Homily Magazine

Water heating is never much of a problem in homes where there is low water usage. A combi-boiler is usually satisfactory and if the home is big then a system boiler and a storage cylinder proves to be worthy. This type of system can work fine in smaller homes. The complications only arise when the house is bigger.

Nowadays many houses have more than one bathroom. Other types of buildings to be taken into consideration are commercial buildings. Commercial buildings often prove to be quite valuable in providing profit to the heating installer.

The most obvious solution to many in these scenarios would be to take a simple upsizing approach and fit a bigger storage cylinder.

However, there are alternative options available to the consumer. These options will lead to better happiness for the consumer and the installer.

Continuous-flow water heating technology

This type of technology is called continuous-flow water heating. In previous years, many of us were used to cheap gas and we did not have to worry about expensive water heating as insulation standards were low. Therefore we did not even have to worry about taking care in design and the installation process.

Nowadays due to better insulation standards, it is bringing lower heat requirements to the point where year-round heating consumption is about equal to, or even below the DHW requirement. Another factor to take into consideration is that building regulations improvements over the next few years make the economics of water heating even more important.

Changing desires amongst consumers

Changing needs and wants for hot water are also making an impact amongst consumers. A leading manufacturer conducted a survey asking about requirements for customer’s next bathroom. Many of the answers that were given back included the need for a better water service.

In the survey it was outlined that many desired more power in the showers, walk in showers, bigger baths, and separate showers. It has become quite apparent from the survey that consumers are very willing to invest a lot of time and money on the bathroom they want.

However, consumers have high expectations which can fail as they do not consider whether their water and heating system will actually be able to deliver the service. It is important to note that combis and a two shower and bath home cannot cope, particularly during the winter season.

A four person household would put immense pressure on the water usage. A lot of water will get used during the morning rush hour and it is likely that the washing machine and the dishwasher will also be on the go.

The problems do not just stop there. It is even more problematic with commercial buildings. For example, imagine if the hot water supply runs out in a small hotel or nursing home. This could lead to fatal results for the entire business.

There are some manufacturers that can provide a solution to these potential problems. One model is a fanned-flued wall mounted appliance. The main feature is that it can deliver up to 54kWh directly into water with a controlled system that ensures that the water temperature remains within the” of the required flow whatever other demands are made for hot water.

As water supplies are higher than ever before, it’s time to look for a modern solution.

Tal Potishman, editor of Heating Central, writes articles about central heating, boilers, plumber Bootle, underfloor heating and solar thermal. He specializes in helping save money by advising on efficient heating.