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how Gas water heaters work

These types of water heaters use natural gas or liquid propane to heat the water inside the tank.
VENTING
Standard atmospheric vent models allow the hot exhaust to escape vertically through a flue tube at the top of the water heater. On some high efficiency and high performance models, a motorized fan - or power vent - will push the flue gasses through the vent system outside the home. The combustion process creates by-product gases such as carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxide. These gases are harmful to breathe, and need to be properly vented outside of the home. We offer a broad range of products to accommodate many different venting applications. Atmospheric vent models must terminate vertically through the roof. Standard direct vent models must terminate horizontally through a sidewall. Power Vent and Power Direct Vent are suitable for vertical or horizontal venting and termination. See manual for more information.
T&P RELIEF VALVE
The temperature and pressure relief valve is a safety feature that allows the tank to relieve excess pressure if a condition occurs that requires pressure relief from inside the tank.
FOAM INSULATION
The tank is surrounded by a thick layer of environmentally-friendly non-CFC polyurethane foam to trap heat inside the tank, saving energy.
ANODE ROD
The top-mounted anode rod fights the corrosive effects of hot water to extend the life of the tank.  Anode rods are sacrificial parts that should be checked for depletion as part of routine water heater maintenance.
SELF-CLEANING DIP TUBE
Our gas water heaters include a self-cleaning dip tube that injects the incoming cold water at the bottom of the tank to help minimize sediment in the tank, prolonging long tank life and enhancing efficiency.
GLASS LINING
We coat the interior of the tank with porcelain enamel glass to protect the tank from corrosion, chemical resistance (acid or alkaline) and thermal shock.
GAS VALVE
The electronic gas control uses a thermopile as a safety to control the gas flow to the burner. The thermopile converts heat from the pilot flameinto an electrical current that holds an internal valve open inside the gas control allowing gas to flow to the pilot light. Once the control calls for heat, the main valve will open, allowing gas to flow to the burner during the heating process. A knob on the front of the gas control allows the user to adjust the temperature to the desired setting.
BURNER
The burner is centered under the bottom head and flue. Gas is ignited at the burner by the pilot light. The resulting combustion transfers heat to the water through the flue and bottom head of the tank. Gas water heaters burn either natural gas or propane (also known as L.P., for Liquid Propane) fuel.
CERTIFICATION
Meets UL 174 code requirements, as well as efficiency standards found in the latest edition of the National Appliance Energy Conservation Act and U.S. Department of Energy.