Electric boilers are becoming an increasingly popular choice for home heating and hot water needs, offering a clean and efficient alternative to traditional gas-fired systems. However, the question of whether electric boilers require a water tank is a common one, and the answer can vary depending on the specific type of electric boiler being used.
Regular (Conventional) Electric Boilers
Regular electric boilers, also known as conventional electric boilers, do require a water tank or storage cylinder to store hot water for later use. These boilers work by heating water and then storing it in a separate tank, which is then distributed throughout the home as needed. The size of the water tank required will depend on the hot water demands of the household, with larger tanks typically needed for homes with higher hot water usage.
Electric Combi Boilers
In contrast to regular electric boilers, electric combi boilers do not require a separate water tank. These boilers are designed to heat water on demand, providing both central heating and hot water directly from the mains water supply. This eliminates the need for a dedicated hot water storage cylinder, making electric combi boilers a more compact and space-saving option for many homes.
Electric System Boilers
Electric system boilers are another type of electric boiler that do not require a cold water feed tank. Instead, these boilers use an unvented cylinder to store hot water, taking their water supply directly from the mains. This makes electric system boilers more compact and efficient than traditional boiler systems, as they do not require the additional space and plumbing required for a separate cold water tank.
Electric Storage Boilers
Electric storage boilers, on the other hand, do come with a built-in hot water tank, allowing them to store hot water for later use. These boilers are designed to take advantage of the Economy 7 tariff, which offers discounted electricity rates during off-peak hours, helping to reduce energy bills for homeowners.
Dry Core Storage Boilers
Dry core storage boilers are a unique type of electric boiler that work differently from the other models. These boilers heat the bricks or thermal mass within the home during the night, when electricity rates are lower. The heat stored in the bricks is then released into the water tank, which can be used for both hot water and central heating. Like electric storage boilers, dry core storage boilers can also benefit from the Economy 7 tariff.
Technical Specifications
When it comes to the technical specifications of electric boilers, there are a few key factors to consider:
Power Requirements:
– Electric boilers can range in power from 6 kW to 40 kW, with higher-powered models capable of providing more hot water and central heating.
Water Storage:
– The size of the water tank required for an electric boiler will depend on the hot water demands of the household. As a general rule of thumb, the tank should be able to hold at least one unit of water per bath.
Installation:
– Replacing a gas boiler with an electric boiler can be a complex process, depending on the type of boiler and its location within the home. It’s important to consult with a qualified professional to ensure a safe and efficient installation.
In summary, while some electric boilers do require a water tank, others, such as electric combi boilers and electric system boilers, do not. The specific needs will depend on the type of electric boiler being used and the hot water requirements of the home. By understanding the different types of electric boilers and their technical specifications, homeowners can make an informed decision about the best option for their heating and hot water needs.
References:
1. https://trianco.co.uk/blog/does-an-electric-boiler-need-a-water-tank
2. https://www.greenmatch.co.uk/boilers/electric
3. https://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?f=207&h=0&t=2066868
4. https://www.theecoexperts.co.uk/boilers/electric-boiler-guide