What is inside a water heater? Well, obviously water. But what else? One might guess some sort of element that makes the water hot. But otherwise, the inside of a water heater remains a mystery. We’re here to change that. As water heater experts, we’ve broken down exactly what is inside a water heater!
The Inside Of A Water Heater
There are several types of water heaters, including storage tank water heaters and tankless water heaters, but most water heaters have the following components:
Tank: This is where the water is stored and heated. The hard exterior that is visible to you is rarely hiding water on the other side, though.
Insulation: The tank that holds the water is insulated to help retain heat. This reduces energy use and improves overall efficiency of the water heater.
Heating element: This is the part of the water heater that actually generates heat. In an electric water heater, the heating element is an electric resistance element that heats the water as it passes through. In a gas water heater, the heating element is a gas burner that heats the water.
Thermostat: This is a device that controls the temperature of the water in the tank. The thermostat is typically located near the bottom of the tank and is connected to a temperature sensor.
Anode rod: This is a rod made of a corrosion-resistant material, such as aluminum or magnesium, that is inserted into the water tank to protect the tank from corrosion.
Temperature and pressure relief valve: This is a safety valve that is designed to release excess pressure and temperature from the water heater if it gets too high.
Drain valve: This is a valve located at the bottom of the water heater that allows you to drain the tank. It is necessary for maintenance or repair.
Cold water inlet and hot water outlet: These are pipes that bring cold water from your water supply into the tank. Then, the hot water outlet allows hot water to flow out of the tank.
Gas supply line: If you have a gas water heater, there will be a gas supply line that brings natural gas or propane to the gas burner.
Exhaust vent: This is a pipe that vents combustion gases outside the building if you have a gas water heater.
Control panel: This is where you can control and monitor the temperature of the water in the tank and set other settings on the water heater.
If you are having an issue inside a water heater, or if you suspect one of these components has broken, give Payless Water Heaters a call right away! If you need any further confirmation that Payless Water Heaters is the company for you, check out our reviews!
