Need a new electric boiler advice

htra148

Jalexa,

Yes I meant not possible to install a discharge pipe.

The first plumber just called me and explained that he could install an unvented cylinder in my flat as he could use the overflow pipe. Can the overflow pipe be used as a discharge pipe?

Thanks,

Tra

jalexa

htra148 wrote: »

The first plumber just called me and explained that he could install an unvented cylinder in my flat as he could use the overflow pipe. Can the overflow pipe be used as a discharge pipe?

Almost certainly NOT. An unvented system discharge pipe requires to be a certain diameter and of metallic construction (because it must be capable of handling boiling hot water). It must also discharge in a "safe place".

Installing unvented systems requires a specific plumbing competence something the first plumber has not displayed.

Q: is there a bath in your flat?

htra148

I have a bath but I normally use shower.

C_Mababejive

Perhaps you could post a pic of said boiler and then all will be clear..

By the way,being male isnt a per-requisite for knowledge on engineering matters..;)

jalexa

htra148 wrote: »

I have a bath but I normally use shower.

There really isn't easy advice to give a householder because this is not an easy i.e. cheap problem to solve.

If the flat has a bath it is probably in the property interests to install a hot water system to fill a bath (regardless of your mainly shower usage). That probably requires storage. Shower, sink and wash hand basin doesn't require a storage solution.

If you go for storage the technical issue is how to get hot water pressure. Requires a header tank just below the ceiling or mains pressure either in an unvented system or a thermal store.

My strong advice is to avoid unvented if you are not knowledgeable about plumbing (though it can be a technically good, if a tad expensive, solution). The safety devices require regular checks to remain safe, otherwise "boom". I have a Megaflo unvented system and the expansion space requires recharging every few months.

That leaves you with a header tank (or vented combi cylinder incorporating a header tank), perhaps with pumping (though with pumping very careful system design is required), or a thermal store. Thermal stores are fine but as you say not so common and more for "plumbing enthusiasts" or special situations.

Will try to help with any specific questions.