Vented versus Unvented Cylinders: Making a Smart Choice for Water Heating in Your Home

Installing a new water heater in your home? You have an important decision to make. Should you choose a vented cylinder? Is it better to go with an unvented cylinder?

While both have their merits, unvented cylinders are the better choice. But don’t take our word for it. Here’s a detailed comparison to help you understand why unvented cylinders are better.

Vented Cylinders

Vented cylinders, also known as open-vented systems, were once the most common choice in UK homes. These systems rely on a cold-water storage tank, usually located in the loft, which feeds water into the hot water cylinder. The cylinder is equipped with a vent pipe that releases excess pressure into the atmosphere.

Advantages of Vented Cylinders

Simplicity and Cost: Vented systems are less expensive to install and maintain. Their straightforward design means fewer components that can go wrong, making them cost-effective, too.

Gravity-fed System: Unvented cylinders use gravity to supply water, providing a steady flow even during power outages.

Disadvantages of Vented Cylinders

Space Consumption: The need for a cold-water storage tank means vented cylinders require quite a bit of loft space, which can be a drawback for homes with limited space.

Water Pressure: Vented cylinders deliver lower water pressure, as they rely on gravity. This results in a less satisfying experience and means you’ll wait longer to fill baths and sinks.

Heat Loss: The open-vented design loses heat to the environment making the system less energy-efficient, meaning you’ll pay more to heat water in the long run.

Unvented Cylinders

Unvented cylinders, or sealed systems, connect directly to the mains water supply, eliminating the need for a cold-water storage tank. These systems are fully sealed and use an expansion vessel to manage pressure changes. That makes them more efficient, but also offers other benefits you won’t find with vented cylinders.

Advantages of Unvented Cylinders

Space Efficiency: Without the need for a cold-water storage tank, unvented cylinders save valuable space. They can also be installed almost anywhere in your home, not just in the loft.

High Water Pressure: Unvented systems deliver mains pressure hot water, providing powerful showers and filling baths quickly.

Consistent Supply: Unvented cylinders supply hot water consistently to multiple outlets simultaneously without significant drops in pressure, which is good news for larger households.

Energy Efficiency: Unvented cylinders are better insulated, reducing heat loss and improving energy efficiency to lower heating costs over time.

Safety and Reliability: Modern unvented systems come with advanced safety features such as pressure relief valves and temperature controls.

Disadvantages of Unvented Cylinders

Cost: While they offer many benefits, unvented systems are more expensive than vented cylinders because they require professional installation.

Maintenance Requirements: Unvented systems require regular maintenance from G3-qualified professionals.

Looking for a hassle-free solution that provides you with mains pressure hot water and doesn’t take up too much space? An unvented cylinder is the answer. At EasyFlow, our G3-qualified engineers can help you choose the right model, install it for you, and keep it maintained with annual service. Contact us today to learn more.