Understanding your
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Here is a brief overview of basic system designs - if you find all of this rather baffling - dont worry we are hear to help and advise. Everyone has different needs and priorities and we can help you to choose the best system for your individual lifestyle
Conventional Central Heating System 1Uses hot water cylinder filled via a cold water storage tank
Radiators filled via a small header tank This is a classic design still in common use 
ADVANTAGES Very simple and reliable Copes well when working with low cold water pressure and flow Warm airing cupboard Can be converted to run solar thermal hot water Multiple bathrooms may be run from this system if the size of cylinder and tanks are increased DISADVANTAGES There is a need to preheat water Require additional space for tanks Hot water pressure restricted by height of cold water tank |
Conventional Central Heating System 2Uses hot water cylinder filled via a cold water storage tank
Radiators are filled via mains pressure cold water and sealed via a small pressure vessel 
ADVANTAGES Very simple and reliable Copes well when working with low cold water pressure and flow Warm airing cupboard Central heating system does not require header tank thus saving space and increasing efficiency Can be converted to run solar thermal hot water Multiple bathrooms may be run from this system if the size of cylinder and tanks are increased DISADVANTAGES There is a need to preheat water Require additional space for tank Hot water pressure restricted by height of cold water tank |
Unvented Central Heating and Hot Water SystemThis uses a hot water cylinder with the hot water on mains pressure
No cold water tanks are used 
ADVANTAGES No cold water tanks required Warm airing cupboard Central heating system does not require header tank thus saving space and increasing efficiency Can be converted to run solar thermal hot water Mains pressure hot water to all taps and showers [limited by mains pressure to property] A good space saving option Enables mains pressure hot water showering DISADVANTAGES There is a need to preheat water Relies on good mains water pressure and flow [ some older properties may experience problems with this due to low water pressure] Limited number of hot water taps may be used at any one time due to mains cold water pressure |
Combination BoilerThis system requires no hot water cylinder or water tanks This is ideal for some - but not everyone
ADVANTAGES Most space saving option No need for hot water cylinder or cold water tanks Can be the most efficient way to heat hot water if fitted in correct location No pre-heating of water required Constant hot water when hot water tap in use Most suited to small families and people living alone Enables mains pressure hot water showering DISADVANTAGES Restricted to 1or 2 taps at any one time dependent upon cold mains water pressure Not recommended for large families or multiple bathroom use Simultaneous use of central heating and hot water will not be possible *Not suitable for connecting to conventional solar thermal [*this is possible by installing a hot water cylinder] |
