Mains Pressure & Low Pressure – What’s the difference?
Many homes have hot water created by a hot water cylinder. The cylinder is usually stored in a cupboard and you don’t take much notice of it as long as it does what it’s supposed to do – create hot water.
You may only start to question the type of cylinder you have when it comes time to replace it. Maybe it’s leaking or just old and worn out. Your plumber advises you what type of cylinder you have and your options for replacement. But what do mains and low pressure mean? What’s the difference between the two? Is one better than the other?
This blog will explain the differences and help you decide which cylinder is right for you.
Mains Pressure:
The Mains Pressure hot water cylinder is becoming more and more common. While initially more expensive to purchase, they are far easier to use.
Mains pressure means that the hot water pressure is similar to the cold water pressure that enters the home. The water pressure is strong and consistent throughout your home and adjusting the temperature is easy.
Because mains pressure delivers hot water at a higher pressure, it means that you don’t need to deal with hot water dribbling out of the taps! The other added benefit is that there’s no need to plan your showers around other taps being used. Someone needs to wash their hands? No problem! There won’t be a blast of scolding hot water on its way!
Low Pressure:
The Low Pressure hot water cylinder was once the most common cylinder in New Zealand. Some of these old cylinders have lasted the test of time, but they can be difficult to use and produce low hot water pressure.
Low Pressure cylinders need to be vented. If you aren’t sure if you have one, check for a pipe penetrating through your roof or over a gully trap. It’s important to know that these vents are meant to drip at regular intervals, this relieves the pressure inside the cylinder. If you suspect it is leaking far more than it needs to, the best option is to get a Plumber to have a look and advise you.
Because the hot water pressure from these cylinders is low and the cold water pressure that enters your home is much higher, it makes achieving an even temperature difficult. I’m sure we have all experienced the water in the shower going from freezing to boiling with only a slight turn of the shower mixer! The same is true for all other tapware in the home, this issue can be frustrating.
Some tapware brands like Felton and Methven, have created tapware specifically designed for low pressure systems. They work by restricting the flow of cold water, making it more even with the hot water and therefore making the temperature easier to adjust. The only issue is that it reduces the overall water pressure.
If we simplify the cylinders even further, it is easy to see the difference:
Mains Pressure – Mains hot water pressure
Low Pressure – Low hot water pressure
Deciding between the two will ultimately come down to cost and performance. If you want the cheapest option then low pressure will work for you, if you don’t mind the difficulty controlling the temperature and the lower water pressure.
If you want even water temperature and no reduction in pressure, then mains pressure is the way to go!
If you are still unsure and would like to talk to someone about your options, give the team at Magenta Industries a call. We welcome all enquiries and will help you make the right choice for you.
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