Efficiency Killer? Are Buffer Tanks Costing You More Than You Think?

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Are buffer tanks doing more harm than good in heat pump systems? In this episode, we explore whether they are a necessary component or an outdated design choice that reduces efficiency.

Our expert panel includes: Leah Robson (Your Energy Your Way), Mario Dodic (Heat Pump Consultant, Trainer & Engineer), Brendon Uys (British Gas Net Zero) and Neil Sawers (Grant).

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0:00 Intro
2:59 What’s the Difference Between a 4-Port Buffer, 3-Port Buffer, and Volumiser?
4:56 What is Hydraulic Separation in a Heating System?
5:44 What is a Low Loss Header?
7:09 Why Do 4-Port Buffer Tanks Have a Negative Effect on Domestic Heat Pump Systems?
12:03 Should Manufacturers Continue to Pressure Installers to Fit Buffers?
16:21 How a Volumiser Can Look Like a Buffer Tank
17:37 What is Distortion in a Buffer Tank, and What Does It Actually Do?
19:18 How Many Grant ASHP Units Come with Modulating Pumps on the Heat Pump Side?
20:46 Are There Measurable Differences in SCOP Between Systems With and Without Buffer Tanks?
21:23 Impact of Circulation Pump Speeds on Inefficiencies in Systems with Buffer Tanks
23:08 How Should a 4-Port Buffer Be Correctly Piped with Flow and Return Pipes?
25:47 What Should Homeowners Do If They Receive Different Quotes (Some with Buffers, Others Without)?
26:54 Does Distortion/Blending Increase as the Size of the Buffer Tank Decreases?
28:25 Why Aren’t Installers Getting the Education They Need to Fit Systems Better?
29:04 Why Aren’t Volumisers Being Fitted More Often Than Buffer Tanks?
31:30 How Do You Tackle Properties with UFH and Radiators Requiring Different Flow Temperatures?
33:24 What is an Open Loop Heating Design?
36:18 Why is Balancing a 4-Port Buffer Correctly So Difficult?
37:27 Homeowner’s Question: Using Buffer Tanks to Prevent Cold Water from Entering Heat Emitters
39:04 Where Should a Volumiser Be Installed – On the Flow or Return?
40:23 Will Buffer Tanks and Heat Pumps Become More Popular with Smart Switching Electricity Tariffs?
43:46 How Do You Tackle Properties That Are Too Big for a Conventional Heat Pump and Circulation Pump?
46:44 Conclusion