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Mains Pressure vs Low Pressure Hot Water

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Mains Pressure

Mains pressure hot water systems unlike low pressure systems gives you more equal water pressure between the hot and cold water lines throughout your home. 

Mains pressure systems come in many different options and are great for properties that are connected to a town supply, main water line.

If you’ve got a big whanau or a house with multiple bathrooms, these systems will give you a constant supply of hot water to multiple outlets at the same time, making them a popular choice.

The best part of a mains pressure hot water system is that it will provide you with an increase in shower pressure compared to a low-pressure system and decrease the wait time for your shower, bath or taps to heat up – giving you more hot water, faster.

An added benefit to installing a mains pressure hot water system is the increased range of tapware and fittings available as many are rated only for mains pressure, this is perfect when considering bathroom or kitchen renovations.

Mains_Pressure_cylinders

Low Pressure

Low-pressure hot water systems are commonly found in older homes in New Zealand. These systems rely on a pressure reducing valve to restrict the incoming water pressure to the cylinder, resulting in lower hot water pressure throughout the home.

In areas with colder climates, homes with fireplaces may utilize a wet back system in conjunction with a low-pressure cylinder to heat the water.

If there is a noticeable difference in water pressure between hot and cold taps or showerheads, it may indicate the presence of a low-pressure hot water system. The good news is that upgrading to a mains pressure system during a cylinder replacement can easily remedy this issue, providing the benefits of higher hot water pressure throughout the home.

Mains_Pressure_cylinders

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. 

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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.

 

The importance of proper water pressure in your kiwi home

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Maintaining optimal hot water performance in your Kiwi home isn’t just about having a well-functioning hot water cylinder; it also involves ensuring the right water pressure. Too much or too little pressure can lead to various issues, from inconsistent temperatures to unnecessary wear and tear on your plumbing system. Getting your water pressure adjusted can make a significant difference. 

Why water pressure matters 

Water pressure plays a crucial role in your home’s plumbing system. When it’s too high, it can cause pipes to burst, leaks, and damage to your appliances. On the other hand, low water pressure can lead to inadequate water flow, making it difficult to get a consistent and comfortable hot water supply. Proper adjustment of the water pressure valve ensures your hot water system operates efficiently and prolongs the lifespan of your plumbing. 

Leave it to the experts 

If you’ve noticed a change in your water pressure, whether it’s too high or too low, it’s essential to address it promptly. While it might be tempting to adjust your hot water cylinder yourself, it’s always better to call a professional. At The Cylinder Guy, we offer expert advice and professional services to handle any issues you’re facing. 

Why choose The Cylinder Guy? 

By contacting The Cylinder Guy, you can ensure that your hot water system operates efficiently and effectively, providing consistent and comfortable hot water throughout your home. Properly adjusted water pressure not only enhances your hot water performance but also protects your plumbing system from potential damage. 

If you need assistance with your hot water cylinder, please contact The Cylinder Guy today! Talk to one of our experts for your hot water needs and ensure your home’s water pressure is perfectly adjusted for optimal performance. 

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What to do when your hot water cylinder runs out of hot water

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Running out of hot water can be a frustrating experience, especially when you’re in the middle of a shower or doing dishes. When your hot water cylinder runs out of hot water, it’s important to understand why it happened and what steps you can take to resolve the issue. Here are some key actions you can take: 

 

1. Check recent usage 

If you’ve recently used a significant amount of hot water, such as taking a long shower or doing laundry, it’s possible that your hot water cylinder has been depleted. In this case, you may will need to wait for the cylinder to heat up more water before you have hot water again. 

2. Assess temperature settings 

Check the temperature settings on your hot water cylinder. Sometimes, the temperature may be set too low, leading to insufficient hot water. Adjusting the temperature settings can help ensure you have an adequate supply of hot water. 

3. Inspect for leaks 

Leaks in the hot water cylinder or the associated plumbing can lead to a loss of hot water. Inspect the area around the cylinder for any signs of leaks, such as puddles or dripping water. If you find a leak, it’s important to address it promptly to prevent further hot water loss. 

4. Check thermostat and heating elements 

Faulty thermostats or heating elements can also cause hot water supply issues. If you suspect a problem with these components, it’s best to consult a professional plumber or technician to inspect and repair or replace them as needed. 

5. Consider capacity and usage patterns 

Hot water cylinders come in different capacities, and your household’s hot water usage patterns can affect how quickly the cylinder runs out of hot water. If your current cylinder size isn’t meeting your hot water needs, you may need to consider upgrading to a larger cylinder or exploring alternative hot water solutions. If you aren’t too sure what options you have, talk to one of our Cylinder Guy experts for help! 

6. Contact a professional 

If you’ve tried the above steps and still experience hot water supply issues, give us a call on 0800 234 800 and our team of hot water specialists will see to it you get exactly what you need!. They can conduct a comprehensive assessment of your hot water system, identify any underlying issues, and recommend appropriate solutions to restore your hot water supply. 

Running out of hot water from your cylinder can be inconvenient, but it’s often a solvable problem with the right troubleshooting steps and professional assistance. By understanding the potential causes and taking proactive measures, you can ensure a consistent and reliable supply of hot water in your home.

A comprehensive comparison of hot water heat pumps: Reclaim, Apricus, and Ecospring 

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Hot water heat pumps are revolutionising the way we heat water for our homes and businesses. They offer energy-efficient solutions that not only save money but also reduce our carbon footprint. In this blog, we’ll compare three popular hot water heat pump models: Reclaim Hot Water Heat Pump, Apricus All-in-one Hot Water Heat Pump, and Ecospring HP300 Hot Water Heat Pump. We’ll look at their benefits and the refrigerants they use to understand their differences better. 

 

Reclaim hot water heat pump

Reclaim Energy’s hot water heat pump utilises CO2 as its refrigerant, a natural and environmentally friendly choice. CO2 has a very low Global Warming Potential (GWP) and is non-toxic, making it a sustainable option. The Reclaim model is known for its high efficiency, capable of providing hot water even in cold climates. Its advanced technology ensures reliable performance, low operating costs, and can supply over 700L of hot water per day. 

Benefits of the Reclaim Hot Water Heat Pump Co2: 

  • Environmentally friendly refrigerant (CO2) 

  • High efficiency, even in cold climates 

  • Reliable performance 

  • Low operating costs 

  • High volume hot water  

View Reclaim Hot Water Cylinder Brochure

 

Apricus All-in-one hot water heat pump R290 

Apricus’ hot water heat pump uses R290, which is propane, as its refrigerant. R290 has a very low GWP and is highly energy efficient. The Apricus model is designed to be an all-in-one solution, incorporating a storage tank and pump combined into a single unit. This design saves space and simplifies installation. 

Benefits of the Apricus All-in-one Hot Water Heat Pump R290: 

  • Environmentally friendly refrigerant (R290) 

  • All-in-one design for space-saving and easy installation 

  • Highly energy efficient 

View All-in-one Hot Water Cylinder Brochure

 

Ecospring HP300 R134a hot water heat pump

Ecospring’s hot water heat pump utilises R134a as its refrigerant. While R134a is not as environmentally friendly as CO2 or R290, it still has a lower GWP compared to traditional refrigerants like R22. The Ecospring HP300 is known for its high efficiency and reliable performance. It is designed to be compact and quiet, making it suitable for residential and commercial applications. 

Benefits of the Ecospring HP300 R134a Hot Water Heat Pump: 

  • High efficiency 

  • Reliable performance 

  • Compact and quiet design 

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In conclusion, all three hot water heat pump models offer energy-efficient and environmentally friendly solutions for heating water. The choice between them depends on factors such as the refrigerant preference, climate, efficiency performance, space availability, and installation requirements. The Reclaim Hot Water Heat Pump stands out for its use of CO2, the Apricus All-in-one Hot Water Heat Pump for its all-in-one design, and the Ecospring HP300 for its efficiency and reliability.  

Learn more about the two different types of residential hot water heat pumps and their different installation requirements.

Give us a call to discuss with our hot water specialists your specific needs and preferences. The Cylinder Guy will help you choose the best option for your home. 

 

 

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The benefits of a mains pressure hot water cylinder 

For homeowners seeking to elevate their daily bathing and household routines, upgrading from a hot water low-pressure cylinder to a mains pressure system can be a game-changer. Mains pressure cylinders are designed to provide a consistent and powerful flow of hot water throughout your home, offering a host of benefits that go beyond the limitations of traditional low-pressure systems. In this article, we will explore the advantages that hot water mains pressure cylinders bring to homeowners looking for an upgrade. 

 

Improved water pressure 

One of the most significant advantages of mains pressure cylinders is the remarkable improvement in water pressure. Unlike low-pressure systems that rely on gravity, mains pressure cylinders utilize the pressure from the water mains, ensuring a strong and consistent flow of hot water to all faucets, showers, and appliances in your home. This enhanced water pressure not only leads to a more enjoyable shower experience but also allows for quicker filling of baths and efficient operation of appliances such as dishwashers and washing machines. 

 

 

Simultaneous water usage 

Mains pressure cylinders empower households to enjoy simultaneous hot water usage in multiple areas of the home. With low-pressure systems, the water flow is often restricted, leading to reduced performance when multiple faucets or appliances are in use simultaneously. Mains pressure cylinders help reduce this issue, providing a continuous supply of hot water to different areas of your home, allowing all your family members to shower, wash dishes, and do laundry at the same time without compromising comfort or efficiency.  

 

 

Energy efficiency 

Mains pressure cylinders can often be installed in conjunction with air-to-water heat pumps and solar systems giving the option to pair them with renewable energy sources, allowing homeowners to further reduce their carbon footprint and energy bills. 

Tapware and fittings 

In addition to the considerable advantages in water pressure and efficiency, upgrading to hot water mains pressure cylinders opens up a world of possibilities when it comes to tapware and fittings. Upgrading to mains pressure is particularly beneficial if you are planning a kitchen or bathroom renovation. The increased water pressure provided by mains pressure systems allows homeowners to explore a broader range of design options for their faucets and fixtures. 

        

 

With mains pressure, you can choose from a variety of stylish and innovative tapware designs that may not be compatible with low-pressure systems. Whether it’s a sleek waterfall faucet, a luxurious rain showerhead, or a sophisticated mixer tap, the robust water flow from mains pressure cylinders not only ensures optimal performance but also allows homeowners to express their personal style in the details of their home’s plumbing design. This newfound flexibility in tapware and fittings adds an aesthetic dimension to the upgrade, turning it into an opportunity to enhance the overall visual appeal and functionality of your home’s bathrooms, laundry rooms and kitchens. 

Upgrading from a hot water low-pressure cylinder to a mains pressure system is a decision that promises enhanced comfort, efficiency, and convenience for homeowners. The benefits of improved water pressure, simultaneous usage, make hot water mains pressure cylinders a compelling choice for those seeking to elevate their daily living experience. If you would like to know more about how you can upgrade to a mains-pressure cylinder, please reach out to our team of experts at The Cylinder Guy.

 

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Hunson Model RT direct mains pressure hot water cylinders: What you need to know

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Hot water cylinders play a crucial role in our daily lives, providing us with the comfort and convenience of hot water whenever we need it. However, the market for hot water cylinders is constantly evolving. One such example is the discontinuation of Hunson Model RT direct mains pressure hot water cylinders. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind the discontinuation of Hunson RT cylinders and look at alternative options.

 

Why were Hunson hot water cylinders discontinued?

In the 1970’s when the Hunson RT hot water cylinder first came out it was revolutionary and ahead of its time. During this period most hot water cylinders were made from copper and due to the properties of copper, more suited to low pressure hot water systems. Low pressure cylinders are limited by the strength of the brazing that is applied when the copper sheet is rolled into a cylindrical tube. Modern mains pressure cylinders are made of steel and welded; as such they are able to withstand greater internal pressures because a welded metal join is stronger than a brazed copper join, thus allowing the water contained to be more highly pressurised and therefore to exit the cylinder more powerfully.

Back in the day, W. Hunt & Son Ltd saw the demand for mains pressure hot water systems and launched the Hunson RT, a hot water cylinder that was able to provide a better shower experience, but only to that one outlet.

With the development of technology, change in hot water demands this old model now no longer meets the updated standards or offer the same level of performance as current models today, and many have now come to the end of their life span. This is because modern cylinders are designed to deliver ONLY low pressure or mains pressure water, to all outlets.

If you are unsure which to choose, contact our friendly team for expert advice.

 

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Considerations when replacing your Hunson hot water cylinder

When replacing a Hunson cylinder, it is important to recognise that there will be a change that results. Hunson cylinders are a hybrid of low and mains pressure solutions. Because Hunson cylinders deliver low pressure hot water to taps and delivers mains pressure hot water to the shower, you must choose to either increase the strength of water at the taps and maintain the same shower quality by using a mains pressure replacement model; or you must decrease the shower performance while maintaining the existing low pressure feed to taps, by replacing with a low pressure cylinder. Mains pressure replacement is typically recommended, to ensure the maintenance of the shower quality you’ve become used to and to remove risk of needing to replace the shower mixer. 

 

Exploring alternative options:

While Hunson hot water cylinders may no longer be available, there are numerous alternative options to consider when replacing your hot water cylinder. Here are a few popular choices:

Rheem VE MP Range:

180L – 488x1720mm with 2kW or 3kW element; 580x1166mm in 3kW only

250L – 580x1555mm in 3kW only

300L – 580x1815mm in 3kW only

Rheem SS MP Solar Ready In/Outdoor Range:

180L – 488x1770mm in 2kW or 3kW

250L – 580x1620mm in 3kW only

300L – 580x1910mm in 3kW only – pair with Reclaim CO2 Heat Pump Water Heater for industry-leading efficiency

Rinnai SS MP Range:

180L – 550x1300mm in 2kW or 3kW

250L – 550x1730mm in 2kW or 3kW

300L – 550x2045mm in 2kW or 3kW

LPG – Rheem 26L/min continuous flow water heater

 

Although Hunson hot water cylinders have been discontinued, there are plenty of alternative options available on the market. When replacing your hot water cylinder, consider factors such as size, energy efficiency, installation, maintenance to make an informed decision. Read our article How to choose the right cylinder for me to learn more.

Hot water cylinders explained – how they work

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Hot water cylinders are designed for simplicity and convenience. Let’s explore how they work to provide you with a constant supply of hot water. Similar to an electric jug, hot water cylinders rely on an element encased within an insulated and reinforced storage tank to heat and maintain the surrounding water to the required temperature, which is regulated by the cylinders thermostat. (In New Zealand the recommended hot water temperature is 60 degrees in the cylinder and no more than 55 degrees at the tap).

How Do Hot Water Cylinders Work?

Simplicity has always been the key to the success of hot water cylinders, they deliver hot water right where you need it with a minimum of fuss. Similar to an electric jug, hot water cylinders rely on an element encased within an insulated and reinforced storage tank to heat and maintain the surrounding water to the required temperature, which is regulated by the cylinders thermostat. (In New Zealand the recommended hot water temperature is 60 degrees in the cylinder and no more than 55 degrees at the tap).

Essentially cold water automatically enters the cylinders storage tank when hot water exits, resulting in a lowering of the water temperature in the bottom of the tank, this then triggers the thermostat which allows the element to activate and heat the water to the set temperature again. This process continues 24/7 keeping you in a constant supply of perfectly heated hot water.

What Are The Components Of A Hot Water Cylinder?

  • The Storage Tank. Modern mains pressure hot water storage tanks will usually have a steel inner cylinder which is lined with glass or vitreous enamel, insulation and a steel outer lining. Depending on their age low pressure tanks may have a copper lining.
  • The Thermostat. Essentially a thermometer, the thermostat controls the water temperature inside the storage tank. The thermostat is fully automatic meaning power is only used when heating is required.
  • The Element. One and in some cases two immersion elements are located inside the storage tank, it creates the heat needed to heat the water. Some tanks will have two heating elements, each controlled by its own thermostat, only turning on when the water goes beneath the pre-set temperature.
  • The Temperature Pressure Relief Valve. This is there to protect the hot water cylinder from excess pressures and temperatures and hopefully avoid major damage to the cylinder and/or your house!
  • The Anode Rod. Wherever there is water there is going to be corrosion. In order to prolong the lifespan of the storage tank and reduce corrosion over time an anode rod is suspended within the tank to act as a sacrificial piece of metal. The Anode Rod is usually made of magnesium or aluminium with a steel core.
  • The Drain Valve. Used to drain the hot water cylinder of its water in order to make repairs, move or replace etc.

 

Need help deciding which hot water cylinder is right for you? Pete and the team are happy to help! Whether it is mains pressure hot water cylinders, low pressure hot water cylinders, gas hot water heating, an outdoor cylinder, solar, wetback powered hot water cylinders or the increasingly popular hot water heat pump system, the nationwide network of installers at The Cylinder Guy will provide you with the best match for your home or business. 

 

Contact the team today for a free assessment or learn more about our different hot water solutions.

 

Contact Us     Hot Water Solutions

Do I need a new hot water cylinder?

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One of the questions that we get asked a lot at The Cylinder Guy is whether our customers need a new hot water cylinder or whether the current one can be repaired.

There are normally two reasons that we get called out, the first is around the cylinder leaking, and this can be anything from a slow drip to a major deluge, and the second is around the cylinder not heating the water.

If the reason for calling is that your cylinder is leaking then where it is leaking from is important to understand whether it can be fixed or whether it needs to be replaced.

 

The things to look out for are:

1. If the leak is from the bottom of the cylinder, or there is signs of rust, then this normally means that the internal workings are not great, and it’s time to think about a replacement. The leak is the first part of the visible signs that things aren’t well.

2. If the leak is from the taps/valves or the pipes, then this normally means that it is a simple problem that can be fixed by a qualified plumber and a replacement cylinder is not needed.

If however we get there and we find a leak and at the same the hot water cylinder is not heating the water, or it is just not heating the water as a single issue, then we call the electrician in and fix the thermostat or the temperature probe or anything else that could be associated with an electrical problem.

So to recap…

  • If the leak is from the bottom of the cylinder, it likely means a replacement.
  • If the leak is from the pipes or taps, it can typically be fixed.
  • If the water is not heating, we call in the electrician, and it can usually be fixed.

These are only general guidelines, and to get a proper assessment you can call us 0800 234 800 or send us your details and we’ll sort it out for you.

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How to choose a new hot water system

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When selecting a new hot water heating system for your home it is important to choose a water heater that will not only provide enough hot water for the entire family when they need it, but also one that it will do so in an energy efficient way, ultimately saving you money long term.  

Choosing the right energy source can have the biggest impact on your savings.  Often your chosen form of energy will also help narrow down your water heating options, as the types of fuel that are available in your area will determine where to begin your search, however there are a few other things to take into account. 

Here are five key things to consider when choosing a hot water heating system:

Annual Running Costs

How much is it likely to cost to heat your water using your chosen form of energy per year? 

The Purchase, Installation And Maintenance Costs

What will it cost you upfront to purchase the system, have it installed and are there any ongoing maintenance requirements?

Energy Efficiency

To maximize your energy and cost savings, you need to find out how energy efficient a water heating system is.  Many websites have good information on the energy efficiency ratings and saving for various hot water heating systems, the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority or EECA is a good place to start.

The Life Span

It is a good idea to source some reliable information regarding the expected lifespan of your selected hot water heating systems.  Sometimes systems are less likely to stand the test of time and may require budgeting for full or part replacements in the near future. 

How Much Hot Water You Need

Getting the correct sized water heating system will ensure you do not run out of hot water, and also maximise efficiency.  Consider how many people live in your household now and how many there may be in the future, as a general guide one person on average will use around 50 litres of hot water per day.

 

Choosing a new or replacement hot water heating system is one of the most important decisions you will make when it comes to long term cost benefits within your home.  Water heating costs generally make up about a third of your electricity bill; this is a large chunk of money and it makes sense to put some substantial thought into this decision to provide maximum cost and energy efficiency for the future.

 

Contact Pete and the team if you’d like a free assessment and advice!

 

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