Unvented hot water tanks
Unvented hot water tanks are more popular than ever. Why should you choose an unvented cylinder?
If you are planning a renovation or new home build, it pays to understand the difference between a vented and unvented hot water cylinder tank.
Unvented hot water cylinders are a more popular choice than ever for large buildings, commercial premises, and homes. Our clients want more flexibility and freedom to customise their spaces, and unvented hot water cylinders help them create the homes of their dreams.
These systems connect to your mains water system, giving you a near-endless supply of hot water on demand. If you like long baths, hot showers, good water pressure, and flexibility, an unvented hot water cylinder is always the best choice for your family.
Unvented hot water cylinders were made legal in the UK more than three decades ago. Since then, they have grown in popularity and are now the most desired choice in new builds and renovations. Whether you are building a new home, replacing an old hot water cylinder, or looking to make the switch for environmental reasons, we’ve got the information you need.
What is an Unvented Hot Water Cylinder?
Simply put, an unvented hot water cylinder is a mains-fed hot water tank that stores on-demand hot water for use in your showers and taps. Unvented cylinders offer enhanced performance and eliminate the need for a cold water tank. The incoming water supply keeps the unit under pressure, offering robust and reliable showers. Our clients love the forceful water pressure in the showers after installing this type of cylinder in their homes.
There are two types of hot water cylinder tanks – direct and indirect:
- Direct models – The water is heated by an immersion heater
- Indirect models – The heat source, often a boiler, is located outside the tank.
Unvented cylinders are fitted with outlet pipes that distribute hot water around the house. When you turn on the shower or a tap, the incoming cold water pressure displaces the already heated water. This pushes the hot water towards the open outlet, ensuring that every tap has reliable water pressure.
The entire unvented cylinder system is ‘sealed’ – that means that they must be fitted with an expansion vessel (this vessel is often incorporated within the cylinder or the boiler). This vessel enabled the system to expand as the water heats up, and prevents the unit from exploding.
Most unvented cylinders are made from stainless steel, which has high tensile strength despite being a thin sheet. Today’s unvented hot water cylinder tanks are designed to extremely high standards, and they can withstand strong internal forces.
What are the Benefits of an Unvented Hot Water Cylinder Tank?
Unvented hot water systems have plenty of benefits.
- They free up space – Unvented cylinders use a lot less space than open vented systems because you don’t need an additional cold water feeder tank. Instead, unvented hot water tanks are directly fed by the mains.
- They boost your water pressure – Because unvented hot water cylinder tanks utilise your mains pressure, they’re an excellent way to improve your water pressure in the tap, bath, or shower. As long as your mains pressure is good, you’ll never have a lacklustre shower again.
- They’re compatible with renewable energy – Pair an unvented water cylinder with other renewable energy equipment, such as solar panels, and you can decrease your carbon footprint. You’ll also lower your energy bills and save a lot of money!
- Place them anywhere in your home – Vented systems rely on gravity to work correctly, so you are really limited as to where you can install them in your home. An unvented water cylinder will work well anywhere – store them in a place that works best for you.
- They’re a lot quieter than vented systems – You can regularly hear cold water filling up the cistern with a vented system. This noise can be really distracting, especially when it occurs in the middle of the night! If you’re a light sleeper or have a small child, you’ll really appreciate the silence.
- Reduced risk of contamination – Unlike vented systems, unvented cylinder tanks don’t require any openings – they’re completely sealed. This reduces the risk of contamination, so your family can rely on fresh, clean, and safe drinking water.
- No risk of freezing – When you use a vented system, you’re constantly at risk of freezing if the power goes out and the heating shuts off in the winter. Far too many of our clients have returned home from a winter holiday only to be greeted by a frozen and exploded vented water tank! With an unvented tank, the hot water is constant, and the risk of freezing is extremely low.
How long do unvented cylinders last?
Quality unvented hot water cylinders usually last around thirty years. However, it’s imperative to have it installed by an experienced fitter. If you notice that your water tank is leaking any water, it’s important to call an expert right away. Water damage and slow leaks can cause serious damage to your home, and cost a small fortune to repair.
Is an unvented hot water cylinder tank the best choice for your home?
Just imagine the freedom for everyone in your home to have a nice hot bath on a cold winter’s day. An unvented hot water cylinder tank ensures that no one will run out of soothing warm water when they need it the most.
Contact us today for any of your cylinder questions on
0121 608 0460