Water heater components are the smaller units of an essential device in the plumbing system of a water heater. Its service includes cleaning, cooking, bathing (providing comfortable warm water), and many more. Without these small units, the device’s performance will not be optimal, and it may even malfunction. Read the following list.
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List of Water Heater Components
One list is not enough to mention the whole smaller units. We’ll say 7 important ones.
Water tank
As the object to heat is water, the tank is the most important component. It is to store or supply the liquid. The size range is abundant depending on the homeowner’s choice. The choice is usually based on the building size. To accommodate a big building, it requires a big tank. It is important to pay attention to the tank capacity. The shape of the tank is cylindrical like the other kinds of tank.
Heat traps
After the water in the tank raises its temperature, heat traps isolate the heat/warmth. This part blocks the hot water from flowing back into the cold water line. The absence of this component will make the hot water flow to the cold line, and drive away the heat.
TPR valve
T is temperature, P is pressure, R is relief. This TPR valve is a guardian of the system that provides safety. It will release the pressure if it is too high and prevent the device from exploding. The valve will be opened when there is excessive pressure, the water escapes through the valve. So, when it happens, there will be an appearance of leakage. This small unit is installed on the top of the tank or sometimes side of the tank.
Interconnected pipes
3 pipes are conjointed to support the water flow in the tank. 1. Inlet pipe: It is located on the tank top to give away the liquid from the source to the tank. 2. Dip tube: It is installed in the tank. It transfers cold liquid from the source to the bottom. The aim of this flowing system to the bottom is to avoid the cold and the hot liquid mixed at the top. 3. Outlet pipe: This one gives a way out of the hot water to the faucet.
Valve for shutting the cold water
This one of the water heater components will stop the supply from the source. When the heating process runs, this valve doesn’t regularly work. It works only if the device needs replacement, reparation, and maintenance.
Anti-Corrosion
The chemical composition in the liquid can cause corrosion. This part is in the shape of anode rods. It must prevent corrosion.
HSI
It is a Hot Surface Ignitor that ignites the burner. This is the main component as the trigger part to start the device. It needs regular checks and maintenance to keep the device working properly.
After Knowing the Water Heater Components
Understanding the water heater components seems to be a complicated thing for homeowners. Many people think that this is just for engineers. However, as the homeowner, it is essential to know details about the device. When there is trouble, the maintenance will be faster. The process like replacement can be smoother because the homeowner contributes the right information to the engineer. Or, in the future, the homeowner could do simple maintenance themselves. It is more effective and efficient in terms of time and cost.
Consultation with the expert is required although the homeowner knows the the parts and the function. Sometimes troubles are beyond what we imagine. Professional assistance can help with their professional tools to repair the water heater components.