The heating of water is done by a process transferring heat energy to water by various means. But the most common means of heating water domestically is by heating water in vessels that is known as the water heaters. These vessels may be one of the below items like pots, kettles and cauldrons. This is the traditional hot water system used in homes. But these systems are capable of heating water in small quantities. They do not have the capacity of supplying hot water continuously like the systems that are operated electrically.
Now, you can find different types of hot water systems powered by gas, electricity and solar energy. You can choose the best one according to your needs. Make sure, you must count the number of heads of your family before you choose a hot water system because you need to decide the storage according to the usage of hot water in your daily life.
What Is Hot Water Required For?
Hot water in homes is generally required various purposes that include cooking, washing, bathing, cleaning and sometimes in very cold countries they may be used for drinking purposes also. So, hot water systems in cold countries are continually required for everyday household purposes.
Electrical Appliances That Provide Hot Water
There are numerous electrical hot water systems that provide continuous supply of hot water. These appliances include any of the following:
- Boilers
- Geysers
- Hot water immersion heaters
It is independent of the fact that these systems can heat either potable water o water that is used for all purposes like bathing, cleaning, washing, etc.
Types Of Hot Water Systems
Hot water systems for domestic purposes can be of two types:
- Instantaneous systems – This system requires a continuous flow of water, and it heats water instantly. You can get water constantly and as soon as you turn on the tap. This hot water system is cheaper because the water is heated instantly. Using stored water may require re-heating so naturally, there occurs wastage in energy that results in extra expenditure.
- Storage System – Some hot water systems require storage in water tanks that can be stored the entire day. But it is a questionable matter on how hot the water remains all day. If the heat reduces then it needs re-heating which involves additional expenditure.
Methods Of Hot Water Heating
There are different ways in which hot water may be heated. These hot water systems include:
- Electrical heating – In some countries, hot water systems may incorporate heating the water by means of electricity. This makes up almost 50% of the hot water consumed. It is the easiest way of getting the water heated and it is also the cheapest method.
- Solar heating – This system includes panels that trap the heat from the sun to heat the water. This heated water is stored in water tanks. It is not very feasible for cold regions where adequate sun’s heat is not available. The water needs to get heated again by using either gas or electricity. So it becomes more expensive.
- Heat pumps – This hot water system is much more efficient. 30% of the energy comes from electricity while the rest is taken by extracting the heat from the atmosphere using the refrigeration cycling method.
- Gas – This is an externally arranged hot water system. The running cost of this system is less than electric hot water system. It is of no use in colder climatic regions because the heat cannot be retained.
- Tankless heating – In this hot water system, the flowing water is heated eliminating the loss of heat from stored water. It is used only when required.
Conclusion
The cheapest way to heat water is by natural gas. In some countries, natural gas is not available everywhere. So, in that circumstance, you can heat water with electricity.