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Finding the right cylinder for your heat pump

Finding the right cylinder to pair with your heat pump is crucial for maximising efficiency and comfort in your home. At Vaillant, we understand that choosing the perfect match can seem daunting. We’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Cylinder in a kitchen cupboard
Cylinder in a kitchen cupboard

Enjoy reliable hot water What is a hot water cylinder?

A hot water cylinder (also known as a hot water tank) is an essential component of a home's heating system, designed to store hot water for later use. Unlike instantaneous water heaters, these cylinders keep a reserve of hot water, ensuring it's available whenever you need it. With options like vented and unvented cylinders, you can choose the best fit for your plumbing setup, ensuring efficient and reliable hot water access for your household.

installer showing two homeowners something on his phone

Why the right hot water cylinder matters

Your heat pump works hard to warm your home and keep your water hot. However, without the right type of cylinder, you may not get the best performance from your system. A heat pump cylinder, also known as a high recovery cylinder, ensures your heating system runs efficiently.

Why do I need a hot water cylinder with a heat pump?

Like a domestic gas boiler, all types of heat pump (air source, ground source and water source heat pumps) require a hot water cylinder. The heat pump cylinder works as a thermal store, efficiently storing the heat generated from your heat pump. This ensures you have a steady supply of hot water when you need it, even during busy times.

Using a cylinder will not only enhance the performance of your heat pump but also reduce energy consumption. A well-matched cylinder helps maintain optimal operating conditions for your heat pump. This helps to extend its lifespan and provide reliable heating and hot water for years to come.

Types of cylinders

If you’re in the process of having a new heat pump system installed, there are four types of cylinders to consider, each with its own benefits. Your installer will be able to advise you on the best option for you and your home, but here are the main options:

  • Unvented cylinders

    These are perfect for homes with high hot water demand. This cylinder type delivers stable water pressure and installs almost anywhere in your home. With its sealed design, there's no need for a cold water storage tank.

  • Vented cylinders

    These are ideal if you have a traditional heating system with a cold water tank in the loft. They’re reliable and straightforward, making them a popular choice for many homes.

  • Thermal stores

    These cylinders store heat and can supply both your heating and hot water needs. They’re versatile and can work with multiple heat sources, including your heat pump.

  • Buffer tanks

    These are used to store excess heat generated by your heat pump. They help to balance the system, ensuring that your heat pump operates efficiently even during peak demand.

Watch our video 'what is an unvented cylinder' to learn more information.

Do I need a specific cylinder with heat pump system?

Regardless of whether you have an air source heat pump, ground source or water source, all cylinder types will be compatible. However, you need to make sure you have the correct size based on your heating system and your requirements. your installer should be able to provide guidance.

If you're upgrading from a system boiler to a heat pump, you’re likely to have a boiler cylinder already in place. However, it might not be suitable if you’re having a heat pump installed.

High recovery cylinders, like the uniSTOR ranges from Vaillant, are perfect for handling the lower temperatures of these systems. Their larger coils provide more surface area, ensuring faster heat dissipation. This means you benefit from faster heater times, whether your hot water cylinder is part of your boiler or system, whilst also reducing your energy bills.

Hot water cylinder

uniSTOR slimline cylinders

High recovery cylinder range

four uniSTOR cylinders
  • Highly efficient solution when installed with a Vaillant heat pump, system boiler or open vent boiler
  • Slimline design to maximise the space in your home
  • Provides consistent hot water throughout your home
  • Control hot water demand on the go with myVAILLANT app
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Choosing the right cylinder size

The size of your cylinder is just as important as the type. You need a cylinder that can meet your household’s hot water needs without wasting energy. Here’s a quick guide:

  1. For small households (1-2 people)

    A 90-150 litre cylinder should suffice.

  2. For medium households (3-4 people)

    Look for a 175-200 litre cylinder.

  3. For large households (5+ people)

    Consider a 210-300 litre cylinder.

How to look after my hot water cylinder?

1
Regularly check for leaks

Keep an eye out for any signs of water around your cylinder. Early detection prevents bigger issues.

2
Insulate the cylinder pipework

When installed, ensure the pipework is insulated well is you don’t lose any heat.

3
Schedule annual maintenance

Have a professional inspect your cylinder yearly to ensure optimal performance in the long term, as well as maintain the guarantee.

4
Bleed the air

Sometimes, air gets trapped in your system. Bleeding it ensures highly efficient operation and consistent hot water. Always let a professional heating engineer handle this process.

How to look after my hot water cylinder?

1 / 4
1. Regularly check for leaks 2. Insulate the cylinder pipework 3. Schedule annual maintenance 4. Bleed the air

Keep an eye out for any signs of water around your cylinder. Early detection prevents bigger issues.

When installed, ensure the pipework is insulated well is you don’t lose any heat.

Have a professional inspect your cylinder yearly to ensure optimal performance in the long term, as well as maintain the guarantee.

Sometimes, air gets trapped in your system. Bleeding it ensures highly efficient operation and consistent hot water. Always let a professional heating engineer handle this process.

We have a network of Vaillant installers across the country who are on hand to answer any questions you may have about your cylinder.

man showing a homeowner a heating control on the wall

What else do I need with a heat pump system?

Alongside your heat pump and hot water cylinder, you will also require a heating control to help manage your heating your home and hot water needs.

Installing a heating control puts you in command, allowing you to set precise temperatures and schedules around your lifestyle. This not only boosts efficiency but also keeps your home warm and ensures you have hot water when you need it.

With smart controls, you can adjust settings remotely using a mobile app, such as the myVAILLANT app, giving you peace of mind and saving on energy costs. Take control of your comfort and efficiency with a heating control.

Expert advice for perfect heat

View the uniSTOR cylinder Speak to an expert

Discover energy efficient heating

  1. TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR HEATING

    Choosing the best heating control for you and your home

    Read here
  2. SWITCHING TO A HEAT PUMP

    Is my home suitable for a heat pump?

    Read here
  3. Financial boost with government-backed heat pump support.

    What is the Boiler Upgrade Scheme?

    Read here