A water heater is a perfect choice to face cold weather. There are some options, which are indirect water heaters or tankless water heaters. However, what is an indirect water heater? This water heater is a good investment when it comes to comfort. It has some good advantages and also disadvantages. Here is the complete guide on indirect water heaters that you should know.
What is Indirect Water Heater
Indirect water heaters have been used for over decades now. People have been using these kinds of units to gain comfort from their homes. It might cost a little bit higher than the other kind, but truthfully, the advantages are far greater.
With the growing concern about energy savings and cost, using an indirect water heater is gaining popularity.
This phenomenon happens because using an indirect water heater proved to be a cost-saving and energy-saving action. The unit will give a valuable service while maintaining less usage of energy.
This water heater is insulated storage that holds a spiral heat exchanger. It is easier to say that this is a tank-in-a-tank water heater.
The heat is not produced by the unit but is produced from the boiler. The boiler is the essence of the machine component. The indirect water heater relies on the boiler.
Disadvantages of Indirect Water Heater
Indirect water heater indeed has many advantages. Such as energy savings and long-term cost savings. However, the usage of this kind of component will have its problems. In this part of the article, we will discuss some disadvantages of using this water heater. Check it out.
- Inefficiency On Its Heat Transfer
The indirect water heater relies on storage tanks for the heat conducting. Therefore, the component is not quite efficient in transferring heat from the boiler to the water. While it may not be a big problem, it is different in cold temperatures.
- Complexity
The indirect water heater uses two tanks on its components. This makes the unit cannot be installed easily. And I need an expert to do the installation.
- Difficult Setting
The water in both cold and hot tanks is not mixed. This fact will make the water control difficult since it has a different thermostat setting.
Why are Indirect Water Heaters so Expensive
Indirect water heater cost is far more expensive than the other kind. This happens because this water heater needs to be appropriately installed in a complicated work done by the contractor and installer. Hence, usually, the installation of the water heater is done by a professional.
Before using the unit, you must prepare the water heater’s spot. This will include the work of the contractor. The installation itself will include the complex work of trained installers. This is what makes the cost relatively high.
In addition, the cost of the unit itself is not cheap. This will add to your bill if you use an indirect water heater. However, it is said that the maintenance of the unit will not cost much since it could last longer than the other kind of heater.
You need to consider these things before buying and installing the unit at your home. You will get the best results, but at a fair price too.
Conclusion
Hence, the information regarding what is an indirect water heater. It is an excellent option to use in cold weather. It will bring comfort to your house. Be mindful that in purchasing or using this unit, you need to understand it first. Therefore, you will get the advantages more than the disadvantages.
Heater Technician is a skilled author and water heater expert with years of experience in the field. He has authored several articles and books on various aspects of water heater installation, maintenance, and repair.
