The Evolution of Water Heater

Water heater is very important in every household especially during cold seasons. Distributed hot waters can be used for a relaxing bath, doing more effective laundry, killing grease during dishwashing and many more. That is why over the past decades, water heater has become a common fixture in houses. But as time goes on, evolution affects even this humble tool. Nowadays, there are modern types of water heater that are out in the market. However, people are yet to conclude the new models’ edge over the old ones.

Water Heaters Then:
Water Heater

Since the demand for water heater grew, people are used to the models that come with a tank. This functions like a hot water reservoir that stores pre-heated water and releases it whenever needed. These tanks are usually stored in the basement or laundry room of the house. Water heater with tank have two heating options; electric or gas. In more ways, these two models are similar from the outside, what differentiates them is their way of heating the water. Electric water heater have two or more metal insulators inside the tank whereas gas-powered water heater has a burner at the bottom of the tank. These tanks both have controls for its heating power.

Water Heaters Now:
Water Heater

The modern types of water heater negate the use of tanks. Without the water reservoir, it only operates when there is an actual demand for hot waters. Just like the previous models, Tankless water heater also have two heating options; electric or gas. Electric water heater have an electric heating device whereas gas-powered water heater still have burners that operate through the use of propane or natural gas. On one hand, tankless electric water heater are highly recommended to be installed directly to a circuit breaker. On the other hand, tankless gas-powered water heater must be installed to the house’s gas line.

Comparison between Then and Now:

Water heater then would probably have issues regarding house space as they have tanks that come along with them. It is also more likely to have higher energy consumption, as these types would maintain the stored heated water even without an actual demand for it. But with having a stored heated water, users are guaranteed to have a hot water anytime. Water heater now have lesser chance of providing continuous heated waters, as they do not have a water reservoir. That is why these water heaters may not be suitable in houses with large families or have frequent visitors. However, water heater now are more energy-efficient and a huge space saver. These also have lower tendencies of damage as there will be no tank leaks that will cause rusts in the future.

Water heater then and now are examples of innovation and transformation. But customers do not have to always conclude that modern water heater is far better that the old bulky ones. Referring to the comparison between the two, both models have pros and cons. Plus, it is a fact that both models still functions for its primary goal, which is, to provide hot water. Therefore, it is just a matter of preference of the customers that will determine what type of water heater will be more suitable for them.