A direct hot water cylinder will heat the water directly from the heat source and an indirect hot water cylinder will heat the water with the help of a separate electric element such as a gas boiler or an oil boiler. An unvented hot water cylinder can provide a much more even flow for baths and showers. The advantages of the indirect hot water cylinder are that it requires less cost, less maintenance, significantly low flue losses, and better performance.
Vented Vs Unvented Hot Water Cylinders
The major difference between a vented and unvented hot water cylinder is the fact that an unvented hot water cylinder receives its water supply directly from cold mains. An unvented hot water cylinder supplies hot water at a much better pressure than the traditional vented hot water cylinder as it is pressurised. Further, the flow of water from an unvented cylinder is much more even, energy-efficient and cost-efficient compared to the vented cylinder.
What Are the Features You Should Look for When You Buy a Hot Water Cylinder?
Hot water cylinder companies provide a wide range of hot water cylinder packages. Installers usually go for the “standard” type. However, even though “standard” is good, it’s good that you keep yourself up-to-date with the most recent cylinder technology. Following are the features you should look for while choosing a hot water cylinder.
· Effective Heating and Use of Advanced Technology
Hot water cylinders are constantly evolving when it comes to efficiency in heating. The latest advancements in hot water cylinder technology can make a significant difference to the overall efficiency and performance of the water heating system. Invest in a cylinder company that is up to date with the latest technology to offer the highest level of efficiency, design and duration of heating and cooling.
· Neat Look and Space Efficient
For a neat look, a hot water cylinder must have its coil connections, hot and cold-water services, expansion services and safety valves all covered and contained under a removable cover. The cables and pipes should be barely visible and occupy the least space including space for towel and linen storage. This will give the water cylinder a neater look along with more space-efficient cylinders for storage purposes and also, will take minimum installation time, contrary to the “standard” cylinders which have a random clutter of pipes and expansion vessels.
· Energy Efficiency and Quality
Whether you choose a direct hot water cylinder or indirect hot water cylinder, make sure you choose the one which has the optimum combination of materials, automated production process and intelligent operation for maximum lifetime. Check if the heaters have low energy consumption, low heat loss and an outstanding lifetime economy. In general, a wide and short cylinder is more optimal as it loses less heat and contributes to a better SAP value and ERP rating compared to a tall and thin heater. Choose a design and heat exchanger type that has high specification coils as they provide a higher recovery rate.