Energy Savings - Water Heaters
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Global Summary Building Summary Design Options Materials Stone Glass and Plaster Metals Earth Wood Strawbale Planted Roofs Ventilation Energy Savings Building Config. Room Layout Solar Orientaion Cooling/Heating Water Heaters Water Conservation Landscaping Rainwater Waste Water Readings Examples
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Water heaters are the largest energy consumers after space heating and
cooling. Americans spend 15 billion US dollars a year to heat water.
Fortunately the market offers a wide choice of water heaters that are cheaper
to operate than regular electrical ones. Gas water heaters
are the cheapest in short and long term and are the best choice in areas
where natural gas is provided. In any case the tank must be insulated
to avoid heat loss, and the building should use water efficient showerheads
to save water and energy. On demand water heaters are also a good example
of energy savers and are suitable for small buildings with moderate hot
water demands.
Solar water heaters are the most expensive short term intervention, but they make a difference in long term energy consumption and reduced pollution output. Most of them are completely passive solar roof top heaters, and they can heat water for a small house up to industrial buildings. These systems can be integrated with regular devices to ensure a consistent water temperature. The solar collectors must be mounted facing south and angled depending on the latitude. They can become an interesting element of design if they are integrated into a project from the beginning. |