The principal of a thermal store cylinder is similar to that of a buffer tank or accumulator. Essentially it is an efficient method of linking multiple energy inputs together, providing domestic hot water as main pressure.

Working in a similar fashion to a battery, the thermal store holds energy from a heat source to use when the customer requires it. Traditionally when running a fire or stove with a back boiler, it has been necessary to use the heat created immediately. With a thermal store, a buffer of primary heating water is created to be used when required. It is especially useful at the beginning of the day, to provide immediate hot water for heating or washing.

A thermal store normally differs in size from a typical buffer tank, with sizes on average being between 200 litres and 600 litres. This can be sized according to the system components, and a customers heat requirements.

A typical modern system, may contain a wood burning stove with back boiler, an existing gas or oil boiler and a solar thermal panel system on the roof. The thermal store is able create an efficient way of linking these systems together, whilst enabling the homeowner or building occupier to operate the heating system as they have done previously. An important advantage of the thermal store principle, is that the domestic hot water circuit is isolated from the main system, and is therefore provided at mains pressure, another plus when fitting a thermal store. The store can also be fitted with additional electrical immersion elements for complete peace of mind.

Mibec can supply a full range of thermal stores to suit any system, and can help to specify the correct tank for your thermal storage requirements. Please feel free to email or call our support department on 01782 959170 where one of our trained advisers will be happy to discuss your project with you.