The Benefits of Choosing a Solfex Heat Pump Cylinder
Unique High Flow, High Gain, Full Bore Coil Design: This is the most critical aspect.
Heat pumps operate at lower temperatures than traditional boilers, so the heat exchange coil inside the cylinder needs to be significantly larger to transfer enough heat into the stored water efficiently and quickly. Solfex explicitly highlights this feature as central to their cylinders' superior performance. This ensures:
High Efficiency: The heat pump operates at its optimal efficiency (higher COP/SCOP) because it can effectively transfer heat at lower temperatures.
Fast Recovery Times: The water in the cylinder reheats quickly after demand, meaning you're less likely to run out of hot water.
Duplex Stainless Steel Construction: Solfex cylinders are manufactured from high-grade 1mm thick Duplex Stainless Steel. This material offers:
Superior Corrosion Resistance: Essential for longevity, especially in areas with varying water quality.
Durability: Contributes to a long lifespan, which is backed by their extensive warranties.
Excellent Insulation: Solfex cylinders are typically "fully insulated with 50mm 100% CFC and HCFC free polyurethane." Minimal heat loss is crucial for heat pump systems, as the goal is to keep the water hot using as little energy as possible. Good insulation reduces standing heat losses, further improving overall system efficiency.
Universal Compatibility: Solfex markets its heat pump cylinders as "universally compatible with any heat pump." This is a significant advantage, giving installers flexibility. It means their design parameters (coil size, heat transfer capabilities) are broad enough to work effectively with most
air source heat pumps and
ground source heat pumps on the market.
Comprehensive Components and Controls: They are usually "fitted and supplied with all the required components and controls" (inlet control group, expansion vessel, tundish, dual probe thermostat) This streamlines installation and ensures all necessary safety and operational elements are integrated.
Long Warranty: Solfex offers a 25-year manufacturer's warranty on the cylinder and a 2-year parts warranty. A long warranty on the inner tank is a strong indicator of manufacturer confidence in durability and quality.
Integrated Backup Immersion Heater: A "long-life 3kW Incoloy immersion heater" is supplied as standard. This is vital for:
Legionella Protection: Periodically boosting the water temperature to eliminate bacteria.
Demand Boost: Providing supplementary heat during periods of extremely high hot water demand or if there's an issue with the heat pump.