Indirect Water Heaters Explained: Pros and Cons for Informed Choices

If you're exploring water heating options, you've likely come across the term "indirect water heaters."

These systems offer an efficient way to provide hot water for your home or business.

In this guide, we'll break down what you can expect from indirect water heaters and why they deserve your consideration.

Whether you're interested in saving energy, having a reliable hot water supply, or simply exploring more efficient heating solutions, understanding the basics of these heating systems, including their advantages and disadvantages can help you make an informed choice for your specific needs.

Brief overview of indirect water heaters

Indirect water heaters are a type of water heating system that provides hot water using an indirect method. It is the system where water is heating water.

Unlike direct models that use a heating element or a burner to directly heat the water, indirect water heaters use a heat exchanger to transfer heat from an external source, such as a boiler or a solar collector, to the domestic water supply.

This method of heating water has gained popularity for its energy efficiency and other advantages.

How indirect water heating works

Indirect water heaters operate on a closed-loop system, an efficient method that involves using the home's central heating system, such as a furnace or boiler, to heat water.

This system is versatile, able to accommodate various types of fuel including natural gas, oil, electricity, or even renewable energy sources like solar energy.

The key component of this system is the heat exchanger, typically a coil of pipes, which is immersed in a water storage tank. The furnace or boiler heats a thermal fluid - usually water or an antifreeze solution - which is then circulated through this heat exchanger.

As the hot fluid passes through the heat exchanger, the heat is transferred to the water in the storage tank, thereby warming it up efficiently without direct contact between the heating system and the potable water.

One of the significant advantages of indirect water heaters is their dual functionality.

They can be integrated with the home's space heating system, allowing them to provide not just hot water for domestic use, but also to contribute to heating the house. This integration makes them an ideal choice for homes in cooler climates where a central heating system is already in place and used extensively.

The thermal fluid used in the heat exchanger can be specifically chosen based on the climate and the type of central heating system.

For instance, in regions prone to freezing temperatures, an antifreeze solution might be used to prevent any damage to the system. This closed-loop system, with its versatility in fuel use and capability for both water and house heating, makes indirect water heaters a highly efficient and adaptable option for residential heating needs.

Advantages of indirect water heaters

Indirect water heaters offer several advantages compared to traditional tank-style or tankless water heaters.

These advantages include:

• Energy efficiency: Indirect water heaters are highly energy-efficient because they use an existing boiler or furnace to heat the water. This indirect method of heating water can be more efficient than standalone models because the boiler or furnace is already heating the space or providing hot water for other purposes.
• Faster recovery time: Indirect water heaters typically have a large storage tank, which means they can provide a high volume of hot water quickly. This is particularly beneficial for homes with high hot water demand or during peak usage times.
• Consistent hot water supply: Since they rely on the boiler or furnace for heating, they can provide a continuous supply of hot water as long as the heating system is operational. There is no risk of running out of hot water during extended usage.
• Lower operating costs: Due to their energy efficiency, indirect models can result in lower utility bills compared to traditional tank-style water heaters. They also tend to have a longer lifespan, which can save you money on replacement costs over time.
• Compatibility with renewable energy sources: They can be easily integrated with renewable energy sources, such as solar panels or geothermal systems. This allows you to use green energy to heat your water, reducing your environmental impact.
• Reduced maintenance: Indirect heaters have fewer components and are less prone to problems like sediment buildup or scale formation, which are common issues in tank-type models. This leads to lower maintenance requirements and longer equipment life.
• Space savings: These models typically take up less space than traditional tank-style water heaters with large storage tanks. This can be advantageous for homes with limited space.
• Lower standby heat loss: Indirect water heaters have better insulation than some tank-type models, which reduces standby heat loss. This means less heat is lost when the hot water is not in use, further improving energy efficiency.
• Quiet operation: Such heaters are generally quieter than tankless, which can be particularly noticeable in homes with sensitive occupants or close living quarters.

Disadvantages of indirect water heaters

Indirect water heaters, despite their numerous advantages, come with their own set of drawbacks that warrant careful consideration.

Initial cost: Indirect water heaters tend to have a higher upfront cost compared to traditional models. You not only need to purchase the unit itself but also have a compatible boiler or furnace in place, which can be a significant investment.

Space requirements: The installation of an indirect model may require additional space for the large storage tank and the associated boiler or furnace. In some cases, this can be a drawback if you have limited space in your home.

Dependency on the heating system: They rely on the heating system (boiler or furnace) to provide hot water. If the heating system experiences issues or requires maintenance, it can affect your hot water supply as well.

Energy source compatibility: Indirect models are most efficient when connected to a high-efficiency boiler or furnace. If your heating system is older or less efficient, it may not provide as much energy savings as expected.

Heat loss in standby mode: While indirect heaters have better insulation than some tank-type models, they can still experience some standby heat loss. This means that energy is used to keep the water in the tank warm when it's not in use.

Limited hot water recovery rate: Indirect water heaters can have a slower hot water recovery rate compared to tankless, which provide hot water on-demand. If you have very high hot water demands at specific times, an indirect water heater might not be the best choice.

Complexity of installation: Installing an indirect models can be more complex and may require professional expertise, especially if you need to retrofit it into an existing heating system.

Maintenance requirements: While they generally require less maintenance, they can still require periodic maintenance, including flushing the tank and checking the heating system's performance.

Potential incompatibility with some heating systems: Not all heating systems are compatible with indirect water heaters, so it's essential to assess whether your existing system can accommodate this type of water heater.

Potential for system failure: If your heating system fails, it can lead to a lack of hot water in your home until the issue is resolved, which may not be the case with standalone tank-type heaters.

Are indirect water heaters worth it?

Generally speaking, the worthiness of indirect water heaters depends on the homeowner's priorities and existing home infrastructure. They stand out for their energy efficiency and potential long-term cost savings.

If a household has a compatible and efficient boiler or furnace system, an indirect water heater can leverage this existing setup, leading to significant energy savings.

Additionally, they tend to have a longer lifespan and lower maintenance requirements, factors that can offset the higher initial investment over time. This makes them a cost-effective option in the long run for those who value efficiency and durability.

However, the initial cost and installation complexity can be deterrents, especially in homes without a suitable heating system. In such cases, the expense and effort of adapting or installing a compatible heating system might outweigh the benefits.

In summary, indirect water heaters are a worthwhile investment for homeowners who prioritize energy efficiency, have a compatible heating system, and are willing to make an initial higher investment for long-term benefits. Their efficiency and lower ongoing costs make them a practical choice for many, though not universally the best option for all situations.

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