They are not only considered as one of the innovating brands of all times but are also world leaders in quality products.

Let’s look at why Whirlpool:

Value for money: Whirlpool offers not only high quality products but also a value for money. Each of their gas heaters have been manufactured using advanced technology.

Whirlpool offers a comprehensive warranty on each of their gas and electric water heaters as well.

6th Sense: Whirlpool gas water heaters have been built around their innovative technology called the 6th sense.

The 6th Sense technology is a combination of state of the art engineering as well as highly innovative energy-control systems that ensure intelligent delivery of hot water.

Image courtesy of: http://www.whirlpoolwaterheaters.com

With the help of 6th Sense™ technology, Whirlpool gas water heaters are able to deliver:

• Smarter and better performance
• Highly optimal efficiency
• High durability over the years

Two Options: Whirlpool offers customers two different category of water heaters: gas and electric.

There are 28 models of Whirlpool gas water heaters available in the market today with 4 models having an Energy star rating.

There are also 21 models of Whirlpool water heaters available in the electric heater category out of which 2 models have Energy star ratings.

Non-CFC Foam Insulation: Whirlpool water heaters have been made using a non-CFC polyurethane foam layer of insulation that is situated between the outer jacket and the tank. The two other materials used as insulation include fiberglass, and polyester.

The use of non-CFC polyurethane foam as insulation has made these heaters extremely efficient and prevents any standby heat loss. This also helps in increasing the life of the water heater.

Top 3 Models of Whirlpool Gas Water Heaters

Whirlpool offers water heaters in mainly three categories and they are:

1.    Standard gas
2.    Energy efficient
3.    High efficiency

Whirlpool gas water heaters offer value for money and a host of easy to use controls that make these water heaters a complete system.

The top 3 models based on usage and consumer popularity are:

ND50T122-403 – 50 Gallon Natural Gas Water Heater

Price: $699

The ND50T122-403 is Energy Star rated and has been integrated with 6th sense technology. Some of the salient features include:

• FLAME LOCK® safety system: Reduces any risk of accidental fire
• Unique design: Ensures peak performance
• Self Diagnostics: System has LED indicator, which constantly monitors the status of the system
• Electronic Ignition: Integrated with electronic ignition to cut down on time consumption for heating
• Emission level: Low NOx

Gallon Capacity: 50 Gallons
Gas (BTU/HR): 40,000
Gas type: Natural gas
Energy Factor: 0.67
Warranty: 12 year limited on the tank and parts

N40T61-343 – 40 Gallon Natural Gas Water Heater

Price: $514.98

The N40T61-343 Whirlpool gas water heater has been manufactured for households with not more than 3-4 people. Some of the salient features include:

• FLAME LOCK® safety system: Reduces any risk of accidental fire
• Self Diagnostics: System has LED indicator, which constantly monitors the status of the system
• Piezo electric igniter: Helps in lighting the pilot quickly thus saving time and delivering hot water fast.
• Emission level: Low NOx
• High Altitude certified: This heater is certified for use at altitudes ranging from 0 to 10,100 feet.

Gallon Capacity: 40 Gallons
Gas (BTU/HR): 34,000
Gas type: Natural gas
Energy Factor: 0.59
Warranty: 6 year limited on the tank and parts

L30T61-303 – 30 Gallon Liquid Propane Gas Water Heater

Price: $489

This liquid propane gas water heater has been manufactured for households with lower requirement of hot water. Perfect family size is 1-2 people.

Some of the salient features include:

• FLAME LOCK® safety system: Reduces any risk of accidental fire
• Self Diagnostics: System has LED indicator, which constantly monitors the status of the system
• Piezo electric igniter: Helps in lighting the pilot quickly thus saving time and delivering hot water fast.
• Emission level: Low NOx

Gallon Capacity: 30 Gallons
Gas (BTU/HR): 29,000
Gas type: Liquid Propane Gas
Energy Factor: 0.61
Warranty: 6 year limited on the tank and parts

Whirlpool offers high quality and maintenance free gas water heaters varying in capacity from 30 gallons to 50 gallons. These heaters are not only energy efficient but are considered as some of the best value for money in the market.

Basically, in this type of water heater, the burning fuel, which is propane, creates heat energy and this energy helps in heating the cold water coming into the system.

Propane is a clean-burning heating fuel and hence it doesn’t leave any chemical residue or gas residues.

It ensures that the surrounding environment remains clean and healthy.

Propane is available only in gaseous form and in order to use it in a water heater; it is compressed into a liquid form.

There are several grades of propane gas available in the market to choose from and most of the grades can be used in portable water heaters.

The most commonly used portable propane water heater is the one available with a built-in igniter. This is also known as a piezoelectric igniter and it is made from quartz crystals.

The use of crystals ensures that the igniter is activated with ease when pressure is applied. This is a mechanism that is housed within the portable water heater system.

Types of Portable Propane Water Heaters

Propane water heaters can be categorized under two types: the tank model and the tankless model. Let us look into each type of propane water heaters:

The Tank Model: This is also known as the standard model and was the most popular type of propane water heaters in the early 80’s and 90’s.

In the propane tank water heater, extensive plumbing connections are required. Apart from this, there are the pipe and external fittings, which have made the tank model installation quite a cumbersome process.

The tank model or standard model water heater is available with different capacity tanks. Some of the portable propane water heaters are available in this category with tank capacities varying between 10 gallons and 40 gallons.

The portable water heaters can serve several purposes including hot water for morning coffee, a quick bath, washing utensils etc.

The Tankless Model: The tankless model of portable propane water heaters is popular amongst hikers and trekkers. The increasing use of tankless models is due to its ability to offer higher efficiency as compared to other hot water heaters.

Some of the units also offer instantaneous hot water when turned on. This is also known as the hot water station and a portable propane water heater is capable of delivering 2.65 gallons of hot water per minute.

The tankless models of portable hot water heaters are used in several places like high altitude base camps, wilderness camps, military camps, and even on-board yachts.

Image credit: gadgetgrid.com

Salient Features

The portable propane water heater has several salient features like:

• It has the ability to heat cold water in less than 5 seconds
• Depending on the brand of water heater, a portable propane water heater can heat almost 40 gallons of water in a single use.
• The portable propane water heaters are available with warranties varying from 2 years to 5 years.
• These water heaters have rugged construction and will not require maintenance even after rough use.
• The portable propane water heater offers high efficiency and thus helps users in saving approximately 60 percent on energy bills.

The Top 2 Models of Portable Propane Water Heaters

To shorten your research online we’ve narrowed down the choices for high quality portable propane water heaters to these two models:

Coleman Hot Water On Demand Portable Water Heater
Est. price: $247.74

This portable propane water heater is available with a 5 gallon jug and takes about 5 seconds to make hot water available.

The pumping of hot water is taken care of by a rechargeable battery. It is considered one of the most advanced, compact, and powerful portable water heaters for camping enthusiasts.

Specifications

• It is available with a Coleman® 16.4 oz propane cylinder
• One propane cyclinder can deliver 40 gallons of hot water
• Rechargeable battery of 6 volts
• Easy to maintain and use
• Heats water to 1000 F in 5 seconds
• It is available with a warranty of 3 years

Decker’s Hot Water Station

Est. price: $695 – Senior Model / Junior Model – $495

This is a state of the art portable propane water heater, which can be carried to just about any terrain on the plant.

It is available in two models: the junior and senior model. This unit has a built in 12v pump, which can pump water from just about any water source including lakes and streams and heat the water and deliver at 1.5 gallons per minute.

Image credit: hotcampshowers.com

It is considered a perfect water heater for family camping trips, nigh outs at base camp, wilderness camping, hunting camps etc.

Specifications

• Output rating – 37,500 BT
• Continuous hot water at 1.5 gallons of per minute
• Water temperature is adjustable from 80-1500F
• Can operate at 20-80psi of water pressure
• Manufacturer’s Warranty: 1 year

There are several other brands of portable hot water heaters that offer state of the art propane heaters like Ecotemp and Camp Chef.

Each of these water heaters can deliver different quantity of hot water and hence it is important to identify your water requirement before purchasing one.

Over the years, the primary concept of heating water using natural gas has remained the same.

The only change has been in the form of new design, new technology, the user friendliness of the systems, and the total effectiveness and efficiency.

How Natural Gas Water Heater Works

A natural gas heater works almost in the same way that a propane water heater works.

A natural gas tankless water heater uses a natural gas burner built in the system for heating water as and when required.

This is why some of the tankless heaters are referred to as instantaneous water heaters. In natural gas tankless water heater ignites as soon as the hot water tap is turned on.

The moment the water tap is closed; the burner shuts off. Most tankless heaters can provide 2-3 gallons of water per minute.

Since, this type of water heater doesn’t have any storage space hence they do not experience stand-by heat loss. This helps in reducing energy consumption by almost 20% to 30% in a household.

(Image from http://energyalmanac.ca.gov.)

In storage water heaters when the burner heats the water; it rises up because it is lighter than cold water. It then goes through a delivery pipe to its location, which could be a kitchen or bathroom faucet.

The gas burner in the heater system is controlled by a thermostat. Once hot water has left the tank it is replaced by cold water. In some of the systems, the burner also gets ignited when the water in the system’s tank drops below a pre-set temperature.

Types of Natural Gas Water Heaters

There are mainly four types of natural gas water heaters available in the market today. Here’s an insight into each type:

1. Standard Water Heater: The standard water heater is also known as the tank type natural gas water heater or the conventional model. This type of heaters are most commonly used although they are now being replaced by the tankless heaters in most households.

This type requires plumbing connections and pipe fittings to enable movement of both hot and cold water as well as natural gas. A tank type water heater has a built-in storage container, which is used for heating water as well as storing hot water for use later. The temperature of water to be heated is set using a thermostat built inside the unit.

2. Tankless Water Heater: The natural gas tankless water heater is constantly growing in popularity across the world because of the ease of use, instant hot water, and high savings on energy consumption.

This type of water heater is considered to be highly efficient. Considered as a technological leap; the tankless water heaters have twice the lifespan of a conventional water heater.

3. Combo Water Heaters: These are basically a mix of two types of heater: water heating and space heating. It is more of a multi-purpose heater. This type of water heater is perfect for small homes with compact space and for households where daily requirement for hot water is less.

4. Hydronic or boiler system: This is the fourth type of natural gas water heating system and is again a multi-purpose system. This type of system like combo water heaters can be used for both heating water and space heating.

The only difference is that it consists of a separate storage tank for keeping hot water and it consists of a boiler system. This type of system is also known as indirect water heaters.

Salient Features

The natural gas water heaters have several salient features like:

• Natural gas tankless water heaters are available with Energy-Star certifications. This simply means that by using the heaters, households can actually save as much as 50 percent on their energy bills vis-à-vis conventional water heater.
• Natural gas water heaters promote a healthy environment as their carbon emissions are much lower than any conventional water heater.
• All natural gas water heaters need to have outdoor ventilation, which helps in reducing harmful byproducts of combustion. The most common vent type is the atmospherically vented.
• These water heaters have longer year life expectancy and very less or no maintenance.

The Top 2 Models of Natural Gas Water Heaters

Rinnai R94LSi
Price: $1,484

The Rinnai R94LSi is a top of the line natural gas water heater, which offers continuous supply of hot water through multiple faucets or outlets simultaneously.

It comprises of a newly designed state-of-the-art heat exchanger, which has been made using commercial-grade materials only. This system also consists of a condensate collector and can be installed in high altitude places.

Specifications:

• Gas Consumption: Maximum (199,000 btuh) – minimum (15,000 btuh)
• Hot water capacity: 9.4 Gallons per minute
• Range of Capacity: 0.7 to 6 gallons per minute
• Energy Factor: .82

Navien NR-240A (CR-240A)
Price: $950

This natural gas water heater is considered as one of the best in the market as it has several unique features.

Considered as a 98% efficiency heater; the unit consists of buffer tank, re-circulating pump, and leak detector.

It is also available with a remote control. Another smart feature is that the heat exchangers of NR-240A have been made using dual stainless-steel, which is 20 times stronger and resistant to damage from erosion and condensation.

Specification

• Gas Consumption: Maximum (199,000 btuh) – minimum (17,000 btuh)
• Energy Factor: .95
• Temperature Range: 1000 – 1400F
• Minimum flow rate: 0.5 gallons per minute
• Installation type: Indoor wall hung

Some of the other top brands of natural gas water heaters include Bosch, Noritz, and Rheem.

Propane is considered to be a clean-burning heating fuel. It is basically available in gaseous form and is compressed into a liquid state so that it can be easily used in water heaters.

Propane gas used in tankless water heaters are available in different grades or different quality and contains compounds like butane and propylene.

Most of the common propane water heaters are available with a built-in igniter.

This piezoelectric igniter is made using quartz crystal, which helps in developing electrical potential especially when the right amount of pressure is applied.

This mechanism is housed within a propane water heater system and consists of a spring-loaded hammer, which strikes and generates a spark and thus igniting the propane.

A propane water heater also features an element made from porcelain, which helps in spreading the ignited flame in a specific pattern and thus helps in properly distributing the heat from the burning of propane. Another important element that most propane tankless water heaters have is the pilot light.

This is basically a small flame, which uses minimum fuel but burns continuously. The purpose of the pilot is to light the main burner as quickly as possible and this helps in saving time.

Types of Propane Water Heaters

There are mainly two types of propane heaters available in the market today: the standard model and the tankless model. Here’s an insight into each type:

Standard Model: The standard model is also known as the tank type propane water heater. This type has been in use for decades and is easily available in almost every country in the world. It requires extensive plumbing connections as well as pipe and other fittings for both propane gas and water.

As the name suggests, a tank type water heater comes with a large water container called the tank. This tank is used for holding heated water so that hot water is available for use later.

Tankless Model: The propane tankless water heater has grown in popularity and usage only in the last few decades. The primary reason for its popularity lies in the fact that it is a highly efficient water heater.

Image from sugarbearplumbing.com

The high efficiency is due to the fact that it heats water as required or when required. One of the salient aspects is that these heaters do not require propane gas until the downstream water fixture in the unit opens the hot water valve.

This basically suggests that during periods of inactivity or when the heater is not in use; it will neither consume any gas nor produce any emissions. Hence, it is considered to be highly cost effective and environmentally friendly vis-à-vis the tank model.

Salient Features

The propane water heater has several salient features like:

• A propane water heater with Energy-Star qualifications and an Energy Factor (EF) of 75-82% can help homeowners in saving as much as 60 percent of their energy bills vis-à-vis an electric water heater.
• Propane heaters are environment friendly as their carbon emissions are almost 60 percent lower than an electric water heater.
• Another important aspect is that The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 offers tax credits to those homeowners who install propane tankless water heaters.

The Top 2 Models of Propane Gas Heaters

The top two models of propane tankless water heater models are:

Noritz NC250 (N-0931M) Series
Price: $2,000

This propane water heater comes with a re-engineered and powerful heat exchanger. This is also the first in the industry to offer dual flame burner boost, which helps in increasing the power of the heater and minimize the flow requirements.

NC250 offers longevity of performance as the components of the heater has been made using commercial grade materials including the corrosion-free exterior casing.

Specifications

• Gas Consumption: Maximum (250,000 btuh) – minimum (11,000 btuh)
• Hot water capacity: 9.3 Gallons per minute
• Range of Capacity: 0.5 to 11.1 gallons per minute
• Installation type: Power vented

Rheem RTG-74X
Price: $1,180

This is the outdoor model of Rheem’s propane tankless water heaters. The salient aspects of this model include energy efficiency, continuous and steady supply of hot water, and a compact design.

The RTG-74X is available with a remote control and its efficiency is certified by GAMA. It comes with a 12 year warranty on the heat exchanger and 5-years on parts.

Specification:

• Gas Consumption: Maximum (199,900 btuh) – minimum (19,000 btuh)
• Energy Factor: .82
• Temperature Range: 1000 – 1400F
• Range of Capacity: 4.2 to 7.4 gallons per minute
• Installation type: Outdoor

There are several other brands that offer state of the art propane tankless water heaters like Takagi and Paloma.

If you are planning to buy a propane water heater then identify your household’s daily water requirement first and then opt for a model that is within your budget and satisfies your requirements.

These types of water heaters are also known as vacuum tube heaters and are typically constructed from durable glass.

In most countries including North America and Europe, you will find that the evacuated tubes of this type of solar heater being made from heat resistant and ultra strong Pyrex and will most often than not have a double wall construction.

Here’s an image of an evacuated tube:

Image credit: Reuk.co.uk

The inner tube of the evacuated tube is made from durable glass and is mostly coated with a type of coating, which is able to absorb sunlight. The inner surface of the inner tube consists of reflective coating.

How Evacuated Tube Solar Water Heaters Work

An evacuated tube solar water heater consists of multiple tubes. The air in each of the tubes is removed to create a vacuum. At the center of each tube, there is a copper heat pipe for absorbing and transferring heat.

Basically, when you install evacuated tube water heater, the copper heat pipe containing an anti-freeze liquid, is the element that absorbs all the infra-red radiation and/or heat from the sun and transforms it into heat.

When heat rises, the heater system automatically releases hot antifreeze which rises right up to the top of the system’s heat pipe. Here, the copper tip is connected to a header pipe, the latter releasing higher amount of antifreeze.

The hot antifreeze is automatically pumped by the system through the pipes situated inside a hot water tank. As a result, the water becomes hot while the antifreeze becomes cool. This is a continuous process and the antifreeze after becoming cooler again moves around the heating system and goes back into the header pipe to be reheated.

The evacuated tube solar water heater is a simple system that needs minimum maintenance. Due to the presence of copper at the tip of the system’s heat tube, it is able to heat water to almost 900C or 1940F in summers and 900C or 1400F in winters. The idea is that whatever the weather be; you will always get hot water in your home.

The Advantages

All solar water heaters have advantages over electrical water heaters in terms of level of efficiency and energy and cost saving factors. Apart from helping lower the energy bills of your home, there are various advantages that different solar water heaters have.

One of the primary advantages of the evacuated tube solar water heater is that they can work very well even in cold winter months thanks to the antifreeze.

Most basic or simple solar water heaters work very well in hot or warm weather and not so well in cold or freezing temperatures. But that is not the case with the evacuated tube heater.

One of the key factors for its high performance in the winter months is the vacuum in the evacuated tube. The vacuum effectively prevents the heat tube from becoming cooler due to the outside temperature which could be below freezing.

Even during cloudy days, the evacuated tubes can absorb enough sunlight to create heat and heat water up to almost 500C or 1220F.

Buying Options

There are different types of models of evacuated tube solar water heaters available in the market today. Most models differ in number of evacuated tubes attached to the system.

You can find water heaters having anywhere from 10 tubes to 30 tubes and even more.

Most top of the line systems are SRCC OG-100 certified but you should always double check it for guaranteed high performance.

Here’s how the evacuated tubes look like:

Image credit: Solar-cell-panel.com

You can install the evacuated tubes on the rooftops or even in your front garden depending on convenience and where it can get maximum sunlight. You can opt for a DIY kit for self installation at home or call on an expert in plumbing skills. The installation is practically easy and once completed, you can start getting hot water within hours.

The most important fact of evacuated tube solar water heater is that it takes less space, doesn’t make a hole in your pocket when it comes to energy bills, and ensures a steady supply of hot water throughout the year without high maintenance.

One of the best uses of solar panels is in a solar batch water heater.

In the years to come, we might even see solar propelled cars and jets as well or something far more bigger like entire cities being powered by solar energy or some such.

The question is: have you installed a solar water heater at your home? If not, then are you planning on installing one?

If you are looking forward to a greener way of living life, the best way to start it is by installing a batch solar water heater.

What Is A Batch Solar Water Heater?

Did you know batch water heaters can help you save the energy consumption of your household by almost 15%? Yes, that’s true and this simply means that you end up paying less and saving more.

This is the very fact that has made solar water heaters such a hot favorite even in colder regions, not just in the US but worldwide.

If you are looking for a DIY kit then you will be glad to know that solar batch water heaters are available as kits that can be assembled at home. This will help you to save on installation by third party personnel or experts.

Image credit: solar-components.com

A batch solar water heater is considered as one the cost effective solar heating devices in the market today. These water heaters work on the principle of absorbing sun’s energy and transforming it into heat.

Depending on the amount of heat absorbed by solar panels mounted on your roof, the quantity of hot water flowing into your kitchen or bathroom will vary. This simply means that in the morning and early evenings; the batch system will take longer to heat water while in the mid-afternoon, heating will be faster.

At the heart of a batch solar water heater is the solar collector and storage tank. The storage tank stores water and is normally well insulated. The storage tank of the heater has an outlet as well as an inlet connected to and from the solar plates.

Installing A Batch Water Heater System

A batch water heater system is most commonly known as a passive solar heating system. These water heaters have a simple structure and design and require minimal or zero maintenance.

A simple design means that it doesn’t have electronic controls, heat transfer fluids, pumps, or heat exchangers.

Image credit: Energysavers.gov

You can easily install a batch solar water heater into the plumbing of your home. You can even have a stand-alone system running out of your barn or backyard.

The question is: How easy is it to install a solar batch water heater?

The installation process is fairly easy and you can do it at home although there are certain factors that you need to take into consideration.

Some of these key considerations are:

The climate in your region or state or city: This is fairly important because most solar batch water heaters are not able to perform well in freezing temperatures. For example: if you are living in Alaska then a batch water heater might not be the best buy, but if you are living in Texas then go for it.

Solar resource: This stands for the amount of sunshine your solar heater plates or collector receives. Some places have 340 days of sunshine while others get barely 60 days of sunlight.

So depending on the amount of sunlight you can get; the installation of the solar collectors of the heater will be placed in your home. For example: if you feel that installing the plates on the roof of your home facing east will help the collectors to absorb maximum sunlight then that is where they should be installed.

Safety issues: You need to consider the local building code requirements as well as safety issues mentioned in dictates of your state. You can always find details regarding local building code requirements on the community website of your city or legal website of your state. These codes have to be followed and safety issues need to be taken care of.

DIY or Contractor:  You need to consider whether you want to do the installation all by yourself or want to hire the expertise of qualified heating systems contractors. This is completely a personal decision but experts believe that if you are not too confident about installing the system, best leave it to professionals because mishaps can happen.

Maintenance issues: Last but not the least; you need to consider the maintenance issues. Of course, if you are installing a batch water heater then you can be rest assured that maintenance will not be a problem, but even then it is advised to consult the system provider.

One of the important things to remember is that your heating system might need occasional cleaning, especially the solar collectors in very dry seasons. Apart from that complete maintenance of the system once in 3-4 years would be enough to keep it going strong for many years.

The bottom line is that a solar batch water heater is a low maintenance system and it will definitely help you to lower your household water heating bills.

This is one of the reasons why people across the planet have started looking at various solar water heater plans to supplement hot water availability in their homes.

The growing awareness of consumers and the need for harnessing solar energy has created a new market for solar water heaters.

As a result more and more companies specializing in offering DIY kits of solar water heaters have mushroomed. Today, there are several solar water heater plans available to choose from.

How To Choose Solar Water Heater Plans

There are several important aspects to consider when you are in the market looking for solar water heater plans. Let’s look at some of the important aspects:

Working of Solar water heater: This is the most important aspect. How does a solar water heater work?

This type of water heater is driven by energy from the sun or sunlight. The sun’s energy is used for heating water, which is stored in a container called the hot water tank and is supplied to various areas of a home through a piping system.

The solar energy is received by solar panels also known as solar collectors, which mainly trap the heat and enable the water in the tank to get heated.

Certification: This is the next important aspect. If you are looking for solar water heater plans then you need to ensure that they are certified by a regulating authority.

Most of the solar water heaters in North America are certified by Solar Rating and Certification Corporation (SRCC). SRCC is basically a third-party certification authority, which administers national certification as well as rating programs for different types of solar energy equipment including residential water heaters.

Their certification and rating program for solar water heating plans are known as OG 300. If you find a solar water heater system in the market that has the SRCC certification then it means that your system is durable, reliable, highly efficient, safe, and has the required thermal performance rating.

Types of Solar water heater plans: There are different types of solar water heater systems available starting from the very simple to the very complex. Most of these water heaters are classified under two categories:

•    Active solar water heater plans
•    Passive solar water heater plans

Passive or Active: The passive solar water heaters are considered as the simplest systems available. Hence, these systems are inexpensive and quite easy to maintain. There are mainly two types of passive water heater plans and they are:

1.    Batch Systems: This is one of the oldest forms of water heater plans in the world that is being driven by solar energy. This type of system is best for regions with climatic conditions that are fairly warm and where freezing doesn’t take place. Residential batch systems can suffice the requirements of 1-3 adults.

2.    Thermosyphon Systems: The thermosyphon system is a modern form of the batch system. It works on the basic principle that hot fluid will always rise.

This type of system normally uses a flat plate collector or an evacuated tube collector.  As compared to batch systems, this system experiences less heat loss and hence is quite the favorite. Using this system, you can derive 30-80 gallons of water every day.

Here’s a working diagram of a thermosyphon system:

Image credit: UCSUSA.ORG

Now let us take a look at the active solar water heater plans. As compared to passive plans; these are more complex in nature and require regular maintenance.

These systems require a solar water pump to enable the circulation of fluid through the system.

There are mainly two types of active solar water heater systems and they are:

1.    Open loop solar plan or direct circulation system: In this type of water heating system, the pumps circulate water for household use through a plumbing loop. Known as the direct pump system, it is quite similar in many ways to a passive system.

The only difference is that this system comprises of a low head solar hot water pump used mainly for circulation of fluid. This water pump can be activated or deactivated using a PV module or a built-in differential thermostat control. Using this system, you can derive 40-80 gallons of water every day.

Here’s a working diagram of an open loop plan:

Image credit: Made-in-china.com

2.    The closed loop solar water heater plan is also known as the drainback solar water heater plan. This type of system consists of two closed loops.

The water pump of a closed loop system is responsible for circulating a heat transfer fluid into the collector or the panel, which then passes through a heat exchanger. The heat exchanger then transfers the heat from the collector containing distilled water to circulating or stored domestic water.

One of the most important things to remember is that these systems require periodic maintenance and lack of maintenance will affect the efficiency and working of the plan severely. Using the drainback solar water heater, you can derive 40-100 gallons of water every day.

With hot water becoming a necessity in most households especially in the winter, installing a solar water heater will help in sufficing your domestic hot water requirements as well as increase on energy savings. However, it is always better to compare prices of the solar water heater plans over the internet before making any buying decision.

First, if you have an ‘energy inefficient’ model of an electric water heater, you definitely should think about getting this type of timer to save on utility bills.

Second, using less energy to heat up your home’s water supply is a way for you to do your share in helping save the environment.

Third, there are plenty of DIY electric water heater timer kits that you can assemble, or you can even purchase a ready-to-go model.

How Water Heater Timers Work

As the name implies, an electric water heater timer is a device which provides automatic control over electric water heating systems.

No matter which model or brand you choose today, their general functionalities and the way that they work are mostly the same. This type of timer can be programmed to turn a water heater on or off, based on the times set by the homeowner.

For example, you can set the timer during the hours in the morning that you usually take a shower for work. The time that it will be turned off is when you finally leave the house.

As mentioned earlier, one of the main reasons why homeowners opt to install water heater timers in their homes is to save on electricity. This is done by reducing the energy used during the on/off cycling that a water heater without a timer normally does.

So who are the homeowners who will benefit from having an electric water heater timer?

If your water heating equipment is less than ten years old, you may not necessarily need this type of timer. On the other hand, newer models which come with a timer will be more eco-friendly because less heat is being lost to the atmosphere, and they will provide you with greater energy savings.

According to the Energy Program of the Washington State University, an electric water heater timer can save you up to 36 kilowatt-hours of power on a yearly basis.

DIY Installation of Electric Water Heater Timers

Now, take a look at the following steps if you wish to install a timer for your heater by yourself:

1. Turn off the breakers which supply power to the water heater.

2. Remove the timer from the casing and decide where you will mount the timer – it should be near the water heater.

3. Drill holes to secure the casing to the wall with the screws provided with the timer kit.

4. Using a tester, make sure that there is no power being supplied to the water heater. Then, remove the main power cable from the heater and make the wire go through the casing of the timer.

5. Run a new cable from the timer to the water heater and connect them.

6. After making sure that all wires are connected, set the timer and turn the power back on.

There are water heater timer kits which come complete with a circuit diagram and instructions which you should closely follow if you are installing the timer yourself.

Recommended Electric Water Heater Timers

If you’re looking to buy a timer online or in a retail store, try and find one of the following models:

Intermatic WH40
The Intermatic timer allows you to save up to 26% off of your utility bills. Also known as the “Little Grey Box”, this is an easy-to-use and install water heater timer which has a steel case and a convenient override switch.

You can set the timer in the mornings and evenings when you are at home to enjoy all the hot water that you need – without having to waste electricity.

GE 24-Hour Mechanical Time Switch, 48 Settings
The GET 24-hour mechanical time switch can also be used for spas, pools and fountains instead of simply your electric water heating system. It has a heavy-duty motor, a tamper-proof enclosure and a simple wiring diagram that you can follow for easy installation. It can also accommodate up to 48 on and off settings.

Whether you choose to install the electric water heater timer in a DIY fashion or if you prefer to buy one of the ready-made timers, what’s important is that you are getting the energy savings that this nifty little device provides – while enjoying all the hot water that you need at the same time.

Back from Timers to Electric Hot Water Heaters

Back from Electric Water Heater Timer to Hot-Water.com

Note that your water heating equipment is one of the fixtures in your home which needs regular maintenance and occasional repairs.

It’s actually the last part which homeowners dread – what if you need to pay a huge amount for a parts replacement, or maybe you need to replace the entire water heating unit?

Although such a scenario is possible, it is still recommended that you try checking whether the problem is a minor or a major one.

You might just save yourself a few hundred dollars if it ends up that the only problem with your water heating equipment is a valve that needs to be replaced.

Electric Water Heater Repair: The Basics

The first thing that you need to do when trying to repair your electric water heater is to self-diagnose the problem. Could it be that the connection was simply unplugged, and you need to plug it back?

Another obvious solution is to change a thermostat that cannot be reset. Or maybe you just need to remove some sediment left on the tank, by draining out some of the water until it runs clear.

If you or the handyman determine that the problem lies on the heating element itself, then may be quite costly to repair. It is a more viable solution to replace the entire water heating unit rather than having the heating element fixed.

Also, whether you have an electric or gas water heater, there are some maintenance steps that you need to do, including draining the heater at least twice a year to get rid of the sediment.

You should also test the relieve valve annually.

Testing the Equipment If There Is No Hot Water At All

After learning about the basics of electric water heater repair, let us now go into some specific scenarios.

What are you supposed to do if someone from the bathroom shouts “Who used up all the hot water?”

If nobody’s ‘guilty’, then there could be something wrong with the water heating equipment itself.

Here’s what you need to do if this is the case:

1. Check if electrical power is being supplied to the heater.
2. If you have a water heater timer, check if the ‘on’ switch is lit.
3. Check if the high temperature cutoff switch needs to be reset.
4. Check if the problem lies with the upper or lower heating elements failing.
5. Inspect if the water heater is leaking.

How to Troubleshoot a Thermostat

If the thermostat fails to work, then follow these steps:

1. Turn off the power source of the heater and warn family members to not turn it on.
2. Unscrew and remove the access panel of the water heater.
3. Test the thermostat using a multimeter.
4. If you find out that the problem lies with the thermostat during your tests, replace it by following the instructions in your owner’s manual.

Testing & Replacing the Heating Element

Yet another problem that you may encounter is a need to test and replace the heating element. Here’s a quick list of the solutions for this:

1. Turn off the power source of the heater and warn family members to not turn it on.

2. Remove the access panel, disconnect one of the element wires and use a multimeter to test the heating element. If the tester displays anything but the open circuit symbol, it is the one which needs to be replaced. You can perform the same test with both the upper and lower heating elements.

3. Replace the damaged heating element with the same rating, model and shape following the owner’s manual instructions.

Again, remember that replacing the heating element may end up being more costly than upgrading your electric water heater to a newer model – so always make a comparison of the costs.

As you can see, there are a multitude of basic troubleshooting steps which can be done from your end if you have a problematic water heater at home.  By following these electric water heater repair tips, you can save yourself from the trouble and costs of hiring a professional to do the repairs for you.

Just keep in mind that if the issue seems to be more complicated than these scenarios, it is a much better option to seek the help of a professional.

Back from Repair to Electric Hot Water Heaters

Back from Electric Water Heater Repair to Hot-Water.com

So, there is no need for you to worry about space restrictions or costly multiple installations.  All you need to do is to mount Titan electric water heaters to enjoy an endless supply of hot water anytime you want.

Titan is a young company that creates exclusive tankless electric water heaters.   Today, Titan has integrated digital technology and space age electronics to its new releases of tankless electric water heaters. 

Suitability of Titan Electric Water Heaters

Whether you live in warmer or colder climates, the Titan tankless water heaters would be suitable for you.  Some years back, these water heaters are only ideal in regions where the flow of water is warmer. However, Titan upgraded its models and introduced the new N120 heaters that can work well in regions where the flow of water is colder.

You can effectively use the Titan water heater whether you have a small or big home.  A single unit can provide heated water for the whole house.  If you have a large multi-story residence, then you can use two units to effectively deliver hot water for the entire home.

A Titan electric water heater is also suitable for medical institutions, hotels, commercial buildings, and corporate offices.  The compact construction of the heater makes it an ideal heating appliance for establishments that want to save floor space.

Enjoy Big Savings from Titan Tankless Electric Water Heaters

You can enjoy big savings from electric hot water heaters.  First, a unit of Titan water heater is substantially cheaper than heaters with tanks.

For example, the retail price of the state of the art Titan N120 is only around $200 to $250.  On the other hand, a standard unit of conventional water heater with tank will set you back by more than $1,000.

The energy efficiency of a tankless water heater is far superior to conventional water heaters.  A Titan unit has 99.5 percent energy efficiency and can deliver 60 percent reduction in your energy bills.

Installation of a Titan unit is fast, easy, and inexpensive.  There is no need for you to pay for expensive installation service because the Titan water heater can be installed quickly by any competent installer.  The speed and ease of installation will reduce professional charges and fees.

Aside from the monetary savings that you can enjoy, a tankless water heater is also a big space saver.  For example, the Titan N120 model has a general dimension of 10-inches x 7-inches x 2.75-inches.  It is no bigger than a standard electric box and far smaller than a wall-mounted medicine cabinet.

So there is no need for you to allocate limited floor space which is the case if you have conventional water heaters.  A tankless water heater can fit in tight spaces and can be installed on walls near the water line.

Recommended Titan Electric Water Heater

Titan SCR2 N120 — The N120 model is the latest release from Titan and features state of the art digital technology.  The temperature control utilizes digital functions so you can tweak its settings with simple push of the button.  It can deliver hot water for a house with 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms.

This unit can deliver hot water on demand thus eliminating the need for storing and reheating.  The N120 water heater will heat water passing through its heating systems which gives you an endless supply of hot water for washing, showering, and for taking baths.

The N120 features a thermostat on the front panel to facilitate ease of use.  This unit has digital electronic systems that continuously monitor the temperature of water flowing in the pipe line.

It will set the heating levels automatically.  So when you open the shower or faucet, you will surely enjoy the desired temperature levels of the water.