Knowing the main components of your water heater is helpful, especially during emergencies or when you need water heater repair in Georgetown, TX from a reputable company like Kinsey Plumbing Services. By understanding the major parts of your water heater, you can use this basic knowledge to quickly troubleshoot the problem while waiting for the professionals to arrive.
Here are the main parts of your water heater.
Traditional Water Heaters
Traditional water heaters have a flue pipe with a draft diverter, allowing hazardous gases to flow out safely. They also have cold water shut-off valves that cut the cold water supply when water heater replacement is necessary and the technician needs to drain the tank. Other main parts of conventional water heater include:
- Overflow pipe: Allows excess steam/ heat to escape safely from the water heater.
- Temperature/ pressure relief valve: Monitors and releases excess water pressure.
- Hot water outlet: Draws hot water out of the tank.
- Sacrificial anode rod: Prevents corrosion and reduces the risk of tank failure. This part should be checked during your routine water heater maintenance.
- Dip tube: Allows cold water/ hot water inside the tank to circulate freely, minimizing the risk of sediment accumulation.
A traditional water heater also has a thermocouple that chips in when the pilot light gets blown out to stop gas flow. The burner lights the gas to generate heat, while a thermostat controls how hot the water becomes. The gas supply valve controls the gas flow and cuts the gas supply when necessary.
Tankless Heaters
A tankless water heater has a heat exchanger, which produces hot water on demand. It also has a flow sensor and mixing valve, which control the flow of the heater water. There’s also a control panel, which turns the fan on, opens the gas valve, and ignites the burner. Your plumbing company should be able to give you a basic rundown of these parts during the water heater installation.
Kinsey Plumbing Services is a trusted plumber that you can rely on for all your water heater needs. Contact us to schedule your appointment.
