Do-it-yourself setup and repair of gas water heaters: a guide for owners of water heaters

Benefits of gas water heaters Vector

Gas instantaneous water heaters from the manufacturer in question have a number of visible advantages, thanks to which they have become widely used by Russian consumers. And first of all, it is an affordable price. Not every person is ready to pay more than 10 thousand rubles for such equipment, and it is not always possible to do without it, living in a private house. In the model range of gas water heaters Vektor there are devices no more than 4000 rubles, at the same time they are able to solve all universal tasks.

Stylish look helps keep the room design trendy

Since the column is available in a universal color range, it will not focus on itself, and in some cases it can even become a decorating element. In addition, the manufacturer Vector takes care of saving space in the room, so the gas water heater is not large. In the event that the device fails for some reason, then in any market you can find Chinese-made spare parts that do not require large financial costs, and will also extend the life of the column

In the event that the device fails for some reason, then in any market you can find Chinese-made spare parts that do not require large financial costs, and will also extend the life of the speaker.

The column has a convenient control system. Modern models have two knobs for adjusting the gas supply to the burner and the amount of water flowing through the heat exchanger. Some devices have another switch - between winter/summer modes. On the first program, the burner works on all sections, with the “Summer” program, some of the sections are turned off. On the case (if there is an electronic display), you can see the set temperature of the water.

Disadvantages of gas water heaters Vector

Most users are sure that for little money they get a super unit that is equipped with all the technical characteristics and functions. However, this is absolutely not the case. It should be understood that due to the use of the most economical version of Chinese spare parts, such a column will not be able to serve for many years, such as, for example, similar models in a more expensive price segment.In some cases, after some time, alternative options for replacing components may be needed.

In addition, although the walls of the heat exchanger are made of copper, they have a very thin layer of it, so over time they can burn out, unable to withstand high temperatures. As mentioned above, the column turns off only after the water reaches a temperature of 80 degrees. Therefore, the walls become thinner over time, as a result of which the apparatus becomes unusable.

In fact, there are exactly as many opinions as there are users. Some owners consider this speaker to be the best purchase, while others consider the models of this manufacturer not the most successful. In any case, until a person tries to use it on his own, he will not be able to give an objective assessment.

How does a geyser work

Such devices are intended to provide domestic and industrial facilities with hot water. The essence of their work is quite simple: cold water from the pipeline enters the column heat exchanger, where it is heated by burners (they are located under the heat exchanger). As you know, the fire needs oxygen, so that the burners do not die out, the column is connected to the ventilation system of the house / apartment. The exhaust gas is eliminated by a special chimney, which is combined exclusively with a gas column.

All described types of columns function somewhat differently.

So, if the device is turned on manually, that is, the gas has to be ignited with matches, the burner will ignite when you turn the fuel supply valve. Although it is worth noting that such designs have long been outdated.Modern designs are equipped with either electronic ignition or a piezoelectric element.

New models are activated with one touch of a button located on the front panel of the device. The piezo ignition creates a spark that ignites the igniter. In the future, everything happens automatically - the tap opens, the column lights up, hot water begins to flow.

If the geyser is ignited electronically, then it is perhaps the most reliable and durable device. The system is switched on by means of a pair of batteries, supplying the charge necessary for the formation of a spark. No buttons, no matches, the only thing you need to do to turn it on is turn on the faucet. In most cases, batteries last a very long time, since the energy to charge is minimal.

Why did the column stop regulating the temperature

A common problem with cheap water heaters that have worked in hard water conditions for some time. After 5-6 years of normal operation, a breakdown occurs: the inability to change the water temperature in the column. The reason is the failure of one of the regulators: flow or gas. The automation of Chinese speakers is “treated” by replacing the boiler.

In gas instantaneous water heaters with precise water temperature control, the cause of the malfunction lies in the fact that the outlet sensor burned out. The problem is solved by replacing it. The sensor is relatively inexpensive, with the help of a specialist it is quickly dismantled and a new one is installed.

In columns with a temperature controller and electronic control, the inability to set the comfort mode may be due to software failures.In order for not very hot water to flow, a software flashing will be required.

How to light a gas water heater bosch Therm 4000 O WR 101315 -2 P.

The difference between these models lies in the amount of heated water per minute. A device equipped with piezo ignition is indicated by the letter P at the end of the name. It has the ability to adjust two parameters, water and combustion power. To turn on the column, you need to move the slider to the ignition position, drown it.

Press the piezo ignition button several times until a flame appears on the pilot burner. Wait ten seconds, release the slider and move it to the desired power position. Moving the slider to the right increases power, and to the left decreases it. The column is in standby mode all the time, if you need to get hot water, you just need to open the hot water valve.

When you need to turn off, move the slider to the left until it stops. After a couple of seconds, the pilot flame will go out. Close the gas valve and water valves.

Watch the video below for instructions on how to turn it on:

What will be needed for manufacturing?

Tools required for work:

• Bulgarian;
• drill;
• inverter for welding;
• a soldering iron with a power of at least 300 watts;
• roulette;
• compass;
• core;
• scissors for cutting metal or secateurs;
• rivet tool.

The following materials should be prepared:

• a copper tube made of copper, the diameter of which is 4-8 mm;
• you will definitely need sheet steel (3 mm);
• a round mandrel made of metal or wood with a diameter of 10-12 cm;
• sheet iron 5 mm thick;
• paint against corrosion;
• two 90 degree elbows from a half-inch pipe;
• four pieces of pipe half an inch 10-15 cm long, with a standard type of thread;
• two half-inch threaded brass couplings;
• a half-inch stainless steel pipe with a diameter of more than 20 cm (a part of a gas cylinder is also used);
• solder for medium temperature copper and brass and the corresponding flux;
• PTFE sealing material.

For warming should be prepared:

• mineral wool;
• corner made of steel with a shelf measuring 50 mm;
• iron in sheets 1 mm thick;
• rivets.

Design and types of water block

The material for the manufacture of a water reducer is different, therefore it is divided into several types:

• Brass. An alloy of copper and zinc.
• Plastic. The practical device is not subject to corrosion.
• Polyamide. Reliable device with fiberglass in the composition.

The column regulator or “frog”, as the block is also called, has protective functions. It serves to automatically turn on the device when water is supplied. It also protects against overheating when the pressure in the line decreases.

How the gearbox works:

• Base and cover with bolts.
• Rubber diaphragm with disc on stem.
• Flow device.
• Temperature switch.
• Flow sensor.
• Venturi tube.
• Filtration device for hot water.

See diagram:

When you turn on the water pressure is applied to the membrane. It pushes out the stem, which actuates the gas valve. Fuel is supplied to the burner and heating starts. When the mixer closes, the pressure drops - the parts return to their previous position.

An important part of the gas-water unit is the Venturi nozzle. What is it for? For example, in the technique of the Neva company, the tube is located at the bottom

The location in the columns "Oasis", "Astra" may differ. The part serves to reduce the pressure of the working medium. This is how the gas supply is regulated.

The water part is also prone to breakdowns, so we will list the main malfunctions and ways to repair it yourself.

Do-it-yourself Termex boiler repair

Before proceeding with the repair, first collect the necessary tools: a set of keys, an adjustable wrench, electrical tape, various screwdrivers, pliers. After that, turn off the water by shutting off the inlet and outlet taps to the water heater. Then drain the water from the boiler tank, disconnect it from the mains.

The next step is to remove the protective cover. If you have a vertically located boiler, then the cover is located below, and in the case of a horizontally located boiler, it is on the left or in front.

When dismantling the cover, pay attention to the stickers. Often the screws for its fastening are located under these stickers.

If you've removed all the screws and the cover still won't come off easily, check the stickers again.

Replacing the heating element

First, perform all of the above steps, remove the tank cap.

To make it more convenient to work, you can even remove the tank from the wall.

It is worth noting that most Termex models have not one, but two heating elements. Therefore, it is imperative to remember how and in what sequence the parts must be connected. And it is better to photograph the whole process.

To remove the heating elements from the Termex water heater, remove the top cover by unscrewing the bolt; disconnect all plugs and unscrew the heating element mounting bolts.

The heating element itself is turned off as follows:

• after removing the cover, find the protective thermostat, remove the tips from it;
• also remove the tips (3 pieces) from the heating element;
• cut the plastic clamp;
• unscrew the screws, while removing the sensor;
• now disconnect the cable and unscrew the four screws;
• then it is necessary to dismantle the nut on the clamping bar and pull out the heating element.

After dismantling the heating element, it is imperative to clean the surface of the tank from dirt and scale. Only after that you can install a new heating element and collect everything back.

Do not forget that the heating element does not always need to be changed. If the water in the tank is still heated, but it happens slowly, then, most likely, scale has formed on the heating element. Then dismantle it and descale it. Then install. The problem should be gone. Also, do not forget that it is desirable to clean the heater with chemicals, and not scrape off the dirt. In the latter case, there is a possibility of damage to the part.

To clean the heating element, you can use a solution of citric acid or vinegar (its percentage in the solution should be about 5%). The part must be immersed in liquid and wait until the scale falls off. Then you need to rinse the heating element.

Faulty thermostat

The thermostat in Termex water heaters is located under the cover, next to one of the heating elements, and its sensor is located inside the tank.

Sometimes the thermostat fails. This element cannot be repaired and must be replaced. To replace, you need to make all the preparatory steps, remove the cover, then remove the thermostat. But before dismantling, we recommend checking this part. To do this, use a lighter to heat the tip of the sensor (copper). If the thermostat is working, then you will hear a characteristic click, which means that the protection mechanism has worked and the circuit has opened. Otherwise, you will have to replace the part.

tank leak

No matter how trite it may sound, but first you need to find where the water flows from. A lot depends on this, because if the tank is rotten, you will have to buy a new water heater. So:

• if water oozes from the side seam, then the container is rusted, and repairs cannot be made;
• if water comes out from under the cover at the bottom, then you need to disassemble the tank.

If traces of leakage are located in the places where the heating elements are attached, then your water heater is not hopeless and can be saved by replacing the gasket.

In the case of the second option, complete all the preparatory steps, then remove the plastic cover. Next, take a close look at where the water is leaking. If it comes out near the flange, then the rubber gasket has deteriorated (less often this is a problem with the heating element). Otherwise, the tank has rusted, the boiler can be thrown away. To replace the gaskets, you need to remove the heating element. But at the same time, it is necessary to carefully consider the heating element itself. If it cracked, then it is also better to replace it.

Other malfunctions

If you checked and replaced all the parts, but the boiler still does not work, then it is quite possible that the electronics have failed. The control board cannot be repaired, and it will be extremely difficult to find a similar one in a store. Therefore, in this case, we recommend contacting specialists.

Wrong installation

The reason that the water heater turns off after start-up may be incorrect installation. The diagram below shows how to install the unit.

The following pictures show common mistakes when installing a water heater.

Such installation methods violate normal draft, as a result of which the operation of the water heater becomes incorrect, and in some cases impossible.

If the equipment is used, it means that it breaks down over time and needs to be repaired. Repair of gas instantaneous water heaters, and simply gas water heaters, you can do yourself, or you can invite a qualified specialist. But often the causes of breakdowns are very commonplace, and therefore it is not difficult to eliminate them.

How does a water heater work?

The task of water heaters of this type is to respond by turning on the burner to open a hot water tap anywhere in the house and ensure that it is heated to the desired temperature. To describe in detail the principle of operation of a gas column, we list the sequence of processes occurring in atmospheric models:

1. At the first stage, the user ignites the igniter located in the viewing window and directed towards the main burner.
2. After opening the tap in the DHW system, a flow of water appears, and the pressure increases. The device of the water unit (colloquially - frogs) provides that in this case the membrane is activated and moves the stem connected to the gas valve.
3. From the impact of the membrane of the water unit, the valve opens the fuel supply to the main burner, which is immediately ignited from the igniter or directly from the spark electrode. The power of the flame can be adjusted manually by the user using a tap located on the front panel.
4. The water entering the gas column heat exchanger begins to heat up even in a coil made around the copper casing. This principle of operation avoids the formation of condensate on the pipes due to the temperature difference between cold water and the burner flame.
5. The heated water is supplied to consumers.After the valve is closed, the “frog” membrane pulls the stem, the valve shuts off the gas supply and the burner device fades, and the heating stops.

If, for various reasons, the burner flame breaks off and it goes out, the thermocouple will work and the valve will stop the gas supply. The same will happen when the draft in the chimney disappears at the signal of the corresponding sensor. More information about the operation of the unit is described in the video:

This principle of operation is inherited from instantaneous water heaters of the old design. In more modern models, there is no wick that never fades, which is why the heat exchanger casing on the front side is destroyed over time. For example, the Neva gas column scheme, originally from St. Petersburg, provides for electric ignition from batteries at the moment a water flow appears.

Scheme of operation of a water heater not equipped with a wick

The operation of forced draft water heaters is based on the automatic maintenance of the water temperature set by the user. Ignition is carried out from the mains or from a hydro generator built into the water supply system and generating electricity when a flow occurs. Further heating is controlled by the controller, guided by the readings of the temperature sensor. It changes the fan performance and combustion intensity depending on the outlet water temperature.

Kinds

To date, the market for gas appliances presents a wide selection of different models of gas burners. If we take, in general, then all gas heaters work on the same principle and differ from each other in the following characteristics.

Power.

The greater the power of the heater, the more water it can heat in a short period of time.

Among the massively common types of power, the following three can be noted:

1. Heater with a power of 28 kW.
2. Heater with a power of 26 kW.
3. Heater with a power of 17 kW.

The latter type has a low cost, but at the same time it cannot provide hot water to the bathroom and kitchen at the same time. As a rule, most users choose the second type, as it has an optimal price-performance ratio.

The safety of the device.

It is one of the main criteria when choosing a heater. Despite advanced technologies, there are still cases when water or gas is turned off and, in order to prevent leakage of fuel or combustion products, the columns are equipped with the following sensors.

1. Gas shutdown sensor, in case the flame goes out.
2. Flame sensor. It is redundant and also turns off the gas supply if the flame goes out and the first sensor does not work.
3. Water pressure relief valve. Prevents the column water pipes from bursting in case of high pressure in the system.
4. Sensor for opening and closing a water tap. Performs the function of turning the heater on and off when the tap is opened.
5. Traction sensor. Prevents the column from turning on in the absence of traction, while avoiding carbon monoxide poisoning.
6. Water pressure sensor. Prevents turning on the heater in case of low pressure in the water supply.
7. Thermostat. Provides shutdown of water heating when the temperature has reached the desired level.

This is the main list of protective sensors that a modern geyser should be equipped with.In the absence of one of them, such a device is highly discouraged from a safety point of view.

Kind of arson.

Arson can be carried out in one of two ways.

1. Piezo refers to the mechanical form, that is, you have to set it on fire manually.
2. The auto igniter is battery operated and is automatic. The principle of operation is the same as in piezo arson, only without human intervention. Also, automatic ignition includes hydroturbine ignition, powered by an electric generator.

Additional features.

These features include the presence of an LCD display that displays various information, additional settings, etc.