The Immersion Heater
An Immersion heater is pretty much the equivalent to a large kettle. It comprises of a large cylinder containing a heating element (large of course, the element being the immersion heater). Earls Court Plumbing are experts on immersion heaters. With the cylinder full of water the power is switched on and the water heats. The temperature is controlled by a thermostat fitted to the cylinder and when the desired temperature is achieved the heat is cut. The water contained within should be kept at a temperature of no more than 60 degrees C. This is to protect the user from being scalded. In hard water areas a limescale deposit will form if the water is hotter than above. Equally if the water is stored below this temperature there is a possibility of the growth of the Legionella bacteria may occur so a fine balance must be maintained. Where the immersion heater (element) is fitted within an unvented cylinder it will also require a high limit cut out thermostat to be fitted (set to cut out at 90 degrees C). All new and replacement immersion heaters will include, as standard, this type of independent non self re-setting over temperature safety cut out device to prevent boiling of the water in the cylinder. An Earls Court Plumber can fit these devices.Note on Legionella:Legionella is quite a rarity in the domestic home environment. The bacteria dies at 60 degrees C and above and doesnt survive long at this temperature. The bacteria can however survive in the range of 20-45 degrees C. Legionella is spread via vapour or mist and is dangerous to humans. This means that areas around boosted shower outlet sprays could be vulnerable if the water temperature is maintained lower. The best solution is to store the water at 60 degrees C and use a mixer valve on the shower to regulate the heat of the water.