How Do Gas Tank Water Heaters Work?

A. O. Smith gas water heaters heat water by burning either natural gas or LP (liquid propane). All models have a thermostat/gas control to set the desired temperature. When a hot water fixture is opened, hot water flows out of the tank and through hot water lines in the home and the tank is refilled with cold water. The thermostat monitors the water temperature and initiates reheating when needed. Standard gas models have a standing pilot light, and when the thermostat calls for operation gas flows to the burner where it is lit by the pilot light. High-efficiency models utilize an electronic gas valve and use a spark or hot surface ignitor so a standing pilot is not required. Standard gas models have a standing pilot light, and when the thermostat calls for operation gas flows to the burner where it is lit by the pilot light. When the desired water temperature is reached in the tank, the main gas valve shuts off and the heating process stops.

Should I buy an electric tank or gas tank water heater?

There are benefits to both electric tank and gas tank water heaters, but changing the fuel type of your home can result in higher initial costs. If you are building a new home, you should consult with your local plumbing contractor to assist in choosing your fuel source and this will help in choosing the correct water heater.

What is the difference between natural gas and liquid propane water heaters?

Natural gas is supplied to many homes in the United States by way of underground piping. Liquid Propane (LP) is used mostly in rural areas of the country, where natural gas is not available. LP gas is usually stored in large tanks that sit in your yard. The gas is typically delivered to your home in a tanker truck and pumped into the tank sitting in the yard. Most A. O. Smith gas water heaters are available from the factory in either liquid propane or natural gas. Both fuel sources can provide consistent hot water for your home.

What do I need to know before installing a gas tank water heater?

Before purchasing a gas tank water heater you should understand what type of fuel you currently have in your home, how much hot water you use on a daily basis, and where your current water heater is installed. A plumbing contractor can assist in helping you choose a water heater that fits your needs, or you can use A. O. Smith’s online XPERT™ Product Selector to help determine which water heater is best for your home.

What size of water heater do I need for my home?

A. O. Smith offers many different sizes of natural gas and liquid propane water heaters to meet your home’s needs. Evaluating your happiness with your current hot water within your home will help determine what size of water heater is best for you. Also, understanding where you will be installing your new water heater and how much space you have available will help in deciding what size of water heater you should purchase. Consult our online XPERT™ Product Selector.

Can I install a gas tank water heater by myself?

While you may be able to install a gas tank water heater by yourself, A. O. Smith strongly recommends that you consult a professional before doing so. Factors such as the proper venting required, managing your home’s fuel line, and removing your old water heater are all reasons to have a local plumber or contractor assist in the installation of your water heater.