cirkóban

Cirkóban is a heating system commonly found in older Hungarian apartment buildings. It combines a gas boiler and a water heater into a single, compact unit. The term "cirkó" itself is a colloquialism for this type of appliance.

The system works by using natural gas to heat water. This hot water is then circulated through radiators within the apartment, providing central heating. Simultaneously, a portion of the hot water is diverted to a small storage tank, from which it is drawn for domestic use, such as washing dishes or showering. This dual function is a key characteristic of the cirkó system.

Cirkó units typically have a flue that vents combustion gases directly through an external wall, which is a common feature in many pre-modern heating systems. While once a prevalent and efficient solution, cirkó systems are now considered outdated due to lower energy efficiency compared to modern condensing boilers and potential safety concerns if not properly maintained. Many residents in buildings still using cirkó systems are gradually upgrading to more contemporary heating solutions.