Unvented Cylinder Upgrade Norfolk | Martham Case Study

An unvented cylinder upgrade in Norfolk can transform your hot water system and solve persistent pressure problems. EPH Services recently completed this work in Martham, transforming a customer’s hot water system that had suffered from poor water pressure for years. Our team replaced the old vented cylinder with a modern unvented system and installed a 200-litre Global accumulator to deliver consistent, mains-pressure hot water throughout the home.

The challenge: years of poor water pressure

The customer in Martham had endured inadequate hot water pressure for years. Traditional vented cylinder systems rely on gravity to deliver water, which often results in weak flow rates, especially in homes with low header tanks or multiple floors. Showers lack power, taps run slowly, and filling a bath becomes a lengthy wait.

Our general plumbing team assessed the existing system and recommended a complete upgrade to an unvented cylinder setup, delivering mains-pressure hot water to every outlet in the property.

The unvented cylinder upgrade in Norfolk: installation details

Gary and Rhys carried out the full system upgrade, which included:

• Removing the old vented cylinder and associated cold-water storage tank
• Installing a new unvented hot water cylinder
• Fitting a 200-litre Global accumulator to stabilise and even out mains water pressure
• Running new copper pipework to integrate the system safely and efficiently
• Installing all necessary safety controls, including pressure relief valves and expansion vessels, in line with G3 Building Regulations

Unvented cylinders are sealed systems that take water directly from the mains supply. The addition of the Global accumulator ensures consistent pressure even when multiple taps or showers are running simultaneously, preventing the pressure drops that frustrate many households.

Why upgrade to an unvented cylinder system?

Unvented hot water cylinders offer several advantages over traditional vented systems. They deliver mains-pressure hot water to every tap and shower, eliminating the need for pumps in most cases. They also free up loft space by removing the need for a cold-water storage tank.

The accumulator plays a key role in properties where mains pressure fluctuates or where peak demand—such as morning showers and kitchen use—can cause pressure to drop. By storing pressurised water and releasing it smoothly, the accumulator ensures a consistent, powerful flow throughout the day.

All unvented cylinder installations must be carried out by G3-qualified engineers to meet Building Regulations. Our team holds the necessary accreditations to design, install and service these systems safely across Norfolk.

Frequently asked questions

What is an unvented cylinder?

An unvented cylinder is a sealed hot water storage system that connects directly to the mains water supply, delivering high-pressure hot water without the need for a header tank or pump.

What does an accumulator do?

A water accumulator stores mains-pressure water and releases it smoothly to prevent pressure drops when multiple outlets are used at once, ensuring consistent flow throughout the property.

Do I need special qualifications to install an unvented cylinder?

Yes. Unvented cylinder installations must be carried out by G3-qualified engineers to comply with Building Regulations and ensure all safety controls are correctly fitted.

Can an unvented cylinder work with a heat pump or boiler?

Yes. Unvented cylinders are compatible with gas and oil boilers, electric immersion heaters, and renewable heating systems including air source heat pumps and solar thermal.

Expert plumbing and heating across Norfolk

If you’re experiencing poor water pressure, lukewarm showers or unreliable hot water in Martham or anywhere across Norfolk, our team can help. EPH Services specialises in unvented cylinder installations, system upgrades and all aspects of general plumbing and heating. Get in touch today for a no-obligation quote and let us restore comfort and performance to your home.