Coldstream accumulators stabilize pressure and flow rate problems that affect combination boiler performance

(15/07/2008)

The Coldstream range of accumulators from GAH Heating is a solution to stabilize pressure and flow rate problems that affect combination boiler performance. Pressure without flow rate supporting it will lead to pressure drops, poor performance at water outlets and customer dissatisfaction.

Darren Cooper, Dualstream Sales Director at GAH explains: “Many combi boilers are installed on inadequate mains supplies, shared supplies or in situations where many units will be used simultaneously at peak times, such as in a block of flats. Even the best designs offering above average hot water flow rates suffer if the main supply fluctuates in pressure and flow rate.”

Accumulator technology like GAH’s Coldstream is suited for many applications including large domestic properties, small flats or commercial properties like sports pavilions and care homes.

The accumulator is the modern day version of a cold water storage tank and is designed to store mains pressure water in a patent controlled butyl diaphragm surrounded by a positive air charge. When installed on a main supply feeding a combination boiler, it will ensure maximum flow rate through the combi when other outlets are turned on and it will stop pressure fluctuations. You cannot improve on the combination boiler’s maximum given hot water output, but you can maintain it. When installed on combination boilers with hot water storage, the Coldstream offers impressive performance.

The accumulator has only one bottom fitting and no power supply or discharge arrangements, so installation is fast and easy. It can be installed anywhere on the main supply with a non return valve and pressure regulating valve (supplied) entering the property, even on 15mm supplies or shared supplies with flow rates as low as 9 litres. With no power supply or discharge arrangement the accumulator can be sited in basements, utility rooms, lofts and garages. It is also virtually silent in operation.

Choosing the right size accumulator for the application is important. GAH offer a design service and technical assistance to make sure you get the right system for the application. In some cases larger sizes of accumulators may be considered or more than one vessel linked together to create the desired volume.

GAH recommends carrying out an appropriate pressure and flow test before recommending or installing any mains fed appliance.

Related categories:  Boilers - Combination and condensing   Central heating systems and pumps   Commercial and offices applications   Hot water generation and supply   Residential applications   Tanks 

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