A buffer tank is a specially designed water tank used to store and regulate thermal energy in heating systems. It is mainly found as an additional element in heat pump , biomass, gas boiler and solar collector systems.
The working principle of the buffer tank
The basic purpose of the buffer tank is to ensure the stability of the heating system by storing the generated thermal energy for a short time and then distributing it in the system as needed. This is beneficial in several ways:
Heat pump protection: Frequent switching of the heat pump compressor on and off reduces its lifespan and efficiency. The buffer tank solves this problem by equalizing the difference between the heat energy produced by the heat pump and the heat energy used by the system.
Energy balancing: The buffer tank temporarily stores excess heat and then releases it back to the system according to its needs. This is particularly useful when the output of the energy source (e.g. a heat pump) exceeds the current demand.
Noise and vibration damping: The buffer tank reduces vibrations caused by the compressor and other system components, which significantly contributes to the quieter operation of the system.
Dimensions and capacity The capacity of buffer tanks can vary depending on the size and needs of the system. The capacity typically ranges from 50 to 2000 liters. For larger systems, a buffer tank with a larger capacity is required to efficiently handle the thermal energy.
How to choose a buffer tank?
The selection of the appropriate buffer tank depends on the following factors:
System size: The capacity of the tank should be adjusted to the performance of the heating system and user needs.
Insulation quality Tanks with good quality insulation minimize heat loss.
Number and type of connections: Connectivity to various elements of the system is an important aspect for efficient operation.
Summary
The buffer tank is an important addition to heating systems, which enables more stable operation, longer service life and more energy-efficient operation. Its use is recommended in all systems where the power of the energy source varies or where it is necessary to balance the heat energy over time.