Gas hot water heaters have been heating the water for many businesses and households for many years. In fact when people turn on their hot water faucet to shave, shower, wash dishes, wash clothes or wash their hands, it is safe to say that not many individuals think of their gas hot water heater.
However, if that flow of hot water stopped it would be a different story. This is because having hot water is a convenience that not many people think about until it is no longer available.
Therefore, it may prove beneficial to have a little knowledge regarding a gas hot water heater. Specifically, how a gas hot water heater works and what are some things that could go wrong to make this type of heater inoperable.
How A Gas Hot Water Heater Works
A gas hot water heater is a modern day appliance that quietly functions in some remote place within the building. Specifically, the holding tank for the water comes in different sizes. Some of those different sizes could include a 10, 20, 30 or 40 gallon hot water tank. The tank is connected to two water lines. The one line leads into the tank and allows the flow of water. The other pipe leads away from the tank and carries the hot water throughout the facility.
In addition, this type of tank utilizes natural gas as the main energy source to heat up the water in the tank. The temperature of the hot water is controlled by a thermostat. When the water in the tank falls below the setting of the thermostat, the thermostat sends a signal to the gas burner to engage. This process then heats up the water in the tank until that temperature setting is reached. Once the temperature setting is reached the thermostat then sends another electrical signal to deactivate the gas burner.
When there is a demand for hot water within the facility the water then flows from the outgoing pipe to where the hot water is required. Once there is an outflow of hot water from the tank there's a corresponding flow of new water into the tank which then repeats the thermostat process of heating up the water to the required temperature.
Things That Could Go Wrong
As with any modern day convenience, there are a number of things that can go wrong with the natural gas water heater. One of the primary things that can cause a disruption in the hot water service is for the thermostat to malfunction.
Another item that could go wrong, but is less costly concerns the pilot light. The pilot light is that particular part of the natural gas water heater that constantly is aflame. Once the thermostat signals to the heating unit that the water needs to be heated the gas then begins to flow and the flame ignites the gas that flows throughout the burner system. Therefore, one of the less costlier things that can happen to stop the flow of hot water is for the pilot light to go out.
Things Are Heating Up: Gas Hot Water Heater



The Ideal Greenhouse Heaters To Choose From


The reason why greenhouse heaters are so important is due to the fact that the temperature changes on regular basis through out the day and night. At some stage it could drop to a low point that would not be very healthy for the plants.
That is the main reason why it is vital to keep the temperature at a suitable level so that the plants growth will be successful. When you choose a greenhouse heater it is very important that you also take into consideration not the fact that it can keep a good temperature during cold winter nights but making sure the costs of installing and running it are not to high
There are numerous kinds of greenhouse heaters
Gas Heaters - Due to the fact that these heaters are fueled by either bottled or natural gas you will find they will be much less efficient that electric greenhouse heaters.
Another factor to remember is that the waste that is created is released into the greenhouse which will then require you to have a ventilation system in place. Gas heaters are not as safe and will need to placed in a very safe location, they will also need constant check ups and you will probably need to replace it every now and again.
Electric heaters - These type of heaters are suited best for the smaller greenhouse structures. Electric heaters are able to efficiently maintain the chosen temperature level. The best part about these greenhouse heater is that they do not produce any fumes so there will be no need for installing a ventilation system when these heaters are in use.
Paraffin heaters. This kind of heaters is the most basic among the three. Paraffin heaters need constant refilling and wick-trimming. They also need fuel to run, thus, fumes are again discharged into the greenhouse and would need ventilation. However, paraffin heaters can reduce the risk of frost damage and act as emergency standby.
Heater Mounting
Hanging - This type of heater is mounted directly onto the ceiling or it can also be hung from it. The main advantage of using it is due to the fact that it will take up no floor space. The correct level for it to be hung at is just high enough to make sure there is no obstruction.
Wall - This type of heaters is mounted directly to the wall and vent towards the outside of the greenhouse. No floor space is required but the area in front of them should be clear.
Floor - This kind of heater is not mounted as they will have their own stand and are able to be placed anywhere on the floor in the greenhouse. That is the main disadvantage of type of heater and it will take up a lot of space
Heater Combustion
Open - This kind of heater uses air inside the greenhouse for combustion. As long as the air does not have contaminants in it, this will work just fine. Flammable liquids should not be placed near an open combustion heater, though, because its burner is not sealed.
Separated - A gas greenhouse heater will use this kind of combustion method. Where it will use the air from outside the greenhouse for combustion. It burner will also have been sealed to trap all of the air from the outside of the greenhouse. The exhaust pipe will then be run to the outside of the greenhouse structure
Sealed - This kind is a lot similar to the separated combustion type. The burner is completely sealed inside and there is no access to air inside the building. Sealed combustion heaters use direct vent both for exhaust and intake.
Heater Vents
Unvented - Being unvented heaters, combustion-produced gases are directly released to the heated area. Unvented heaters are only for temporary use because of the sensitivity of some plants.
Gravity - The exhaust fumes from this kind of heater will rise through the pipe and then will be released outside. That is the reason why the vents should always be vertical. The air that is replaced must be placed by the outside air.
Power - These power vented heaters have a blower that pushes air through the pipe and outside the structure. The vents may be arranged vertically or horizontally, and the vent pipes are smaller making it more efficient.
Direct - This kind of venting is special to sealed combustion types. It has only one vent pipe with both the inlet and exhaust; one pipe is inside the other. The amount of air that leaves the pipe is the same amount that it pulls as intake. There is no additional air outside needed to replace the expelled air.
One more thing that you must take into consideration is the greenhouse heaters output range or it can also be known as the measure of the heat output. Make sure that you consult with the nearby greenhouse store and check to see what range of output you will require.
This will be determined on the area your greenhouse will be in and a few other factors. There are also a few sites on the web that will be able to do this calculation for you.
There are a wide range of greenhouse heaters around which can often make it hard to choose one. Before you decide to make a purchase of a heater make sure to take into account your current greenhouse structure and its needs.
There are many greenhouse experts around who would be more than happy to consult with you and give advice on the greenhouse heater that would best suit your needs.
Source: Free Articles
Discover all the important aspects to greenhouses that will ensure you grow beautiful flowers all year round. Visit http://www.greenhousegrowingtips.com. To read articles on greenhouses then visit http://www.greenhousegrowingtips.com/greenhousearticles.html

The Ideal Greenhouse Heaters To Choose From


The reason why greenhouse heaters are so important is due to the fact that the temperature changes on regular basis through out the day and night. At some stage it could drop to a low point that would not be very healthy for the plants.
That is the main reason why it is vital to keep the temperature at a suitable level so that the plants growth will be successful. When you choose a greenhouse heater it is very important that you also take into consideration not the fact that it can keep a good temperature during cold winter nights but making sure the costs of installing and running it are not to high
There are numerous kinds of greenhouse heaters
Gas Heaters - Due to the fact that these heaters are fueled by either bottled or natural gas you will find they will be much less efficient that electric greenhouse heaters.
Another factor to remember is that the waste that is created is released into the greenhouse which will then require you to have a ventilation system in place. Gas heaters are not as safe and will need to placed in a very safe location, they will also need constant check ups and you will probably need to replace it every now and again.
Electric heaters - These type of heaters are suited best for the smaller greenhouse structures. Electric heaters are able to efficiently maintain the chosen temperature level. The best part about these greenhouse heater is that they do not produce any fumes so there will be no need for installing a ventilation system when these heaters are in use.
Paraffin heaters. This kind of heaters is the most basic among the three. Paraffin heaters need constant refilling and wick-trimming. They also need fuel to run, thus, fumes are again discharged into the greenhouse and would need ventilation. However, paraffin heaters can reduce the risk of frost damage and act as emergency standby.
Heater Mounting
Hanging - This type of heater is mounted directly onto the ceiling or it can also be hung from it. The main advantage of using it is due to the fact that it will take up no floor space. The correct level for it to be hung at is just high enough to make sure there is no obstruction.
Wall - This type of heaters is mounted directly to the wall and vent towards the outside of the greenhouse. No floor space is required but the area in front of them should be clear.
Floor - This kind of heater is not mounted as they will have their own stand and are able to be placed anywhere on the floor in the greenhouse. That is the main disadvantage of type of heater and it will take up a lot of space
Heater Combustion
Open - This kind of heater uses air inside the greenhouse for combustion. As long as the air does not have contaminants in it, this will work just fine. Flammable liquids should not be placed near an open combustion heater, though, because its burner is not sealed.
Separated - A gas greenhouse heater will use this kind of combustion method. Where it will use the air from outside the greenhouse for combustion. It burner will also have been sealed to trap all of the air from the outside of the greenhouse. The exhaust pipe will then be run to the outside of the greenhouse structure
Sealed - This kind is a lot similar to the separated combustion type. The burner is completely sealed inside and there is no access to air inside the building. Sealed combustion heaters use direct vent both for exhaust and intake.
Heater Vents
Unvented - Being unvented heaters, combustion-produced gases are directly released to the heated area. Unvented heaters are only for temporary use because of the sensitivity of some plants.
Gravity - The exhaust fumes from this kind of heater will rise through the pipe and then will be released outside. That is the reason why the vents should always be vertical. The air that is replaced must be placed by the outside air.
Power - These power vented heaters have a blower that pushes air through the pipe and outside the structure. The vents may be arranged vertically or horizontally, and the vent pipes are smaller making it more efficient.
Direct - This kind of venting is special to sealed combustion types. It has only one vent pipe with both the inlet and exhaust; one pipe is inside the other. The amount of air that leaves the pipe is the same amount that it pulls as intake. There is no additional air outside needed to replace the expelled air.
One more thing that you must take into consideration is the greenhouse heaters output range or it can also be known as the measure of the heat output. Make sure that you consult with the nearby greenhouse store and check to see what range of output you will require.
This will be determined on the area your greenhouse will be in and a few other factors. There are also a few sites on the web that will be able to do this calculation for you.
There are a wide range of greenhouse heaters around which can often make it hard to choose one. Before you decide to make a purchase of a heater make sure to take into account your current greenhouse structure and its needs.
There are many greenhouse experts around who would be more than happy to consult with you and give advice on the greenhouse heater that would best suit your needs.
Source: Free Articles
Discover all the important aspects to greenhouses that will ensure you grow beautiful flowers all year round. Visit http://www.greenhousegrowingtips.com. To read articles on greenhouses then visit http://www.greenhousegrowingtips.com/greenhousearticles.html

Choices abound for Electric Hot Water Heaters


The purchase of an electric hot water heater is not a small purchase for any homeowner, and trying to find the best electric water heater may make you feel harried and more than a little mentally frazzled. It would be wonderful if there was one best electric water heater for everyone. Then this article would be done and you would be on your way to the appliance store. It used to be that way because the only choices were number of gallons and electric or gas/propane. Since I cannot provide you with the single answer and be done, I’m going to provide you some hints and ideas for your expensive purchase.
Hints and Tips in the Electric Hot Water Heater Hunt
Its not 100 percent true but the longer the warranty on the electric hot water heater means that you are going to get a heavy gauge metal and other higher grade products. So the warranty length should be your first consideration.
How many gallons you need should be your second consideration. If your current water heater that you are going to replace with the electric hot water heater is 40 gallons and you always run out of water, consider the 50 gallons. With a 12 year warranty you are going to be with this appliance for a while, make it work for you.
You next item is the first hour rating, which gives you the information of how much hot water the electric hot water heater is going to deliver for your use if the first hour. This rating is not something most people know to check this item on an electric hot water heater or any other water heater.
If your are going with an electric hot water heater, you might also want to consider electric tankless hot water heater to add additional low cost heating to your system.
Last you need to verify that your new electric hot water heater has a high energy rating. Electric hot water heaters have some of the highest ratings. There is another reason to get this information, other than energy savings for you. Often, utility companies provide rebates for purchases of replacement appliances with energy ratings above a certain amount. Every energy company in every area can, and probably do, have different numbers which they have chosen. So when you have the information on the energy ratings of the models you would prefer, call the utility company and see which one will provide you the rebate.

Choices abound for Electric Hot Water Heaters


The purchase of an electric hot water heater is not a small purchase for any homeowner, and trying to find the best electric water heater may make you feel harried and more than a little mentally frazzled. It would be wonderful if there was one best electric water heater for everyone. Then this article would be done and you would be on your way to the appliance store. It used to be that way because the only choices were number of gallons and electric or gas/propane. Since I cannot provide you with the single answer and be done, I’m going to provide you some hints and ideas for your expensive purchase.
Hints and Tips in the Electric Hot Water Heater Hunt
Its not 100 percent true but the longer the warranty on the electric hot water heater means that you are going to get a heavy gauge metal and other higher grade products. So the warranty length should be your first consideration.
How many gallons you need should be your second consideration. If your current water heater that you are going to replace with the electric hot water heater is 40 gallons and you always run out of water, consider the 50 gallons. With a 12 year warranty you are going to be with this appliance for a while, make it work for you.
You next item is the first hour rating, which gives you the information of how much hot water the electric hot water heater is going to deliver for your use if the first hour. This rating is not something most people know to check this item on an electric hot water heater or any other water heater.
If your are going with an electric hot water heater, you might also want to consider electric tankless hot water heater to add additional low cost heating to your system.
Last you need to verify that your new electric hot water heater has a high energy rating. Electric hot water heaters have some of the highest ratings. There is another reason to get this information, other than energy savings for you. Often, utility companies provide rebates for purchases of replacement appliances with energy ratings above a certain amount. Every energy company in every area can, and probably do, have different numbers which they have chosen. So when you have the information on the energy ratings of the models you would prefer, call the utility company and see which one will provide you the rebate.

Electric Water Heater Choices


It used to be that when you had to replace a water heater, pretty much your only choice was whether it was an electric hot water heater or a gas/propane hot water heater. There are many more choices now and some interesting variations. We will discuss only the electric hot water heater and the electric tankless water heater. The most interesting variation is the electric tankless water heater, which is not really new, but is now much more of a real choice. When then electric tankless water heater systems first became available they had problems with waterflow and getting water to the necessary temperature. These problems have been solved, but this is still one warning, a tankless water heating system still does not have the full waterflow of a regular water heater system.
Since you have chosen to go with an electric water heating system, perhaps you thought you were finished with your decisions. Unfortunately or fortunately, depending how you look at it, there are some more choices to make
Factors in Electric Hot Water Heaters
The first decision is whether to have an electric tankless water heater or an electric hot water heater. If you choose the electric hot water heater you have a single purchase and installation to deal with. The electric tankless water heater requires an installation at each water outlet. While this may be a definite deal breaker for you, the savings in water heating bills over time can often overcome and far outstrip the savings of the installation of a single electric hot water heater. Safety is also a consideration was a hot water heater can be a fire source.
In fact, the choice to go with a tankless water heating system is one you can make over time. You can add an electric tankless water heater to begin the savings today. Add one to the guest bathroom, a pool, a dishwasher or other water outlets. This can begin to reduce your heating costs.
The second choice is which electric hot water heater to choose, if you decide to stay with a tank system. There are numerous new choices, such as: higher gallon capacity, stirrers, drainage valves, insulation Rvalue and an insulation jacket. People often complain that they run out of hot water, which could mean your system is no longer heating efficiently or that you really do lack gallon capacity necessary for your home. This brings into play the gallon capacity and the stirrers. The new systems have stirrers to force the water to completely circulate and stop silt buil-up on the bottom of the tank. Since the heating elements are on the bottom of the electric hot water heater tank you get reduced heat in the water and damage to the heating element due to the build-up. The electric tankless water heater does not have this issue, because there is no tank.
Last in R value and an insulation jacket. The Rvalue of a electric hot water heater is the insulation value around the core water tank and the outside of the water heater. How much of the heat from the water you heated stays in the water and how much escapes. Rvalues go from six to twenty-four, the higher number means more heat is held into the tank.

Electric Water Heater Choices


It used to be that when you had to replace a water heater, pretty much your only choice was whether it was an electric hot water heater or a gas/propane hot water heater. There are many more choices now and some interesting variations. We will discuss only the electric hot water heater and the electric tankless water heater. The most interesting variation is the electric tankless water heater, which is not really new, but is now much more of a real choice. When then electric tankless water heater systems first became available they had problems with waterflow and getting water to the necessary temperature. These problems have been solved, but this is still one warning, a tankless water heating system still does not have the full waterflow of a regular water heater system.
Since you have chosen to go with an electric water heating system, perhaps you thought you were finished with your decisions. Unfortunately or fortunately, depending how you look at it, there are some more choices to make
Factors in Electric Hot Water Heaters
The first decision is whether to have an electric tankless water heater or an electric hot water heater. If you choose the electric hot water heater you have a single purchase and installation to deal with. The electric tankless water heater requires an installation at each water outlet. While this may be a definite deal breaker for you, the savings in water heating bills over time can often overcome and far outstrip the savings of the installation of a single electric hot water heater. Safety is also a consideration was a hot water heater can be a fire source.
In fact, the choice to go with a tankless water heating system is one you can make over time. You can add an electric tankless water heater to begin the savings today. Add one to the guest bathroom, a pool, a dishwasher or other water outlets. This can begin to reduce your heating costs.
The second choice is which electric hot water heater to choose, if you decide to stay with a tank system. There are numerous new choices, such as: higher gallon capacity, stirrers, drainage valves, insulation Rvalue and an insulation jacket. People often complain that they run out of hot water, which could mean your system is no longer heating efficiently or that you really do lack gallon capacity necessary for your home. This brings into play the gallon capacity and the stirrers. The new systems have stirrers to force the water to completely circulate and stop silt buil-up on the bottom of the tank. Since the heating elements are on the bottom of the electric hot water heater tank you get reduced heat in the water and damage to the heating element due to the build-up. The electric tankless water heater does not have this issue, because there is no tank.
Last in R value and an insulation jacket. The Rvalue of a electric hot water heater is the insulation value around the core water tank and the outside of the water heater. How much of the heat from the water you heated stays in the water and how much escapes. Rvalues go from six to twenty-four, the higher number means more heat is held into the tank.

Replacing Your Water Heater With An Electric Water Heater


When you have to make a choice about a new water heater, it can often mean that you just discovered the great fun of taking cold showers in the middle of the winter, compliments of the newly broken water heater. Its not a time that encourages you to do a great deal of research, but my suggestion is bite the bullet and spend a little time, it can avoid a newer set of cold showers shortly down the line.
While its not going to improve your attitude, you will need to contact your homeowners insurance and your home warranty company. Both may be required to help you cover the cost of the replacement water heater and they may have some control of what you have to purchase for replacement.
Now comes the choice, an electric water heater, a gas/propane water heater, electric tankless water heater or a gas/propane tankless water heater. Once you make that choice there are several choices of features that are relatively new in water heaters. Your climate can affect your water heater so there are considerations for the purchase.
Your first choice, the electric water heater or gas/propane water heater, and the considerations are a few. The first consideration is does your have a gas/propane service already installed. If not, the costs and time for installation may cost more than and electric water heater, over time. In light of the increased costs of propane, there may be no savings over and electric water heater, though most sources still include that as a selling point.
All appliances have to provide information on their capacities. Check to see how big your water heater is currently, and if you need more gallon capacity, often the home warranty and homeowners insurance wants to replace with the same size, but they will allow you to get a bigger gallon capacity and pay the difference.
Other features that have become available since your water heater was last replaced, are stirrers, electronic ignition, sealed air intake systems, pipe insulation, additional tank insulation, insulation jackets and new drainage valve configurations. All which are safer for you and increase the life of your water heater.
New Choices in Electric Water Heater and Gas/Propane Water Heather
Finally, you need to decide if you want a tankless water heater. The tankless models come as electric tankless water heater and a gas/propage tankless water heater. The decision here is more than electric water heater and gas/propane water heater, as above the choices are much the same; however, with the tankless system you have to have one for each water outlet. Thus if you have two showers you need to tankless systems. You need one for your kitchen, and anything else which draws from the water heater currently. There are big advantages to a tankless system, and as the name suggests, there is not tank. There is no loss of water while waiting for the water to “warm up”. That really means to have the hot water travel through the pipes to the water outlet. They don’t maintain a full water of water a full temperature all day and night. The costs savings can be extensive and should be addressed.

Pay Hundreds, Save Thousands with a Solar Water Heater System


Solar energy promises to usher in a new era of energy, energy that is free for everyone in the world to use, is completely clean, and is effectively infinite in amount. Within the next century, humanity may end energy conflicts and air pollution while creating millions of new jobs to help empower all of society. While small in the scope of things, a solar water heater system is one tiny step to achieve that goal. Originally more of a novelty than anything else, solar energy is becoming commonplace, although it may still be slightly too expensive for some home owners to afford.
Deciding What's Right for You
Until solar water heater systems are within one or two hundred dollars of conventional water heaters, they likely won't see widespread appeal. Right now, you would be hard pressed to find solar water heater systems within four hundred dollars or so of conventional water heaters, although you won't find any outlandishly priced heaters either that cost thousands upon thousands of dollars. Still, the upfront cost is too much for many folks to stomach, even though they would be saving hundreds of dollars each year, and a solar water heater system would pay itself off in energy savings within three to four years. That's because these heaters use little to no electricity, depending on the model and your location geographically. You can expect to easily shave ten percent off your energy bill each month, but many folks don't have the disposable income to invest several hundred more dollars up front for one of these systems. It's a shame too because the savings over the years would add up to thousands of dollars.
However, a myriad of solar water heating devices are available beyond drinking water. A pool solar water heater uses the sun's energy to warm up your pool to a comfortable eighty plus degrees, which makes it much more enjoyable at all times of the day. How many times have you jumped into the pool after dinnertime only to find yourself freezing? A pool heater solves this problem by keeping your pool a constant temperature at absolutely no cost to your energy bill.
Everyone can benefit from a solar water heater system, unlike pool heaters which will only benefit pool owners. If you can afford the extra several hundred dollars right now, go for it! You will love the savings over time (several hundred dollars each year). You'll save money over a conventional heater within two to three years, and it will pay itself off within five to six. For new and current home owners alike, it's never too early to make the switch to a solar water heater system.

Save Energy and Money Through Modifying Water Heater Temperature


Modifying the water heater temperature can actually be used in order to save energy. Water heaters are known to be the most energy-consuming appliances in your home, and you can be spending up to $400 in electric fees annually just through the use of water heaters alone!
There are several ways for you to save up on energy, and consequently lessen the amount on your utility bills. Among these is purchasing a water heater timer or insulating materials. If you are not ready to dip into your pockets, there is also an easy way to minimize your water heater energy consumption. Just change the water heater temperature.
How does this work?
By simply lowering the thermostat setting on your water heater, you can save critical amounts of energy. For every 10 degrees Fahrenheit reduction in water temperature, you can save up to 5% of energy.
Did you know?
Some manufacturers calibrate water heater thermostats at 140 degrees Fahrenheit even when the average household only requires a water heater temperature setting of 120 degrees Fahrenheit. If you lower your temperature setting by 20 degrees Fahrenheit, you can be saving up to 10% of energy. Using 140 degrees Fahrenheit as your temperature setting can also pose some serious risks and hazards, such as scalding.
Lowering your water temperature to 120 degrees Fahrenheit can also delay the process of corrosion and mineral buildup in your water heater and pipes. This contributes in making your water heater last longer and function at its optimal efficiency.
How do I operate the thermostat?
You can refer to the instructions found in your water heater manuals as to how the thermostat is operated. Usually, the thermostat dial for a gas storage water heater is located near the bottom of the tank of the gas valve. For electric water heaters though, thermostats can be found behind screw-on panels or plates. Remember that before opening the panels, make sure to shut off the electricity to the water heater. This is to prevent you from getting electrocuted. An electric water heater may also have two thermostats - one for the upper and lower heating elements.
After locating the thermostat and adjusting it to a lower water temperature, take note of the beginning temperature and the adjusted temperature displayed on the thermostat dial. This will serve as your future reference. Afterwards, proceed to checking the water temperature at the tap farthest from the water heater if the temperature has indeed dropped according to your specifications. Most thermostat dials are inaccurate so you might need to perform several adjustments before you finally get the right temperature.
Miscellaneous Tips on Using your Water Heater
If you plan to be away from home for several days, turn the thermostat down to its lowest setting or completely turn off your water heater. You can switch it off by turning off the circuit breaker to it.
For dishwashers without a booster heater, use water temperature with the range of 130-140 degrees Fahrenheit for maximum cleaning.
As a whole, if you want to cut back on electricity costs, but you're not ready to invest in water heater timers and insulating materials, you can do so by simply lowering down the water heater temperature setting.
Find the best offers on water heater timer. Compare water heater prices online.
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/technology-articles/save-energy-and-money-through-modifying-water-heater-temperature-393946.html
Instant Water Heater - What are the Benefits?


Do you feel frustrated every time, when you take a shower and the hot water runs out? And your energy bills are huge? Then it is possible that you need to look for new water heaters. An instant water heater can solve both problems for you.
Advantages of instant water heaters
An instant tankless heater has several advantages when compared to a conventional water heater:
It saves you energy
It heats water as you use it, as much as you use it and never runs out
It takes very little space
Common water heater usually has a tank that holds 40 to 80 gallons of water, keeping it hot at all times, day and night. As you use the hot water for showers, doing dishes and so on, it is replaced with cold water and heated. When you are not using hot water and even when you are not home all together, hot water just sits in the tank and as it waits to be used it loses the temperature. So the heater reheats water in your tank every now and then. This means loss of energy for you.
Instant water heaters don't have a tank. For this reason they are also called tankless water heaters. As soon as you turn on hot water the unit turns on and heats the water, typically at 125 degrees Fahrenheit. So this type of heater doesn't use energy until the faucet is turned on. It produces hot water instantly and if that temperature is too hot for you simply regulate it by turning on the cold water. When you are finished and turn hot water off, the instant water heater shuts down straight away, using no energy. This can cut your energy bill almost by 50% every month.
Energy is not the only thing you save, a tankless heater will also save you water. You know how you always have to let the cold water run first, before the hot comes out? With an instant tankless water heater the water is hot from the start, so there is no need to run the water to before it turns hot.
When room is a consideration, a tankless heater also offers a solution. Comparable to a traditional 40-60 gallon water tank, an instant unit is very small. It can be easily installed in a small home or apartment.
Industrial instant water heaters
While tankless heaters are most used in residential homes, great energy savings lead to their commercial use as well. And more water you use more you save, for example a house using 120 gallons of water a day with a 40-gallon hot water tank typically spends $112.25 per month on heating water. For the same usage, an instant tankless water heater will cost you only about $26.95 per month.
Cost of instant tankless water heater
Initial cost is the main disadvantage of a tankless heater. It costs much more than the conventional one. But as you can see, the energy savings will compensate for this very soon, probably in the first 6-8 month of using your new heater. And if the cost is a concern, look for discounted instant water heaters online. With internet retailers you can always get your tankless heater cheaper.
Buying a tankless water heater
You can get instant heaters from same stores that sell other types of water heaters. As their popularity has grown recently, you will not have any problems finding a decent instant water heater. Another option is too look online. Sometimes you can save quite a lot by buying a water heater from internet retailers.
For more information and price comparison of instant water heaters check Heaters Guide . We provide buying tips for all types of water heaters.
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/home-and-family-articles/instant-water-heater-what-are-the-benefits-155663.html
Water Heater Tips and Tricks


It's easy to forget about your water heater. It sits up in your attic or in your garage silently and reliably putting out hot water. It's easy to forget about it until something goes wrong. Water heaters are not as maintenance free as some people would like to believe. This article has some useful tips on keeping your water heater running well for some time to come.
To lower the stress on your water heater and to lower your utility bills, set your thermostat at or around 120 degrees. Any more than that and you put extra pressure on the heater and take the chance of burns caused by scalding water. Many people outgrow their water heater and turn up the thermostat to provide more hot water. Instead, you should add a second heater or upgrade to a larger tank.
Another thing you should do to extend the life of your water heater is to drain the tank of sediment regularly. Even so called self cleaning water heaters can develop a buildup of sediment on the bottom of the tank. Periodically drain the tank to clear the sediment and prevent the bottom of the tank from rusting. While you are at it, make sure that you have a drain pan installed underneath the tank. In case of a break, it will keep your home from flooding. Check the drain often to make sure it is not clogged.
To make your water heater more efficient and save a little money on your electric bill, buy a water heater jacket to place around your tank. It will slow down heat loss through the tank. While you are at it, insulate any exposed hot water pipes. Before doing any of this insulation, check with the manufacturer of your heater to see if they approve of it
By putting these simple steps into effect, you can greatly extend the life of your water heater and improve its efficiency. By not forgetting about your water heater, you can save yourself hundreds of dollars and a lot of aggravation.
James C operates the Plumbers Directory. Find information on local plumbers, water heaters, toilets, pipes, faucets and all things plumbing.
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No Parts to Break with a Passive Solar Water Heater


The source of nearly all of our energy is the sun. While we might use wind, oil, and rivers to help empower our world, all of those sources of energy are also made possible through the sun. Because it won't stop burning anytime soon, we can effectively consider it an infinite source of energy, and better yet, it's completely free for absolutely anyone to use. To get the biggest savings possible on your next energy bill, a passive solar water heater will use the sun's rays, saving you hundreds of dollars a year.
Just One Step to Protect the Environment
A passive solar water heater is certainly smart for the environmentalist, but it also makes sense for any home owner. It's estimated that ten percent of all home energy usage goes into water heating. If every conventional water heater was replaced with a passive solar water heater, the energy savings would be tremendous, saving at least 3-4% off the world's energy needs each year. While 3-4% doesn't sound too large, keep in mind that this could be just one step towards making the world energy independent. With other problems like water shortages shaping up to be the defining problems of the twenty-first century, we really don't have any time to spare.
Of course, there are other energy saving water heaters. Other popular versions include water heaters that heat water as it passes through instead of storing it in a large tank. After all, it doesn't make sense to heat water if you're not going to use it for hours and hours. However, a passive solar water heater ensures that you'll always have a large supply of hot water at your disposal, so it allows for some heavy usage that you'd otherwise be incapable of. The difference between active and passive solar water heaters is simple: active heaters use pumps to force hot air or liquid around, using electricity in the process, while passive heaters skip the pump and let the heated material move itself around, allowing for even larger energy savings in the process.
Fortunately if you want a solar water heater, you won't need to have somebody else install it for you. If you opt to build a solar water heater, you can save hundreds more dollars. Many do-it-yourself kits are available for purchase, and you can even build them from scratch (by buying the components separately). Building your very own passive solar water heater affords you even more versatility, so if you can do it yourself, that's the path you should definitely take.

How to Choose a Water Heater


If the time ever comes where you need to buy a water heater, there are a few things that you are going to want to be aware of and a few steps that you are going to need to take in order to ensure that you come out of it all with the best possible results and get the right water heater for your home or business.
Commercial or Residential?
This actually leads us into the first question, which is do you need to get a commercial or residential water heater? If you are buying for your home you will need a residential water heater, while if you are buying for a business of any sort you are going to want a commercial water heater.
The major difference is the size. Obviously for the average home you are going to need a smaller sized water heater than you would for the typical business. There are also other differences between the two as well, and so this is the first major decision that you are going to need to make, but one that is certainly easy enough.
Tankless?
There are now tankless water heater models out there that you can choose from, and these are particularly useful for businesses because they offer you instant hot water. They are all the rage now and should definitely be a consideration at least when you are out shopping for water heaters.
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You are also going to need to consider your budget. The prices of water heaters will tend to vary greatly and so you are going to need to be aware of this and have at least a remote idea of the amount of money you have available to spend. This will be one of the most major aspects of your shopping for water heaters, even though you may not be aware of it, because it will help narrow down the selection for you.
By keeping this important information in mind while shopping for a water heater, you will feel much more comfortable overall and be able to come out of this with the right heater for your needs.
If you need help with this, you can always go into a store that sells water heaters and speak to a representative there. They should be able to offer you information on the different models, work with you to figure out what you need and then help make sure that you get the right one.
What is the Average Hot Water Heater Price?


Especially if you are looking to buy a residential hot water heater, you are going to be concerned with the hot water heater price that you are going to be paying. Usually if you are a renter your landlord will take care of the hot water heater price if the one that comes with your home ever fails and you need a replacement, but if you own your own home you are going to need to need to take care of this yourself.
First Step
Before you do anything, if you want to find the best hot water heater price, you are going to need to check out the selection and find out what is out there and available to you. The only real way that you are going to be able to find the best price for a hot water heater is if you take the time to compare different models.
Get Help
If you are a homeowner and want to find the best hot water heater price, you are most likely going to need a bit of help. Most homeowners are not aware of this process and sure of how to go about it, but you can rest assured knowing that there are plenty of professionals out there who will be more than willing and able to help you out through this process.
You can even take a bit of time to do some research on your own time, for instance by surfing the Internet for even just a minute or two so that you can check out the different makes and models and get a better idea of the prices that people pay for water heaters.
Take Your Time
Don’t rush this process. After all, you want to find a hot water heater that you are going to be able to keep in your home and use for years to come, and not one that is going to maybe be cheap but then need to be replaced shortly after.
Finding a great hot water heater price is important, but think quality first and foremost. Always be aware of return policies and warranties on the hot water heater, so that if anything does go wrong with it you will not be left in the dirt and will know that you can replace it or refund it and get your money back, no hassles on your part and no questions asked.
Where to go for a Residential Hot Water Heater


There are times when you need a residential hot water heater, and when this is the case, then you are going to need to be aware of where you can go to get one, and at a great deal no less. If you are looking for a residential hot water heater, there are a few places in particular that you are going to want to check out, and which will be discussed here in more detail.
Direct Energy
Direct Energy is a great place to go if you need a residential hot water heater. They have a wide selection of hot water heaters for you to choose from, and at great prices.
They are one of North America’s leading integrated energy companies and a member of the Centrica group of companies, and they have grown since their inception to provide customers with choice and support in regards to managing energy costs through a portfolio of innovative products and services.
Home Depot
Another company that you may want to check out for a residential hot water heater is the Home Depot. In particular they feature the tankless water heaters which have become quite popular over the past couple of years.
They understand how dramatically the North American water-heater industry has evolved over the last several years in particular, and that the tankless water heater is a huge technological achievement. They are innovative systems which will not only help by saving you valuable space but as well creating huge energy savings which translates into huge monetary savings for you.
Tips
Of course you are going to want to make sure that you get the best value for your residential hot water heater, and this means doing a couple of things. For one you want to shop around, and also you want to read a residential hot water heater review on the heater you are considering. This way you will get an honest, firsthand opinion on the heater, and you will be able to better determine whether or not it going to be the right choice.
Just make sure that you are aware of all your options and know what you have available to you before going forth and choosing a water heater for your home. You want to make sure that you get the best price but also a water heater that is going to be durable and last you over the years.
