What Is A Direct And Indirect Hot Water Cylinder?
A direct hot water cylinder heats the water inside the tank by using heat sources such as an electric immersion heater which is physically located in the cylinder tank. This type of plumbing heating system is generally located in areas where there is no access to gas, especially in upper-level flats or apartments. At times, you will find a direct hot water cylinder that has two immersion heaters, thus reducing the overall running costs and enabling you to take advantage of off-peak energy tariffs.
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What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Direct Hot Water Cylinders?
Advantages of a direct cylinder: The major advantage of a direct water heater is that it is run on electricity. It is not dependent on a boiler to heat the water. An added advantage is that the immersion elements can be installed easily and are generally convenient to run.
Disadvantages of a direct cylinder: If you have a large property or lots of people using a hot water cylinder, your electricity bill will be slightly on the expensive side when it comes to heating your water.
What is an Indirect Hot Water Cylinder?
An indirect hot water cylinder makes use of an external energy source, such as a solar thermal system or a traditional central heating boiler. A coil or heat exchanger is used to transfer the heat energy into the cylinder, thereby 'indirectly' heating the hot water. In case the primary energy source fails or becomes unavailable, a few indirect hot water cylinders come with an electric immersion heater to act as a backup. Depending on your project requirements, a direct or indirect cylinder can be incorporated into vented and unvented cylinders as well.
How does an indirect hot water cylinder work?
An external source, such as an oil or gas boiler, is used to heat the water in the cylinder. The heated water is then pumped from the heat source around the cylinder's internal coil (heat exchanger). In this manner, the water inside the cylinder is heated indirectly and comes out of your taps.
What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Direct Hot Water Cylinders?
Advantages of an indirect cylinder: An indirect hot water cylinder is a more efficient option for many households, even if a storage tank is required. To make it more cost-effective, use an indirect water heater in conjunction with an economical boiler and well-insulated tank. It will work out as a financially savvy means of supplying your house with hot water.
Disadvantages of an indirect cylinder: Fully relying on an external source can be dangerous! If your boiler fails, you might end up without any hot water. If you have an electric shower, it's probably okay, but if you have a large household with frequent usage of hot water, then it may be an issue if something goes wrong with your boiler.
