Do you have a leaking hot water cylinder or is it simply time to change or upgrade? Call us today for a free quote
What Are Unvented Hot Water Cylinders?
Traditionally in the UK heating and hot water systems were supplied by a Heat Only boiler connected to a copper cylinder and cold water tanks. The introduction of Combi Boilers Reduced the popularity of these systems as a Combi is a single standalone unit that takes up much less space, provides instant hot water and requires maintenance of a single equipment rather than multiple units.
Whilst combi boilers, in our experience, are by far the number one choice for our customers and landlords, they may not be suitable for larger properties especially those with multiple bathrooms. Unvented cylinders are typically of stainless steel construction and more durable against corrosion (especially in hard water areas).
Where a large number of older copper cylinders were not insulated, Unvented Cylinders are supplied with a built layer of insulation making them more energy efficient. This feature makes them suitable for use with not only Gas Boilers but also HIU system Solar Panels and Air Source Heat Pumps. In addition being connected to mains pressure and if installed and balanced correctly they can provide uninterrupted hot water to multiple outlets and simultaneous shower/bath usage.
What is the cost of repairing or installing an Unvented Cylinder in London?
Our simple leak repairs of your cylinder in London starts from as little as £60+ VAT. Unvented hot water cylinders come in a variety sizes and are fitted for a number of uses. Both these factors along with the complexity of the installation can determine the cost. Typically the installation can cost between
£600-£200. Contact us today to receive further advice or a free quote.
What happens after the Unvented Cylinder is installed?
On installations of new hot water cylinders we commission the system and issue our customers a G3 safety certificate. We also notify building control through our competent person scheme, Gas Safe Register. A building control certificate will be issued to the registered address in approximately 30 days.
What other related services do you provide?
Boiler Servicing:
An annual boiler service is carrying out a series of checks and cleaning to the boiler in order to maintain and increase the life of a boiler. It is also a requirement by the manufacturer to honour any boiler guarantees.
Smart Heating Controls:
Smart Heating Controls are intelligent thermostatic controls for your heating system. You can remotely control your heating from a smartphone, tablet, or other internet-connected device that is wirelessly connected to the internet. They also help save money on your heating bills because you have more control over your heating. Additionally, you have individual room temperature control. By not heating unused spaces, you have more opportunities to reduce your heating costs. Most common smart heating controls include thermostats and TRVs
Heat Detectors:
Installation of wires, mains and interlinked heat detectors where a smoke alarm isn’t suitable. Heat detectors are important equipment for detecting fires and ensuring safety. As the name suggests, the devices sense the temperature of a room or area in order to detect fires. Heat detectors work on a similar principle used by smoke detectors, by tracking the temperature instead of smoke.
Smoke Alarm:
Installation of mains wired and interlinked smoke alarms, for homes, apartments, HMOs and businesses. Smoke alarms are a legal requirement for rental properties but a must have for all homes and businesses to protect lives
Power flushing:
A method of deep cleaning your central heating system, including pipework, radiators and boiler. Power flushing improves the quality of the water contained within the system by removing the sludge and rust build up that can cause boiler breakdown or long term damage to your boiler and radiators.
Magnetic Filters:
A device that collects debris and rust from the heating system. It can prevent damage to the boiler, leaking radiators and sludge build up within the central heating system.
Boiler Servicing:
An annual boiler service is carrying out a series of checks and cleaning to the boiler in order to maintain and increase the life of a boiler. It is also a requirement by the manufacturer to honour any boiler guarantees.
Gas Appliance Installation:
Installing and servicing a variety of water heating and cooking appliances. Including pipework and all associated works
Boiler Installation:
We provide a variety of Gas Boiler installations including Heat Only, System Boilers and Combi Boilers. We are experienced and registered installers of all major brands such as Idea, Baxi, Main, Vaillant, Keston and many more.
HIU Servicing
Heat Interface Units (HIUs) are heat exchange units that are part of a larger network, communal heating systems. Visually they look similar to combi boilers and also require regular servicing.
Plumbing and heating:
All aspects of plumbing and heating repair, installation and servicing
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between direct and Indirect Unvented Cylinders
Direct and indirect unvented cylinders are components of domestic heating systems used to store and heat water. They’re both ‘unvented’ because they operate under mains pressure, which provides better flow rates and allows them to be situated anywhere in a property. The key difference between direct and indirect unvented cylinders lies in how the water within them is heated:
- Direct Unvented Cylinders: In a direct unvented cylinder, the water is heated ‘directly’ by immersion heaters (electric elements) that are inside the cylinder itself. These immersion heaters warm up the water directly, much like a kettle. This type of cylinder doesn’t require a separate heating system or boiler, making it ideal for homes without central heating or for properties like apartments where space may be limited. It can also serve as a good choice for households that heavily rely on solar power or other renewable energy sources.
- Indirect Unvented Cylinders: In contrast, an indirect unvented cylinder relies on an ‘indirect’ external source of heat, such as a conventional gas boiler or a renewable heat source like a solar thermal system. This external heat source warms up a coil inside the cylinder, and the heat is then transferred from the coil to the water. This is why it’s termed ‘indirect’ – the boiler or other heat source doesn’t heat the water directly. Indirect cylinders are often used in homes with central heating, as they can take advantage of the heat generated by the boiler.
What size Hot Water Cylinder Do I need in My Property?
Sizing a Hot Water Unvenetd Cylinder depends on the size of the property and requirements. For more information read our guide or use the Hot Water Cylinder Calculator.
Can my plumber fit a new Unvented Cylinder?
Due to the unvented cylinder’s high pressure performance, there are strict safety regulations that must be followed when installing one. This means that in order to install any unvented hot water system in a residential property, installers must hold a G3 qualification.
How does an unvented cylinder work?
An unvented cylinder heats water as it flows through it, using a heat source such as a boiler or immersion heater. The hot water is then stored in the cylinder and distributed to the property’s taps and showers.
What are the advantages of using an unvented cylinder?
The following are some advantages of an unvented cylinder:
Higher water pressure: Unvented cylinders can provide more water pressure than traditional vented cylinders, which is beneficial in properties with low mains water pressure.
Unvented cylinders can also provide higher water flow rates, making them appropriate for properties with multiple bathrooms or large showers.
Energy efficiency: Because they do not rely on a cold water storage tank, which can lose heat, unvented cylinders are typically more energy efficient than traditional vented cylinders.
Can I put in an unvented cylinder in my home?
Installing an unvented cylinder in most UK properties is generally possible, provided the property has a suitable mains water supply pressure. Some properties, however, may need additional work, such as upgrading the mains water supply or installing a booster pump. Also large unvented cylinders can be extremely heavy when full, so when fitted on wooden floors or loft spaces, the base may need to be strengthened to support the weight.
Is a special boiler required for an unvented cylinder?
No, an unvented cylinder does not require a special boiler. To heat the water in the cylinder, any suitable system boiler can be used. In addition, unvented cylinders can be supplied by HIUs or electric boilers.
Is a special immersion element required for an unvented cylinder?
Yes, most unvented cylinders require a special immersion element supplied by theior specific manufacturer. These immersion heaters are intended for use with unvented cylinders and should only be installed by a qualified engineer.
What is the time required to install an unvented cylinder?
The time it takes to instal an unvented cylinder is determined by the cylinder’s size, the complexity of the installation, and any additional work required. In general, the process can take anywhere from a few hours to a full day.
Is it possible for me to install an unvented cylinder myself?
Unvented cylinder installations must be performed by a qualified professional. In the United Kingdom, it is illegal to install an unvented cylinder without the relevant qualifications
How do I service an unvented cylinder?
Unvented cylinders must be serviced on a regular basis to ensure that they operate safely and efficiently. Annual safety checks and inspections by a qualified professional, as well as any necessary repairs or maintenance, should be included. Most manufacturers will have their own specification and servicing requirements, refer to the manufacturers instructions.
What is a direct unvented cylinder?
A direct cylinder is a hot water storage tank that is directly heated by a heat source such as a boiler or immersion heater. The hot water is then stored in the cylinder and distributed to the property’s taps and showers.
What is an indirect hot water cylinder?
An indirect cylinder is a hot water storage tank that is heated indirectly by a separate heat source, such as a boiler or solar water heating system. The hot water is then stored in the cylinder and distributed to the property’s taps and showers. A secondary circuit can also provide heating for the property by supplying hot water to the cylinders.
What are the advantages and differences of using a direct unvented cylinder to an indirect unvented cylinder?
A direct cylinder has the following advantages:
Direct cylinders are typically less complicated to design and install than indirect cylinders.
Direct cylinders are less expensive to install and maintain than indirect cylinders.
Direct cylinders are compatible with a wide range of boilers and heating systems.
The following are some of the advantages of an indirect cylinder:
Energy efficiency: Because indirect cylinders can use low-grade heat sources like a boiler or solar water heating system, they are typically more energy efficient than direct cylinders.
Flexibility: Because indirect cylinders can be used with a variety of heating systems, you can select the best option for your home.
Because there is no live heat source inside the tank, indirect cylinders are considered safer than direct cylinders.
What size hot water unvented cylinder do I need for my property?
The size of the hot water unvented cylinder required for your property will be determined by several factors, including the number of bedrooms, bathrooms, and occupants, as well as the required water flow rate and pressure.
To determine the appropriate size for your property, it is generally recommended that you consult with a qualified professional or use a sizing calculator. Other factors that may influence cylinder size include cylinder space availability and any specific hot water requirements, such as the need for a high flow rate for multiple showers.
Is it necessary to notify the installation of an unvented cylinder?
The installation of an unvented cylinder is considered notifiable work in the UK, which means it must be performed by a qualified professional and reported to the local building control body.
This is done to ensure that the installation meets the necessary safety standards and is in accordance with building codes. If the installation is not done by a qualified professional and is not reported to the local building control body, it could be considered illegal and pose a safety risk.
To avoid problems, make sure that any unvented cylinder installation is done by a qualified professional and properly reported to the local building control body.