A simple water heater is more clever than it seems
Technology Connections1 HN recommenders · 2023–2025
2.6M views · explainer · evergreen · Uploaded 2023-02-10
Technology Connections explains how an ordinary tank water heater works, including twin-element designs, and why it is cleverer than it looks.
Pointed to as a good, detailed explanation of how water heaters work and how to save power with them.
9:31Around The Corner - How Differential Steering Works (1937)
US Auto Industry
35:15Heat Pumps: the Future of Home Heating
Technology Connections
32:35Detergent packs are kinda wishy-washy (Dishwashers Explained)
Technology Connections
49:22James Burke Connections, Ep. 1 "The Trigger Effect"
DRS_Education
41:53Mechanical Computer (All Parts) - Basic Mechanisms In Fire Control Computers
Excelsior10000
18:28The Antique Toaster that's Better than Yours
Technology Connections
19:43U.S. NAVY BASIC MECHANISMS OF FIRE CONTROL COMPUTERS MECHANICAL COMPUTER INSTRUCTIONAL FILM 27794
PeriscopeFilm
11:39The Ingenious Design of the Aluminum Beverage Can
engineerguy
3 comments from Hacker News
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]
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]
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.