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Getting Started With Sustainable Hot Water Systems

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Woman's hands washing in water in public washroom

Adveco offers some advice on introducing sustainable hot water systems into commercial buildings… To help achieve climate-neutral building stock by 2050 UK businesses are being challenged to reduce operational energy use. By increasing the use of renewable energy supply and prioritising on-site renewable energy sources the hope is to reduce harmful carbon emissions and improve the management of operational costs.  No doubt being more sustainable comes at a cost. Whether in the form of new build projects or the refurbishment of existing, yet ageing facilities, understanding the necessary capital investment, operational savings and payback periods is key to developing a realistic sustainability strategy. Starting the Journey with Hot Water Because of the ubiquitous need for hot water systems, from basins to baths and showers, catering and cleaning, addressing how this often business-critical resource is secured is one of the quickest, easiest and most impactful ways of making active carbon savings today.   Addressing the efficiency of domestic hot water systems (DWH) – whether through the implementation of heat pumps, solar thermal, direct electric water heating or even simple modernisation of existing gas appliances – helps properties meet sustainability goals practically and cost-effectively. It also delivers improved year-round conditions for customers and staff, providing spaces better suited to delivering quality services. For buildings already on gas and relying on large amounts of DHW, silent solar thermal preheat is preferable. For new build properties, the expectation is for specification to default to a mixture of heat pumps and electric boiler for afterheat. New system approaches, including prefabricated packaged plant rooms, also provide for better use of the spaces that already exist, without the need to undertake expensive and disruptive building projects. Don’t Plan Blind Whether designing new, or refurbishing existing hot water systems heating every building is different. So before embarking on any renovation work or transitioning from gas to electric, we recommend investing in non-invasive water metering. With accurate data comes better design, reducing capital investment, avoiding pitfalls of new technology and offering clear sight of future operational costs for improved strategic sustainability planning. Talk to Adveco about the design, supply, and service of low-carbon water heating for commercial properties.

What Is An Electric Water Heater?

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Commonly used in commercial, and industrial settings to provide a steady supply of hot water for various purposes, such as bathing, cooking, cleaning, and heating spaces, electric water heaters operate by converting electrical energy into heat through resistive heating elements submerged in the water. These elements are controlled by thermostats to maintain the desired water temperature. What are the types of electric water heaters? Electric water heaters come in various configurations, each suited to different needs and applications. The three main types of electric water heaters are: Tank (Storage) Water Heaters Tankless (On-Demand) Water Heaters Heat Pump Water Heaters Electric Boiler What is the difference between commercial tankless and tank water heaters? Commercial settings often have different requirements for hot water compared to residential settings, including higher demand and different usage patterns. The choice between tankless and tank water heaters in a commercial context depends on various factors such as hot water demand, energy efficiency, space constraints, and budget. Tank or Storage Water Heaters Tank water heaters are the most traditional and widely used type of water heater. They consist of an insulated tank that stores a large volume of water, typically ranging from 75 to 300 litres, although bespoke cylinders are available. Within the tank, electric heating elements heat the water. These elements are usually controlled by a thermostat, which ensures the water remains at the set temperature, ready for use whenever needed. When hot water is drawn from the tank, it is replaced with cold water, which is then heated to maintain the tank’s temperature. This approach enables storage water heaters to provide a constant supply of hot water, making them suitable for situations where hot water demand is high or spread out over time. Commercial tank water heaters can store large volumes of hot water, with capacities often exceeding 375 litres. These heaters will therefore require significant space for installation due to their large size. They also need adequate clearance and ventilation. Such capacities do make them suitable for applications with steady and high hot water usage, such as hotels, restaurants, and hospitals. While commercial tank water heaters are designed to be more efficient than residential models, and the initial cost of commercial tank water heaters is generally lower than that of tankless systems they will suffer because they constantly heat and reheat a large volume of water to maintain the set temperature, leading to standby heat loss. Tankless (On-Demand) Water Heaters Tankless water heaters, or on-demand water heaters, eliminate the need for storage while capable of delivering a continuous supply of hot wate When a hot water tap is turned on, cold water flows through a heat exchanger where it is rapidly heated by electric heating elements. The water is then delivered directly to the tap at the desired temperature which is advantageous for businesses with fluctuating or peak hot water demands. By only supplying heat water when needed, they eliminate issues of standby heat loss, reducing energy waste to be more energy efficient. This can result in significant cost savings over time, particularly in businesses with variable hot water usage. What limits these units is their flow rate, meaning multiple simultaneous uses (e.g., showering and basin use) can affect performance. They also have high power demands which can lead to expensive upgrades to electrical systems and concerns over the operational costs of extra demands on electricity. If a system is designed correctly the lower operating costs and longer lifespan can potentially offset the initial investment where the upfront cost of commercial tankless water heaters is typically higher. Heat Pump Water Heaters Heat pump water heaters use electricity to move heat from one place to another instead of generating heat directly. Typically, more energy-efficient than traditional electric water heaters, heat pump water heaters extract heat from the air or ground and transfer it to the water in the storage tank. They use a reverse refrigeration cycle, like that found in air conditioners or refrigerators, to leverage ambient heat from the surrounding air or ground. Most new build commercial applications, due to ease of installation and cost, will specify air source heat pumps which can be significantly more efficient than traditional electric water heaters, sometimes reducing energy use by up to 50%. However, the performance is best when operating with a cold water input and lower temperature water output (35°C), this makes them perfect for applications such as underfloor heating. But when water temperatures must be consistently high (+60°C), as required by commercial applications to counter the risk of legionella development, efficiency can rapidly fall away and be further exacerbated where there is less ambient heat to extract, such as during the colder winter months. Heat pump water heaters tend to be complex and so more expensive upfront, so most commercial applications will aim to leverage the heat pump technology as a preheat combined with a storage water heater and electric top-up. Packaged Electric Water Heating Systems Packaged electric water heaters combine the best of both worlds, deploying an electric boiler with a storage cylinder and heating water indirectly via the cylinder’s coil. The boiler does have a small internal tank used in conjunction with built-in controls to better manage efficient and consistent heating from multiple immersion packs working in unison. This provides the functionality of a storage water heater, without the dependence on a single, high-temperature immersion for fully electric water heating. Due to the more effective use of the heating elements the boiler will exhibit greater system longevity and resilience, with built-in backup and almost zero limescale development in hard water areas. Whilst commercial larger electric boiler units (100 kW) will be floor standing, the latest packaged systems use smaller, more compact units which can be wall mounted, or as in the case of Adveco’s FUSION, mounted directly onto the cylinder to minimise pipe run and maximise available plant room space. The FUSION packaged electric water heating system offers a variety of ways to extend operational capabilities, whether adding backup immersion for 24/7/365 resiliency, … Read more

Electric boiler Versus Immersion

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Very often, as a business-critical service, domestic hot water (DHW) can also be one of the key contributors to carbon emissions from commercial buildings.  As commercial organisations roll out their net zero strategy for the built estate, many are opting to transition to electricity as a means of heating water. This has led to an increase in the use of electrical immersions as a primary heat source, but this approach can have catastrophic results in terms of business continuity if the property is in a hard water area.  For this reason, Adveco is advocating a move to electric boilers to ensure system resilience, ease of maintenance and avoidance of costly damage. Physical, electromagnetic water conditioners do not provide sufficient protection. We’ve seen the evidence of this with organisations which have cut gas from their systems, transitioning to all-electric hot water with DHW buffers heated by immersions. Despite market-leading physical conditioners installed on both the cold inlet and secondary return, every site in hard water reported failures of immersions within four months to a year. Only a salt-based water softener will offer adequate protection, but there is a better, and more cost-effective way of addressing limescale, and that is to use an electric boiler instead. By employing an indirect method of water heating and controlling temperatures the all too common problem of destructive limescale build-up can be effectively eliminated. Working in conjunction with an indirect cylinder to provide DHW in an effectively sealed ‘primary loop’, the expectation is for little to no scale build as the boiler recirculates the same finite amount of water through the heat exchanger. Key to this is maintaining a relatively low (80°C) temperature reducing heating intensity on surfaces that would otherwise accelerate scale formation. The use of an electric boiler supersedes an immersion because it comes complete with a range of controls which would otherwise need to be addressed via the building management system (BMS), which would require costly switchgear and an expert electrical contractor or BMS specialist. Controls offer a variety of options, including soft start, soft stop; load sharing among internal heating elements, stepped modulation down to 33% of load; control of maximum flow temperature; control of kW output (downrating); overcurrent and overheat protection; weather compensation; plus, fault relay for alarm output to BMS. All of this helps to monitor and maintain the necessary consistency of water temperature and avoid points of high-intensity temperature. Although an electric boiler will use a few extra Watts for a small pump, it will offer a heating efficiency identical to immersion heaters. However, as scale formation increases immersions will take longer to heat water meaning the boiler will offer greater efficiency over time. Also, as the electric boiler efficiency is not dependent on flow temperature, it can still provide high primary temperatures that give short cylinder reheat times and easily achieve the required temperatures for regular legionella purging. It is worth noting that the presence of limescale also provides a surface that can help promote legionella growth within the calorifier. You could argue that immersions are easier, cheaper options, that is certainly true if you are installing a 12 kW immersion into a large tank, which will cost you £300 to £700 and, if well maintained, should last. However, if you are trying to add, for example, a 24 kW immersion to a smaller tank, then the complexity of that unit will see the pricing rise quickly to as much as £1500, plus the cylinder will require larger access which also comes at an additional cost. That is what you would also expect to pay for a 24 kW electric boiler, with all the advantages it brings. With little to no scale build-up, an electric boiler system will exhibit increased reliability and improved response time, whereas immersions will take longer to heat water as scale formation increases around the element hampering its efficiency. The use of multiple heating elements within the boiler also avoids the single point of failure issue seen with immersions, providing built-in redundancy, and when balanced by controls for most efficient use will see system lifespan improve. With less need for descaling maintenance costs are reduced. Servicing is also easier as the boiler can be wall or cylinder-mounted on either side allowing for flexible installation clearance without the need to withdraw a long immersion heater. There is also no need to drain down the cylinder, which would otherwise interrupt water provision during maintenance or repair. The use of direct electric immersions in hard water areas, even if the water is treated, will almost certainly lead to limescale build-up, which if left unchecked even for a few months can become an expensive or even catastrophic problem for commercial hot water systems. If it contributes to the development of Legionella, then it can also have serious health implications. Electric boilers on the other hand offer an EcoDesign-compliant, cost equivalent, simpler to control, ultimately more efficient to run, and easier to maintain system that has a greater lifespan. It should be the technology of choice for any organisation seeking to secure low-carbon DHW.

Understanding Electric Water Heating For Commercial Buildings

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ardent electric water heater with lightning bolt

Electric water heating has quickly become the predominant choice for commercial new builds for specification, meeting the demands of Part L and securing necessary BREEAM points. For organisations currently reliant on gas for their water heating needs, the impetus is to look at alternatives as part of wider sustainability strategies, with electricity being an obvious choice.  It is not; however, a black-and-white decision as electric water heating can present a range of advantages and pitfalls, each of which can significantly impact operational efficiency, cost, and overall effectiveness. Understanding these factors is crucial for making informed decisions about water heating applications, especially in pre-existing buildings. Advantages of Electric Water Heating Electric water heating offers some clear advantages, most notably they can be highly energy efficient, particularly when compared to traditional gas heaters. They convert almost all their electricity into heat, minimising energy waste. This efficiency can be particularly advantageous in commercial buildings where energy costs constitute a significant portion of operating expenses. Combined with precise temperature control, which is essential in commercial applications where specific water temperatures are required, consistent performance is ensured. It can improve the efficiency of operations in settings like restaurants, hotels, and healthcare facilities. Electric water boilers can be extremely compact, lending themselves to installation in smaller and more restrictive spaces. This space-saving feature is particularly beneficial in commercial buildings where space is at a premium. Electric water heaters are also generally easier to install than their gas counterparts because they do not require venting or gas lines. This simplicity can reduce installation costs and time, making them an attractive option for both new construction and retrofits. Additionally, electric units often have fewer moving parts, leading to lower maintenance needs and costs over time. With no risk of gas leaks, and no production of harmful combustion byproducts, such as nitrogen oxide or carbon monoxide, Electric water heaters pose fewer safety risks compared to gas water heating. This makes electric water heaters a safer choice for commercial buildings where safety regulations and concerns are paramount. From a sustainability standpoint electric water heaters will be seen to be more environmentally friendly, especially when powered by renewable energy sources. Whilst the electricity grid cannot yet claim to be a net zero energy source, it is in the process of becoming decarbonised, so an electric system would be a means to future-proof a building’s energy demands looking forward towards 2050. This alignment with green energy initiatives can help commercial buildings reduce their carbon footprint and meet sustainability goals. And the Pitfalls of Electric Water Heating While electric water heaters are generally easier and cheaper to install, high-quality, high-capacity electric units can have a higher initial cost than gas units. This initial investment can be a deterrent, especially for smaller businesses with limited capital, but the most significant disadvantage of electric water heaters is the potentially high operating costs. Electricity remains considerably more expensive than natural gas in the UK, at the time of writing, gas costs 5.48p per kWh (kilowatt hour), versus electricity, at 22.36p per kWh which can lead to substantial operating costs, especially in commercial buildings with high hot water demands. As we have observed, the overall efficiency and environmental impact of electric water heating depends on the source of the electricity. In the UK  a notable proportion continues to be generated from fossil fuels (32% from gas versus 51% zero-carbon sources in 2023) so the environmental benefits are significantly reduced. Of more concern is that electric water heating can place a significant additional load on a building’s electrical system. In commercial settings with substantial electrical usage, adding high-demand electric water heaters can strain the system. From our experience, we are already seeing projects adding extremely costly upgrades to electrical infrastructure as part of refit, something better hot water design could help avoid. In terms of actual use, electric water heaters generally have slower recovery rates compared to gas water heaters. This means they take longer to heat water after the initial supply has been depleted. In commercial settings with continuous hot water needs, such as hotels or large office buildings, this slower recovery can be a drawback, necessitating either larger or additional units to meet demand, or if using an indirect electric boiler then a larger cylinder, in a similar way to heat pump driven systems. Finally, water heating for commercial applications can have a significant impact on operations demanding robust and resilient 24/7/365 operation. If the electric water heating system is entirely dependent on the electrical grid should there be a power outage, these units will not function, leading to a lack of hot water. For businesses where a continuous hot water supply is critical, this dependency can pose a significant risk requiring additional emergency power supplies which will be extremely costly. Considerations for the adoption of electric water heating in commercial properties When considering electric water heating for commercial buildings, it is essential to weigh the specific advantages and pitfalls against the operational needs and constraints of the business. The key factors which should be considered are hot water demand, energy costs, infrastructure, environmental goals, Safety and Regulatory Compliance and backup. If considering a transition to electric water heating start by assessing the volume and consistency of hot water demand. Talk to Adveco about metering hot water in your buildings as it is a low-cost activity that can pay dividends both in terms of capital investment and long-term operational costs. The data gained also helps when it comes to evaluating the local cost of electricity versus alternative fuels like natural gas. Businesses with high and constant hot water usage might find electric water heaters less suitable due to higher operational costs and slower recovery rates. However, for businesses with moderate or intermittent demand, electric units can be highly effective. If lower electricity costs or renewable energy sources are available, electric water heaters can still be cost-effective. Modelling applications of real data is also critical when assessing and planning potential increases to the electrical infrastructure of … Read more

Restoring Solar Thermal On Commercial Buildings

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Solar thermal collectors installed on a rooftop

Adveco considers the opportunities for restoring solar thermal systems… For more than a decade at the start of the 21st Century, the government drove efforts to explore the validity of solar renewables, first solar photovoltaics for generation or electricity and later solar thermal as a means of capturing solar energy onsite for water heating. Purchasing flat plate or evacuated tube systems, proved cost-effective and the technology enjoyed a heyday with many public sector buildings employing one or both options. Nearly fifteen years on, many of those systems now sit unusable on the roofs of those buildings. The causes are varied, poor initial installation issues and particularly a lack of servicing and maintenance ultimately lead many systems to overheat and fail, even sealed systems. Manufacturer support for evacuated tube systems also waned as key suppliers moved away from the technology. Other sites were prone to vandalism, with stones thrown at panels with devastating consequences.  For many organisations, the costs of protecting an installation or repairing it were too high and they were simply switched off and written off as a loss. Solar technology did not die though, and serious consideration should be given to restoring solar thermal back to operational status.  Properly installed and serviced solar thermal systems are proven to have a long operational lifespan with low maintenance demands, especially flat plate collector systems. Those with proven drainback technology employing gravity flow to preserve operational qualities of the solar fluid required to transfer solar energy as heat to the hot water application are notably robust.  A well-designed and balanced hot water system deploying solar thermal as a preheat can offset a minimum of 30% of the annual energy demands for hot water in the UK. For some regions, this percentage is much higher and in the summer months, solar can meet all a system’s heating demands, especially in the case of buildings with lower daily hot water demands such as offices. The drive for net zero has also helped reinvigorate interest in restoring solar thermal as the commercial sector is challenged to transition from gas to electric water heating. The energy bill shock for many – since grid electricity continues to be substantially more expensive than gas (by a factor of 5.51 at the close of 2023) – has meant technology that can offset electrical energy usage is becoming more attractive. The return on investment (ROI) for solar thermal is once again powerful, with systems able to pay back capital investment in under ten years. The New Rooftop Battleground Chillers, heat pumps and solar systems are all vying for valuable rooftop space as public sector organisations look to reduce carbon emissions and embrace high-efficiency heating and cooling. This is especially the case for organisations operating small buildings, or those with high-rise city centre properties. Specifications will often aim to deploy solar photovoltaics (PV) to supply electricity for space heating and water. When retrofitting gas-based hot water systems this is a less efficient route since PV will always offset grid electricity at 136g/KWh, equivalent to 18 kg of CO₂/m²/annum. Compare this to solar thermal which offsets gas emissions at 233g/kWh, or 148 kg of CO₂/m²/annum. This makes solar thermal eight times more effective per m² than PV when addressing carbon emissions from water heating, translating to a smaller panel area for solar thermal on the rooftop. We would always advocate splitting solar water heating (solar thermal) from solar space heating (PV) to gain the greatest efficiencies. A typical office may require, as a rule of thumb, one solar thermal collector per 100 litres of thermal storage capacity. Most commercial-grade applications will typically require six to 20 solar collector panels. Restoring Solar Thermal With new high-efficiency, robust flat plate collectors and protective drainback, cylinders and controls to integrate solar thermal with electric top-up there is a real opportunity to restore solar thermal systems which have fallen into disrepair. Most refurbishments where overheating has been the cause of shutdown will require new collector panels and pipework which fortunately is a relatively straightforward replacement as the reinstallation process will have minimal impact on extant plant room appliances. This allows for upgrading existing gas water heating, saving energy and reducing emissions from the existing system. Alternatively, Adveco can support the transition to full electric water heating with solar thermal through bespoke system design and product supply. For smaller systems and organisations with lower capacity demands, such as offices or GP surgeries, Adveco FUSION offers a pre-defined low-carbon system that is compact, easy to install, resilient and cost-effective. For organisations considering, but not ready to commit to a heat pump-based system, FUSION T is available now with an option that delivers a twin-coil stainless steel tank and mounted ARDENT electric boiler and controls without the heat pump preheat. This iteration allows for solar thermal to be introduced into the lower coil as the system preheat with a small amendment to the controls to optimise top-up heating from the boiler as the pre-heat fluctuates across the year. With FUSION now supporting capacities up to 750 litres with 24 kW heat output, it is suitable for solar systems designed for small to medium-sized buildings. While most solar thermal systems would be designed to split the preheater and after heater, this single-cylinder FUSION scenario avoids the typical requirements of a 50/50 capacity split between preheat and top-up. Adveco’s smart controls allow the system to ‘cheat’ in favour of the solar thermal delivering a 600-litre solar capacity in a 750-litre tank for an extremely compact option for an all-electric low-carbon emission solar water heating system with a minimal rooftop or façade footprint. Today, commercial organisations have more choice than ever when introducing sustainability into a new or existing building. In the latter case, reducing the impact of building works and avoiding business disruption can be a critical decision-making factor. Addressing the sustainability of hot water demands is one of the lower-impact projects available to organisations with immediate and definable delivery of carbon savings and, with solar, energy offsetting operational … Read more

Building In Sustainability With Heat Pumps

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air source heat pump

Adveco explores how commercial organisations should approach building in sustainability with heat pumps… The implementation of low-carbon water heating is one of the fastest, low-impact means of introducing sustainability into an existing commercial building. A considered, well-designed replacement system will reduce carbon emissions by at least half compared to equivalent-sized gas-fired water heating and likely by much more as the electricity grid continues to become greener. Efficient, robust and relatively low maintenance, the latest generation of renewables represents a solid investment in the future of a building and the comfort it supplies to those visiting or working there. The current renewable technology of choice is the heat pump, of which the easiest and lowest cost to implement is the air source heat pump (ASHP). The technology uses a reverse refrigerating circuit to extract heat from the air, even when ambient temperatures drop during the winter months. The efficiency of a heat pump is measured by its COP (coefficient of performance) which defines how much energy it uses compared to the heat energy it generates. The higher the number the better. The COP will fluctuate with external temperatures so it’s always best to use the seasonal COP which averages the efficiency across the year. As the ambient temperatures drop the heat pump will demand more electrical energy to run the compressor to maintain necessary operating temperatures. This is where heat pumps have a weakness because they were designed to operate at low working flow temperatures (35°) to supply radiators and underfloor heating, not the more stringent heating requirements of water (+60°C) required to prevent legionella. This additional electrical energy required to raise temperatures comes from the grid and remains far more expensive than gas. In the past three years, electricity prices have fluctuated and climbed from three to nearly five times the cost of gas. This means building in sustainability with low-carbon technology can deliver considerable increases in operational costs if not approached with care and consideration. Heat pumps have a valid role to play, but for water heating, they need to be used as part of a wider process to ensure cost-effective, efficient operation. This hybrid approach employs the ASHP as a source for preheating cold water flowing into the system to 45°C. This is more than achievable for most heat pumps, maximising the efficiency and reducing the energy required to run the unit. This warmed water is then fed into a cylinder where a second heating source tops up the water temperature to a safe 65°C for use throughout the building. This top-up can come in the form of a gas water heater, gaining very low operational costs, but a less meaningful reduction in carbon emission, typically around 30%. To maximise emission reduction, an electric boiler is preferred, although operational costs will climb, smart controls will optimise the two heat sources to minimise energy demands and provide control over operational costs. With a hybrid system, there will be an increased plant, with a heat pump, boiler and larger cylinder needed to account for slower system reheat after peak demand. Compared to traditional gas water heating this can be a concern when retrofitting as space holds value.  The latest generation of renewables, from monobloc ASHPs to electric boilers, are increasingly more compact, while smart controls maximise storage optimising cylinder size. For smaller to mid-sized organisations with basin-led hot water demands Adveco has redefined this approach with its award-winning FUSION electric water heating system. Conceived as a direct replacement for old gas systems, FUSION mounts an electric boiler onto a cylinder with prebuilt pipework. The controls and sealed multiple immersions within the boiler ensure resilience and means almost completely nullify damaging limescale in hard water areas. For soft water areas, the stainless steel cylinder provides anti-corrosion protection. The optional addition of an electric immersion also provides redundancy with short-term backup to guarantee service should repair be required. FUSION excels with a twin coil cylinder variant that enables a monobloc heat pump to be connected to preheat the water. With the latest options supporting storage capacities of up to 750 litres, there is a variant for most small to mid-sized organisations which is quick and easy to install for minimal operational disturbance. For larger buildings, a more bespoke system is likely to be required, although the basic premise remains the same, using ASHP preheat and a secondary energy source, preferably electric. It may also be possible to integrate solar thermal technology as a mid-heat to further cut energy demands, by as much as 30% annually to further offset operational costs and reduce emissions. When building in sustainability through water heating every building, from structure to usage, is different. So before embarking on any major renovation to a water system, it’s always sensible to gather data on current system use and especially the peak demand periods. That is easily achieved through non-invasive water metering which takes approximately a month to collate necessary data to accurately model the building’s requirements. From this data, a thermotical system design can be produced. One that delivers on the building’s demands whilst optimising the equipment necessary which translates usually into lower up-front investment and a better grasp on future operational costs. That is truly valuable as it enables more accurate planning and budgeting before making any initial move towards a more sustainable operation.

FUSION Plus Solar Thermal For Cost-Effective Carbon Reduction

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buildings with solar thermal preheat to Adveco FUSION electric water heating system

Hot water specialists Adveco introduces FUSION plus solar thermal. This offers commercial organisations with low to mid-capacity domestic hot water (DHW) demands a simple, cost-effective means for transitioning to fully electric low-carbon water heating with its highly resilient FUSION electric water heating system. Businesses considering a transition from gas to electricity can be put off by the energy bill shock, with grid electricity continuing to be substantially more expensive than gas. These operational costs can also increase when using an air source heat pump as a DHW pre-heat source. This is due to the heat pumps having to work harder in DHW applications, reducing the coefficient of performance (COP) and requiring extra electrical energy to achieve the necessary higher working flow temperatures (50-55°C preheat). For organisations considering, but not ready to commit to a heat pump-based system, FUSION T is available now with an option that delivers a twin-coil stainless steel tank and mounted ARDENT electric boiler and controls without the heat pump preheat. This iteration futureproofs the system or allows for solar thermal to be introduced into the lower coil as the system preheat. FUSION’s controls optimise top-up heating from the boiler as the pre-heat fluctuates across the year. With FUSION now supporting capacities up to 750 litres with 24 kW heat output, it is suitable for solar systems designed for small to medium-sized buildings. While solar thermal systems will typically be designed to evenly split capacity between the preheater and after heater, this single-cylinder FUSION scenario uses Adveco’s smart controls to ‘cheat’ the system in favour of the solar thermal input. Adveco can deliver a 600-litre solar capacity application in a 750-litre tank for an extremely compact all-electric, low-carbon emission, solar water heating system with a minimal rooftop or façade footprint. With Adveco’s high-efficiency, robust flat plate collectors and compact protective drain back vessels to preserve operational qualities of the solar fluid, a well-designed and installed all-electric solar thermal system offers organisations a proven, low-maintenance renewable investment with accelerated return on investment. Using FUSION plus solar thermal preheat for electric water heating systems will offset a minimum of 30% of the annual UK DHW energy demands. For some UK regions, especially in the South and West, this percentage is much higher.  In the summer months, solar thermal can potentially meet all a DHW system’s energy demands, especially in the case of smaller commercial businesses and offices. Adveco specialises in the provision of system design and supply for commercial water heating and solar thermal applications. The company also offers training and onsite engineering support for installers wishing to add FUSION plus solar thermal systems to their technology portfolio.

Why Stainless Steel Cylinders For Commercial Hot Water?

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Stainless steel indirect cylinder internal coil for water heating

Adveco takes a deep dive into why stainless steel cylinders reign supreme for hot water provision in the demanding and increasingly sustainable commercial built environment. Cylinders sit at the core of hot water systems which for many commercial establishments – from hotels to high-rise office buildings – provide a business-critical daily service. Cylinders are responsible for the storing and delivery of heated water and there are options when it comes to material choice for these critical components. Stainless steel though is the clear frontrunner for commercial applications. With a lighter weight for the same strength compared to some traditional materials, the use of this alloy can simplify installation and reduce structural load requirements. What is the difference between copper and stainless-steel hot water cylinders? Hot water systems operate in a harsh environment. Water, by nature, can be corrosive, especially in areas with softer, high mineral content water. Traditional materials like mild steel or copper, while seemingly cost-effective initially, can succumb to corrosion over time. Rust weakens mild steel, compromising its structural integrity and leading to leaks. Copper, while a good heat conductor, is susceptible to pitting corrosion, creating pinholes that compromise water quality and system efficiency. Are stainless steel hot water tanks better? Stainless steel cylinders, on the other hand, boast exceptional resistance to corrosion. The secret lies in the chromium content. When exposed to air or water, the metal forms a thin, invisible layer of chromium oxide on its surface – a passive film. This film acts as a robust barrier, shielding the underlying metal from further corrosion. This inherent resistance translates to a longer lifespan for the cylinder, minimising replacement costs and downtime associated with failing equipment. Modern commercial buildings will also utilise unvented hot water systems as these operate at mains pressure, delivering high-powered hot water flow necessary for large-scale applications like showers, laundry, and dishwashing. However, unvented systems necessitate cylinders that can withstand higher pressure. The alloy’s inherent strength makes it the ideal material for unvented cylinders. Unlike traditional materials that may not be able to handle the increased pressures, stainless steel cylinders can be manufactured to withstand significantly higher pressures, ensuring safe and reliable operation for unvented systems. Unlike some other materials that may harbour bacteria within cracks or crevices, the inherent properties of stainless steel contribute to superior hygiene in the water storage system. The alloy’s smooth, non-porous surface inhibits the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms. In commercial settings, hygiene is paramount, making stainless steel cylinders particularly critical for hot water systems used in hospitals, hotels, and food service establishments. Commercial hot water systems require regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance and hygienic operation. Fortunately, stainless steel cylinders are relatively low-maintenance. Their smooth surface makes them easy to clean, this can help minimise the risk of scale buildup and sediment accumulation. If scale formation – resulting from high-intensity heating and hard water – is a recurrent problem on-site Adveco recommends indirect stainless steel cylinders and electric boilers. Available as the packaged FUSION system, limescale buildup effectively ceases. Additionally, the corrosion resistance of stainless steel reduces the need for protective coatings, simplifying general maintenance procedures. Stainless Steel: Versatile & Sustainable Commercial hot water systems come in a variety of shapes and sizes, catering to diverse needs. Stainless steel offers the versatility needed to create cylinders suitable for various applications. They can be manufactured in different sizes, with varying wall thicknesses to accommodate pressure requirements. Additionally, stainless steel can be seamlessly welded, ensuring leak-proof construction for even large cylinders. The alloy also exhibits good fire resistance, offering an additional layer of resilience for commercial water heating systems. When a commercial organisation considers how to introduce sustainability in their buildings, the relatively high energy demands of water heating is often identified as a major source of carbon emissions. Addressing water heating is also a relatively easy way to quickly and effectively tackle a building’s carbon footprint. Whilst attention typically focuses on renewable heat sources such as heat pumps or solar thermal, wider consideration needs to be given to other core system elements, especially cylinders. What are the disadvantages of stainless-steel water tanks? Stainless steel, while not the absolute best conductor of heat, offers a good balance between heat transfer and retention. This property ensures that water within the cylinder stays hot for longer periods, minimising the need for frequent reheating cycles. This translates to lower energy consumption and reduced operational costs, contributing to the energy efficiency of the wider hot water system. For commercially conscious businesses looking to reduce their environmental footprint, stainless steel cylinders also offer sustainable end-of-life as the material is highly recyclable for use as new products, once again minimising environmental impact. A Sound Investment for Optimal Performance When it comes to commercial hot water systems, stainless steel cylinders stand out as the clear choice. Their exceptional corrosion resistance translates to a longer lifespan, lower maintenance requirements, and improved hygiene. Additionally, their ability to handle high pressures and operate at elevated temperatures makes them ideal for unvented systems and demanding applications. Stainless steel also has a sleek, modern appearance, making it a visually appealing choice for exposed locations. The versatility, adaptability, and sustainability profile of stainless steel cylinders further solidify their position as the preferred material for commercial hot water needs. While the initial cost may be higher, the long-term benefits of stainless steel cylinders significantly outweigh the extra investment. Adveco supplies the widest choice of commercial hot water cylinders in the UK including stainless steel buffers, indirect cylinders and electric water heaters. The FUSION system also leverages ATSx single and twin-coiled cylinders specially adapted to mount an electric boiler for compact, low-carbon water heating.

Recognising & Eliminating Limescale in Commercial Hot Water Systems

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Recognising and eliminating limescale In large commercial-scale hot water systems is a critical maintenance activity for many organisations. Limescale deposits can wreak havoc on efficiency, longevity, and overall performance. In this blog, we continue to explore resilience in commercial water heating and look at the latest developments securing business continuity in hard water areas… The severity of limescale formation depends heavily on the water hardness in a particular region. Geographically, areas with limestone bedrock tend to have harder water. Approximately 65% of the UK mains water is currently classed as ‘hard’ due to the presence of calcium. Hard water with its high concentration of dissolved minerals, primarily calcium and magnesium bicarbonates, is one of the primary requirements for the development of limescale. The other, and the catalyst for the process of limescale formation, is the application of high-intensity heat. As water in a commercial hot water system heats up, the solubility of calcium and magnesium bicarbonates decreases. This decrease is not uniform; it accelerates significantly at higher temperatures, triggering a chemical reaction which causes the now less soluble bicarbonates to precipitate out of solution and form solid calcium carbonate (CaCO₃) – the main constituent of limescale. Studies indicate that limescale starts precipitating around 35-40°C (95-104°F) and worsens progressively as the temperature climbs. This explains why heating elements, with their concentrated heat, are prime targets for limescale build-up. The recent shift in popularity for electric systems has seen issues with limescale notably increase where electric heating elements, i.e., immersions, with high-intensity heat generation are used as primary heating systems in direct contact with main flowing water. The design and flow dynamics within a commercial hot water system can also influence limescale formation. Areas with low water flow or stagnant zones are particularly susceptible. For instance, in water heaters where mains water is constantly heated, the potential for scale buildup is high due to the continuous precipitation of minerals. Dead legs, sections of pipe with minimal flow, are another prime location for limescale accumulation. The Damaging Effects of Limescale Buildup Allowing the buildup of limescale in commercial hot water systems creates a series of problems: Reduced Heat Transfer: Limescale acts as an insulator, hindering the transfer of heat from the heating element to the water. This translates to increased energy consumption to maintain desired water temperatures, driving up operational costs. Inefficient System Performance: As limescale accumulates on heating elements and heat exchangers, the system’s ability to heat water efficiently diminishes. This can lead to longer heating times, decreased hot water availability, and potential disruptions in hot water usage. Increased Risk of Component Failure: Heavy limescale buildup can restrict water flow within pipes and clog valves. In extreme cases, it can even cause components to malfunction or seize up completely, leading to costly repairs or replacements. Corrosion Concerns: While a thin layer of limescale can act as a protective barrier against corrosion, uneven or excessive buildup can disrupt this protection. This can expose underlying metal components to corrosion, leading to premature equipment failure. A New Strategy For Eliminating Limescale Popular strategies for addressing limescale deposition in commercial hot water systems begin with optimised system design which minimises areas of low flow and stagnation zones and regular system maintenance, including flushing and cleaning, to help prevent excessive scale accumulation. The problem is that in hard water conditions, such as those seen in London and the Southeast of England, direct electrical systems can begin to scale heavily in a matter of weeks not months demanding a more thorough yet cost-effective response. Some will try an approach which lowers the operating temperature of the water in the system to reduce limescale formation. This is counterproductive for commercial applications which increasingly demand high-efficiency, high-temperature water heating to meet safety and operational requirements.  As we have discussed, the overall system temperature may not be the issue anyway, but rather the presence of high-intensity heating surfaces which initiates the precipitation of limescale.  Others have adopted water softening through a process of ion exchange or chemical dosing. In our experience water softening systems rarely deliver on their claims. Chemical dosing whereby phosphate-based treatments are commonly used to modify the water chemistry and inhibit the precipitation of minerals can really help, but they are prone to being forgotten or overlooked over time. The problem is these approaches require consistent monitoring and re-application. When operational costs begin to climb, this simple maintenance is one of the first things to be pulled, usually with disastrous effects. With the increasing demand for low-carbon all-electric hot water applications, the threat from limescale has increased considerably. As Adveco develops its own unique product and applications to meet the change in desired energy source, and the physical transition of many buildings from legacy gas-based systems to electrical water heating addressing this familiar threat has become paramount. Reacting to this increasingly common threat to the efficiency and longevity of commercial hot water systems and therefore the successful roll-out of low-carbon net zero systems, Adveco has taken a different approach to not just reducing but virtually eliminating the creation of limescale, even in the hardest water areas. Eliminating limescale creation with FUSION technology  Key to Adveco’s net zero portfolio of products is the FUSION system of all-electric water heaters which combine a variety of well-understood technologies in pre-sized packaged variants. Built around a tough, ant-corrosive stainless steel indirect cylinder that acts as the system thermal store, FUSION uses an electric boiler to provide primary top-up heat. This is then offset by an air source heat pump to lower energy demands and cut carbon emissions. Additionally, water heating can be backed up with an immersion for short-term emergency redundancy. The key to addressing scale build-up is the combination of electric boiler and indirect cylinder which works with a finite amount of water. This, along with specially developed controls which finely balance the hot water production limits the actions that generate limescale to the point where we can show virtual elimination of the issue which remains prevalent in other systems at the same … Read more

Indirect Cylinders & Calorifiers For Commercial Hot Water

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Adveco considers the application of indirect cylinders, or calorifiers, to meet commercial hot water demands within sustainability goals… A reliable and efficient hot water supply is not a luxury, but a necessity for commercial establishments. Whether powering showers in a hotel, cleaning equipment in a restaurant, or sterilising instruments in a hospital, consistent hot water keeps operations running smoothly. Choosing the right hot water system for your business depends on various factors, including hot water demand, budget, available space, and fuel preferences. This is where indirect hot water cylinders, also known as calorifiers, can form a key component of a system. What is the primary purpose of a calorifier? Unlike directly heated systems using gas or electricity, calorifiers work indirectly. They have a large, insulated tank filled with cold water which incorporates a heat exchanger coil. This coil connects to a separate heat source, such as a boiler, heat pump, or solar thermal system. As hot water circulates through the coil, it transfers heat to the surrounding water in the tank, creating a readily available reservoir of hot water. By separating the heat source from the water storage, calorifiers can offer higher efficiency compared to direct heating systems. The insulated tank minimises heat loss, so hot water stays hot for longer, reducing the need for frequent reheating. This makes calorifiers a good choice for a variety of commercial buildings, particularly those with moderate to high hot water demand such as Hotels, restaurants, hospitals, sports facilities, and light manufacturing. Businesses looking to switch to more sustainable heating sources or wanting backup options can benefit from indirect heating which supports fuel flexibility since you are no longer limited to a single source when specifying a system. Calorifiers can work with various heating systems, including boilers fuelled by electricity, gas, oil, biomass, or renewable sources such as heat pumps and solar thermal. This flexibility allows you to choose the most cost-effective and sustainable option for your needs. This makes them a positive choice when specifying low-carbon water systems that address net zero requirements of new and refurbished buildings. Indirect water heaters also provide greater versatility when addressing the needs of larger commercial systems or applications that have greater demands for hot water. What are the different types of calorifiers? Calorifiers come in various sizes, from compact models for smaller businesses to large-capacity tanks for high-demand applications. You can also connect multiple units in parallel to increase your hot water capacity further. Hot water systems based around heat pumps also demand a larger storage capacity to optimise delivery. Depending on the heat source and tank size, refilling the hot water after heavy usage may take some time. For applications requiring consistently high hot water flow, the indirect cylinder should incorporate twin coils allowing for consistent low-level pre-heat and top-up heating to meet demand via the upper coil. This primary top-up heating will typically be provided by a gas or more preferably electric boiler. Due to the larger tank and additional heat exchanger, calorifiers can have a higher initial upfront cost compared to direct heating systems. However, this separation of heating and storage also greatly simplifies maintenance. The tank itself requires minimal upkeep, and issues with the heating system will not directly affect the stored hot water. With the extremely low-maintenance requirements seen in monobloc heat pumps and solar thermal systems, a low-carbon indirect heating system potentially offers greater value over its operational lifetime compared to direct systems. Depending on the size and capacity, calorifiers can require dedicated space for installation, which might be a limitation in some buildings. Adveco has been working hard to develop more compact alternatives and the FUSION packaged electric water heating systems are prime examples of indirect systems that offer space-saving, highly-efficient, low-carbon applications based around stainless-steel single and twin-coil cylinders. Quality of insulation is also a consideration when using calorifiers as some heat loss from the tank is inevitable, potentially impacting efficiency, especially in larger units. Adveco cylinders employ 100mm insulation and many tanks also incorporate a tough outer jacket to prevent such heat loss. Adveco stocks the widest range of commercial hot water cylinders in the UK, offering a wealth of capacities and additional features including large flanges higher flow, easier maintenance access, stratification plates for improved efficiency, smart controls for optimised hot water management, and integration with renewables. We are leading experts on this provision of hybrid systems, combining the calorifier with other low-carbon hot water technologies such as electric boilers, heat pumps and solar thermal to provide enhanced versatility, business resiliency and carbon reduction in line with corporate sustainability goals. All are backed by manufacturer-grade warranty and servicing to ensure regular maintenance of the tank and heat source, optimising efficiency, and ensuring long system lifespan for greater return on investment. Calorifiers present a compelling option for commercial hot water needs, offering efficiency, fuel flexibility, and scalability. However, understanding their limitations and carefully considering your specific requirements is essential before making a decision. By weighing the pros and cons, exploring advanced features, and seeking professional guidance, you can determine if a calorifier is the right fit for your business, paving the way for a reliable and sustainable hot water solution. Explore Adveco’s range of hot water cylinders for commercial projects 

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Adveco Ltd. is the sister company to Adveco (AWP) Ltd, trading as A.O. Smith Water Heaters in the UK and has more than 50 years of expertise in the building services industry.

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© Adveco Ltd 2024

© Adveco Ltd 2024