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System Boilers

What Size Hot Water Cylinder Do I Need?

Choosing the right hot water cylinder size for your home — capacity guide for 1 to 5+ bedroom properties.

27 November 2025·5 min read·By Corby Boiler Installations

Hot Water Cylinder Sizing Guide

Choosing the wrong size cylinder leaves you with inadequate hot water (too small) or wasted energy reheating unused water (too large).

Sizing by Household

  • 1–2 persons: 120–150 litre cylinder
  • 3–4 persons: 150–180 litre cylinder
  • 5–6 persons: 180–210 litre cylinder
  • 6+ persons or high demand: 250–300 litre cylinder

Unvented vs Vented Cylinders

Unvented cylinders (mains pressure) deliver hot water at higher flow rates — great for power showers and filling baths quickly. They require annual inspection by a qualified engineer. Vented cylinders (gravity-fed) are cheaper and simpler but deliver lower pressure.

Recovery Time

A larger boiler will reheat a cylinder faster. Match your boiler output to your cylinder size for optimal performance — we'll advise on the right combination when you enquire.

#hot water cylinder#system boiler#sizing guide

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