cylinder type-how to tell the difference

[angelf]

Is there any other way of telling the difference between a direct and indirect cylinder other than the no. of tanks in the loft?

 

[crockett]

Yes, this should help you


http://www.gasapplianceguide.co.uk/Direct and Indirect Cylinders Explained.htm

 

[holty]

also look up primatic cylinders as these could catch you out.not mentioned on the link(i think).usually supplied by one tank in the loft supplying hot water and central heating.divided by an air bubble.

 

[kirkgas]

the easiest way is to count the tappings on the sides, you have the cold feet inlet at the bottom, the hot water draw off on the top on both, with the indirect having a flow and return from the boiler to heat the water (which is why it is called indirect as the water is heated somewhere else), the direct one usually having only an immersor to heat the water (directly inside the cylinder itself) some older direct cylinders would have been connected to the back boiler from a coal fire so perhaps my post wont help, but these should be few and far between, and you should know what heats the water in the job you are looking at

 

[twgas]

then of course there are unvented cylinders and thermal stores.......