Water Heaters: Everything You Need To Know
Factory Heaters • May 25, 2022

Hot water is a daily necessity, and running hot water is one of the efficient conveniences of today’s households. Right from using hot water to clean clothes and dishes to using it for bathing and showering, hot water has multiple uses in a household. Despite hot water being a daily need, people often struggle to find proper water heating appliances like the classic water heater.


Despite water heaters being durable and functional, people need to understand the factors that they need to consider before purchasing one. Right from considering major factors like electric or gas water heaters to minor details like temperature adjusters and other settings, it becomes a task for people to purchase a water heater. 

What is a Water Heater?


The normal lifespan of water heaters ranges between 8 to 15 years, so when the time comes, people need to replace their old water heaters with new ones. Unfortunately, most water heater users will opt for the renewed version of their existing water heaters. Thus t is advised that they note their requirements and do online shopping with a clean mind.


To avoid having a water heater malfunction and other abnormalities daily, people need to purchase the right water heater. But in case you have a water heater, then there are three possibilities which can take place, your attempts to repair the water heater, call for an experienced serviceman, or purchase a new water heater. If you are in the last situation, then you should purchase a good water heater.



How Does A Hot Water Heater Work? 


Both electric and gas water heaters work in a similar function. There are three steps to the procedure. First, the cold water travels to the dip tube, from where heat is generated through the heating elements present inside the tank. Last but not the least, the hot water will rise within the tank and will cross the house through pipes and heat out pipes. 


Along with the features like electric water heaters, the gas counterparts come with a thermostat, pressure, and temperature relief valve. In addition to that, the water tanks also come insulated and have an anode rod. The water tank is also insulated, and all consumers need to do is plug the heater into the switchboard to start the water heating procedure. See our top things to consider when choosing a water heater guide here.


Rinnai water heater

Electric water heater

The cold water enters the electric water heater through a dip tube. The cold water is heated through the heating elements that are present in the tank. The hot water then rises and is received through the different outlets like taps, baths, and other heat out pipes. Electric water heaters come with a thermostat, pressure relief, and temperature valve. The water heating tank has an insulating element. 



Gas water heater

The gas water heater has a similar working operation compared to that of an electric water heater. A dip tube is used to pour the cold water into the tank in a gas water heater. There is a gas burner which is used to heat the cold water. The burner operates on gas which releases extremely toxic and hot air through the air vent. The vent or chimney is installed in the middle of the gas water heating tank. While the vent emits the toxic hot air, the vent pipe becomes hot, which results in the subsequent warming of the water in the tank. 

Which is better- electric water heaters or gas water heaters?


There are typically two major kinds of water heaters in the market at present, electric water heaters and gas water heaters.



Efficiency

Compared to their gas counterparts, electric water heaters come efficiently. Despite being on the higher end of the affordability scale, gas water heaters use more energy and release waste into the environment while they are in operation. Since the by-products of the gas water heaters consume a certain percentage of heat while the heater is operating and generating hot water. In addition to that, electric water heaters are known to consume most of the energy in generating hot water, although there are certain energy-saving or efficient gas water heaters which consume less energy compared to the classic gas water heaters.


Maintenance requirements

If we again draw a comparison between electric water heaters and their gas counterparts, it is gas water heaters that require more maintenance and aftercare. Even though both the water heaters require similar aftercare and maintenance, such as flushing out the remaining water from the heating tank, in case you don’t do that, prolonged storage of water in the tank will cause the deposition of minerals and sediments. Experts advise consumers to have their tanks and entire water heating system cleaned annually to ensure the long life of the water heaters. 


Accessibility 

Electric water heaters are easier to operate compared to gas counterparts. Since all people need to do is put the plugin and turn the switch on. Unfortunately, gas water heaters have a complex operating system, given how they need to be turned on. Thus, electric water heaters are more convenient when it comes to operations.


Cost

Pricing of both electrical and gas water heaters is fairly similar. If compared minutely, gas water heaters are more expensive than their electrical counterparts upfront. Although, their utility bills are fairly low monthly. Electric water heaters, on the other hand, have lower upfront expenses yet have higher monthly utility bills given how they operate only on electricity. 


Installation

Both electric and gas water heaters have simple installation procedures. But often, electric water heater consumers have difficulty shifting from their existing electric ones to gas water heaters. Gas water heaters require a separate line for the transport of gas. In addition to that, it also requires the installation of a separate vent, which further requires drilling near the water heating area. Thus, gas water heaters require more money and time for installation compared to electrical ones. 


Immersion Water Heaters

Immersion water heaters are electrical devices that are inserted in liquids that people want to heat. They are installed in tanks, and the installation can be done manually in multiple ways, including side-ways, threaded, or even flanged. They are comparatively cheaper than electric and gas water heaters and can heat liquids like water in a matter of minutes. They are manufactured by enclosing the heating coil in a ceramic coating that is then covered in a sheath. The sheath can be wither made of copper, cast iron, stainless steel, titanium, Incoloy, or even PFA coating.


The heating coil receives intense heating and is charged by electricity. Immersive water heaters become hot very quickly, and the heat which the coil is giving out helps to increase the temperature of the water quickly.



"Hot water is a daily necessity, and running hot water is one of the efficient conveniences of today’s households"

Ben Winrow - Factory Heaters

How do maintain electric and gas water heaters?


Homeowners need to consider regular maintenance by following the below-mentioned steps to keep their electric and gas water heaters working effectively.


It is essential to keep the water heater at a stable and safer temperature. A majority of manufacturers recommend keeping the thermostat of their water heaters at a temperature of around 120 degrees Celsius. This helps consumers save a lot of money on electricity bills. 


Consumers need to flush out the tank annually. Without this, the existing water heater might stop working well before time. People need to check for the anode rod and change it accordingly. Changing the anode rod regularly will prevent the tank from rusting. Rusting of the tank would severely degrade the quality of water that is being heated inside the tank. Water heater users also need to test the pressure relief valve systematically while cooling the water. One can do that by placing a bucket under the tank’s pipe and then releasing the valve open. 

low carbon boiler

The Difference Between Boilers And Water Heaters?


Several homemakers and owners are unaware of the differences between boilers and water heaters. Since they aren’t aware of the major differences, it becomes difficult for them to choose while they are shopping for an appliance that will allow them to heat water quickly. The major difference between the two appliances lies in the utility. While water heaters are used solely for heating water in a home, boilers, on the other hand, are used to generate heat along with hot water in a home.


Boilers are used especially in residences that are located in cold places. While it heats water, it also uses the same hot water to warm up the place every time they are turned on to heat water. Boilers are used for both residential and commercial uses.


Boilers have high-pressure and low-pressure units, although, for residential purposes, low-pressure boilers are recommended. High-pressure units, on the other hand, are used for commercial and factory purposes. 


Standard water heaters are also known as tank water heaters. Tanks of such water heaters come in various sizes, which determine the possible water retention capacity varying from 20 gallons to 80 gallons of liquid. Usually, water heaters are installed in the basement, and the hot water is transported to various places through outlet pipes. As hot water leaves the tank through the various outlet pipes, cold water is replaced at the bottom of the tank.


Although on some occasions, consumers might use up hot water faster than what the system can warm up, thus exhausting the entire tank of hot water. This is usually a regular situation in homes with a lot of family members or where there is a desperate need for hot water. 



Best Water Heater Brands


Here are a few water heaters that are quite popular among consumers across the world. We are deciphering them for you.

Lo-Nox Condensing water heater

One of the most efficient designs and development of factory heaters, the Lo-Nox Condensing water heater, is an amazing commercial water heater that runs on gas. The gas utilising water heater is incorporated with down-firing pre-mixer burning technology along with advanced condensing technology. This ensures that every ounce of LPG or natural gas is utilised to its optimum value or level. The water heaters are renewable and are used for suitable temperature boosting units that can be installed in heat pump stations and solar thermal utilising stations. 


Domestic & Light Commercial water heater

This internal water heater is designed for wall installation and is natural gas or LPG firing continuous water flow heating appliance. It is an ideal used commercial water heater due to its ability to supply 833 litres of excess water per hour, raising the temperature by 50 degrees Celsius. It is a great alternative to the electric water heater that usually brings up a huge electricity utility bill at the end of every month.


For commercial purposes, electric water heaters are not preferred due to their high electricity utility bill. Instead, gas water heaters such as this domestic and light commercial water heater.


N1600E Rinnai External Lo-Nox Gas Condensing water heater

Used for commercial water heating purposes, Lo-Nox gas condensing water heaters offer full modulation, condensing, and continuous flow of hot water by utilising the stainless steel heat exchange facilities. It comes with several exciting features, and it offers a flow rate of  2100 litres of hot water that is minutely accurate to the set temperature. The new water heater comes with increased efficiency and performance abilities.


There is an easy building management system installed in the water heater. In addition to that, an operational controller can also be added to change temperatures according to the preferences. Durability and warranty are part of the stainless steel exchanger. Last but not the least, the water heater runs on natural gas only, which emits less toxic gas and is affordable, thus ensuring low monthly utility bills.


Given how you are now aware of everything relevant to electric and gas water heaters, depending on your requirements, it is recommended for you to choose the one that suits you best. While electric water heaters have a low upfront price, their electric utility bill is very high. On the other hand, gas water heaters have a higher upfront expense but with a low monthly utility bill.



Contact Factory Heaters for more information.

If your hot water system currently stores hot water for any potential increases in demand, installing Continuous flow water heaters instead will reduce your energy costs dramatically, and they are also Hydrogen Blend Ready, so will support the UK’s zero Carbonisation strategy.



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Keep Your Industry Warm All Winter: Check Out Condensing Warm Air Heaters!

By Factory Heaters • 26 Apr, 2024
To keep your industry warm all winter while maximising efficiency, consider condensing warm air heaters . These systems operate by capturing and reusing heat, significantly reducing energy consumption and emissions. They're designed to provide consistent warmth, lower operational costs, and support sustainability goals. The advanced technology ensures quiet, reliable operation across various models tailored to specific space sizes, such as the HR Series . Proper installation and regular maintenance by certified technicians are key to optimal performance. These heaters not only meet but exceed modern heating solution expectations , offering significant energy savings and environmental benefits . Exploring their features and advantages reveals the pathway to a warmer, more efficient winter. Understanding Warm Air Heating At its core, warm air heating involves drawing in cold air, heating it to a comfortable temperature, and then distributing it throughout your space, efficiently maintaining a cosy environment. This process becomes significantly more efficient with the introduction of a high efficiency condensing warm air heating system. Unlike traditional heating systems, these incorporate a condensing unit heater, which plays a pivotal role in their operation. The hallmark of these systems is their ability to capture heat that would otherwise escape into the atmosphere in conventional heaters. By utilising a condensing unit heater, the system extracts heat from exhaust gases, leveraging this energy to warm air before it's circulated. This not only enhances the system's efficiency but also reduces energy consumption and operational costs. Opting for a high efficiency condensing warm air heating system means you're investing in technology that's designed to maximise heat output from the fuel consumed. Whether powered by natural gas, propane, or other fuels, these systems ensure that a greater portion of the energy used is converted into usable heat for your space. This efficiency translates into lower emissions and a smaller carbon footprint, aligning with modern sustainability goals. The Basics of Condensation Understanding the basics of condensation is crucial, as it's the process that allows high efficiency condensing warm air heaters to capture and reuse heat effectively. At its core, condensation is the change of the physical state of matter from gas phase into liquid phase. This transformation is essential in the operation of condensing warm air heaters, making them a highly efficient heating solution. When you're heating your space, these units work by burning fuel, typically natural gas, which generates warm air and exhaust gases as byproducts. In a standard heating system, these exhaust gases, still holding a considerable amount of heat, would simply be vented outside and lost. However, condensing warm air heaters are designed to capture this escaping heat. They cool the exhaust gases to a point where they condense into water, releasing the stored heat in the process. This captured heat is then reused to warm the air, significantly improving the heater's efficiency. Benefits of High Efficiency High efficiency in warm air heaters offers significant savings on energy bills and reduces environmental impact. When you opt for a high efficiency condensing warm air heater, you're investing in a system that utilises less fuel to generate the same amount of heat as standard models. This efficiency is due to the heater's ability to condense water vapour in the exhaust gases, which releases latent heat that would otherwise be lost through the flue. The beauty of high efficiency warm air heaters lies in their ability to deliver consistent warmth more economically and with fewer emissions. By choosing a unit with high efficiency, you're not only cutting down on your monthly expenses but also contributing to a cleaner environment by reducing your carbon footprint. These heaters are designed to maximise the efficiency of fuel use, whether it's natural gas or another source, ensuring that you get the most warmth for your pound. Moreover, the advanced technology in high efficiency condensing heaters ensures that the system operates quietly and reliably, providing you with comfort without the constant reminder of a noisy heater. Investing in a warm air heater with high efficiency is a smart choice for both your wallet and the planet. Exploring HR Series Heaters Delving into the HR Series Heaters, you'll discover a lineup optimised for exceptional efficiency and environmental friendliness. These high efficiency condensing warm air heaters are designed to meet the needs of various spaces, ensuring your industry stays warm through the chilliest winters. The HR Series ranges from the HR 10 to the HR 120 models, each tailored to deliver precise heating solutions with commendable efficiency. The core of these condensing heaters lies in their ability to condense the water vapour in the exhaust gases. This process releases additional heat, which is then used to warm the air more effectively. As a result, the HR Series offers significant energy savings and reduces carbon emissions, aligning with modern environmental standards. Each model within the range of warm air heaters is crafted to serve a specific size and type of space, from smaller workshops to larger warehouses. Whether it's the compact HR 10 or the robust HR 120, the HR Series ensures optimal performance. Their high-efficiency condensing technology not only conserves energy but also reduces operational costs, making them a sustainable choice for heating your space. Installation and Maintenance After exploring the features and benefits of the HR Series heaters, let's focus on how you can install and maintain these units to ensure their optimal performance. When it comes to installation , it's crucial to adhere strictly to the manufacturer's guidelines. This ensures that your condensing warm air heaters operate at their highest efficiency. Typically, these units should be installed by a certified technician who understands the nuances of working with high efficiency heating systems. Correct installation affects not just the unit's performance but also its longevity. Maintenance, on the other hand, is key to keeping your condensing warm air heaters running smoothly. Regular checks are necessary to prevent any issues that could impact their efficiency. This involves cleaning the filters, checking the condensate drain for blockages, and ensuring that the burner and heat exchanger are free from debris. An annual inspection by a professional is recommended to assess the unit's overall condition and to perform any necessary adjustments or repairs. Reducing Emissions, Boosting Warmth By choosing HR Series condensing warm air heaters , you're not only enhancing the warmth in your space but also significantly reducing harmful emissions. These units are designed with high efficiency in mind, meaning they utilise fuel more completely than traditional heaters. This process not only generates more heat from the same amount of fuel but also results in fewer emissions being released into the environment. Condensing warm air technology is pivotal in achieving these results. By condensing the water vapour in the exhaust gases, these heaters extract additional heat which would otherwise be wasted. This not only boosts the unit's efficiency but also contributes to a significant reduction in carbon footprint . Moreover, reducing emissions isn't just about environmental responsibility. It's also about compliance with increasingly stringent regulations concerning energy use and pollution. By investing in high-efficiency condensing warm air heaters, you're future-proofing your heating system against tighter regulations, while also benefiting from lower operating costs. Choosing the Right Model Having understood the environmental and efficiency benefits of HR Series condensing warm air heaters, it's time to consider which model best fits your needs. With a range from the HR 10 to the HR 120, selecting the right condensing warm air heater is crucial for optimising your heating system's performance and efficiency. First, assess your space's size and heating requirements. The HR 10 High Efficiency Condensing Warm Air Heater, for instance, is ideal for smaller areas, offering high efficiency in a compact design. For larger spaces, the HR 120 provides powerful heating capabilities, ensuring your environment stays warm all winter long. Consider the specific needs of your industry. If your workspace involves high moisture or varying temperatures, you'll need a model that can efficiently condense warm air without compromising on performance. The HR Series is designed to meet diverse needs, with each model offering specific benefits such as low emissions and reduced energy consumption, aligning with a sustainable heating system approach. Lastly, factor in the long-term running costs. High efficiency models like the HR Series may have a higher initial investment but lead to significant savings on energy bills over time. Choosing the right condensing warm air heater means balancing upfront costs with long-term benefits for your heating system. Conclusion Choosing the right condensing warm air heater, like those in the HR series, is vital for keeping your industry efficiently warm during winter. These units not only ensure a comfortable environment but also significantly cut down on energy costs and emissions. Remember, proper installation and regular maintenance are key to maximising their benefits. By investing in a high-efficiency model suited to your needs, you're opting for a sustainable, cost-effective heating solution that supports both your operational goals and the environment.
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Unlock Optimal Comfort: Masterful Heating System Maintenance Tips for Peak Performance

By Factory Heaters • 20 Apr, 2024
Unlock optimal comfort with expert heating system maintenance tips. Learn how to ensure peak performance and efficiency for your heating system at Factory Heaters.
Campsite

Warming Up to Nature: Hot Water Systems Tailored for Outdoor Adventures at Caravan Parks in UK

By Factory Heaters • 11 Apr, 2024
For your outdoor adventures at UK caravan parks , consider tailored hot water systems like Gas Warm Air Heaters. The XR series, with models like XR100+ and XR80+ , is ideal for keeping you cozy. System Boilers offer a compact solution providing both heating and hot water. Combi Boilers, running on gas and electricity, provide hot water on demand. Caravan Water Heating Systems, like the energy-efficient Alde system, ensure a constant supply. Control Panels optimise heating control. Get ready for a comfortable experience with these hot water systems designed for outdoor living. Gas Warm Air Heaters When considering gas warm air heaters for your caravan or motorhome, the XR series offers efficient and reliable options for heating your living space. These heaters are ideal for keeping you warm and comfortable during your outdoor adventures at caravan parks. The XR series includes a range of models such as the XR100+ Gas Warm Air Heater, XR80+ Gas Warm Air Heater, XR60+ Gas Warm Air Heater, XR50+ Gas Warm Air Heater, XR40+ Gas Warm Air Heater, and XR20+ Gas Warm Air Heater, catering to different heating needs for motorhomes and caravans. Having a gas warm air heater in your caravan or motorhome ensures that you can enjoy a cozy living space even during chilly evenings. This type of heater efficiently warms up the air inside, providing a comfortable environment for you and your travel companions. Whether you're parked at a caravan park or out exploring nature, a gas warm air heater is a valuable addition to your vehicle's heating system. System Boilers for Caravans System boilers for caravans offer efficient and reliable hot water solutions for your on-the-go heating needs. If you're looking for a convenient way to ensure a steady supply of hot water in your caravan or motorhome, a system boiler could be the perfect fit. These boilers are designed to provide heating and hot water in a single unit, making them a compact and practical choice for small living spaces. A caravan water heater is a crucial component of any mobile living setup, and a system boiler can efficiently heat water for washing, cooking, and general comfort. These boilers are specifically tailored for caravan or motorhome use, ensuring that you have a reliable hot water system wherever your travels take you. With a system boiler, you can enjoy the convenience of a dedicated heating system that's both effective and space-saving in your mobile home. Combi Boilers for Outdoor Adventures For your outdoor adventures, consider the convenience and efficiency of utilising combi boilers for your hot water needs. Combi boilers, short for combination boilers, are an excellent choice for campervans, caravans, or motorhomes due to their compact size and ability to provide hot water on demand. These systems work by heating water directly from the mains, eliminating the need for a separate hot water tank. Combining the functions of a water heater and a central heating boiler, combi boilers are a space-saving solution for your outdoor excursions. One of the key advantages of combi boilers is their ability to run on both gas and electricity, offering flexibility depending on your available resources. This dual capability ensures that you can enjoy a reliable hot water supply regardless of your location. Whether you're parked at a campsite with mains electric hookups or off-grid in a remote location, a combi boiler can meet your hot water needs efficiently. Consider installing a combi boiler for your next outdoor adventure to enjoy the convenience of instant hot water while saving space and energy. Caravan Water Heating Systems Optimise your caravan's water heating setup with efficient and compact solutions tailored to your on-the-go lifestyle. When it comes to caravan water heating systems, consider investing in an energy-efficient hot water system like the Alde heating system or a campervan water heater. These systems are designed to provide you with a reliable and constant supply of hot water while being mindful of saving energy. Caravan water heaters, such as the Alde heating system, are known for their efficiency and ability to supply plenty of hot water for your needs. These systems are ideal for caravan or motorhome use, ensuring that you have a consistent hot water supply during your outdoor adventures. Campervan water heaters are also a great option for those looking for compact solutions that are energy efficient. Control Panels and Electric Heaters Enhance your caravan's heating control and efficiency with user-friendly control panels and electric heaters. When setting up your caravan at a park, ensuring you have the right tools for managing your hot water system is crucial. A well-equipped control panel allows you to adjust the temperature and monitor the operation of your electric heater effortlessly. This not only enhances your comfort but also ensures efficient energy use during your stay at the caravan park. Electric heaters designed for motorhomes and caravans provide reliable heating solutions, especially in colder seasons or climates. They're compact, easy to install, and can be a cost-effective way to keep your space warm and cozy. Having a control panel that integrates seamlessly with your electric heater can make a significant difference in maintaining a comfortable environment inside your caravan. It gives you the flexibility to regulate the temperature according to your preferences, ensuring that you have a pleasant experience during your time at the caravan park. So, make sure to invest in quality control panels and electric heaters to optimise your heating and hot water systems for your next outdoor adventure. Energy-Efficient Heating Solutions To maximise the efficiency of your caravan's heating system, consider implementing energy-saving heating solutions. When looking for energy-efficient options for your caravan water heater and hot water system at the campsite, there are several strategies you can employ. First, investing in an efficient heating system like the XR100+ Gas Warm Air Heater or the RINNAI ZEN-29 Indoor/Outdoor Combination Boiler can significantly reduce energy consumption. These systems are designed to provide ample heating while minimising energy wastage. Additionally, proper insulation of your caravan's hot water tank and pipes can help retain heat, ensuring a more efficient heating process. Utilising thermostatic controls and timers on your heating system can also help regulate temperatures and reduce energy usage when heating water. Conclusion In conclusion, when it comes to outdoor adventures at caravan parks in the UK, having the right hot water system is essential for staying warm and comfortable.  Whether you choose a gas warm air heater, system boiler, combi boiler, or other heating solution, ensuring you have a reliable and efficient system can enhance your experience. With the right heating system in place, you can enjoy the beauty of nature while staying cozy and comfortable during your travels.
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