From showers to laundry, water is extensively used in all of our days today lives. Almost all houses have hot water systems in place. It is important to learn about the water systems placed in our homes to incorporate new updates or fix problems. Let’s get to more about them!

Hot Water System

Hot Water Systems Have 4 Main Sources:

• Electric
• Gas
• Solar
• Air source.

Traditional electric systems draw power from the house's electricity (however it may be set up). Gas systems are fueled by either a natural gas main or an LPG gas tank.

The other two sources are more expensive i.e. the solar water storage tanks and the air source water heaters. However, they have many long-term benefits, making them great investments.

Based on the amenities available at your house, you can choose to set up your hot water systems accordingly to the source. Once you have got the source down, you can choose the type of system you want to go for.

What is a Hot Water System?

These systems consist of a central boiler, where the water gets heated up to a temperature of 60 to 83 degrees Celsius. Through a series of pipes and coils, the water is circulated to radiators present in different rooms. The hot water can be circulated either by pressure and gravity or through the use of a pump. Pumps provide more flexibility and control over the flow. Temperature is maintained by emitters present in the rooms by radiation and cool water is sent back to the boiler.

Type Hot Water Systems

There are specifically two types of hot water systems - storage of instantaneous (or continuous) flow. Instantaneous flows are usually run by gas or electricity with heat the water as and when you need it. A storage hot water system involves the use of a tank that stores the water, immediately ready to use. You do not have to wait for the water to heat up like in the continuous flow. There are also hybrid systems obtainable that give the advantages of both storage and continuous flows.

It’s important to keep in mind that tank sizes vary in liters as per household size. Based on your consumption patterns, you can choose the right size tank for you. For example, if you are a small family with less consumption, a smaller tank is better than a larger one.

Hot Water System

Material of The Tank

The material used in the elements of the system is another point to look into. Various tanks are made out of either stainless steel or vitreous enamel. Each material has its own characteristics and maintenance methods. Factors like initial cost, water purity, maintenance, and overall lifespan are different for the two materials.

The sacrificial anode and the temperature-pressure release valve are the lifelines of the system. Hire a plumber every few months to check out whether these two are fine or need replacing.

In addition to this, hot water systems use one pipe or two pipes for the transport of water. Though traditionally one-pipe systems are cheaper, it is impossible for such systems to keep up with the growing population. Thus, modern households use a two-pipe system which is efficient in handling the hot water needs of all members. These pipes can also be zoned which reduces costs and allow more control!

Learning how to maintain these systems is a great place to start understanding the system in your own house. By doing so, you can not only avoid major problems but save a lot of money in the future. Knowing the basics gives you an idea of what can be improved. In this day and age where technology is advancing, comprehending how your house works can make things a lot easier!