What is the difference between a high and low pressure tap?
UK homes generally have one of two main types of hot water system - pressurised and non-pressurised, so before purchasing a tap it is important to find out which system is fitted in your kitchen.
• Pressurised water systems come in two different versions:
• High Pressure Water Systems are usually modern combi boilers or gas water heaters that give you a continuous flow of hot water. If your home has this system you are likely to have a boiler unit but no hot water cylinder or storage tank.
• High Pressure Pumped Water Systems consist of a hot water cylinder with an expansion vessel on top – brands include companies like Megaflo. These cylinders form what is known as an unvented system which is pressurised to mains water pressure, ensuring a strong flow of hot water when you turn a tap on in the home, regardless of where it is located. These are usually found in the airing cupboard and with this system you would usually not have a cold water tank.
• Non-pressurised water systems – occasionally referred to as Gravity fed systems – usually have a cold water tank in the attic and the hot water tank in the airing cupboard.