Choosing the right hot water cylinder is important for keeping your home warm, having good showers, and keeping your energy bills low. Whether you are setting up a new heating system or replacing an older one, knowing how to pick the best vented hot water cylinder or another system can save you time, money, and trouble in the long run.
Here are the top six expert tips to help you choose and take care of your hot water cylinder wisely.
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Understand the Types of Hot Water Cylinders
There are two main types of hot water cylinders: vented and unvented.
A vented hot water cylinder gets cold water from a tank in the loft and uses gravity to make the water pressurized. These are often used in older homes and are easy to install and keep working.
Unvented cylinders are connected directly to the mains water supply, which gives you high-pressure water and better performance.
But they need to be installed by a professional and should be checked once a year.
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Know Your Home’s Water Pressure
Before buying a hot water cylinder, check the water pressure in your home.
If your home has low pressure, a vented system may work better. If you have strong mains water, an unvented system gives you better water flow, especially when using the shower or multiple taps at once.
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Size Matters – Choose the Right Capacity
One of the biggest mistakes people make is picking the wrong size cylinder.
A small home with just one bathroom might need a 120L cylinder, while a family home with two or more bathrooms might need 210L to 300L. Too big a system can waste energy, and too small can mean not enough hot water when you need it.
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Think About Cylinder Material for Longevity
Hot water cylinders are usually made of copper or stainless steel.
Copper is often used in vented systems, is cost-effective, and is easy to recycle. Stainless steel is more common in unvented systems, and it lasts longer and resists rust, making it good for long-term use.
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Think About Installation Space
A vented hot water cylinder needs space for a cold water tank in the loft.
If you don’t have room or want a simpler system, you might go for a direct or indirect unvented cylinder, which doesn’t need an extra tank. Always think about where you plan to put your cylinder to avoid problems later.
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Choose a Trusted Supplier
Not all hot water cylinders are the same.
At TradePlumbing. Co. In the UK, we offer high-quality vented and unvented cylinders from well-known UK brands like Telford and Gledhill. With good prices, helpful customer support, and fast delivery, we make upgrading your heating system simple and stress-free.
Final Thought
Choosing the right hot water cylinder, whether it’s a modern unvented system or a classic vented one, helps you save energy, ensures good water pressure, and makes your system last longer.
By following these six tips, you can make a choice that fits your home’s needs.
Ready to upgrade?
Check out our full range of hot water cylinders at TradePlumbing. Co. uk today.