Thermaq Evocyl Problems

As homeowners, we occasionally encounter unfamiliar situations that raise alarms. One such concern that has recently come up involves the ThermaQ Evocyl, an unvented hot water cylinder. If you’ve noticed water dripping from your cylinder, especially through the tundish, this article aims to provide clarity on the situation and suggests the best steps forward.

The Problem:

A homeowner recently discovered water dripping through the tundish of their ThermaQ Evocyl 120 Slimline Direct Unvented Storage Cylinder. This, understandably, raised fears of potential hazards, including the cylinder exploding.

Addressing Concerns:

1. Safety First: If you come across a similar issue, the first reaction might be to “turn off” the cylinder. However, simply turning off the immersion heater might not stop the water from dripping.
2. Understanding the Cylinder: Before making any adjustments, it’s essential to identify the make and model of the cylinder. This will help in finding specific troubleshooting guidance.
3. Will the Cylinder Explode? The immediate reassurance here is that your cylinder will not explode. Unvented hot water cylinders have multiple safety features in place to prevent such an event.
4. Managing the Dripping: If you’ve turned off the immersion and still notice dripping, the next step would be to turn off the cold feed to the cylinder. This step should arrest the water supply to the cylinder and thus halt any leak or dripping. However, if you’re unfamiliar with the setup or cannot locate the cold feed valve, it might be best to refrain from making any changes.
5. Getting Professional Help: If in doubt, the safest course of action is to contact a professional. Ensure to consult with a plumber who is G3 registered. The G3 certification indicates that the plumber has undergone a specialized course regarding unvented systems and is periodically renewed.
6. Understanding the Underlying Cause: There might be multiple reasons for the dripping. It could be related to the expansion vessel or even the expansion valve. Generally, these cylinders have two protection levels: the expansion valve, which activates at 6.0 bar, and the temperature & pressure valve, which comes into play at 7.0 bar.

Conclusion:

While the discovery of a drip from an unvented hot water cylinder can be disconcerting, it’s essential to approach the situation calmly. Always prioritize safety by seeking professional help, especially when unsure about the technicalities. Regular maintenance and understanding your home’s appliances can prevent such issues and ensure a smooth and safe living environment.