What is one benefit of using a feedwater heater?

Using a feedwater heater provides the significant benefit of reducing the energy required for steam generation. By preheating the feedwater before it enters the boiler, the heater elevates the temperature of the water. As a result, less energy is needed to convert this warmer water into steam. This process enhances the overall efficiency of the steam generation system, leading to reduced fuel consumption and lower operational costs.

In contrast, the other options do not align with the primary functions of a feedwater heater. Direct combustion is unrelated to the mechanism of a feedwater heater, as it pertains to the burning of fuel to produce energy. Increasing the overall energy input does not accurately represent the purpose of a feedwater heater, which focuses on maximizing efficiency rather than simply adding more energy. Higher water quality is important in power generation but is not the primary aim of a feedwater heater; instead, it primarily addresses efficiency and energy conservation.