Do You Need Vented or Unvented Cylinder Installation?
Unvented cylinders are becoming increasingly popular due to their efficiency and space-saving nature, while vented cylinders are still widely used in many homes across the country.
When it comes to hot water systems, there are two main types of cylinders you can choose from: vented and unvented. Vented cylinders rely on a cold water storage tank in the loft space above them, while unvented cylinders have no such requirement. Choosing between these two options depends on your home’s plumbing system, your budget, and how much hot water you need.
Both types of cylinders have their own advantages and disadvantages, so understanding what they do before installation can help you make the best choice for your needs:
Unvented cylinders
Unvented cylinders offer several advantages compared to their vented counterparts. They are more efficient because they don’t require a cold water storage tank, and the space-saving nature of unvented cylinders can be especially beneficial for those with limited hot water needs. Unvented cylinders are also better suited to dealing with sudden changes in water pressure, which can be the result of too many taps being used at once.
However, installing an unvented cylinder can be more complicated than a vented one due to their additional components. This type of installation requires a greater level of technical knowledge and expertise in order to get it right and comply with safety regulations. As such, it’s important to only trust a professional, experienced engineer to install an unvented cylinder.
Vented cylinders
Vented cylinders are the oldest type of hot water system and have been in use for many years. These systems require a separate cold water tank that is stored in the loft or attic space above the cylinder. This means they can be handier for those that don’t have space for an unvented cylinder.
Vented cylinders are also much simpler to install, as there are fewer components and steps involved in the process. This makes them a good choice for DIYers or those on a tight budget who want to save money by doing the installation themselves.
When You Should Be Replacing a Hot Water Cylinder?
When it comes to replacing a hot water cylinder, it’s important to assess the condition of your current system before making any decisions. If you’re facing issues with your hot water such as low pressure, inconsistent or fluctuating temperatures, or unreliable performance, it might be time to consider a new unit. If you have an older system that hasn’t been updated in a while, it’s also likely that your hot water cylinder is no longer up to current safety standards.
Frequently asked questions about hot water cylinders?
We get asked many questions about hot water cylinders all the time, ranging from what types are available to when it’s necessary to replace them, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of each type.
The two main types of hot water cylinders are vented cylinders and unvented cylinders. Vented cylinders rely on a cold water storage tank in the loft space above them, while unvented cylinders have no such requirement.
Unvented cylinders offer several advantages compared to vented cylinders, such as being more efficient and space-saving. However, installing an unvented cylinder can be more complicated than a vented one due to their additional components, so it’s important to only trust a professional, experienced engineer to do the installation.
You should consider replacing your hot water cylinder if you’re facing issues with it such as low pressure, inconsistent or fluctuating temperatures, or unreliable performance. Additionally, if you have an older system that hasn’t been updated in a while, it’s likely that your hot water cylinder is no longer up to current safety standards.
When buying and installing a new hot water cylinder, it’s important to assess the condition of your current system first. Additionally, it’s important to consult with an experienced engineer who can assess your needs and help you decide between unvented or vented cylinders. This is especially important for unvented cylinders due to the additional components and complexity of installation.
The main benefits of a vented cylinder are that they are simpler to install and can be handier for those that don’t have space for an unvented cylinder. They are also much cheaper than unvented cylinders, making them a good choice for DIYers or those on a tight budget who want to save money by doing the installation themselves.