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Hot Water Cylinders
Hot water cylinders in New Zealand are made from different materials and provide three types of pressure depending on your water supply and usage requirements. You must use a licensed plumber to install a hot water cylinder.
Call us if you need your hot water cylinder repaired, replaced or if you are building a new home.
Types of hot water cylinders
Enamel
Enamel lined or vitreous enamel cylinders are common in New Zealand and provide low through to mains pressure hot water. They are easy to install and can last up to twenty years.
Copper
Copper cylinders have a longer life expectancy than enamel cylinders and can store large volumes of hot water at low cost. They also integrate well with wetbacks and solar heating systems. However, copper cylinders are not suitable for certain types of modern tapware.
Stainless steel
Stainless steel cylinders are the best units available and offer all the advantages of other cylinders with a longer life expectancy of up to 50 years. Their only drawback can be a higher running cost.
Hot water pressure
Low and medium pressure systems
Low and medium pressure tanks use open vented systems which have a cold water storage tank or an open vent to provide pressure, or where your plumber has installed a pressure reducing valve to lower mains pressure water supplies.
These types of systems use less water, generally require less maintenance and are usually more energy efficient when storing water at high temperatures. They have the disadvantages of giving you less choice for compatible tapware and provide poorer shower performance.
Mains pressure systems
Mains pressure systems are the most popular choice for most people in New Zealand. They have a working pressure equal to your incoming water supply. The pressure can be reduced to your preferred level with pressure reducing valves.
These systems use more water, but offer the best performance for showers and other hot water appliances in the home. They also give you the biggest choice for mixers and tapware throughout your home, but may require more maintenance.
Alternatives to electric cylinders
Depending where you live, you might want to consider alternative hot water systems like gas. We’re registered gas fitters, so can help you choose and install the best system for your location and lifestyle.