Introduction
We think great plumbing should be hassle free day to day. For this Henley in Arden home we worked with the owners to replace a tired gravity fed cylinder and shower pump with a quiet, high performance hot water system that serves two bathrooms – without the compromises.
Project Overview
Brief: Improve whole house water pressure and hot water performance for two bathrooms, no shower pump.
Scope of works (planned and executed together):
- Decommissioned the existing copper, gravity fed cylinder (with shower pump).
- Upgraded the incoming cold water main to 22 mm for more flow.
- Installed a 200 litre unvented hot water cylinder and converted the heating to a sealed system.
- Renewed sections of existing pipework where required and rationalised services for future maintenance.
- Removed the shower pump and balanced the system at mains pressure.
Materials & Why They Matter
- Ideal Instinct 200-litre stainless-steel unvented cylinder Provides mains-pressure hot water with fast recovery—ideal for simultaneous use in two bathrooms.
- 22 mm incoming main & balanced cold manifold Ensures the hot and cold supplies are both strong and stable, improving flow at outlets and reducing temperature fluctuations when multiple taps run.
- Sealed heating system components (system expansion vessel, pressure relief, gauge, filling arrangement) Improves system efficiency, reduces air ingress and future corrosion risk, and helps maintain consistent radiator performance.
- Safety & control set (pressure reducing valve where required, check valves, tundish & G3-compliant discharge pipework) Ensures the installation operates safely and in line with Building Regulations and manufacturer guidance.
Why we chose an Ideal Instinct unvented cylinder (200 L)
Built from duplex stainless steel with high-density foam insulation, the Ideal Instinct range provides reliable, mains-pressure hot water for multi-bathroom homes. The 200 L model we fitted works perfectly with a sealed heating system, rapid recovery, stable flow and quiet operation throughout the property.
Engineered for performance & compliance
The Instinct package includes a full G3-compliant safety and control set—combination inlet group with PRV and balanced cold take-off, potable expansion vessel, temperature & pressure relief valve, dual control thermostat/overheat protection, tundish and a 2-port zone valve—so the installation is safe, serviceable and regulation-ready.
Just right for two bathrooms
This 200 L cylinder is the right size for two bathrooms. It will support simultaneous showers with constant pressure and temperature, and its compact footprint fits standard UK airing cupboards for easy siting and maintenance.
Built to last
Using corrosion-resistant duplex stainless steel and approximately 40 mm insulation, the cylinder is designed for durability and low standing heat loss—backed by long manufacturer warranties on the vessel for your peace of mind.
Challenges & Our Solutions
Peak time was the first challenge. By increasing the incoming main to 22 mm and balancing the hot and cold supplies we could do away with the noisy, maintenance heavy shower pump and have steady pressure at multiple outlets.
Space and serviceability in the cylinder cupboard was next. We re-planned the layout, re-routed key pipe runs and positioned isolation points and valves where they could be easily reached, making annual servicing simple and safe.
Finally we future proofed for family use. A 200 L unvented cylinder with a sealed heating system can handle morning peaks, back to back showers and the occasional bath without pressure drop or temperature swings.
Results & Client Satisfaction
- Powerful, hotel-style showers on both floors, even when multiple outlets are in use.
- Quieter home -no pump noise, fewer pressure swings, smoother temperature control.
- Lower maintenance -sealed system stability and simplified plant layout reduce future callouts.
- Ready for the long term – an installation designed for efficiency, safety and easy annual service.
Client feedback: The household noted an immediate improvement in shower quality and the convenience of consistent pressure throughout the day, particularly with two bathrooms in regular use.
Together, we transformed a dated gravity system into a clean, efficient, and reliable unvented setup tailored to family life. If you’re considering an upgrade for better pressure, faster recovery, and quieter operation, we’ll guide you through each phase – from survey and sizing to installation and handover -so your home gets the right system, first time.
