All about outdoor hot water cylinders

Can hot water cylinders be installed outside? 

Hot water cylinders are a staple in every home, providing a steady supply of hot water for various needs. While they were traditionally installed indoors, in New Zealand, you can now confidently have your hot water cylinder installed outside, which brings several advantages. 

Advantages of installing a hot water cylinder outside: 

Space Saving: Installing the cylinder outside frees up valuable indoor space, which can be particularly beneficial in smaller homes. 

Ease of Access: Outdoor installations can provide easier access for maintenance and repairs without disrupting indoors. 

Reduced Risk of Water Damage: In case of leaks or ruptures, having the cylinder outside minimises the risk of water damage to the home's interior. 

No Size Restrictions: The perfect option for bigger households who need more hot water and a bigger hot water cylinder. 

Alternative Heat Source: Ideal for installing a hot water heat pump or solar panel hot water heating solution where the cylinder needs to be placed close to the heat source. 

Noise Reduction: By placing the cylinder outside, any operational noise is kept away from living areas, contributing to a quieter indoor environment. 

Should my hot water cylinder be inside or outside? 

The answer isn't straightforward—it depends on your specific circumstances and requirements. Deciding whether to get an outdoor hot water cylinder involves considering your available space, aesthetic preferences, and environmental exposure.  

While both outdoor and indoor hot water cylinders serve the fundamental purpose of providing hot water, their designs and features are tailored to their respective installation environments. 

Outdoor hot water cylinders: 

• Galvanised Steel Jacket: Outdoor hot water cylinders come with a galvanised steel jacket (outer casing), protecting the cylinder from outside weather activity. This ensures durability and longevity even when exposed to harsh environmental conditions and the cold New Zealand climate. 

• Insulation: These cylinders are typically well-insulated to withstand temperature variations and maintain efficiency. They often have thicker insulation compared to indoor models to prevent heat loss in colder outdoor conditions. 

• Weatherproof Design: Outdoor cylinders are designed to be weatherproof, with seals and materials that resist rain, wind, and UV radiation. This helps in preventing rust and corrosion. 

Indoor hot water cylinders: 

• Compact Design: Indoor hot water cylinders are designed to fit within a home, often in utility rooms, cupboards, or basements. They are usually more compact than their outdoor counterparts. 

• Aesthetic Considerations: Indoor cylinders are often more aesthetically pleasing, with designs that blend seamlessly with home interiors, unlike the rugged appearance of outdoor cylinders. 

• Energy Efficiency: Indoor cylinders benefit from the ambient temperature of the house, which can reduce the energy required to heat water compared to outdoor units exposed to fluctuating temperatures. 

• Less Insulation: Since indoor cylinders are protected from the elements, they often have less insulation compared to outdoor cylinders, as they don't need to combat outdoor temperature extremes. 

Whether you’re looking to relocate your current hot water cylinder or considering an alternative hot water heating solution that requires an outdoor hot water cylinder, contact us for free expert advice and consultation. 

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