The storage boiler is a container that is designed to heat water. The device is equipped with an internal or external heater. Modifications with an internal heater require a serpentine heat exchanger for the entire length of the vessel. For the operation of outdoor heaters, various types of fuel are used - wood, coal, gas, etc. The storage heater distributes water in layers - the hottest is always at the top, the intake is carried out from there.
Types of water storage heaters by energy source
According to the source of thermal energy, storage heaters are divided into electric and gas heaters.
Electric storage boiler
It is recommended to purchase for people who daily consume large volumes of hot water, but it is not possible to use instantaneous water heaters.
The main advantages of such designs include:
- the ability to use water in several places at the same time;
- acceptable cost;
- large volumes of hot water are always available;
- low power consumption (from 1 to 3.5 kW, depending on the power of the equipment);
- various mounting methods are available.
The disadvantages include:
- take up a lot of space;
- the equipment is characterized by rather complex and frequent maintenance;
- short service life - 10-15 years;
When storing water, the heat loss of electric heaters reaches approximately 15%, which entails a high energy consumption for heating.
Gas storage heaters
Gas storage boilers are divided into models with forced and natural draft. The former are equipped with a closed combustion chamber, while the latter are equipped with an open one.
The advantages of the equipment include:
- the ability to have several points of water intake, for example, in the bathroom and kitchen;
- ease of use;
- acceptable cost.
Main disadvantages:
- high cost (electrical analogs of the same volume are 2-3 times cheaper);
- fire and explosion hazard under certain conditions of use;
- takes up a lot of space;
- until all the water reaches the set temperature, it will take a long time;
- limited installation options.
If we compare the types of boilers by energy source, it is better to give preference to electric ones, despite the fact that their use is more expensive.
Types of boilers by type of heating and water movement
By the type of water movement and heating, boilers are divided into flow and storage.
Flow-through electric heaters
Equipped with one or two heating elements. The advantages of this technology include:
- savings are achieved due to the fact that there is no need in the tank to maintain a given temperature regime;
- compact size;
- low operating costs;
- the ability to instantly use hot water;
- great possibilities of temperature regulation.
The disadvantages include:
- large power consumption, which ranges from 5-15 kW;
- for smooth operation, a constant strong pressure of water is required;
- the high cost of the equipment itself;
It is important to consider the limited capacity of the flow heaters before purchasing. Do not use water in several places at the same time.
Storage heater
This design is based on a magnesium anode, a thermostat and a heating element. The first protects the structure from the negative effects of corrosion on metals. Tank volumes range from 15 to 1500 liters.
Electric storage heaters are mainly attached to the wall, but there are also floor-standing models with a large volume of containers.
Electric storage boiler device
The design of the water heater includes the following segments:
- magnesium anode;
- outer casing - casing;
- TEN - heater;
- thermal insulation layer;
- heated water outlet;
- boiler storage tank;
- cold water inlet with a divider of its inner part.
Depending on the modification, the equipment can be equipped with additional elements.
Criterias of choice
When choosing a storage boiler, it is recommended to pay attention to the following criteria:
- Manufacturing material. The most common are stainless steel and enamel. Enamelled equipment has a more acceptable cost, but their service life is shorter.
- Guarantee. If the trading company does not provide a warranty card, it is best to refrain from buying from this place.
- Power. This criterion determines how much water will be heated and for how long. When choosing, it is worth analyzing the state of the wiring in the room.
- The presence of a closed / remote thermostat.
- The volume of the tank should be calculated depending on the amount of liquid consumed daily and the number of water intake points. The most optimal tank volume for a family of 4 is 80 liters.
- The presence of temperature indicators.
- Types and number of installed heating elements.
- Additional functionality: anode wear indication, ECO mode, operating time control, SMART, TURBO function.
- Safe and protected against legionella, corrosion, power surges and overheating.
Operating instructions for water heaters are attached to each device.
It is recommended to purchase household appliances from official manufacturers of water heaters or large chain stores, which can provide all the necessary quality certificates, a warranty card for free repair and service.
