Power Source for Water Heater Element?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the feasibility of using a series of AA batteries as a power source for a water heater element, specifically whether 12 volts from 8 AA batteries can effectively power the heating element.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant proposes using 8 AA batteries in series to achieve 12 volts for powering a water heater element.
  • Several participants question the practicality of a water heater running on 12 volts, suggesting that typical water heater elements require higher voltage (110V or 220V).
  • Another participant emphasizes that the heating element is the largest power consumer in a water heater and asserts that a 12-volt source would not be sufficient to power it effectively.
  • A later reply humorously acknowledges the impracticality of the initial proposal and suggests returning to the drawing board.
  • One participant provides a link to a website that may offer information on 12-volt heating solutions, though its relevance to the original question is unclear.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that a 12-volt source is inadequate for powering a typical water heater element, but there is some uncertainty about the existence of 12-volt heating solutions.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not explore the specific power requirements of different heating elements or the potential for alternative heating solutions. There is also a lack of detailed technical specifications regarding the batteries' capacity and the heating element's power needs.

rollingideas
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hi guys I am looking to find a source of radiant heat about 2 inches wide and 6-8 inches long and i got to thinking if i hook up 8 AA batteries in series it should produce 12v needed to power the element of a water heater, my question is will this power source work to run the element? thanks
 
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What kind of water heater runs on 12 volts?
 
Averagesupernova said:
What kind of water heater runs on 12 volts?
Real little I guess.
 
Averagesupernova said:
What kind of water heater runs on 12 volts?
lol no, i don't want to power the heater, just the element. i want to know if the batteries would power the element alone.
 
rollingideas said:
lol no, i don't want to power the heater, just the element. i want to know if the batteries would power the element alone.

The largest power requirement in a water heater is by far the heating element, and it will use straight 110V power (or 220V outside US).

So no a 12v source will not power it, and especially not for any appreciable length of time with only 8 AA batteries.
 
thanks, back to the drawing board lol
 

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