Talks to Watch

A simple water heater is more clever than it seems

2.6M views · Feb 10, 2023 · 22:52 · 1 HN recommender · 3 mentions · discussed 2023–2025

Technology Connections explains how an ordinary tank water heater works, including twin-element designs, and why it is cleverer than it looks.

Why Hacker News points people here: Pointed to as a good, detailed explanation of how water heaters work and how to save power with them.

“Technology Connections did a good video about them recently.”HN comment, 2023

What Hacker News said 3

RecommendspimlottcSep 2023

“Technology Connections did a good video about them recently.”

How tank water heaters cleverly work.

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The efficiency of hot water heaters is actually surprisingly good. A modern insulated tank retains heat very well. And it's more flexible for heating options since the water can be heated slowly over time. You can now get heat pump water heaters that are more efficient than tankless heaters. [0] Water heaters are actually pretty clever, in a low-tech sort of way. Technology Connections did a good video about them recently. [1] 0: link 1: this video

in “Everyday Uses for PVC Water Pipe” · view on HN
Cites ithinkleyJan 2024

“How twin heating element water heaters work”

Explains how twin element water heaters work.

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The water heater is always refilling. Otherwise you’d have no hot water pressure. It’s just that the new water goes to the opposite end of the tank from where the output is attached. How twin heating element water heaters work: this video

in “Harnessing heat from wastewater” · view on HN
Cites ititopaloglu83Nov 2025

“Technology Connections have a video about how water heaters work in detail”

Details of water heaters and saving power by switching off.

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Technology Connections have a video about how water heaters work in detail and how much power can be saved by strategically turning them off when not needed. this video However, the website has some weird vibes as well, like why would you say something like below? > And some just want Dad Mode for when your teenager needs to finish that shower.

in “Reservoir: Smart electric water heater” · view on HN