0800 328 9499
Upgrading your hot water cylinder can significantly improve your home's efficiency and safety. At AJA Plumbing Services in Sawbridgeworth, we specialise in replacing outdated systems with modern, reliable solutions. Whether you have an old open vent hot water cylinder or are considering an unvented hot water system, we offer expert advice and installation services to meet your needs. Contact us today for a free quote.
OLD OPEN VENT HOT WATER CYLINDERS
Open vent plumbing systems are a traditional setup found in many older homes. These systems rely on a round cold water storage tank located in the loft, which can pose several risks and inefficiencies.
​
Common Issues with Open Vent Systems:
​
-
Structural Integrity Risks: Traditional round plastic cold water tanks are now banned due to their lack of structural integrity. If the thermostat in your cylinder is faulty or disconnected from the heating circuit, hot water can expand into the cold water storage tank, causing it to become flexible and potentially collapse or split. This can lead to severe property damage and, in extreme cases, pose a fatal risk.
-
Health Hazards: We often encounter round tanks with inappropriate or missing lids, some made from thin MDF or other unsuitable materials. Such conditions can lead to contamination of the cold down service water, which feeds your hot water cylinder and cold-water supply to the bathroom. This water is used for daily activities like brushing teeth, making any contamination a serious health hazard.
-
Low Water Pressure: Open vent systems typically offer low water pressure, which can be problematic for showers and other water outlets. Adding a booster pump can increase pressure but may lead to complications such as airlocks, pump failure, and noise issues.
UNVENTED HOT WATER CYLINDERS
Unvented hot water systems are becoming the preferred choice for many homeowners, offering numerous benefits over traditional open vent systems. These systems are sealed and pressurised, eliminating the need for a cold water storage tank and providing better performance.
​
Advantages of Unvented Systems:
​
-
Improved Water Pressure: Unvented systems deliver mains pressure hot water, providing consistent flow rates and eliminating the need for noisy pumps or additional components.
-
Enhanced Safety and Hygiene: These systems are sealed, preventing contamination and ensuring that your water supply is always safe and clean.
-
Energy Efficiency: Unvented cylinders are highly efficient, reducing heat loss and lowering your energy bills. They are also future-proof, compatible with renewable heating sources like ground and air source heat pumps, making them a smart investment for the long term.
OUR RECOMMENDATION
We recommend upgrading to a rectangular cold water storage tank with a bylaw 30 kit for better safety and efficiency. However, a more long-term solution is to convert to an unvented system, which eliminates many of the inherent issues associated with open vent systems.
PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE
As we move towards more sustainable energy sources, upgrading to an unvented system positions your home for the next generation of renewable heating solutions. By 2035, replacing old gas appliances with renewable options will be necessary. Investing in an unvented system now ensures you’re ready for this transition, saving you significant costs in the future.
HOT WATER CYLINDER UPGRADES & CONVERSIONS
With over 20 years of experience in plumbing and heating, we have the expertise to assess your current system and recommend the best upgrade options. Whether you need a simple cylinder replacement or a complete system overhaul, we provide professional, reliable services tailored to your needs.
Our Services Include:
-
Cold mains water pressure testing
-
Flow rate assessments
-
Upgrading cold mains water supply to 22mm if necessary
-
Installation of high-quality unvented cylinders
-
Conversion from open vent to unvented systems