What is an Unvented Cylinder?

An unvented hot water cylinder is a hot water storage vessel where potable water is heated up and supplied at mains pressure for domestic use.

Unvented hot water cylinders are improved versions of the traditional, vented cylinders that get water from a cold water tank mounted at the highest level or floor of a residential building. But rather than depend on the limited water supply in the tank, an unvented cylinder system feeds directly from the cold-water mains.

The main difference between vented and unvented hot water cylinders is that the former needs a cold-water tank in the loft while the latter does not.

Also, since unvented cylinders are hooked directly from the mains, they also benefit from its steady pressure. They don’t rely on gravity or water supply (if the water level in the tank is low, the water pressure also decreases). Water pressure tends to be much higher with unvented cylinders, as a result, ultimately improving the quality of each shower and bath.

Why install an Unvented Cylinder?

More than the peace of mind that you have hot water during the coldest days of winter, unvented cylinders offer the following benefits:

• Reduced utility bills – The cylinder system allows you to use hot water at the same price as mains cold water, meaning you get heating and hot water all year for less.

• Reduced carbon footprint – Hot water cylinders work alongside existing renewable technologies to help to further reduce your carbon footprint. Immersion heaters, for example, can be powered with solar energy. It’s a tiny but relevant contribution to combating climate change.

• No risk of freezing pipes – Because the water pipes are built into the loft, there is extra insulation which reduces the risk of water pipes freezing during the colder months.

• No need for a cumbersome water tank - This is an advantage for one-storey households since they won’t need to build a scaffolding structure to elevate the cold water tank, which is a requirement for vented cylinders.

Hot water cylinders need to be regularly maintained and serviced to ensure they’re running both efficiently and safely. As well as this, most manufacturer warranties are only upheld if the technology is regularly maintained by qualified engineers.

Why maintain an Unvented Cylinder?

If you are happy to have hot water whenever you need it, then you must look after your unvented hot water cylinder. Like any home appliance, its performance can deteriorate due to wear and tear. But unlike most home appliances, you simply can’t make do without water heating if it breaks down.

To enjoy consistent, unfailing hot water supply in your home, your water cylinder must be well-kept. This means regular inspections, maintenance and repairs.

Caring for Unvented Cylinders

There are two things to keep in mind regarding the maintenance of unvented cylinders: care best practices and the manufacturer’s instructions.

Observe Best Practices

• Keep an eye out for irregularities like fluctuations in the temperature, leaks, insufficient water flow, dripping or flowing water in the tundish, obvious defects and the like. Report these to the inspectors or repair specialists when they arrive.

• Have your hot water cylinder serviced every 12 months. Many manufacturers of unvented cylinders suggest that you have your water heater serviced once each year on an annual plan, and some home insurance policies require this.

Follow Manufacturer’s Advice

• Check the recommended frequency of servicing and inspection.

• Follow the guidelines for at-home troubleshooting and maintenance. If the problems continue or escalate, contact the manufacturer’s official servicing crew first and the installation company second, if both are different.  

An annual maintenance plan from Ecolution will help to keep your unvented cylinder safe and in line with building regulations relating to hot water systems. Give us a call to discuss your options. We’ll give you a quote and we can set a date for the installation as quickly as possible.

Enquire at Ecolution today.