Hot Water Systems

Unvented Cylinder Service

An unvented cylinder service is an annual safety and performance check for your pressurised hot water system. It helps reduce the risk of leaks, loss of pressure, poor temperature control and safety device failure, while keeping your system running efficiently and reliably.

More information

What an unvented cylinder service covers

A proper service focuses on safety devices first, then performance and reliability. Depending on your cylinder model and installation, your service may include:

  • Visual inspection of the cylinder, pipework and controls for leaks, corrosion and heat damage
  • Checks of key safety components (temperature and pressure relief, expansion relief and associated discharge pipework)
  • Testing and setting of pressures where applicable, and checks of the pressure reducing valve and line strainer
  • Assessment of the expansion vessel or internal air gap arrangement
  • Checks of thermostats, immersion heater controls and hot water temperature stability
  • Inspection of motorised valves, check valves and associated fittings around the unvented kit
  • System performance checks, plus fault diagnosis where symptoms have been reported
  • Clear service notes and recommendations for any repairs or parts that are nearing end of life

When this service is most relevant

This service is a good fit if your cylinder is due its annual check, if you are a landlord managing safety responsibilities, or if you have noticed issues like fluctuating temperature, dripping tundish, banging pipework, reduced hot water flow, or frequent pressure changes. It is also sensible after a property purchase, a period of vacancy, or any recent works to the hot water system.

What to expect during the visit

You can expect a structured, safety-led approach. The engineer will isolate water and power as needed, inspect the installation, then test and verify the operation of the safety devices and controls. If you have specific symptoms, these will be checked during the visit, and you will be told what has been found and what needs doing next before any additional work goes ahead.

After the service

You will receive a clear summary of results and any actions to keep the system safe and dependable. If parts are worn or failing, you will be advised on repair options and likely timescales. Many clients use the annual service as a prompt to schedule future checks, keep records for compliance, and avoid unexpected loss of hot water.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should an unvented cylinder be serviced?
Most unvented cylinders should be serviced annually to maintain safety and reliable performance. Annual checks can also support manufacturer warranty requirements and good maintenance records.
Do you need a certified engineer to service an unvented cylinder?
Yes, unvented hot water systems must be worked on by an engineer with the correct unvented qualification (G3). This is because the system is pressurised and includes safety devices that must be checked correctly.
What if you find a fault during the service?
You will be told what has failed, what the safety impact is, and what repair options are available. If parts are needed, you can agree next steps and timings before any extra work is carried out.
How long does an unvented cylinder service take?
Many services take around an hour, but it depends on access, cylinder type, and whether fault diagnosis is required. If repairs are needed, these may take additional time or a return visit.
Will I be without water or power during the service?
There may be short periods where the cold water feed and electrical supply to the cylinder are isolated for safe testing. Any disruption is kept to a minimum, and you will be talked through what is happening.

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