12/31/2024
two types of water heaters: an electric water heater (left) and a gas water heater (right). It labels the key components of each.
Electric Water Heater (Left Side):
Cold Water Valve: Controls the flow of cold water into the tank.
Electrical Supply: Provides electricity to the heating elements.
Temperature-Pressure Relief Valve: A safety valve that releases pressure if the temperature or pressure inside the tank becomes too high.
Overflow Pipe: A pipe that allows excess water to drain out of the tank if it overfills.
Hot Water Outlet: The pipe that carries hot water from the tank to the plumbing fixtures.
Anticorrosion Anode (Sacrificial Anode): A metal rod (usually magnesium or aluminum) that corrodes instead of the tank, protecting it from rust.
Dip Tube: A pipe that extends down into the tank, delivering cold water to the bottom for heating.
Upper Element: An electric heating element located near the top of the tank.
Insulation: Material surrounding the tank to reduce heat loss.
Lower Element: An electric heating element located near the bottom of the tank.
Drain Valve: A valve at the bottom of the tank for draining it for maintenance or flushing sediment.
Upper Thermostat & Lower Thermostat: These control the temperature of the upper and lower heating elements, respectively.
Gas Water Heater (Right Side):
Cold Water Valve, Temperature-Pressure Relief Valve, Overflow Pipe, Hot Water Outlet, Anticorrosion Anode, Dip Tube, Insulation, Drain Valve: These components serve the same function as in the electric water heater.
Flue: A pipe that vents combustion gases from the burner to the outside.
Draft Diverter: A component in the flue that helps to ensure proper venting of combustion gases.
Burner: The gas burner that heats the water.
Thermocouple: A safety device that shuts off the gas supply if the pilot light goes out.
Air Shutter: Controls the amount of air mixed with the gas for combustion.
Shutoff Valve/Gas Supply: Controls the flow of gas to the burner.
On/Off, Pilot, Temperature Control: Controls for the gas burner, including ignition, pilot light, and temperature setting.
Key Differences:
Heating Method: The primary difference is the heating source: electricity for the electric water heater and natural gas or propane for the gas water heater.
Venting: Gas water heaters require a flue to vent combustion gases, while electric water heaters do not.
Burner/Heating Elements: Gas water heaters have a burner, while electric water heaters have heating elements.
Overall:
The image effectively compares the internal components of electric and gas water heaters. It highlights the similarities and differences between the two types and explains the function of each key component. This information is useful for homeowners understanding how their water heater works or for troubleshooting potential problems.