Unvented Cylinders

At Went's Heating Services Ltd, we specialise in unvented cylinder installation, servicing, and repairs across Shropshire, Powys, and Herefordshire, delivering powerful, consistent hot water throughout your home.

Our Gas Safe registered engineers are fully qualified to work with unvented systems, providing professional installation of new cylinders, mandatory annual servicing, and expert repairs when issues arise. We work with all leading brands and models, ensuring your hot water system meets the highest standards of performance and safety.

We offer comprehensive unvented cylinder services with transparent pricing, expert advice, and workmanship you can trust. Experience superior water pressure and efficient hot water delivery with our specialist unvented cylinder solutions.

Unvented Cylinder Specialists

At Went's Heating Services Ltd, we've developed specialised expertise in unvented hot water systems. These modern, efficient cylinders offer significant advantages over traditional vented systems, but require specific qualifications and experience to install and maintain properly.

Our unvented cylinder services include:

Professional installation of new unvented cylinders
Annual safety checks and servicing
Diagnostic testing and expert repairs
System upgrades and replacements
Comprehensive safety certification

Understanding Unvented Cylinders

Unvented cylinders offer several significant advantages for modern homes:

Superior Water Pressure

Unlike vented systems that rely on gravity, unvented cylinders operate at mains pressure, delivering powerful showers and fast-filling baths throughout your property. This high-pressure performance means you can enjoy consistent water flow even when multiple taps are in use simultaneously.

Space-Saving Design

Unvented systems eliminate the need for cold water storage tanks in your loft, freeing up valuable space and reducing the risk of frozen pipes in cold weather. The streamlined design means all components are contained within a single cylinder unit, typically installed in an airing cupboard or utility room.

Improved Water Quality

Water is drawn directly from the mains supply rather than being stored in a tank where dust and debris can accumulate. This results in fresher, cleaner hot water for bathing, washing, and kitchen use, improving your overall water quality experience.

Energy Efficiency

Modern unvented cylinders feature high-grade insulation that minimises heat loss, keeping water hot for longer periods and reducing energy consumption. Many systems can also integrate seamlessly with renewable energy sources like solar panels for even greater efficiency.

Our Unvented Cylinder Services

We provide comprehensive services for all aspects of unvented cylinder systems:

1. Expert Installation

Our installation service includes:

Detailed home assessment to determine optimal system size and type
Clear explanation of suitable options and configurations
Professional installation by qualified G3 certified engineers
Integration with existing heating systems
Full commissioning and safety certification

2. Annual Servicing

Unvented cylinders require annual servicing by law. Our comprehensive service includes:

Inspection and testing of all safety devices
Checking pressure relief valves and expansion vessels
Testing temperature controls and thermostats
Inspection for signs of corrosion or leaks
Issue of safety certificate for insurance purposes

3. Professional Repairs

When problems arise, our repair service provides:

Accurate diagnostics to identify faults
Expert repairs using manufacturer-approved parts
Replacement of faulty components including PRVs, expansion vessels, and immersion heaters
System descaling and cleaning
Full safety testing following any repair work

4. System Upgrades

Looking to improve your hot water system? We offer:

Replacement of outdated vented systems with modern unvented cylinders
Upgrades to larger capacity cylinders for growing households
Integration with renewable energy sources
Addition of digital controls and smart technology
Comprehensive advice on the most efficient solutions

Safety First Approach

Unvented cylinders operate under high pressure and temperature, making safety our absolute priority. All our engineers hold the required G3 unvented hot water qualification and follow rigorous safety protocols including:

Comprehensive testing of all pressure and temperature relief valves
Verification of expansion vessel function and pressure
Inspection of electrical components and immersion heaters
Assessment of discharge pipes and tundish configuration
Detailed documentation and certification of all safety checks

FAQs

What is an unvented cylinder and how does it differ from a vented system?

An unvented cylinder stores hot water under mains pressure without requiring a cold water storage tank in the loft. Unlike traditional vented systems that rely on gravity for water flow, unvented cylinders deliver water at mains pressure throughout your home, providing better shower pressure and faster-filling baths. They're more compact, efficient, and deliver consistently high water pressure to all outlets simultaneously.

How often does an unvented cylinder need servicing?

By law, unvented cylinders must be serviced annually by a qualified engineer with G3 certification. This annual check ensures all safety components are functioning correctly, including pressure relief valves, expansion vessels, and temperature controls. Regular servicing is essential for safety, efficient operation, and to maintain your home insurance validity and manufacturer warranties.

What size unvented cylinder do I need?

The right cylinder size depends on your household's hot water demands. As a general guide, we recommend: 120-150 litres for 1-2 person households, 150-180 litres for 3-4 person households, and 180-300 litres for larger families. Other factors affecting sizing include the number of bathrooms, typical usage patterns, and whether you have high-demand fixtures like power showers or large baths. We'll assess your specific needs during our home survey.

What are the common problems with unvented cylinders?

Common issues include discharge from pressure relief valves (often due to expansion vessel faults), water temperature fluctuations (typically thermostat or control problems), unusual noises (possibly limescale build-up), reduced pressure (potentially blockages or valve issues), and leaks (which may indicate seal failures or corrosion). Many problems can be prevented through regular servicing and prompt attention to minor issues before they escalate.

How long do unvented cylinders last?

A quality unvented cylinder typically lasts 20-25 years when properly maintained. Stainless steel models generally offer better longevity than copper alternatives, with some premium models carrying lifetime guarantees against cylinder corrosion. Regular annual servicing is crucial for maximising lifespan, as it ensures safety components remain functional and identifies potential issues before they cause significant damage.

Are unvented cylinders safe?

Yes, unvented cylinders are completely safe when installed and maintained by qualified professionals. They include multiple built-in safety features such as temperature relief valves, pressure relief valves, and expansion vessels to manage pressure safely. The legal requirement for annual servicing by G3 qualified engineers ensures these safety systems remain functional. All our engineers hold the necessary qualifications and follow strict safety protocols.

How much does unvented cylinder installation cost?

Installation costs typically range from £1,200 to £2,500, depending on the cylinder size, brand, complexity of installation, and whether it's a replacement or new system. This includes the cylinder unit, all necessary valves and safety components, installation labour, and commissioning. We provide detailed, transparent quotes following a home assessment, with no hidden costs or surprises.

Unvented Cylinder Specialists in Shropshire

Transform your hot water experience with our expert unvented cylinder solutions.

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