What is a self cleaning water heater?
A self-cleaning water heater is designed to reduce sediment automatically. Filtering out sediment is the main purpose of self-cleaning water heaters, so you do not have to flush them as frequently. Despite its limitations, it can remove most sediment buildup. It's available as both an electric and a gas model.
It is important to consider both the benefits and disadvantages associated with this strategy. They mostly relate to how these devices work.
How do self-cleaning water heaters work?
A self-cleaning water heater is a gas or electricity-powered water heater which performs the same functions as a standard water heater. The main difference between them and regular water heaters can be found in the form of a dip tube with a special fitting.
Water from the intake pipe carries sediments into the tank. Filters collect contaminants, reducing the heater's efficiency. However, this unwanted material does not settle down on the surface of a dip tube, which keeps it swirling at the bottom.
A similar arrangement would result in these materials being sucked out when you open the hot water tap. You won't have to worry about foreign materials lying around in your water heater.
This equipment has several key features, including an anode rod, a self-cleaning system, heat traps, and a drain valve. Manufacturers can vary these components, but they all serve a similar function: to ensure that this heater works smoothly.
Self-cleaning water heaters: pros and cons
The following are some of the advantages and disadvantages one should consider before buying a self-cleaning water heater.
Pros of self-cleaning water heaters
Energy efficient
Sediment buildup is a significant reason why normal water heaters consume more energy with time. Furthermore, these materials can accumulate on the heating element, requiring the part to consume more energy to do the same job.
However, there's no such thing as self-cleaning water heaters. They remove most of these sediments on their own without allowing them to build upon their bottom. It thus saves your heating element from doing the extra work, which, in turn, allows the heater to work optimally at all times.
As a result, your energy bill will be reduced every month. As such, even though they are more expensive than a standard water heater, their energy efficiency can make up for this cost over time.
Easy to maintain
Normal water heaters require regular maintenance every six months. You will have to clean the sediment buildup from your tank yourself and flush the tank. A regular cleaning schedule is essential for this; otherwise, sediments will accumulate in your water tank.
Alternatively, a self-cleaning water heater offers no such concern. It can maintain a neat and clean appearance without external aids because of the internal water circulation that removes sediment buildup.
This means that, instead of worrying about flushing out your tank every few months, you can spend your time on something else more useful.
Cons of of self-cleaning water heaters
Pricey
Compared to a regular water heater, self-cleaning water heaters are considerably more expensive. Their price is based on their ability to accomplish an additional function. Therefore, it may not be easy to purchase this equipment if you're on a budget.
Still needs some maintenance
No matter how well designed a self-cleaning water heater is, it cannot remove all sediment. Unwanted materials will be left behind in these units, which you must deal with on your own. Therefore, flushing them once a year can ensure an optimal level of performance.