What Is An Indirect Fired Water Heater? - ERNIEGRAVES

Indirect-Fired Water Heaters Are Great Boiler System Options

The 16th of February, 2021 Your home is heated by hot water, and a central boiler provides the energy for the system.You are encouraged to continue reading to learn more about indirect-fired water heaters, which provide high-performance domestic hot water and may be a good alternative for your household.Water heaters that are fueled by indirect heat are a fantastic solution for houses that are heated by a hot water boiler but have a regular, conventional tank water heater.Indirect-fired water heaters, whether used as a replacement for a conventional water heater that has reached the end of its useful life or as an upgrade, provide a number of beneficial advantages that our customers find particularly appealing.

What is an Indirect-Fired Water Heater?

An indirect-fired water heater, also known as a’sidearm tank’ or a ‘indirect water heater,’ is a high-quality, thermally efficient storage tank that has an internal heat exchanger that warms the water in the tank by using hot water cycling from the boiler to do so.There are no burners or a chimney on the tank, so it functions at the same efficiency as the boiler that provides the heat for the tank.Because there is no flue pipe and the insulation values are high, heat loss is far lower than with a traditional water heater, therefore the system has to be fired up much less frequently.Hot water supply from an indirect water heater is much more than that from typical gas or electric water heaters, as seen in the chart below.

A priority zone on the heating system is typically used to install an indirect water heater so that when the tank ‘calls’ for extra hot water, the whole BTU capacity of the boiler is focused toward heating up the tank and not the rest of the system.
Because of the quick recovery period of the indirect heater, the domestic hot water demand is met quickly, and the heating requirements of the home are not notably disrupted.
Water heaters, both indirect and conventional tank, are built to endure longer than traditional tank water heaters, and many types come with limited lifetime guarantees against leaking to the original purchaser.

Indirect Water Heaters Afford Numerous Benefits

So, what is it about indirect water heaters that makes them such a good choice for houses heated by hydronic systems?As a starting point, customers have reported recovery rates that are up to five times faster than those of conventional water heaters (all jokes about teenage daughters aside!).Recovery rates are typically up to five times faster than those of conventional water heaters when using the new sidearm tank setup as a priority zone.The combination of the extremely efficient heat exchanger and storage tank, both of which are driven by the whole-house boiler, is difficult to match!

It is not a difficult work for a trained plumber, such as those employed by Save Home Heat Company, to install and configure the new sidearm tank with its own zone valve, prioritizing the controls for domestic hot water, and other related tasks.
Our plumbing staff has a great deal of expertise with this sort of work and can do it quickly.
Are indirect water heaters an appropriate choice for my home?

Advantages of an indirect-fired water heater include:

There is a plenty of domestic hot water
the hot water recovery rates are excellent.
Water heater that produces domestic hot water with the same efficiency as your central boiler
When compared to traditional water heaters, there is less standby heat loss.
When compared to traditional heaters, the equipment life is significantly longer.
Superior warranties from manufacturers with a strong reputation for quality

It is probably worth considering an indirect-fired water heater if you now rely on a conventional tank type water heater that is towards the end of its useful life and you also have a hydronic heating system with a central boiler heating your house.As a replacement for an aging tank that has to be replaced or as an enhancement to your current system’s performance, these innovative solutions make sense as a proven option for expanding your hot water supply while also enhancing its efficiency.For example, if hot water is not always readily available in your home (especially when there are visitors), or if you anticipate increased demand in the near future (a growing household?), we recommend that you compare the recovery rates and first-hour ratings of a quality indirect water heater to those of a standard tank.

Alternatively, if you are presently intending to replace your old boiler, consider the money you may save by having both services completed at the same time, with the added plus of receiving a superior water heater as a result of the process.
Despite the fact that the initial investment in an indirect-fired water heater will likely be more than that of a regular tank, as we’ve previously stated, there is a significant difference in performance, as well as a longer predicted lifespan and enhanced efficiency.

Quality features found on many indirect-fired water heaters:

2″ thick, ecologically friendly foam insulation
self-cleaning, descaling heat exchanger
high-grade 316L stainless steel storage tank

Plumbing connections made of stainless steel
a large selection of tank sizes to choose from

Interested in an Indirect Water Heater for Your Home?

Whether your existing water heater is due for replacement or you simply want to improve the domestic hot water supply in your home that is heated by a hot water boiler, a professionally installed, high-quality, indirect-fired water heater is an option that may be the best fit for your needs and your budget.You can rely on our highly experienced, skilled plumbing staff at Save Home Heat Company in the Denver-Boulder metropolitan region to assist you in finding the most appropriate water heater solution for your unique needs, all in a polite, educational, and low-pressure manner!Please get in touch with me if you would like to book a free installation quotation or a service call!Drains, Heating, and Plumbing are some of the terms used.

If you’re in the market for a new water heater, explore an option that could be just right for your needs.

Image courtesy of supplyhouse.com Water heaters are often overlooked by homeowners because they are located in an inconspicuous location (such as the basement or a rear closet), and they are rarely used.The majority of people simply take it for granted that whenever they turn on the shower or start the dishwasher, hot water will be ready and waiting for them.However, whether they like it or not, when an existing hot water heater malfunctions, even the most uninvolved homeowners must overcome their inertia and become acquainted with the available product options.The good news is that, as a result of manufacturers’ competition to develop ever more effective solutions, the category today offers a more wide selection of possibilities than it has ever had.

The bad news is that, without the assistance of a professional, it can be difficult to establish which of the many different types of water heaters would be the most appropriate for your needs.
When weighing your alternatives, don’t forget to take into consideration one very attractive option that is sometimes overlooked: indirect water heating.

Renewed Interest in Indirect Water Heaters

It has been decades since indirect water heaters first appeared on the market.However, with increased environmental awareness and rising energy costs, indirect units are gaining in favour once again nowadays.Why?In certain regions of the country, indirect water heating may provide a tremendous one-two punch in terms of energy consumption reduction and cost savings for households that install it.

In fact, according to the Department of Energy, indirect water heaters are ″the least expensive way of supplying hot water″ to the point-of-use fixtures that you rely on every day, many times a day, under ideal conditions.
Given that water heaters spend far more energy than most people realize—in fact, they consume more energy than the majority of other household appliances combined—choosing a high-efficiency solution may make a significant difference in your bottom line, particularly over the long run.
Image courtesy of supplyhouse.com

How Indirect Water Heating Works

The first thing to understand is that an indirect water heater is nothing more than a well-insulated storage tank that contains a helical heat exchanger, but a less frequent design depends on a tank-in-tank arrangement.Nonetheless, in any instance, the ″indirect″ unit does not generate its own heat; rather, it relies on the boiler for heat production.An indirect water heater is connected to the boiler by a closed-loop water pipe, which allows hot water to be sent to the boiler in a normal configuration.The boiler-fired water never comes into contact with the water in the storage tank; instead, it circulates through the coils in the heat exchanger, which heats the water for home use.

To put it another way, the boiler does all of the work, while the indirect heater does nothing more than assist the flow of heat.

When to Consider an Indirect Water Heater

If you don’t already have a boiler in your house, you may stop reading this right here and save time.As Daniel O’Brian, a technical consultant with SupplyHouse.com, explains, ″Indirect water heaters make sense only if you need to utilize a boiler to heat your home.″ Due to the dominance of forced-air HVAC equipment on the market, boilers are becoming increasingly rare.The boiler runs both systems when you install an indirect unit, heating both the house and the water.This is especially true if your home is one of the few that has hydronic baseboard, radiator, or in-floor radiant heating.

Even if your boiler has been sitting in the basement for 15 years and is inefficient by today’s standards, O’Brian believes that ″there are certainly considerable benefits associated with running only one power-devouring large appliance instead of the customary pair of major appliances.″ Get expert adviceFind qualified plumbing professionals in your area and receive free, no-obligation estimates for your job.
+ In the summer, the issue becomes a little more problematic, not the least because homeowners aren’t used to the boiler running when the house doesn’t need to be warmed up anymore.
However, in a home with an indirect water heater, the boiler must still be called into operation on an irregular basis in order to fulfill the demands of the entire household for hot water.

Indirect Water Heaters vs. Tankless Water Heaters

There are several types of water heaters that may be operated on demand, and indirect water heaters are one of them.Tankless water heaters, as they are popularly called, are another sort of water-heating technology that does the same purpose.The most important contrast is that the efficiency of an indirect water heater is equal to the efficiency of a boiler, and boilers generally exceed most water heaters in terms of energy efficiency.A tankless unit with an efficiency rate of 80 percent or a conventional unit with a rate of 60 or 70 percent is significantly less efficient than a high-performance boiler capable of attaining 96 percent efficiency.

Installing an Indirect Water Heater

In the event that you are considering installing an indirect water heater in your house, O’Brian highly advises that you speak with a professional about your options.Even while certain parts of the job may be completed by the homeowner, properly sizing an indirect water heater requires a series of sophisticated calculations that are best left to the hands of a qualified and experienced installation.It goes without saying that hiring a contractor and acquiring an indirect water heater aren’t inexpensive endeavors to undertake.However, while the initial expenditures may be high, indirect water heaters are rarely in need of costly servicing or repairs once they have been installed.

In addition, because they have fewer moving components and utility connections—as well as no exposure to combustion—indirect water heaters tend to live far longer than other types of water heaters.
Many manufacturers even provide a lifetime warranty on their products.
″If you have a boiler or intend to install a boiler, an indirect unit stands out as an obvious alternative″ for dependable, cost-effective water heating, whether you’re replacing a damaged water heater or simply want to upgrade, O’Brian says.
You may stop dreading the arrival of your utility bills by taking the next step toward determining whether an indirect water heater would be a good fit for your requirements, budget, and house by doing some research.

You’re not sure where to begin?
You can get started right away by visiting SupplyHouse.com, where you can browse a comprehensive variety of indirect water heaters and accessories from the industry’s leading manufacturers, including Buderus, Amtrol, Bradford White, and Weil-McLain, among others.
Don’t worry, if you have any concerns at any point along the journey, customer support representatives are always there to assist you.
Image courtesy of istockphoto.com Consult with a professional Identify qualified plumbing professionals in your area and receive free, no-obligation estimates for your plumbing project.

What is the Difference Between Direct and Indirect Fired Heaters?

Understanding the differences between direct and indirect fired heaters is critical when deciding which heating system is best for your particular job requirements. More information about each unit may be found here:

Direct Fired Heaters

Heaters that are heated directly from natural gas are similar to a gas barbeque grill or a gas cooktop. Heat is generated by forcing air straight past a flame in propane or natural gas heating systems to heat the air. The following are some of the advantages of utilizing direct fired heaters: Effectiveness – Direct fired heaters convert 100 percent of the fuel that is burned directly into direct heat, resulting in decreased fuel consumption and operational expenses.
Mobility – Direct fired heaters are very basic pieces of equipment that may be transported to the location where heat is required.
When compared to indirect fire heaters, direct fire heaters are more powerful since they create large volumes of heat (BTUs) in fewer units.
Some units do not need the use of electricity
for example,
Direct fired heaters are less expensive to rent than indirect fired heaters
Maintenance costs are lower since the system is simpler to maintain.
Integrated thermostat — A thermostat is used to regulate the temperature on the majority of models.
Direct fire heaters are safe to use unattended because of a number of redundant safety mechanisms that allow them to continue to operate without supervision. Priority Rentals heaters are certified by the CSA and the UL.

The following are some disadvantages of employing direct fired heaters: Required Ventilation – There must be some amount of air exchange within the room. Unless windows and doors can be opened to allow for air exchange, direct burning heaters are not suitable for use in a securely sealed structure.
Increases the amount of moisture and carbon monoxide in the air

Direct Fired Heaters Applications

Direct fired heaters are most commonly seen on construction sites, in outdoor applications, and in warehouses, among other places. Because direct fired heaters have an open flame, similar to that of a cooktop or grill, they should be used in locations where there is ample of ventilation and little foot traffic, such as garages or workshops. Direct fired heaters are the best choice since they are cost-effective, efficient, and convenient to transport. Construction sites, warehouses, the food industry, the mining sector, and the petrochemical industry are all examples of common applications.

Indirect Fired Heaters

Indirect fired heaters are similar to your home’s oil or gas-burning furnace, but they do not have a chimney. When using propane or natural gas heating systems, the flame is confined in a burn chamber, which warms a ″heat exchanger,″ which transfers the heat. The cooler air goes over and around the heat exchanger, which heats the air passing over and around it. You may learn more about indirect heaters and see us install one of our units while you’re here, too. Indirect fired heaters have a number of advantages, including the following: Air that is completely pure and dry – The air that is cycled never comes into direct contact with the flame.
Thermostats built in — A thermostat is installed in almost all indirect burning heaters.
Direct fired heaters are capable of operating in securely enclosed rooms since they do not discharge carbon dioxide into the space.

The following are some disadvantages of indirect fired heaters: Higher Rental Cost – The rental cost for indirect fired equipment is roughly four times higher than for direct fired equipment.
Lower fuel economy – Fuel efficiency is typically about 80%
but, in some cases, it can be as low as 70%.
Electricity is required – An electrical outlet is always required for indirect burning heaters.
It is necessary to have exhaust ventilation — either the exhaust must be vented outside or the hot air must be ducted inside. Because of the setup and teardown of ducting, installing and uninstalling indirect heaters becomes time-consuming.
Indirect fired heater units are significantly bigger and less portable than direct fired heater units.

Indirect Fired Heaters Applications

For a workstation that is securely enclosed and does not have a functioning heating system, indirect fired heaters are ideal options. Indirect fired heaters operate with a closed heating system that reduces CO2 emissions, making them a safe alternative for usage in crowded locations. Retail places, construction sites, hospitals and healthcare facilities, universities, and the chemical manufacturing sector are all examples of common usage.

Direct and indirect burning heaters are available for rent or purchase from Priority Rental, and we have a large selection. Visit our portable heaters page for a more comprehensive overview of the heaters we have to offer.

Indirect Water Heater: What Is It and How Does It Work?

The process of selecting the most appropriate water heater for your house might be complicated due to the large number of alternatives available.An indirect water heater may have been brought to your attention, and you may be curious as to where it fits within the spectrum of goods now available.It has the potential to be an excellent option for heating water in your house under the correct circumstances.If you are thinking about installing one of these systems, keep in mind that they are not always appropriate for everyone.

First and foremost, you must determine whether your home and HVAC systems are a good match.
Going indirect, on the other hand, might present you with a plethora of advantages if everything is in order.
Learn more about indirect water heating systems and how they function and may be installed in your house by taking a closer look at the following information.

What Is An Indirect Water Heater?

In this water heating system, the water is stored in a tank, and the water is heated by an external heat source. When it comes to indirect types, there are no heating devices inside the water tank. Instead, they will heat the water by using the home’s space heating system (a furnace or boiler), which will save money. Because the two distinct units function together, it is referred to as an integrated or combination heating system when you use your space heating system to heat your water. The basic concept of an indirect system is that it relies on an external heat source rather than its own gas or electric heating components. This integrated system that makes use of heat transfer in a variety of components is becoming more common. It is critical to recognize that not every home will be suitable for one of these. Those that do, on the other hand, will be able to take advantage of a number of benefits that come with this system, which we will cover further in this article. To conclude, an indirect water heater is comprised of the following components: The water is heated by means of an external source (a furnace or a boiler)
In addition, there are no heating components in its tank.
It is a component of a comprehensive heating system.
Only under specified circumstances does it perform properly

How Does The Heater System Work?

Image courtesy of the U.S.Boiler Company Indirect water heaters require a storage tank, despite the fact that the tank is not responsible for heating the water.Instead, hot water is generated by heat transfer, which is accomplished through the use of the home’s boiler or furnace.Several heat transfer coils are connected between the water tank and the boiler or furnace to achieve this result (source of heat).

Heat is transferred from the heat source to the fluid passing through these coils, which is subsequently cooled down in a water tank.
This technique is repeated over and over again.
When exposed to extreme heat, the water in the system will change to steam – since the temperatures here are really high.
When this water returns to the storage tank, the colder water around it will absorb the heat from the coils, resulting in the steam being condensed back into a liquid.

This waste heat is subsequently recycled back into the heat source, allowing the process to continue.
Using a furnace in an indirect water heating system is not possible with all furnaces.
Because some of the older versions are incompatible with certain of the newer integrated HVAC systems, this is the reason behind this.
In this system, the use of a boiler is more prevalent than not.

Boilers are also more efficient because of the increased intensity of steam heating that they provide.
Because the insulated water tank conserves energy, the furnace or boiler will not need to be turned on and off as frequently as it would otherwise.
This has the potential to save a significant amount of energy.
Because there are no heating components utilized in the tank, indirect heating systems can be among the most energy-efficient options available when paired with other factors.

Indirect water heaters can be fueled by electricity, solar energy, natural gas, propane, or oil, or by a mix of these fuels and other sources.

To summarise how this system works, it:

Featured image courtesy of the United States Boiler Corporation Even though indirect water heaters do not actually heat the water, they are required to have a storage tank. As an alternative, hot water is produced by heat transfer, which is accomplished by the boiler or furnace in the home. Several heat transfer coils are connected between the water tank and the boiler or furnace to achieve this result. (source of heat). The fluid that travels through these coils is warmed by the heat source and then cooled by the water tank in which it is contained. As a result, the process repeats again. When exposed to extreme heat, the water in the system will change to steam – since the temperatures are so high. When this water returns to the storage tank, the colder water around it will absorb the heat from the coils, resulting in the steam being condensed back into a liquid state. This waste heat is subsequently recycled back into the heat source, allowing the process to repeat again. Indirect water heating systems aren’t suitable for all types of furnaces. Because some of the older versions are incompatible with certain of the newer integrated HVAC systems, this is the explanation for the situation. It is more customary to use a boiler in this setup. The increased intensity steam heating provided by boilers makes them more efficient as well. Because the insulated water tank conserves energy, the furnace or boiler will not have to run as frequently as it would otherwise. An enormous amount of energy may be saved in this manner. When paired with the fact that no heating components are utilized in the tank, indirect heating systems have the potential to be the most energy-efficient options currently available. Indirect water heaters can be fueled by electricity, solar energy, natural gas, propane, or oil, or by a mix of these fuels and other sources of energy.

Advantages to Using an Indirect Water Heater

Using an indirect approach can provide a number of advantages if the circumstances are suitable. In the next section, we will discuss some of the advantages of utilizing these heaters.

Increased Efficiency

It is possible to save a significant amount of energy by employing an indirect water heating system.An indirect heater shows to be significantly more efficient than a direct heater due to the system’s ability to significantly reduce the quantity of standby heat wasted.This is also reflected in the lower operating efficiency of the boiler or furnace.The indirect types, as compared to the typical tank heater, are significantly more energy efficient and help to prevent heat loss.

Easier to Maintain

A large amount of energy may be saved by installing an indirect water heating system.An indirect heater shows to be significantly more efficient than a direct heater since the design significantly reduces the quantity of standby heat that is lost.Additionally, the boiler or furnace operates at a decreased capacity.The indirect types, as compared to the typical tank heater, are significantly more energy efficient and help to reduce heat waste.

Reduced Flue Gas Losses

When using a gas-fired indirect water heater, you will see a considerable reduction in flue gas emissions. This is probably the most common source of heat loss in conventional boilers, therefore switching to an indirect system may make a significant difference in this area.

Affordability

In addition to being more energy efficient, these systems do not necessitate the installation of any additional venting or fuel lines. Because they do not have an independent energy cost, they are more cheap when compared to conventional tank heaters. Because they are utilizing an existing heating source, they will be able to save a significant amount of money in the long term.

Convenient to Install

Installing an indirect heater may be a simple process as long as your home is equipped with the proper conditions for these types of systems. They are also a perfect size for everyday usage in the home.

Higher Recovery Rates

The quality of hot water is unquestionably not impacted by indirect heating systems. They can actually produce more hot water than a typical tank heater, and their recovery rates are higher as a result. You might therefore have access to a higher supply of hot water more quickly when you use an indirect system, if you use the proper system.

Direct Heaters vs. Indirect Heaters

Making a choice between these two water heater kinds might be challenging because each model has its own set of advantages.Because standard direct water heaters do not require the transportation of water over a long distance, they can be considered more energy efficient in some ways.In some aspects, indirect heaters, on the other hand, are more efficient.The most significant advantage of ordinary direct heaters is that they may be used in any type of housing, in any location.

Indirect units are only very well suited in homes that have a complementary-style HVAC system installed in them.

Indirect Heaters vs. Tankless Heaters

The most obvious distinction between these two systems is that indirect heaters make use of a water storage tank, whereas tankless heaters do not make use of a water storage tank at all.Thus, indirect units have a maximum capacity for producing hot water, but tankless heaters have an almost limitless capability of producing hot water on demand.It is vital to remember that tankless heaters have a maximum capacity of a particular number of gallons per minute.Indirect heaters may produce as much hot water per minute as you require – as long as the amount of hot water produced does not exceed the tank’s holding capacity.

When to Use an Indirect System

When it comes to busy households with large families, using an indirect water heater is a terrific idea.This is due to the fact that the number of gallons per minute is not restricted (like tankless heaters).If you are thinking of installing one, you will need to make sure that the external heat source will be compatible with your system before proceeding.The installation of indirect/combination systems is most common during new construction projects.

The process of connecting pre-existing units to your water heater might be more complicated, but it is achievable.
Some older furnace models cannot be utilized with integrated HVAC systems due to their design limitations.
This is evident in types such as forced air furnaces, in which the exchange pipes are unable to be warmed.
If you have a small residence or don’t use a lot of hot water, an indirect system may not be the ideal option for you.

In this situation, a tankless heater may be preferable (as you will not require the large storage tank).
In warmer climes, there is no need to be concerned about utilizing your indirect heater in conjunction with a boiler.
If the temperature is too high for the boiler to operate, it will still only operate when necessary – while the indirect system continues to extract heat from it.
Throughout the year, these systems can be put to use by the public.

Setting Up a Combination Water Heater

A combined water and space heating system may be rather expensive to install and maintain in the long run.In most cases, it is less expensive to build a separate water heater as well as a separate boiler or furnace rather than a combined device.On the other hand, this will alter in the long run.Combination water heating systems are expected to save you a significant amount of money over time.

A professional should always be hired to complete the installation of a combined water heating system since it is not a simple task at all.
When it comes to installing these systems, there are a plethora of variables to consider (fuel type, safety, building code requirements, and so on), making it a time-consuming and complicated operation.

The Bottom Line

Using an indirect water heating system in your house might be a creative and very effective solution for your water heating requirements.Due to the fact that it requires a very specialized location and set up in order to function well, this is not necessarily the most popular form of water heating system.However, when installed in the proper location, such a system might provide significant benefits to your home.Indirect water heaters have the potential to be substantially less expensive in the long term while also being more ecologically friendly.

Using a combined configuration to get the most out of your home’s heating solutions is a smart strategy to maximize your savings.
If you are building a new home or have a boiler that is appropriate for indirect water heating, you may want to think about installing an indirect water heater arrangement.
Articles that are related: Discover how a hot water heater operates.

What Is An Indirect-Fired Water Heater?

An indirect-fired water heater is one of the most energy-efficient options for heating water in your New Jersey home – but the majority of people aren’t aware of this cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative.The way it works is as follows: An indirect water heater, as opposed to a traditional water heater, makes use of the heat generated by your boiler or furnace to heat the water that is utilized by your taps and appliances rather than using a separate burner.Essentially, by working in this manner, you are provided with free hot water whenever your heating equipment is operational – which is particularly advantageous when you realize that around 20% of the energy you consume throughout the autumn and winter is spent heating water.

Benefits Of Indirect-fired Water Heating

Energy savings are simply one advantage of using an indirect-fired water heater
there are several others as well. Others are as follows: Reduced maintenance requirements – When water and space heating are combined, there is just one burner to worry about maintaining.
Faster-heating water — Because they employ the high Btu output of the furnace or boiler as a heat source, indirect hot water heaters often have faster recovery rates (the time it takes to re-heat a tank of water) than traditional water heaters.
Greater durability — Because an indirect heater does not utilize a direct flame, stress in the heater is greatly minimized, resulting in a heater that is extremely robust and has a long life expectancy.

JW Pierson: your indirect water heater installations expert in NJ

You want to save money on your energy costs right now, so you want to install an indirect water heater.JW Pierson can provide assistance.We’ll have your indirect water heater installed fast and accurately so you can start reaping the benefits of this cost-effective, energy-saving option right away.Of course, an indirect water heater isn’t the best solution for everyone, which is why we also carry conventional and tankless water heaters from the industry’s most reputable manufacturers.

Get in touch with us immediately to find out which water heater brand and model is best for you.
When used in conjunction with a high efficiency boiler or furnace as the heat source, an indirect water heater may be difficult to beat.
Get in touch with JW Pierson now to receive a FREE, no-obligation quote on an indirect-fired water heater — or any other type of water heater – for your New Jersey residence!

Indirect Water Heaters (How They Work and Why You’d Want One)

Please keep in mind that this content may contain affiliate links. This means that, at no additional cost to you, we may gain a small profit on purchases made via our links. Consider the following information before making a decision on whether to purchase one.

How an Indirect Water Heater Works

For the purpose of producing hot water, indirect water heaters employ heat transfer.There are no electric or gas heating devices in the tank itself, which means it is completely cold.Instead, heat transfer coils connect the tank to either a boiler or a furnace, transferring heat.The fluid in the coil is heated, and then it cools in the water tank before returning to the heat source through a closed loop.

Keep in mind that some people are perplexed as to how an indirect heater may use a furnace as its primary heat source.
Due to the fact that many older furnace types were not meant to function with integrated HVAC systems, this is the case.
An integrated system is one that employs heat transfer to keep various components in good working order.
This is demonstrated by a contemporary air conditioning machine, which employs a coolant that warms up inside the device and evaporates, before condensing as it dissipates the heat outside.

The majority of the time, your indirect water heater will be linked to a boiler.
Boilers are extremely effective at providing steam heating and are once again growing in favor.
Because the tank itself consumes no electricity, the heater does not require any form of ventilation.
Because it relies on an external mechanism to heat the water, an indirect heater may operate on virtually any sort of energy source, from natural gas to solar.

When connecting a boiler to a heat source, you will need to set up the boiler as a distinct zone on your heating system.
Non-potable water is often contained within the exchange pipework, which is kept separate from the tank’s potable water supply.
When the water comes into contact with the heat source, it converts to steam at temperatures as high as 200 degrees Fahrenheit.
When the steam reaches the bottom end of the storage tank, the colder water in the surrounding area draws heat away from the coils, and the steam condenses back into a liquid that can be recycled back into the heat source.

Indirect vs Direct

Due to concerns with how efficiency is evaluated and compared between direct and indirect models, it is difficult to determine which is more efficient in these two types of water heaters.Direct models are more efficient than indirect versions.It may be claimed, however, that ordinary direct water heaters have a minor advantage over indirect water heaters since there is always some heat loss when water is transported over a long distance.Indirect heaters make up for this by having fewer parts that are exposed to the naturally corrosive substances contained in tank water and by not requiring an additional source of energy.

In the end, indirect heaters can be the most efficient choice in houses that are well-suited for or already have a complementary-style HVAC system installed and functioning.
Also see the following: Best Residential Water Heaters

Indirect vs Tankless

One of the most noticeable differences between an indirect heater and a tankless heater is the presence or absence of a tank.Indirect water heaters have a limited hot water supply and require frequent cleansing, both of which are problems that a tankless water heater is less prone to.Tankless water heaters have an endless capacity to supply a specific number of gallons per minute (determined by their rating).A direct water heater, on the other hand, may supply endless hot water every minute up to the maximum number of gallons the tank can contain.

In both circumstances, you will be required to pay an energy fee in order to keep the water at the desired temperature.
This cost is heavily influenced by the amount of water used and how effectively the indirect heater’s tank is insulated.
A tankless heater will be more efficient in a busy household since it does not have a maximum output per minute limit, but an indirect heater will be more efficient in a smaller home.
If you have a big home, you may combine the two by installing on-demand or smaller tankless units in high-demand areas like as the kitchen to offset the demand in the rest of the house.

Why Should I consider an Indirect Water Heater?

Indirect water heaters make use of an existing heating source to generate electricity, which allows them to save a significant amount of money over time.A direct type requires less maintenance since it has fewer moving components, and they often have higher insulation, which eliminates the need for a water heater blanket in some cases.Because they do not require a flue or a separate gas line, an indirect heater that takes advantage of a gas-powered boiler will be significantly more energy efficient (although this does not apply to electric-powered systems, obviously).It should be noted that indirect systems are not recommended for use with a forced air furnace, which is much more compatible with tankless water heaters.

A tankless type is self-sufficient in terms of power and fuel, but it receives heat from a secondary furnace or boiler.
Meanwhile, an indirect heater will continue to draw energy from your boiler even during the summer, but the boiler will only operate when necessary, allowing you to save money on energy throughout the year.
Related: Hydronic Radiant Floor Heating Systems (Advantages and Disadvantages, as well as Cost)

When an Indirect System isn’t Viable

One of the major disadvantages of indirect water heaters is their inability to be retrofitted into any type of housing.For example, forced air furnaces will not be able to heat the exchange pipes because of the high temperature.They can also be a terrible choice for houses where just a small amount of hot water is required, as you will still be responsible for maintaining a huge tank of hot water (usually at least 30 gallons).In such households, an on-demand solution is significantly more efficient.

Can I Install an Indirect Water Heater Myself?

Installation of a direct water heater can be quite similar to that of a tankless water heater, and difficulties might occur in the same way.However, the key distinction is that the exchange components will require some additional knowledge and expertise to correctly configure.Hiring a professional would assist you in achieving maximum efficiency.If you have previous expertise with complimentary systems, you may be able to install the tank yourself as well.

Resource:

Tankless Coil and Indirect Water Heaters

Indirect-Fired Water Heaters: What Are The Benefits?

Most people are unaware that an indirect water heater (also known as a ″indirect-fired water heater″) is a very efficient alternative for heating water in your New Jersey home – but most people are also unaware of its benefits.The following is the lowdown for individuals who fall into this category: a standard water heater utilizes its own burner to heat a certain volume of water, which is then stored in a tank for later use (a tankless water heater skips that last step, since it only provides water on demand).Instead, indirect water heaters utilise the heat generated by your boiler or furnace to generate the heat that is used to warm your water.Because it operates in this manner, an indirect water heater effectively provides free water heating when your heating equipment is in operation – which is a good deal when you consider that approximately 20% of the energy you consume during the fall and winter months in New Jersey is spent heating water.

More Benefits Of Indirect Water Heating

Energy savings are simply one advantage of using an indirect-fired water heater
there are several others as well. Others are as follows: Reduced maintenance requirements – When water and space heating are combined, there is just one burner to worry about maintaining.
Water that heats more quickly — Because the burner in a boiler or furnace is more powerful than the burner in a water heater, your water will heat more quickly.
Because an indirect heater does not utilize a direct flame, the stress on the heater is greatly decreased, allowing it to last longer and require fewer repairs
increased efficiency

Dixon Energy is your go-to source for indirect water heater installations throughout the state of New Jersey.Are you thinking of installing an indirect water heater?Dixon Energy can be of assistance.We’ll have your indirect water heater installed fast and accurately so you can start reaping the benefits of this cost-effective, energy-saving option right away.

Of course, an indirect water heater isn’t the best solution for everyone, which is why we also have conventional propane water heaters and propane tankless water heaters from the most reputable manufacturers available today.
Get in touch with us immediately to find out which water heater brand and model is best for you.
When used in conjunction with a high efficiency boiler or furnace, an indirect water heater may be difficult to beat.
In order to receive a FREE, no-obligation quote on an indirect-fired water heater – or any other type of water heater – for your New Jersey home, contact Dixon Energy now!

Tankless Coil and Indirect Water Heaters

Indirect water heaters, also known as integrated or combination water and space heating systems, heat water by utilizing the space heating system of a home.

Indirect Water Heaters

Despite the fact that they require a storage tank, indirect water heaters are a more energy-efficient option for most houses.An indirect water heater heats a fluid that is cycled via a heat exchanger in the storage tank by using the main furnace or boiler to heat the fluid.When combined with a high-efficiency boiler and a well-insulated tank, an indirect water heater can be the most cost-effective method of supplying hot water, particularly if the heat source boiler is set to ″cold start.″ Despite the fact that they require a storage tank, indirect water heaters are a more energy-efficient option for most houses.An indirect water heater heats a fluid that is cycled via a heat exchanger in the storage tank by using the main furnace or boiler to heat the fluid.

Because of the energy stored in the water tank, the furnace may be turned on and off less often, resulting in energy savings.
When combined with a high-efficiency boiler and a well-insulated tank, an indirect water heater can be the most cost-effective method of supplying hot water, particularly if the heat source boiler is set to ″cold start.″ Indirect systems can be powered by a variety of fuels, including gas, oil, propane, electricity, solar energy, or a combination of these.

Tankless Coil Water Heaters

A tankless coil water heater offers hot water on demand since it does not require a storage tank.In order for water to be heated, it must first pass through a heating coil or heat exchanger installed in the main furnace or boiler before being switched on.When it comes to energy efficiency, tankless coil water heaters are most effective during colder months when the heating system is utilized often.However, they can be an ineffective solution for many houses, particularly in warmer areas.

Tankless systems are often powered by electricity, oil, or natural gas.
These water heating systems can be used in conjunction with forced air systems as well as hydronic or radiant floor heating.

Selecting a Combination Water and Space Heating System

Installation and maintenance expenses for integrated or combination water and space heating systems are typically higher than those for a separate water heater and furnace or boiler; but, they may be less expensive.For example, because there is just one source of heat, you will not require several utility hook-ups.It also means that there are fewer moving components to maintain and service.Some of these high-efficiency technologies may result in decreased utility expenses in certain circumstances.

The majority of combined water and space heating systems are typically suited for new building projects alone.
It is possible, however, to purchase retrofit units that may be used in conjunction with an existing water heater.
When picking a system, it is important to evaluate the system’s overall size.
There are several differences between the calculations used to size a combination system and the calculations used to size a standalone water heating system or space heating system.

It’s preferable if you leave it to a professional plumbing and heating specialist.
When determining the energy efficiency of a combination water and space heating system, the combined appliance efficiency rating should be used as a guide (CAE).
The higher the number, the more energy-efficient the system operates.
The efficiency ratings for combination appliances range from 0.59 to 0.90.

Installing and Maintaining the System

It is possible to maximize the energy efficiency of a combined water and space heating system via proper installation and maintenance. A variety of factors influence the proper installation of your system. These considerations include the type of fuel used, the environment, the needs of local construction codes, and safety concerns. As a result, it is recommended that you hire a skilled plumbing and heating professional to do the installation. When choosing a contractor, be sure to consider the following factors: Request written cost estimates, as well as contact information for references.
Check with your local Better Business Bureau to see whether the firm will seek a local permit if one is required and if the company is familiar with local building rules, among other things.

Periodic maintenance of your system may considerably improve the life of your water heater while also reducing the amount of energy lost. Specific maintenance instructions should be obtained from your installer or by reading your owner’s handbook.

Improving Energy Efficiency

Try these extra energy-saving measures for water heating and space heating and cooling once your combo system has been properly installed and maintained to help decrease your utility bills after it has been properly installed and maintained.

What are the Differences Between Direct and Indirect Water Heaters?

The 19th of August, 2019 You may consider your water heater to be one of the most crucial equipment in your home.However, this is not always the case.It delivers hot water for bathing and dishwashing, as well as for cooking.For those that want a new water heater, there are several alternatives available to choose from.

Direct and indirect water heaters are two options you may wish to consider.
Both of them are capable of heating water to a suitable temperature for home usage, but they do so in a different way.
If you purchase any sort of water heater, you will discover that there are advantages to each.
Construction Anode rods made of zinc are used in both types of heaters and should be changed on a regular basis.

These rods are fixed to the top of the heater in order to prevent rust from accumulating there.
When compared to indirect water heaters, direct water heaters have a greater number of components.
The tank of an indirect water heater does not include any gas or electric heating equipment.
Bringing Water to a Boil An oil, natural gas, or propane-fueled direct heater is used to heat water in a direct heater.

There is a burner on the heater.
A boiler is used to heat the water in an indirect heater.
The heat transmission coils are the conduits that link the tank and boiler.
The fluid in the coils begins to heat up.

A particular temperature must be reached by the boiler in order for it to adequately heat the water.Advantages Direct water heaters are more efficient than indirect water heaters since they simply create hot water.As a result, they are more energy efficient than indirect water heaters.If you have a big family, you may want to consider investing in this sort of heater.A heater that operates more quickly reduces the likelihood that individuals may be forced to wait for hot water while taking a shower.

Because tankless heaters are not connected to boilers, you will still have hot water if your boiler malfunctions.
Direct-fired water heaters are less expensive to buy than indirect-fired water heaters in the long run.
An indirect water heater does not necessitate the installation of venting.
It is capable of running on nearly any form of electricity and incurs no additional energy costs.

It would be a wise idea to use this sort of heater if you are looking to save money by using less energy in your home.These heaters have fewer components than direct heaters, which is another advantage.Because of this, there are fewer pieces that might be damaged or rusted in the future.Both methods can assist you in conserving energy.

One factor that might influence the amount of energy saved is the size of the heater and the effectiveness of your heating and air conditioning system.A water heater is required in order for a home to run smoothly and efficiently.If possible, always have your water heater installed or repaired by a trained expert to avoid any problems down the road.

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Advantages of the Indirect Hot Water System

Everyone these days, for a variety of reasons, is striving to reduce their energy consumption.When it comes to energy use, the water heater is one of the most significant in many older homes.As a result, in recent years, an increasing number of manufacturers have offered indirect water heater models to the market, and they have shown to be quite effective in terms of lowering energy use for the most part.This is just one of the many advantages of using an indirect hot water system to heat your home.

Climate Works has long been a proponent of this method of heating water, and the next section will go through the advantages of using an indirect hot water system in more detail.
If you’re interested in learning more about how we can assist you in this area, all you have to do is get in touch with us and we’ll be pleased to assist you in determining whether or not this is a solution that will work for your existing setup.

What are the Main Advantages of an Indirect System?

Direct water heaters have a number of advantages, some of which include the following: Among the most prominent advantages of indirect water heaters is the huge decrease in flue losses they provide.
There is less maintenance because there are no additional burners to maintain.
Less expense since there is no need for extra venting or for fuel lines to be run
Improved performance due to more readily accessible hot water and faster recovery times
It is simple to size and simple to install

Generally speaking, recovery rates for indirect hot water heaters are higher than those for traditional tank type water heaters since they employ the boiler’s BTU output as the heat source.On systems without coils, such as those manufactured by Weil Mclain, huge self-cleaning canals are employed, which avoid liming and the degradation of system efficiency.As previously stated, integrated combination heating systems use the same heat source to heat both the space and the water in the system.Integral systems provide several benefits over separate unit systems, one of which is the existence of just one combustion device, which decreases the danger of backdrafting from a single appliance, eliminates the need for regular maintenance, and only one venting system must be employed.

Due to the absence of a direct flame or combustion, storage water tanks used in indirect fired heating systems are typically constructed of stainless steel.
As a result of the absence of a direct flame or combustion, thermal stress is significantly reduced, resulting in a tank that is extremely durable and has a long life span.
Some manufacturers are offering a warranty that is valid for a lifetime.
The indirect hot water heater tanks have a capacity of around 40 gallons on average, which is usual.

When looking to purchase a new indirect water heating system, capacity is vital, but so is the recovery rate, which is equally important.
The exact recovery rate will be determined by the Btu input of the unit that provides the heat exchanger with water and steam.
The bottom line, as far as we are concerned, is that the benefits of an indirect hot water system outweigh the costs associated with attempting to install one in every house or company, if at all possible.
All of this begins with a talk and a closer look around your house or company in order to explore your needs and possibilities.

Please contact us as soon as possible so that we may begin this process.
The sooner we complete it, the sooner you will be able to take advantage of all of the benefits listed above.

What is the Significance of Direct Water Supply System?

Atul Purani graduated with a Master’s degree in Civil Structure Engineering from the Sardar Vallabhbhai National Institute of Technology (SVNIT) in Surat in 2012.He is a Senior Manager (Infrastructure) at SDCPL and is in charge of the Infrastructure Design Team.He also writes for the website gharpedia.com.He has extensive experience in the design of a wide range of infrastructure projects (like Water Supply Network, Reuse Water Supply network, Sewerage Network, and Stormwater Drainage).

He is also responsible for the structural design of some of the company’s biggest projects.
He may be reached through his LinkedIn profile.
The term ″water supply system″ refers to the system of obtaining water directly from a source and efficiently delivering it (i.e., in the optimal quantity at the appropriate pressure) to the different household appliances (fixtures).
Water can either be held in storage water tanks before being utilized for appliances, or it can be given straight to appliances from the mains water supply.

Water supply systems are classified into the following types based on how water is delivered to appliances: The first type of water supply system is the direct water supply system.
Each fixture has a water faucet that provides potable water.
Direct water supply systems receive water from the mains and then distribute it to the fixtures.
Indirect water supply systems gather water in storage tanks and distribute it to the fixtures.

Must Read: Indirect Water Supply System

The Direct Water Supply System (DWSS) was initially implemented in Europe and the United States in order to ensure water quality.The Direct Water Supply System delivers safe, wholesome water directly from purification facilities to residential customers, without the need for storage tanks in between.When water is held in tanks for an extended length of time, the water quality deteriorates for a variety of reasons, including the location of the tank, stagnant water in the tank, the buildup of dust particles over time, and so on.Water tanks installed on rooftops are particularly sensitive to foreign particles that might degrade the quality of the water they hold.

Algae reproduce as a result of direct sunlight exposure.
Water from the Direct Water Supply System is piped to all fixtures, including the bath, bathroom basin, and kitchen sink, and is potable.
The rising main (the pipe that transports municipal water to a residence) provides water to all of the faucets in the house (faucets).
All fixtures are supplied with water from the water supply authority at the same pressure as the main line.

Pressures ranging from 0.5kg/cm2 to 1.00kg/cm2, or a head of 5m to 10m, are often required at all taps.
Main pressure is often high since mains must deliver water to downstream locations while also compensating for fluctuations in water level.
A pressure decreasing valve is occasionally installed at the main water supply line, and the water is then dispersed to different pipes around the home in order to reduce pressure and maintain consistent pressure depending on the position at which water enters the house.
Hot and cold water pressure at the faucets should be the same, regardless of the temperature of the water.

Advantages:

Because the pipes to and from the tank for cold water are not required, the cost of pipe work is reduced.
Everyone has access to safe, high-quality drinking water from any of the faucets.
Pumps are not required to pump water to cisterns or tanks, resulting in energy savings.
It is less expensive to install direct water delivery than indirect water supply since it does not require a storage tank, and it also decreases the expense of tank maintenance (both underground and overhead).
As a result, the likelihood of bacterial contamination is reduced.
The purity of the water is maintained.

Disadvantages:

If water is only accessible for a limited amount of time, a continuous water flow will not be available, and the system will not be able to function properly. Due to the fact that there will be no 24-hour water supply
Because of the high pressures, there is leakage in the pipes.
If the main water pipe is broken, the whole water supply to the residence must be shut down until the main is repaired.

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He is also responsible for the structural design of some of the company’s biggest projects.
He may be reached through his LinkedIn profile.