. It can be used to regulate the temperature.
- Thermostat. Serves to measure the heating of water. As soon as the mark reaches the set values, it gives a signal to turn off the heater. The outer part is located outside (thermal switch) and allows you to turn the heating on and off.
- The indicator is connected to the thermostat. When it lights up, it means that the heating is turned on, it goes out – it is turned off.
- The protective cover closes the heating element from contact with the user.
- Special brackets allow you to mount the boiler to the wall.
The most popular brands are Ariston and Termex. The designs of the devices are practically the same.
The principle of operation of the storage water heater
How does an electric boiler work? Through a special pipe, cold water is collected and accumulated in the tank up to a certain level. After that, heating begins – mainly up to 70-75 degrees.
Too high temperatures contribute to the release of salts on the heating element and the walls of the tank.
Turning the thermostat turns on the thermostat, which in turn starts the heating element. After the water temperature reaches the set temperature, the thermostat turns off the heating. A layer of thermal insulation and periodic heating allow you to maintain performance at a given level. A decrease of only 5-6 degrees can be observed.
After heating, the water flows through the upper tube into the storage tank, and cold water is again poured into the lower tank. During filling, the safety valve regulates the pressure. If it reaches a critical point, the valve opens and reduces the pressure.
Gas storage boiler device
The heater can work not only from electricity, but also from gas. Moreover, such a device saves more time. The power of gas is 4-6 kW, while electric ones give out only 1,5-3 kW.
Advantages:
- Thanks to the storage tank, warm water can be used in several places: bathroom, kitchen.
- If desired, the device can be supplemented with a recirculation branch. Then the water is not drained into the sewer, but is reused.
- Gas is the more affordable fuel.
There are also disadvantages:
- The high cost of technology.
- Complicated installation and connection.
- Chimney installation.
The structure of the tank is the same as that of an electric boiler, and the internal filling:
- Gas-burner.
- Chimney.
- Hole for cold water intake.
- A pipe through which hot water is taken.
The scheme of operation is identical to electrical engineering, the only difference is in the methods of heating. Despite the high cost of connection, the gas appliance justifies itself with the low cost of heating water.
Volume of the tank
It is important to choose the right equipment in accordance with the expense of your family. If the volume of the tank is too large, this leads to inconvenience during installation, not every room can accommodate it. In order not to be mistaken, you need to calculate the costs:
- Kitchen. Washing dishes will require 6-18 liters.
- Bath. Taking a full bath, you need to consider that hot water is mixed with cold. Therefore, 60-120 liters.
- Shower — 15-25 liters.
- Sink — 5-10 liters.
Based on the number of people:
- One – 50-80 liters.
- Two or three – 80-100 liters.
- Four – 150-200 liters.
By following our recommendations and understanding the principle of operation of the equipment, you can choose the best option for your home. Installation is best left to a professional.