The water heater does not come in a single unit, but it contains several parts and components. It’s an added benefit as having different parts helps in repair, replacement, or maintenance work.

A single unit water heater would be much harder to repair, and even a minor problem may necessitate a complete replacement.

However, if you are unaware of the water heater parts, you will face difficulty in using and keeping it maintained. For example, it happened to me that the overflow pipe was choked somehow, and I had to call a plumber because it was creating high pressure in the tank. By knowing about it, I wouldn’t have needed to hire a plumber, which would have saved me money.

You must go through the water heater cost if money is not an issue for you.

There are so many important water heater parts that we should know about. After all, it is supplying hot water for our needs, and we should know what components help it work the best.

Water heater parts explained

Remember that not every water heater is made the same, and therefore, one may differ in style in design. However, the basic components for all remain the same. Plus, if you know about the parts, you will be able to replace them yourself whenever required.

So, let’s get to know about water heater parts in detail.

Storage tank

Unless you are going to opt for a tankless water heater, you will see a large storage tank connected with the water heater. As the name advocates, it is used for water storage. It can be of plastic, stainless steel, or any other material, there are varieties available in the market, and you can choose the one you like.

As the hot water is stored in the storage tank, they are insulated with a significant thickness for enhanced efficiency.

There are several other gears attached to the storage tank, including the dip tube, which brings the cold water into the tank.

Burner

Bruner is a source through which heat is provided to heat up the water. It is usually located below the tank and is linked with a controller attached outside. You also call it a control module or a gas valve, which is discussed below.

Gas control valves

A water heater is incomplete without a control valve. Not only does it control how much gas is supplied to the burner, but also you can set up the desired water temperature with a thermostat linked with a gas valve.

It also contains a thermocouple, reset button, temperature dial, safety limit, and a couple of other elements that allow you to control and manage the water heater accordingly.

The exhaust tube

As the water heats up, it produces fumes or other gasses which need to be vented out. This job is done through the exhaust tube that shows gasses the way to the outside. Venting is crucial when installing a water heater because if it’s not done, the gasses produced will create pressure inside that can lead a tank to burst.

You may want to consider stainless steel, PVC, or sheet metal venting materials for different types of water heaters.

Pressure relief valve

Too much pressure or the temperature, in both cases, it is severely going to damage the water heater. To control that, the pressure relief valve is used. With this valve, you can adjust the setting as per your need. It is also called the TPR valve.

Drain valve

Used for draining the water out of the tank, the drain valve is situated at the bottom of the tank. You also use it to clear out the tank of the sediments. The sediment buildup creates several issues and makes the water heater ineffective; thus, cleaning a tank once in a while is suggested.

Timer

Not an essential part, but it is installed for saving on utility bills as the timer helps in energy consumption. The heater can be set to turn on and off according to your needs with the timer.

Expansion tank

Expansion tanks are installed for the purpose of safety as it helps store excess water when the water heats up. It prevents high pressure and thus keeps the heater protected.

Electric heating element

If it’s an electrical water heater, it will consist of an electric component that will help function as per the design.

Besides, blowers may also be used as part of an electric heater. Blowers are used for exhausting the excess heat to the outside.

Conclusion

Each of the parts discussed above is important for the water heater, and any missing component will result in total failure of the water heater. Thus, for the water heater to work properly, it must have all parts connected with it and should be in good condition.

In addition, knowing the parts will help you inspect and diagnose any problems that may arise with your water heater.