Gas water heaters are an appliance that heats water for use in bathing and washing dishes or laundry. A burner is installed beneath the water tank and is the heat source in gas water heaters. Gas is pumped into the water heater via a valve attached to the wall.
Cold water is stored in a cylindrical tank. A thermostat is positioned inside the water tank to detect temperature settings. The amount of fuel delivered to the burner is determined by the thermostat setting. Through a series of internal pipes, heated water is distributed to faucets and appliances throughout the home.
The burner used to heat gas water heaters emits toxins; therefore a venting system is required. The most common form of venting system is one which is installed in the roof. However, some gas water heaters use fan-assisted vents that are piped out through a wall.
When purchasing a gas water heater, look for Sealed Combustion or Power-Vented systems. Sealed combustion means that outside air is brought directly to the water heater and exhaust gases are vented outside.
Power-vented systems use internal air for combustion and exhaust gases are vented outside with the aid of a fan. This type of system should not be used in tight houses that have fireplaces, as it can lead to dangerous combustion gases accumulating inside the home.
Some gas water heaters offer a tankless option. This type of gas water heater circulates water through a series of burners. While tankless hot water heaters can provide an endless supply of hot water, they are limited in the amount of hot water they can produce at one time.
Tankless gas water heaters are usually more expensive than conventional gas water heaters. However, they tend to be more energy efficient than traditional models, therefore you will recoup your initial expenses relatively quickly.
The downside of tankless gas water heaters is that it takes longer for the water to heat up. Tankless water heaters don’t store water like other models, so they don’t start heating up the water until you turn on the faucet or appliance.
Both conventional and tankless gas water heaters require annual maintenance and cleaning. Gas water heater manufacturers recommend flushing the unit periodically. How often your model needs flushing depends on the quality of water in your area. If you live in an area with high mineral content, you will need to flush your water heater more often.
