To choose the right equipment for your home 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 the boiler consists of, how it heats the water, how to choose a suitable tank volume.
How is a boiler for heating water
Cumulative models are designed to heat water and maintain the set temperature for as long as possible. For this, a double-walled tank is provided. Between them is a layer of thermal insulation, most often made of polyurethane. The denser it is, the less energy is expended for heating.
In most models, the outer tank is made of metal, and the inner bulb can be made of titanium, copper, glass porcelain.
The remaining components:
- TEN. Some Termex models have two heaters. This is convenient because you can save energy by turning off one of them. If the heating element breaks, then the second will continue to work.
- Magnesium Anode It is installed to protect the heater from scale and corrosion. Magnesium prevents the oxidation of iron, so it gradually settles to the bottom over time. It also attracts scale, so the heater remains clean. It is recommended to replace the anode once a year. As soon as the part collapses, the tank begins to rust.
- Branch pipe for supply of cold water.
- 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 testimony is visible on the outside of the case. With it, you can adjust the temperature.
- Thermostat. It is used to measure water heating. As soon as the mark reaches the set values, it gives a signal to turn off the heater. The external part is located outside (thermal relay) and allows you to turn on and off the heating.
- The indicator has a connection with the thermostat. When it lights up, it means that the heating is on, goes out - off.
- The protective cover closes the heater from contact with the user.
- Special brackets allow you to mount the boiler to the wall.
The most popular brands: Ariston and Termex. Designs of devices practically do not differ.
The principle of operation of the storage water heater
How does an electric boiler work? Through a special branch pipe, cold water is collected and accumulated in the tank 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 heater and the walls of the tank.
Turning the thermostat turns on the thermostat, which in turn starts the heater. After the water temperature reaches the set, the thermostat turns off the heating. A layer of thermal insulation and periodic switching on of heating allow you to maintain performance at a given level. Only a decrease of 5-6 degrees can be observed.
After heating, water flows through the upper tube into the storage tank, and cold water is poured into the lower tank again. During filling, the safety valve regulates the pressure. If it reaches a critical point, the valve opens and reduces the pressure.
The device of the gas storage boiler
The heater can work not only from electricity, but also from gas. Moreover, such a device can save more time. The gas power is 4–6 kW, while electric power produces only 1.5–3 kW.
Benefits:
- Thanks to the storage tank, warm water can be used in several places: bathroom, kitchen.
- If desired, you can supplement the device with a recirculation branch. Then the water does not drain into the sewer, but is reused.
- Gas is more affordable fuel.
There are also disadvantages:
- The high cost of technology.
- Complex installation and connection.
- Installation of the chimney.
The structure of the tank is the same as that of an electric boiler, and the internal filling:
- Gas-burner.
- Chimney.
- Cold water intake hole.
- A pipe through which hot water is drawn.
The operation scheme is identical to electrical technology, the only difference is in the heating methods. Despite the high cost of connection, the gas appliance pays off by the low cost of heating water.
Volume of the tank
It is important to choose the right equipment in accordance with the consumption of your family. If the volume of the tank is too large, this leads to inconvenience during installation, it will not be possible to place it in every room. In order not to make a mistake, you need to calculate the costs:
- Kitchen. To wash the dishes you need 6-18 liters.
- Bath. When collecting a full bath, you need to consider that hot water mixes with cold. Therefore, 60-120 liters.
- Shower - 15-25 liters.
- Sink - 5-10 liters.
Based on the number of people:
- One is 50-80 liters.
- Two or three - 80-100 liters.
- Four - 150-200 liters.
Adhering to our recommendations and understanding the principle of technology, you can choose the best option for your home. Installation is best entrusted to a specialist.