Explore 6 Different Types of Water Heaters

Water Heater is one of the electronic appliances used at home on a daily basis. But did you know that there are different types of water heaters and each type has a unique purpose? If you are looking for a water heater that fits your requirements, you must know about the different ranges available in the market. Knowing about the range of water heaters shall also help you identify which water heater fits your requirements. Before buying an electronic product, you may need to know about what features are required so that you make an informed choice and choose the best. The energy-saving, various materials used, mounting type, storage capacity, instant heating, maintenance and repairs etc. are the points to keep in mind while choosing a water heater. The appliance must be easy to use and efficient as well.  

Types of Water Heaters 

The following are the different types of water heaters that can typically used in both residential and commercial settings: 

1. Storage Water Heaters 

Storage water heater  maximises the storage capacity for hot water and offers a ready reservoir in the form of a tank. Cold water enters the tank from the bottom and is heated inside the tank. Once it reaches the desired temperature, it can be utilized by turning on the tap. Due to the tank’s insulation and coating (Nano-Polymer or Glassline), storage water heaters can retain hot water for longer durations.  Storage Water heaters come with a BEE-star rating which helps in energy saving along with a temperature control knob/digital display to set the water to the desired temperature. Storage water heaters are good for both, household and commercial use. The operating system for storage water heaters is also very simple. These heaters require less maintenance and repairs; thus they are perfect for domestic as well as commercial purposes. 

1. Gas Water Heater

This is a type of instant water heater, also known as a gas geyser. Water circulates through a heat exchanger. The heat exchanger heats the water at a specified temperature using a gas burner. The burner is ignited when hot water is demanded, rapidly heating the water within the heat exchanger. These types of water geysers are popular for their quick heating, high energy efficiency and potentially low energy bills when compared with electric water heaters They are available in various sizes to accommodate different household or building requirements. Proper ventilation is crucial for safety when installing gas water heaters, ensuring the efficient combustion of gas and the safe expulsion of combustion byproducts. 

1. Electric Water Heater

Electric storage water heaters operate on a straightforward principle; these water heaters feature a tank that stores a specific volume of water, with an electric heating element immersed in the tank. When hot water is needed, the electric element is activated, rapidly heating the water to the desired temperature. Electric storage water heaters are known for their ease of installation, affordability, and simplicity of operation. They come in various sizes to suit different applications, from small units for apartments to larger capacities for homes and commercial establishments. While electric models may have slightly higher operational costs compared to their gas counterparts, their energy efficiency and lower upfront costs often make them a popular choice, especially in regions where gas availability or infrastructure may be a limiting factor. 

1. D. Instant Water Heater

An instant water heater provides hot water as required and it is highly energy efficient. It can potentially save up to 24%-34% of the energy costs. This type of heater is mostly considered by all as it has many advantages. When you turn on the tap, cold water is transferred to the heater and is heated. As the name suggests instant water heater, the heating is instantaneous without the need for storing water.  

The Crompton Hydrajet is one such instant water heater that provides the best features with a compact design. You need not worry about the waste of energy with instant water heaters. This type of geyser is ideal for smaller spaces as it can easily fit in a compact space, and the installation is less complex. Instant water heaters tend to serve for a longer period of time. 

1. E. Immersion Rods

Immersion rods are basic water-heating appliances. They are a different way of water heating wherein an electric rod that looks like a loop, is immersed in water to heat it. It can heat up to a bucket of water. The appliance has to be connected with a switch for electricity and as the rod charges up, the water is heated. The immersion rod has a switch button for on and off, therefore when the water is heated as per your requirement you need to turn off the switch. This appliance needs to be used with safety measures and precautions.  

The latest models have indicators to make the process user-friendly and easy. The best advantage is that Immersion rods are very budget-friendly and do not cost as much as the other types of water heaters. There is no need for any installation and it is easy to use, keeping in mind the safety measures. This is an instant way of water heating with no issues of using much energy or the requirement of water storage.  

1. F. Solar Water Heater

Solar water heaters harness the renewable energy from the sun to provide an eco-friendly and cost-effective solution for meeting your hot water needs. The water heater consists of solar collectors and a storage tank. It operates on the principle of converting sunlight into heat. The solar collectors, often mounted on rooftops or in open areas with ample sunlight exposure, absorb solar radiation and transfer the heat to a fluid, in this case, water. This heated water then circulates through a system that transfers the collected thermal energy to the water in the storage tank.  

One significant advantage of these types of water geysers is their environmental impact. By utilising clean and renewable solar energy, they reduce the reliance on conventional energy sources. This enables relatively low carbon emissions. Also, sunlight is a free and inexhaustible resource, facilitating solar water heaters to contribute to long-term cost savings. While the initial investment may be higher than traditional water heaters, the return on investment is achieved through reduced energy bills and potential incentives or rebates offered by governments or utility companies.  

How to Choose the Best Type of Water Heater for Your Home  

You can consider the following factors when purchasing a new water heater for your home so that it can provide a faster, consistent and cost-effective solution for your hot water needs. 

• Assess Your Hot Water Needs 

Are you planning to use the water heater only to heat water for bathing? Do you wish to have a hot water source in the kitchen? Do you want the wash basin to supply hot water as well? Consider the average hot water usage in your home on a daily basis. Also, consider the size of your family. Typically, a 5-litre instant water heater may be adequate for a small to medium family. You can consider a 10-litre or higher capacity storage water heater if you have two to four members in your family. 

• Energy Efficiency 

Opt for storage water heaters with high energy efficiency ratings as they help in cost savings in terms of lower electricity bills. Storage Water Heaters can be the ideal choice since they come with a BEE-star rating, thus, being the energy-efficient choice for your home. However, they can benefit in the long term by facilitating low energy costs. Factors like standing loss of heat, hot water usage, water temperature, climate conditions, etc., can impact energy efficiency.  

• Installation Requirements 

Consider the installation space, mounting type (vertical or horizontal), ventilation, and safety requirements for each type of water heater. Gas water heaters require proper ventilation to expel the byproducts produced during combustion. In tight spaces, an instant water heater or a horizontal water heater may be a better option. However, it will also require a certain amount of ventilation. Check the manufacturer’s guidelines and whether you are fulfilling the requirements needed to install your preferred water heater.  

• Cost 

The cost of a water heater varies across factors like heater types, capacity and equipped features. Larger capacity heaters tend to cost more than the smaller ones but compensate for the cost in the long run due to their higher star ratings which leads to optimisation in electricity bills.  The more advanced the heater’s features, the higher the cost will be.  

• Apartment Floor Levels 

The floor level of your residence or building can influence the types of water geysers you choose. Various types of water heaters come with specific considerations related to installation requirements, space availability, and potential impacts on water pressure. Tankless or instant water heaters, for instance, can be sensitive to variations in water pressure. For apartments on higher floors, a storage water heater can be viable.  

Takeaway 

Crompton’s water heaters  offer a variety of heaters with the latest features. Different types of water heaters provide different facilities and allow functions like storage of water instant heating, compact design etc. Having prior knowledge of these features helps one make an informed decision while buying a water heater.  

The Versa Storage Geyser comes with a powerful heating system, 8-bar pressure rating, rust proof plastic body and 5-star energy efficient rating. The Solarium Qube IOT is a smart water heater with voice control and a smart scheduler which you can control using the My Crompton app on your phone. Get the Rapidjet Pro Tankless Water Heater for faster heating; you can adjust the water heater based on the ambient temperature. 

Frequently Asked Questions on Types of Water Heaters 

• Are instant water heaters more energy-efficient than storage tank heaters? 

Tankless or instant water heaters can potentially be more energy-efficient because they only heat water when needed for use. On the other hand, storage water heaters heat large volumes of water at once, consuming more power. However, most of Crompton’s Storage Water Heaters are 5-Star rated by BEE, thus helping you save on electricity bills. Moreover, Crompton has won the National Energy Conservation award by BEE in 2023 for providing energy efficient products. l 

• Can I switch from a traditional storage water heater to an instant model? 

Yes, it is possible. You can switch to an instant water heater if you are currently using a storage water heater. However, you will most likely have to adjust the electrical and ventilation systems. Make sure you consult a professional for easy transition.  

• How does the geographical location impact the efficiency of a water heater? 

The efficiency of a water heater can be significantly impacted by geographical location due to variations in climate and water temperature. In colder regions, water heaters need to work harder to heat water to the desired temperature, leading to increased energy consumption and potentially higher utility bills. Conversely, in warmer climates, water heaters may require less energy to heat water, resulting in lower operating costs. Additionally, factors such as altitude, humidity, and water quality can also influence the efficiency and lifespan of a water heater. 

• Can I install a water heater myself? 

While some water heater installations are DIY-friendly, it is best to hire a professional to ensure safety, compliances and optimal performance. 

• What is the ideal location for installing a water heater? 

The ideal location for a water heater depends on the type of water heater. Utility rooms, basements and garages are ideal for installing storage tank water heaters. Also, they should be placed on a levelled surface that can support the weight of the heater when the storage tank is full. For gas water heaters, they should be installed in areas with sufficient air supply around the heater. In case of instant water heaters, make sure they are located in a way that the hot water travels less distance to reach the fixtures.  

• Should I install a water softener for my water heater? 

The choice to install a water softener depends on your specific requirements. Water softener removes calcium, magnesium and other minerals present in hard water. Hard water leads to limescale built-up which can reduce the efficiency of water heaters.  

• Should I use a metal or plastic bucket to heat water using immersion rod? 

It is recommended to use an immersion rod in containers made of heat-resistant materials like metal. Avoid plastic containers that may melt due to the heat generated. 

• Can I use an immersion rod for large water heating applications?  

Immersion rods are more suitable for heating smaller quantities of water. For larger applications, like whole-house water heating, other systems such as storage water heaters, instant water heaters or solar water heaters may be more suitable. 

• How much time does it take for water to heat using water heaters? 

The time it takes for water to heat in water heaters can vary based on several factors, including the type of water heater, the initial temperature of the water, and the desired hot water temperature. 

• What are some easy tips to maintain my water heater? 

Here are some easy tips to maintain your water heater: 

1. Always set the thermostat at the recommended temperature. 

1. Regular maintenance by a service technician can enhance the lifespan of the water heater. 

1. Drain and flush the storage tank periodically. 

1. Inspect around the water heater to check for signs of leakage. 

1. For gas water heaters, check the colour of the burner flames; they should be blue and steady and not yellow and flickering. 

1. Consider using a water softener to reduce limescale build-up. 

1. Check for signs of corrosion.