What is an open vented condensing boiler?

What is a conventional open vent boiler? Often referred to as regular, conventional or heat only boilers, open vent boiler systems provide heating and hot water. These solutions usually comprise an ‘open vent’ and two water tanks in the loft space, a hot water storage cylinder and a separate pump.

Can you use a system boiler with a vented cylinder?

Vented or unvented? Vented cylinders are traditionally installed with regular boilers as water is delivered to these via a cold water tank in the loft. Due to the absence of these tanks in system boiler setups, an unvented cylinder should be used instead.

Does a condensing boiler need ventilation?

All condensing boilers have a balanced flue pipe which gives the boiler all the ventilation it needs. Even if it’s hidden away in a cupboard. And if you’ve had a new gas boiler fitted since April 2005 then it will be condensing. Any home with an older non-condensing boiler will need to think about boiler ventilation.

What is the difference between a system and open vent boiler?

System boilers are a little bit different to an open vent/conventional boiler. They don’t require a cold water storage tank as they get their water supply directly from the mains to heat the system which is then stored in the hot water cylinder.

How does an open vented central heating system work?

How does an open vented heating system work? To accommodate water losses from evaporation or leakage in the system the tank water level is maintained and topped up automatically using a float valve in the tank connected to the mains supply. Expanded water is also accommodated within the open expansion tank.

What is an open vent?

The ‘open vent’ is a pipe which rises from the heating system to above the tank and hooks over into it. The open vent pipe is a safety mechanism which will release excess pressure in the system in the event of an over-heat fault situation.

Do vented cylinders need servicing?

The simple answer here is “yes”. You should have your unvented water cylinder inspected and serviced every year. They are pressurised metal cylinders.

Is it OK to box in a boiler?

It is necessary however to make sure of a couple of things when boxing in a boiler: The boiler itself can be opened fully for servicing and repairs. There is at least 50mm of air gap all round the boiler and the boxing allows plenty of ventilation to allow a fresh airflow all round the boiler.

How does an open vented heating system work?

What is the primary function of the open vent on a central heating system?

The open vent pipe is a safety mechanism which will release excess pressure in the system in the event of an over-heat fault situation. When water is lost from the system, which occurs naturally via evaporation, a supply pipe and float valve will regulate an amount of fresh water back into the system.

How do you bleed open vented central heating system?

Step by step

  1. Turn off your boiler so it won’t fire up or run any pumps.
  2. Go to the radiator which requires attention and locate the bleed vent.
  3. Insert your radiator key and turn it anti clockwise to gently open the bleed vent.
  4. When water seeps out of the bleed vent gently close it until the water stops.

Do you have to have an open vented boiler?

If you wish to retain your open vented system you will have to stick with a heat only boiler. All other boilers must work on a sealed system. We explain the advantages and disadvantages of each system and give guidance on when the circumstances are right to change.

Where is the F & E tank in an open vented boiler?

Open vented systems comprise a Feed and Expansion (F&E) tank located at the highest point in the system. They work exclusively with heat only (also known as ‘regular’) boilers. (NB regular boilers can also work with sealed systems.)

What are the operating conditions of a condensing boiler?

•  Specific operating conditions are necessary for a boiler to operate at optimal efficiencies Modern Hydronic Designs For Condensing Boilers Flue Gas Condensate •  Flue (exhaust) gas condensation is a process where the temperature of the flue gas cools below its water dew point.

Open vented system. Some installations allow gravity to circulate the hot water up and through the coil in the storage cylinder, but most new installations use a pump to circulate the hot water up and through the coil in the storage cylinder.