Immersion Heater (information)
Note: Legionella is a pathogenic group of bacteria that causes illness including flu like symptons to dizziness and vomiting and in some cases is fatal.Whilst it is a sound, tried and tested form of water heating, the immersion heater does have a down side in that it can harbor the legionella bacteria, which is a great threat to human health and safety. Below is a short explanation regarding this bacteria, as many people are unaware of its existence. A Blackheath Plumber is highly aware of the dangers of legionella.Legionella is still fairly rare, however, it is possible for it to exist in water at a temperature below 60 Centigrade, however it will not live for too long at this temperature and will die if the temperature rises. It is able to survive between 20C and 40C and will usually spreads in a vapour or mist form. Provided the water temperature is regulated there should not be an issue with the legionella bacteria. Immersion:This heater that provide all you and your hot water requirements is best known as an immersion heater. The immersion part refers to the electrical heating element that is fitted in the water cylinder and creates the heat. It is just like an electric kettle, but on a much larger scale. Blackheath Plumbers can fit immersion heaters. The electric element heats the water in the cylinder and is controlled via a thermostat so if the temperature of the water in the tank falls below 60C to protects from scalding (the temperature is maintained at this level). It takes its feed from a cold water supply which runs in at the bottom. The immersion heater or heaters (there can be two fitted), begin to heat the water. When hot, the water is drawn from the top of the tank. If the immersion heater is fitted in a cylinder that is unvented it needs a high limit cut out thermostat to be fitted (to cut out at 90degrees C) so it will not boil the water.