Water flow 12L/min: too low for an ASHP?

QrizB

Reading the specs, that particular tank is for properties with an incoming flow rate of 12l/min or higher. Not the answer when you are on 10l/min.

That's fine for the OP, tough, as their flow has been measured at 12l/min.

Reed_Richards

On top of that, you also need space to install the thing, so not really an option for many people.

I see it as the modern-day replacement for a header tank in the loft; sealed and giving you more water flow/pressure. If you don't have a header tank, or don't have room for one, then I agree that this may well not help.

FreeBear

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/82117315#Comment_82117315

Had a closer read of the specs. Whilst recommended mains flow rate is 12l/min, maximum output flow rate is just 6l/min. So no good as a header tank replacement, or to satisfy Octopus's 12l/min requirement.

On top of that, a loft can drop below freezing during the winter, so insulation and possibly a trace heater may be needed.

Reed_Richards

The details of the Screwfix Accumulator Tank say:

Tank will deliver an additional 6Ltr/min to supplement the mains.

So if the mains alone can do 12 litres per minute, the Accumulator tank will boost that to 18 litres per minute (which would meet the requirement stated by Octopus).

I'm pretty sure you will be still be able to find lofts with a header tank that is neither insulated nor even covered but doing both would be a very wise precaution. The Accumulator Tank is part of a closed system so no need for a covering but suitable insulation would be required.

akwexavante

When mine was installed the surveyor didn't do a pressure test as such, he just opened up a tap at the kitchen sink and said "that's fine!".

My water pressure isn't great when i think about the pressure i had at my previous house where i lived and when a neighbour turns something on i know.

I had another property that i more or less rebuilt a few years ago now and the water pressure was appauling. I had it checked by Yorkshire Water who afterwards said that it was going to cost me several thousands if i wanted it putting right. I contacted a couple of small independant businesses about the issue and had it done for considerably less, but i had to pay Yorkshire Water a reconnection fee.

It was very much worthwhile doing, after weighing in the scrap lead it didn't cost much at all in the end.