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A simple water heater is more clever than it seems

Technology Connections · 2.6M views · 2023-02-10 · 22:52

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Overview

Technology Connections explains how an ordinary tank water heater works, including twin-element designs, and why it is cleverer than it looks.

On Hacker News

Pointed to as a good, detailed explanation of how water heaters work and how to save power with them.

Recommended by 1 HN people across 1 months · HN mentions 2023–2025

Topics

Power grid, heating & buildingsMechanical & precision engineeringHome, DIY & practical skills
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water heaterthermostatshome appliancesenergy savingtechnology connections

What people said

pimlottc · 2023-09 · Recommendation

The efficiency of hot water heaters is actually surprisingly good. A modern insulated tank retains heat very well. And it's more flexible for heating options since the water can be heated slowly over time. You can now get heat pump water heaters that are more efficient than tankless heaters. [0] Water heaters are actually pretty clever, in a low-tech sort of way. Technology Connections did a good video about them recently. [1] 0: [LINK] 1: [VIDEO]

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itopaloglu83 · 2025-11 · Reference

Technology Connections have a video about how water heaters work in detail and how much power can be saved by strategically turning them off when not needed. [VIDEO] However, the website has some weird vibes as well, like why would you say something like below? > And some just want Dad Mode for when your teenager needs to finish that shower.

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hinkley · 2024-01 · Reference

The water heater is always refilling. Otherwise you’d have no hot water pressure. It’s just that the new water goes to the opposite end of the tank from where the output is attached. How twin heating element water heaters work: [VIDEO]

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Sources

Video by Technology Connections, played through YouTube.

Data and selection notes

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