Operating principle of a storage water heater

A storage water heater is a relatively small container in which, or less often under it, there is a heating source. These devices can be installed in any premises - from residential to industrial. Operation is possible both from gas and from electricity.

Operating principle of a storage water heater

The operating principle of all water heaters is the same, based on indirect heating of water to a certain temperature, which flows from the water supply into the tank.

IMPORTANT! The most comfortable operating mode is considered to be at temperatures in the range from 60 to 65°C. This ensures a lower level of heat loss than when the device is operating at full capacity.

The whole operating principle can be described as follows. Initially, cold water under pressure enters the tank; below there is a heating element, which begins to heat it. After the water has heated up, it rises to the top of the tank, and the next portion of cold water is heated from below. And thus the entire tank capacity is gradually warmed up. When the water has completely heated up to the required temperature, the thermostat is activated and the heating element is automatically turned off.

Water at the set temperature will remain in the tank until consumers turn on hot water in the kitchen or bathroom. At this time, water will be withdrawn from the top of the tank with the simultaneous entry of a new portion of cold water from below, again the thermostat will work and the water will be heated again. This is how the water heater works cyclically. Thanks to this principle of natural circulation, uniform heating in the tank is ensured. However, it will take some time to warm up the water heater throughout its entire volume.

Electric storage water heater design

The most important thing in the design is the heating element, thanks to which the water is heated. The outer casing serves to protect the water heater, after which There is a layer of thermal insulation necessary to save energy. If the manufacturer provides good thermal insulation, the water can remain warm for up to 2 days. Traditional materials for thermal insulation are rigid polyurethane foam or foam rubber. If you need to heat water in large quantities, then thermal insulation is supplied separately from the tank, which allows you to increase the working volume.

IMPORTANT! During production, the design of the water heating tank is based on stainless steel or carbon steel with an enamel coating. These materials are the most practical, having proven themselves well after long-term use.

The main elements of the device include:

• outer casing;
• thermal insulation layer;
• water heating tank;
• divider;
• cold water inlet;
• hot water outlet;
• sensor immersion tube;
• magnesium anode;
• heating element (heating element).

IMPORTANT! In addition to the boiler, it is recommended to buy a water pressure reducer for installation. Thanks to this device, water is not supplied in such a large stream when washing dishes or taking a shower, and accordingly, the consumption is several times less, that is, you can save money.

Pros and cons of a storage device

The main advantages include:

• operates at low power, so there is no need for separate wiring;
• you can use hot water from both the kitchen and the bath at the same time;
• ease of operation;
• can be installed at a certain distance from the water intake point;
• the presence of a protective function against overheating; when the extreme temperature value is reached, the automation is triggered;
• to obtain the required temperature, there is no need to change the pressure, since a mixer is included in the package.

Among the disadvantages are:

• dimensions that can take up a lot of space, which must be taken into account when planning housing;
• Once the water is completely used up, it will take time to heat the next batch.

IMPORTANT! For ease of use, it is better to use a thermostat to smoothly regulate the temperature.

Rules for operating an electric water heater

To ensure safety, efficiency, reliable operation, and extend the service life of the device used, you must adhere to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Moreover, not only during operation, but also at the installation stage. You must strictly follow all the points in the instructions. For example, if it is said about grounding, then this must be done without fail. Proper operation will also reduce energy costs.

Frequent switching on and off will contribute to rapid wear of the automation, so if you need hot water every day, it is better not to turn off the power supply at all. This is also rational for other reasons - if there is hot water in the tank all the time, then it will be less susceptible to corrosion. The optimal temperature for heating is considered to be above 55˚C, this way you prevent the development of mold bacteria on the walls of the tank and in the water.

After purchasing a device, the question of installing it arises. Even if you have experience in such work or have observed the installation before and are confident in your abilities, it is better to seek help from a specialist. This will save you from possible problems in the future. After installation, the specialist should also make the first test run and make sure the connection is correct.

The water heater can be used in areas with different conditions, and if you have to deal with hard water, it is recommended to install a filter in front of the boiler. In rooms with high humidity (baths, saunas), during installation you need to make sure that steam condensation does not get on the device.