Buffer Tanks

Q: How long does a buffer tank last?

A good tank, when maintained well can last up to 10 years. This is a storage tank used in water distribution systems. It acts as a reservoir, holding excess water to be released when demand is low and then refilling the storage tank when it's needed.

Buffer tanks are often used in residential and commercial buildings to add additional hot water to heating systems. These tanks, available in various shapes and sizes, are constructed from materials such as plastic, metal, or ceramic. Their design and capacity can be tailored to meet the specific demands of different buildings, ensuring an efficient and reliable hot water supply. If you’re looking for the best tanks in New Zealand, ArchiPro has a great selection from only the most trusted suppliers in the industry.

RT Series Commercial Storage Tanks

Rheem

Buffer Cylinders

STIEBEL ELTRON

610 Series Commercial Storage Tanks

Rheem

XL Hot Water Commercial Storage Tanks

Rinnai

Featuring the best buffer tanks in New Zealand

If you have a home equipped with a heating system but notice that the water heater is running low on hot water, you might want to consider adding an additional hot water reservoir. The best buffer tanks will keep your heating system operating optimally by providing more hot water to the water heater. Adding extra storage to your heating system in New Zealand can help you reduce your water costs and keep your system running more efficiently. Buffer tanks are an important part of a broader range of hot water heating products found on ArchiPro.

Types of buffer tanks

Thermal storage tanks

Thermal storage tanks store excess thermal energy for later use, helping to balance supply and demand, reduce energy costs, and improve system efficiency.

Chilled water tanks

Chilled water buffer tanks are utilised in cooling systems to store chilled water, increasing efficiency by reducing short cycling and providing a chilled water reserve.

Hydronic tanks

Hydronic buffer tanks are employed in hydronic heating systems to manage thermal loads and enhance efficiency, improving the performance of boilers, heat pumps, and chillers.

Solar tanks

Solar buffer tanks are designed for solar thermal systems to store solar-heated water. They maximise the use of solar energy by storing heat for periods of low solar gain.

Multi-energy tanks

Multi-energy buffer tanks integrate multiple energy sources, such as solar, heat pumps, and traditional boilers, providing flexibility and efficiency by combining different heating sources.

Expansion tanks

Expansion buffer tanks accommodate the expansion of water as it heats, preventing pressure build-up and protecting the heating system from pressure-related damage.

The advantages of high-quality buffer tanks

High-quality buffer tanks are known for their durability and reliability, making them less prone to malfunction ensuring continuous operation and minimising downtime. These tanks are designed to withstand extreme pressure and temperatures, making them ideal for handling demanding applications. A hot water buffer tank can be used for various applications and industries, such as pharmaceuticals, food processing, oil extraction, and gas drilling.

How to choose a buffer tank

Choosing the right buffer tank involves considering several key factors. Determine its purpose, whether for heating systems like hydronic heating, solar thermal, or biomass boilers or for enhancing chilled water efficiency in cooling systems. Match the tank’s capacity to your system’s load and ensure adequate installation space. Opt for durable materials like stainless steel and good insulation to minimise heat loss. Evaluate the heat exchanger configuration, considering internal or external options and twin coils for multiple heat sources. Ensure compatibility with your existing system and check connections. Look for efficiency features like thermal stratification and overall energy efficiency. Finally, consider ease of maintenance and the manufacturer’s warranty to ensure durability and reliability. These considerations will help you select a buffer tank that enhances your system's efficiency and reliability.

Ongoing maintenance requirements

Ongoing maintenance for a buffer tank includes regularly checking for leaks, ensuring secure connections, and inspecting insulation. Periodically clean the tank and flush out sediment. Ensure temperature sensors and thermostats are calibrated and functioning correctly, and check the pressure relief valve. If the buffer tank is part of a larger system, inspect and clean associated heat exchangers. Annual professional inspections are recommended to maintain efficiency and address potential issues.

Where should a buffer tank be placed?

The buffer tank should be placed at the suction side of a pump. The buffer tank will catch any water that comes through the pump, and it will hold that water until it is needed by the system which is why its placement is important.