Is an Unvented Cylinder More Efficient for Residential Water Heating?

Thinking about upgrading your water heater to an unvented cylinder? You’ll find many compelling reasons to make the switch, but what about efficiency? Many UK homeowners are looking for ways to make their homes more efficient and to reduce their energy consumption along with their utility bills. So, is an unvented cylinder more efficient for residential water heating?

The Question of Efficiency

When comparing water heater types, you’ll find a wide range of options out there. However, the two most common are vented and unvented cylinders. Vented cylinders have been around for a very long time. They must be installed near the top of the home and use gravity to feed water to the various taps in the house.

Unvented cylinders are different. Because they’re not open to the environment, they become pressurised. That allows them to provide mains pressure hot water to every tap in your home, no matter where it is located in relation to the cylinder.

But what about efficiency? Yes, an unvented cylinder is more efficient than an older vented cylinder. Here are the ways that these cylinders outperform their predecessors:

1. Flexibility in Design

Older water heaters could only be installed in the upper floors of homes. That puts significant restrictions on the design and use of your space. Because unvented cylinders can fit almost anywhere, you have a great deal more flexibility, allowing you to use your space more wisely and offset energy consumption as you see fit.

2. Less Water Use

While it might seem counterintuitive, an unvented cylinder can actually reduce the amount of water you use, particularly when you combine it with aerating taps and showerheads. These combine the flow of water with air to deliver excellent pressure and better coverage so you need less water for washing up or bathing.

3. Energy Usage

Unvented cylinders are more energy efficient than unvented cylinders. This is because these cylinders are not open to the environment the way unvented cylinders are, which keeps heat inside. They are also better insulated so they retain heat for longer without having to switch back on and reheat the water.

4. Faster Refill and Reheat Times

Unvented cylinders can take quite some time to refill and reheat once they’ve been depleted. Depending on the unvented cylinder model you choose, you could reheat in as little as 20 minutes. If the cylinder has been completely depleted, it may take around 30 minutes to refill and reheat. That means less time waiting and the ability to use your time more wisely, all while using less energy.

5. Less Piping

Compared to a vented cylinder, you’ll find that an unvented cylinder requires less piping. That means less space is needed for installation and pipe routing and more flexibility and better space utilisation in your home.

If you’re ready to experience the difference an unvented cylinder can make in your energy costs, water use, and general lifestyle, get in touch with us at EasyFlow. One of our G3-qualified engineers will be happy to discuss the models available, as well as installation options within your home. We look forward to helping fulfil your water heating needs!