A Guide to Hot Water Cylinder Installation and Replacement
Your hot water cylinder is essential to your daily life, providing you with the hot water you need for showers, dishes, and laundry.
So, what do you do when your cylinder breaks or needs to be replaced?
When deciding to replace your hot water cylinder, an important consideration is how long your current hot water cylinder has been in place. You should replace your hot water cylinder every 7 to 10 years. The best time to complete your hot water cylinder replacement is during summer when demand is lower.
And if you’re planning a hot water cylinder replacement or installation, it’s important to find the right contractor.
This guide will guide you through the hot water cylinder installation and replacement process.
Types of Hot Water Cylinders
A hot water cylinder is a type of container that stores hot water to be used later. There are four main types of hot water cylinders: direct, indirect, vented, and unvented.
- Direct cylinders have immersion heaters built right into the cylinder. These do so by directly heating the water, and some even employ numerous heaters to maintain a hot temperature and deliver the best performance.
- Indirect cylinders are hot water cylinders that require an external heat source, usually the boiler. Some indirect hot water cylinders come with immersion heaters as backup heaters.
- A vented cylinder receives its water supply from a cold water tank rather than the main water supply. These tanks are typically connected to cold-water tanks.
- Unvented cylinders have a direct connection to the water supply system. This suggests that there is no need for a cold water storage tank. Because it is fueled by pressure rather than gravity, you can install this pretty much wherever in your home.
Each hot water cylinder has advantages and disadvantages, so choosing the right one is essential.
The size and design of your household are factors you should consider when choosing a suitable tank size for your home. But other factors, such as your location and how much water you use daily, are also very important considerations when choosing your type of water heater.
How to Replace a Hot Water Cylinder
A hot water cylinder is an essential component of most home plumbing systems, providing a reliable source of hot water for showers, baths, and dishes.
However, cylinders can develop leaks or corrosion over time, making it necessary to replace them. Luckily, replacing a hot water cylinder is not tricky, and most homeowners can do it with just a few tools:
- Shut off the power to the cylinder and drain the water by opening the taps.
- Disconnect the inlet and outlet pipes, careful not to damage the fittings. Once the pipes are disconnected, remove the old cylinder and install the new one.
- Reconnect the inlet and outlet pipes and turn on the power.
You can easily replace a hot water cylinder with just a little effort. But if you are still determining the steps to take in replacing the water container in your home, you should contact a licensed professional for assistance. Contacting a professional plumber ensures you have the right knowledge and skills to complete the job correctly and safely.
Tips for Maintaining Your Hot Water Cylinder
Most homes have a hot water cylinder responsible for storing hot water and distributing it to the taps and showers. Hot water cylinders come in all shapes and sizes but must be maintained correctly.
- One of the most important things you can do is check the hot water’s temperature regularly. If the water temperature is too high or too low, it could lead to an inefficient heating system and expensive repairs.
- Legionnaires’ disease is a lung infection from inhaling water droplets from air conditioners and hot tubs. The ideal temperature is 60 degrees Celsius, which prevents scalding.
- You should also bleed the radiator valves regularly to remove any air that has become trapped. This can help the system run more efficiently and prevent overheating.
- Finally, ensure that the pressure relief valve works correctly, as this will release excess pressure and prevent the cylinder from exploding.
By following these simple tips, you can help ensure that your hot water cylinder remains in good condition for years to come. Contact a licensed plumbing contractor in your area today for more information on keeping your home plumbing system in good condition.
Conclusion
A hot water cylinder, often called a “water heater,” is an appliance that heats and stores water for household use. There are many types of hot water cylinders on the market, so choosing the right one is essential. Hot water cylinders require regular maintenance, and the water system should be inspected annually.
Our experts can help you select the best model and install it properly, so you can enjoy years of reliable service. Contact us today and see how we can help you!