A water tank (also called a hot water cylinder) works with a regular or conventional boiler to provide a stored supply of hot water for your home. The boiler heats water, which is then transferred and stored in the tank until needed.
Here's a breakdown of how they function together:
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Boiler Heats Water: The boiler heats water using a fuel source like natural gas, propane, or heating oil.
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Hot Water Transfer: The heated water from the boiler is then pumped to the hot water tank.
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Tank Storage: The hot water tank is an insulated container designed to retain the heat of the water. This allows you to have a ready supply of hot water on demand, even when the boiler isn't actively heating.
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Gravity Feed (Traditional Systems): In older systems, a cold water storage tank (often in the attic) uses gravity to feed cold water into the hot water cylinder. The hot water rises to the top of the tank and is drawn from there when a hot water tap is opened.
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Thermostat Control: A thermostat on the hot water tank monitors the water temperature. When the temperature drops below a set point, the boiler is signaled to heat more water and replenish the tank.
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Hot Water on Demand: When you turn on a hot water tap, hot water is drawn from the top of the tank, and cold water enters the bottom to replenish the supply.
Simplified Example:
Imagine the boiler as a kettle and the water tank as a thermos. The kettle (boiler) heats the water, and you pour it into the thermos (water tank) to keep it hot until you need it.
Key Components in a Conventional Boiler & Hot Water Tank System:
| Component | Function |
|---|---|
| Boiler | Heats the water |
| Hot Water Tank (Cylinder) | Stores the hot water for later use |
| Cold Water Feed Tank | Supplies cold water to the hot water cylinder (in older, gravity-fed systems) |
| Thermostat | Monitors and regulates water temperature |
| Pump | Circulates water between the boiler and the hot water tank |
In summary, the water tank stores hot water produced by the boiler, providing a readily available supply for taps and showers throughout your home.
