Your boiler heats water by pumping circulated water over the flame so it heats up.
The Water Heating Process
At its core, your gas boiler heats water using a simple and efficient process. Whether it's for your central heating radiators or for hot water from your taps, the fundamental method is the same.
When there is a demand for heat (either because your thermostat calls for heating or you turn on a hot water tap), the boiler receives a signal.
Here’s a breakdown of the key steps:
- Ignition: The boiler ignites the gas supply, creating a powerful flame in a combustion chamber.
- Heat Generation: This flame produces intense heat.
- Water Circulation: Water from your heating system (or the fresh water supply for hot taps in some systems) is circulated by a pump.
- Heat Exchange: The circulating water flows through a component called a heat exchanger. This heat exchanger is positioned strategically over the flame or within the path of the hot gases produced by the flame.
- Water Heats Up: As the water passes through the heat exchanger, it absorbs the heat from the flame or hot gases.
This continuous cycle of pumping circulated water over the flame so it heats up allows the boiler to quickly raise the temperature of the water to the desired level for your home's needs.
Key Actions Inside the Boiler
For clarity, think of these essential actions happening inside your boiler:
- A flame is generated.
- Water is pumped around a closed system (or through a specific pathway for hot water).
- This circulated water flows directly over the flame (via the heat exchanger).
- The water absorbs heat and gets hot.
This heated water is then sent out to your radiators or stored/delivered for hot water use, depending on the type of boiler and the demand.
