Water saving to reduce energy consumption: The importance of regular maintenance and innovative solu

In our quest to reduce wasting water and energy, water conservation has emerged as a critical focus. While we often discuss energy-saving measures, the significance of water management is equally vital. Unvented hot water systems, if left unchecked, can lead to inefficiencies that not only waste water but also contribute to higher energy consumption.

One of the primary culprits in these systems is a dripping safety relief valve. When unvented systems are not serviced regularly the issue of water passing out of the various safety relief valves can escalate into significant issues, resulting in water wastage that goes unnoticed.

A dripping pressure relief valve, for example, might seem trivial, but over time it can lead to substantial water loss. This not only affects water resources but also requires additional energy to heat the water that is essentially being wasted.

There are various issues that can lead the safety relief valves to pass water (which happens due to safety reasons indicating that something is wrong with the system). Unfortunately, this in turn could cause a build-up of limescale in the tundish and if the tundish is not cleaned or water has been allowed to pass unchecked for a prolonged period and eventually in the worst case, cause the water either track outside the tundish or to drip from the tundish and onto the floor resulting in damage to the building fabric.

If, for example, the expansion vessel has failed on an unvented water heater, every time the water heater comes up to temperature it will discharge a small amount of water equivalent to the expanding water volume. However, if there is no draw off of hot water from a tap (for example) the cylinder is now under the pressure equivalent to the setting on the PRV (pressure relief valve) If the cylinder calls for heat, the expanding water will once again force the PRV open and more water is wasted to drain. This waste its heated water, the cylinder will continue in this repeating series of cycles and will, refill, reheat and waste again and again.

This will happen until the dripping water is noticed and action is taken to fix the issue. The quicker this is actioned the less water will be wasted.

This is where the hotun alarm unit comes into its own. For a small outlay of money, typically £20-25, the in-tundish water alarm lets the user know the first time there is water passing.

It does this by means of an accurately placed water and temperature sensor in the bowl of the hotun dry trap tundish. As soon as water begins to pool in the tundish (and before the first waste cycle has finished discharging) the alarm will sound and draw the attention of the building user to the issue. The user can choose what to do and to prevent further cycles of waste could cut the power supply which immediately stops further waste pending a repair.

For the installer (outside of warranty periods) this repair becomes a paid activity and can then earn more money and will also enable them to talk with the building user to encourage them to have the cylinder serviced (making the installer money once again).

To address these challenges, innovative solutions like the hotun dry trap tundish, in conjunction with the hotun detect, have emerged as game-changers. This system not only provides a reliable discharge route but also features leak detection capabilities that can save time, water, and energy. Equipped with audible and visual alarms the hotun detect provides early warnings, which can be crucial for preventing larger issues down the line.

Additionally, it offers four different temperature alerts to help with diagnosis.

The push for smarter technology in water management doesn't stop here. RA Tech is set to release an app-based smart detect system, the BMS version, and the detect remote, which promise to enhance monitoring and management further. These tools will allow users to remotely monitor their customer’s/resident’s appliances for leaks and discharges before it becomes a larger problem. The hotun detect remote is the same as the hotun detect but with a second repeater unit hardwired to the main unit (mounted to the hotun dry trap tundish), allowing for 2-way communication when the main alarm signals, giving that extra piece of mind to the user.

Incorporating these modern solutions we can help ensure that the unvented system is regularly serviced and utilising innovative products designed for leak detection. Less wasted water means less energy used for heating.

In conclusion, water conservation plays a critical role in reducing our energy consumption. By paying attention to the maintenance of unvented systems and embracing innovative solutions like the hotun dry trap tundish and its accompanying detection technology, we can make significant strides in both environmental benefits and cost savings. As we look to the future, integrating smart technologies into our water management practices will be essential in ensuring a sustainable and efficient approach to one of our most precious resources. Taking these steps today not only benefits us but also helps to preserve the planet for future generations.

https://hotun.co.ukhttps://hotun.co.uk/ads/landingbafnfiveways-digital-oct24