- Hot water control refers to the operation of a boiler. There is a wide range of mechanisms that are a part of a boiler system. Whether it is a hot water boiler or a steam boiler, there are many components that determine the type of hot water controls. Usually, there are mechanical and/or electronic controls to regulate the fuel and water level in a boiler. The water level is of the most importance to the operation of a boiler. Both hot water and steam boilers must have enough water to avoid overheating. Some water escapes through evaporation since boilers are open systems, but undue amounts of water can escape if there are leaking seams and dirty valves.
- The type of hot water control used to prevent overheating is called a low water shut-off. There are two types of low water shut-offs—a probe and a float. A probe is an electronic shut-off. A wand—the probe—sits directly below the water line. The electrical circuit controlling the burner is completed using the water as a path to grounding. If the water falls below the probe, the electrical circuit is broken and the boiler turns off. The float type of low water shut-off, sits inside the boiler. It floats at the water line and has a link connecting it to the burner switch. If the water line falls too low, the switch is tripped and the burner closes down. It is an electro-mechanical system and similar to the float system in a toilet cistern, which stops the inflow of water when it has reached the appropriate level.
- An additional hot water control can be attached to the low water shut-off called a feeder component. A feeder adds extra water needed to maintain the correct water level, while the shut-off mechanism prohibits any overheating taking place. When enough water returns into the boiler chamber, the sensor recognizes that the water level is at a normal level and turns the burners back on. Burners normally use a gas fuel for power. Occasionally, electricity is used when no other fuel is available, but can be expensive as can be hot water system repairs. Modulating controls, or air/fuel loss-limiting controls, control the amount of air allowed to the combustion of fuel, thus maximising fuel efficiency.
- Solar hot water is now becoming more and more popular due to the fact that prices have dropped immensely during the past 15 odd years. This trend is on the rise big time and the future looks certain to be fully solar powered regarding hot water systems, and everything else electrical. Destiny has ruled that solar is the way to go for Australia and the world in general.
The demand on a boiler changes throughout the seasons of the year and fuel consumption is adjusted accordingly. With solar as the source of your heating, all of your worries about costs will disappear after a couple of years, making it the most cost efficient and earth friendly form of energy there is. Get some.
