Centralized hot tap water systems calculation’s specifics

Abstract

Most of the urban housing stock in Latvia as well as in major part of EU cities is apartment multi-storey buildings, most of which have a connection to centralized hot tap water systems. Also, such buildings as dormitories, university campuses, sporting facilities, mostly are connected to the centralized hot tap water systems. The hot tap water systems can have different optional technical solutions, such as recirculation loop, bath towels warmers, etc. All these options affect calculation’s specifics of the systems. The main challenge for designers is to make correct estimation of hydraulic losses, definition of necessary water flow rate and to choose such technical equipment as circulation pumps, balancing valves and circulation water flow. The main parameters directly affecting the sizing of hot tap water system are the number of inhabitants, designed water consumption, consumption uncertainty coefficient, building’s specifics etc. This study is based on the hot water consumption analysis in building were online monitoring system was installed.