In the video below we delve into whether buffer tanks are necessary in air source heat pump set ups, and we get insights from Brendon Uys (Head of Domestic Heat Pump Design at NET ZERO British Gas), Simon Murray (Heating Engineer and System Designer at Optimus Heating) and James Clark (Managing Director of Elite Services Group). We’ll also explain the difference between a buffer tank and a volumiser.
Brendon Uys explained that a buffer tank is traditionally used to separate the heat-producing equipment (like a heat pump) from the heat-distributing system (radiators or underfloor heating). However, this was more relevant in older heating systems where high flow rates were needed. In modern, well-designed heat pump systems, especially those using low-temperature heating strategies, the need for a buffer tank diminishes.
While buffer tanks are generally not needed in most homes, they can be useful in specific, complex situations. Simon Murray shared an example where a buffer tank was used in a project with multiple heat sources, including solar panels and heat pumps, working together to manage a large domestic load. In such cases, a buffer tank helps in the stratification and efficient management of these systems.
However, Simon emphasised that 99.9% of homes in the UK do not require a buffer tank. If designed correctly, most heat pump systems can function efficiently without one, avoiding unnecessary cycling and reducing installation and running costs.
One of the more concerning points raised during the discussion was the misuse of buffer tanks by some installers. As James Clark pointed out, the overuse of buffer tanks could stem from a lack of confidence or experience in designing modern heat pump systems. In some cases, manufacturers may recommend buffer tanks to mask inadequacies in the design or installation process, leading to inefficiencies and higher costs for the homeowner.
What Should Homeowners Do?
If you’re in the process of installing a heat pump and your installer insists on including a buffer tank, ask why. As our experts suggest, it’s important to question the necessity of this component, especially if your home doesn’t present any special conditions that would require one. In many cases, finding an installer who can design an efficient system without relying on a buffer tank might save you money and improve your system’s performance.
If your current system includes a buffer tank and you’re experiencing inefficiencies, it might be worth having a professional assess whether it’s truly needed. As discussed, removing an unnecessary buffer could improve your system’s efficiency and lower your energy bills.
Bodge Buster
Bodge Buster has been written to educate homeowners on the fact that the efficiency and performance of air source heat pumps and their running costs are largely dependent on the quality of their installation. The book is filled with questions that homeowners should ask installers, practical tips for optimal operation and insights to assist in making well-informed decisions.
Bodge Buster is now available for purchase as a paperback and as an ebook, and it is a valuable resource for anyone considering an air source heat pump.
- Purchase on Amazon as paperback: https://amzn.to/3NVndlU
- Purchase on Kindle: https://amzn.to/3tIvPW1
- Purchase on Apple Books: https://books.apple.com/gb/book/bodge-buster/id6475490660
