Water heating accounts for about 20% of the energy costs of an average household, and since domestic gas is less expensive than electricity, long-term gains can be substantial. Buying an atmospheric water heater, when done right, could help you save a significant amount on your monthly bills.
Switching to an atmospheric water heater also provides superior water flow levels and various water-heating choices. But before rushing into the benefits of these devices, it is crucial to understand the question, “what is an atmospheric water heater?”
Understanding Atmospheric Water Heating Devices
Like many heaters, an atmospheric water heater is a gas-powered heater, but what distinguishes it from other models is the way that it vents. In a typical gas water heater, fuel is burned to raise the water temperature. These gasses are expelled from your home through a sizable metal draught pipe attached to the heater’s tank—atmospheric water heaters take advantage of the physics of this draughting to draw air into the intake at the same rate that gas is being vented. Hence, the name, “atmospheric” heater.
How Do You Recognize Them?
These unique water heating systems can be distinguished by:
- A metal exhaust ventilation pipe on top of the tank. While other models could have a black fan attached that shoots the emissions out of your home, this ventilation pipe generates a natural airflow that draws the flue gas away.
- A gas shutoff valve and a black or yellow gas line leading to the burner.
- A distinct space between the tank and vent pipe where outside air is drawn into the tank.
The Advantages Of Natural Gas Or Atmospheric Water Heater
- Cost Effective: Gas is a good option for water heating in your residence because of its affordability, ease, and efficiency. A domestic gas supply is cheaper than electricity, allowing you to recover costs relatively quickly.
- Gives Consistent Fast Performance: With a gas heater, you’ll have hot water even if there is a power outage. Additionally, it heats a new tank of water more quickly than an electric water heater, after the storage tank has been emptied.
- No Need For A Pilot Burner: Some gas heaters require a pilot light to ignite, which raises the overall cost of operation. Fortunately, that is not the case with an atmospheric heater.
- High Flow Rates: The flow rates of atmospheric water heaters outperform those of electric heaters. So, for larger families whose heaters may be running out of water, an atmospheric heater is a good option.
Final Thoughts
Now that we’ve answered the question, “What is an atmospheric water heater?” all that is left to do is install yours! Since dealing with natural gas can be tricky and quickly mount into a fire hazard, it is crucial to hire the right plumbing company to install your atmospheric water heater. There is no room for error when installing these devices, so do your due diligence and hire the right professional to install this equipment!
