How Does a Plumbing Design Improves Energy Efficiency?
How Does a Plumbing Design Improves Energy Efficiency?
When it comes to the estimation of the energy efficiency of any building, HVAC systems and lighting networks are the two most important factors to consider. And among these two, the energy consumption by the valves is noted most strictly. The water temperature is not the same all around the globe. And this is why heating systems must be installed to stabilize the heat of water which in turn helps to balance the pressure on proportional control valves. And if it comes to pumping water in higher buildings, the valve installation and running costs are increased, thereby increasing your expenditures as well.
Plumbing Design Minimize Water Flow Costs:
Under normal circumstances, the water pressure and supply problems are not seen due to stabilized pressure of the proportional control valves. Coming to the tall buildings, they have to install their own systems to pump the water and let it reach on upper floors. For this purpose, a high-quality proportional valve controller needs to be fixed so as to regulate the 24/7 supply of water. Furthermore, more electricity consumption is needed to drive the proportional flow control valves to push the water to certain heights.
To cope with the situation, an engineered plumbing design will make it possible to install valves at certain locations where less energy consumption is needed to work at its full potential. Otherwise, the chances of higher investment or electricity invoices are at peak always.
It Reduces Water Heating Costs:
Heating costs are introduced in areas with extremely cold ecosystems. And if you wish the proportional control valves to work properly in these areas, you will have to bear excess in investment. The water heater allows fewer gallons to move through it and this reduces the water consumption by users. This in turn saves a lot of money expended on heating systems. For instance, if your building consumes 34% less water, then the heating costs also decrease by the same percentage.
The energy factor is the leading metric that needs to be examined when it comes to comparing water heaters. Basically, the energy factor is defined as the ratio of the output heat to the input energy. And to reduce heating costs, water heaters with a high energy factor need to be installed in serial connection with the valves. Best water heaters include:
| Water Heater Type | Minimum EF for ENERGY STAR Label |
| Electric Heat Pump with Storage | 2.00 EF for up to 55 gallons, 2.20 EF for larger heaters |
| Gas Heater with Storage | 0.67 EF up to 55 gallons, 0.77 EF for larger heaters |
| Tankless Gas Heater | 0.90 EF |
Wrapping It Up:
A professional engineer will always help you to design a plumbing system that is loaded with proportional control valves at specified locations. These specific locations are those in a building where the environment for valves is balanced in terms of both temperature and pressure. Following a plumbing network will absolutely work by reducing overall energy consumption which is a definite plus.
