## What is a Direct Vent Water Heater?
A direct vent water heater is a type of water heater that uses outside air for combustion and exhaust. This type of water heater is typically more efficient than a standard water heater, which uses indoor air for combustion and exhaust. Direct vent water heaters are also safer than standard water heaters, as they do not produce carbon monoxide.
### How Does a Direct Vent Water Heater Work?
A direct vent water heater has two pipes: an intake pipe and an exhaust pipe. The intake pipe brings outside air into the water heater, and the exhaust pipe carries the combustion gases out of the water heater. The water heater’s burner is located inside the combustion chamber, and the heat from the burner is transferred to the water in the tank.
### Benefits of a Direct Vent Water Heater
There are several benefits to using a direct vent water heater, including:
Increased efficiency: Direct vent water heaters are more efficient than standard water heaters because they do not use indoor air for combustion. This means that they can save you money on your energy bills.
Improved safety: Direct vent water heaters are safer than standard water heaters because they do not produce carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide is a poisonous gas that can be fatal if inhaled.
Longer lifespan: Direct vent water heaters have a longer lifespan than standard water heaters because they are not exposed to the corrosive effects of indoor air.
### Types of Direct Vent Water Heaters
There are two types of direct vent water heaters:
Natural draft: Natural draft water heaters use the natural flow of air to move the combustion gases out of the water heater.
Power vented: Power vented water heaters use a fan to move the combustion gases out of the water heater.
Power vented water heaters are more efficient than natural draft water heaters, but they also cost more.
### Which Type of Direct Vent Water Heater is Right for You?
The type of direct vent water heater that is right for you will depend on your specific needs and budget. If you are looking for a water heater that is efficient and safe, then a direct vent water heater is a good option.
Here are some factors to consider when choosing a direct vent water heater:
The size of your home: The size of your home will determine the size of water heater that you need.
The number of people in your household: The number of people in your household will affect the amount of hot water that you need.
Your budget: Direct vent water heaters can range in price from $500 to $2,000.
### Installation of a Direct Vent Water Heater
Direct vent water heaters should be installed by a qualified professional. The installation process typically takes a few hours.
### Maintenance of a Direct Vent Water Heater
Direct vent water heaters require minimal maintenance. You should have the water heater inspected and cleaned once a year by a qualified professional.
### Troubleshooting a Direct Vent Water Heater
If you are having problems with your direct vent water heater, there are a few things that you can check:
The pilot light: The pilot light should be lit. If the pilot light is not lit, you can try to relight it.
The gas supply: The gas supply should be turned on. If the gas supply is turned off, you can turn it on.
The thermostat: The thermostat should be set to the desired temperature. If the thermostat is not set to the desired temperature, you can adjust it.
If you cannot resolve the problem yourself, you should call a qualified professional.
### Conclusion
Direct vent water heaters are an efficient and safe way to heat your water. If you are looking for a new water heater, then a direct vent water heater is a good option to consider.