A boiler and a water tank serve different purposes in a home's plumbing system, with the primary distinction being their function: a boiler heats water for space heating, while a water heater (sometimes stored in a water tank) provides hot water for domestic use.
Key Differences Summarized
| Feature | Boiler | Water Heater (stored in a tank) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Function | Provides hot water for space heating through radiators. | Provides hot water for domestic use (cleaning, personal use, appliances). |
| Water Type | Uses non-potable water. | Uses potable water safe for consumption. |
| Delivery | Circulates hot water to radiators or other heat emitters. | Delivers hot water to faucets, showers, and other appliances. |
In-Depth Explanation
Boilers: Heating Your Home
- Purpose: Boilers are primarily used to heat the home itself, not for water you would drink or use for washing.
- System: They heat water and circulate it through a network of pipes to radiators or under-floor heating systems to warm the living spaces.
- Water Type: The water used in a boiler system is typically not treated for drinking and is considered non-potable.
- Example: Hot water circulating through radiators to warm a room is a prime example of a boiler in action.
Water Heaters (Often Stored in Tanks): Hot Water for Daily Use
- Purpose: Water heaters are designed to heat potable water (water that is safe to drink) for various domestic needs.
- System: They heat and store the hot water until needed and deliver it to faucets, showers, dishwashers, and washing machines.
- Water Type: The water heated by a water heater is treated for drinking and washing and is considered potable.
- Example: The hot water you use for showering, washing dishes, and laundry comes from a water heater.
Key Takeaways
- A boiler focuses on space heating with non-potable water, while a water heater provides domestic hot water using potable water.
- According to the reference, "A boiler provides non-potable hot water throughout the house to radiators for space heating. A water heater provides domestic hot water for cleaning, personal use, and appliances." This further clarifies their distinct roles.
- Understanding these differences is crucial when maintaining or installing a home plumbing system.
