Hot Water Systems

Hot Water System Commissioning

Hot water system commissioning is the final safety and performance check after a new installation or major repair. It confirms your cylinder and controls are set up correctly, protective devices operate as intended, and the system can deliver reliable hot water safely and efficiently.

More information

What hot water system commissioning covers

Commissioning is a structured set of checks and adjustments to make sure the system operates safely, meets manufacturer requirements, and performs as expected.

  • Visual inspection of the cylinder, pipework, valves and insulation
  • Checks for leaks, correct pipe sizing and sound connections
  • Verification of temperature and pressure controls
  • Testing of key safety devices (for example relief valves and discharge arrangements)
  • Confirmation that the system heats up correctly and recovers in a sensible time
  • Set-up of controls and guidance on day-to-day operation
  • Notes on findings and any remedial work needed to bring the system up to standard

When this service is most useful

Book commissioning if you have had a new cylinder fitted, a major component replaced, or repeated issues you want properly diagnosed.

Typical situations include:

  • New hot water cylinder installation (vented or unvented)
  • Replacement of immersion heaters, thermostats, valves or controls
  • Work on primary pipework, expansion vessels or pressure reducing valves
  • Hot water that runs out quickly, fluctuates in temperature, or is excessively hot
  • Relief valve discharge, pressure loss, or unexplained noises from the cylinder

How commissioning is delivered

The engineer will first confirm the type of system and its safety requirements, then run through a defined sequence of operational tests. Settings are adjusted to manufacturer specifications where possible, and any non-compliant or unsafe items are clearly explained.

For unvented hot water cylinders, commissioning is carried out by an appropriately qualified engineer and includes specific checks for pressure control and discharge pipework.

What happens after commissioning

You will receive clear feedback on what was tested, what was adjusted, and what to monitor. If any parts are worn, incorrectly fitted, or unsafe, you will be advised on the most practical repair options and the priority of each item to keep the system safe and dependable.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is hot water system commissioning?
Commissioning is the final set-up and safety check after a hot water system is installed or significantly repaired. It confirms the system runs correctly and that protective devices operate as intended. It also helps prevent avoidable faults and performance issues.
Do I need commissioning after a repair?
If the work involved key components like valves, immersions, thermostats, or pipework changes, commissioning is recommended. It verifies settings and safety operation and can highlight issues that would otherwise show up later as breakdowns or poor performance.
Can you commission an unvented hot water cylinder?
Yes, but it must be done by an engineer with the correct unvented hot water qualification. Unvented systems have specific safety requirements around pressure control and discharge pipework. Commissioning checks these items as well as general operation.
How long does commissioning take?
Timing depends on system type, access, and whether any faults are found during testing. Most appointments allow time for checks, adjustments, and running the system to confirm correct operation. If remedial work is needed, this may require a follow-up visit.
Will I get documentation or a handover?
You will get clear notes on what was checked, any settings changed, and any issues that need attention. For unvented systems, the relevant commissioning information can be recorded in line with manufacturer and compliance expectations. Keep this with your system documents for future servicing.

Related Services

Complete your experience with these services

  • Vented Hot Water Cylinder Replacement
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  • Vented Hot Water Cylinder Installation
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  • Unvented Cylinder Service
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  • Unvented Cylinder Replacement
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  • Unvented Cylinder Installation
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  • Temperature & Pressure Relief Valve Replacement
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  • Immersion Heater Installation
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  • Hot Water System Upgrade
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  • Hot Water Recirculation Pump Installation
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  • Hot Water Performance Investigation
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  • Hot Water Cylinder Leak Repair
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  • Expansion Vessel Replacement
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