PRODUCTS & SERVICES Product of the month Hospital lowers carbon by switching to Rinnais H1 solution Continuous heaters and boilers offer practical, economic decarbonisation through technological innovation I n a significant move towards enhancing sustainability and efficiency, one of the largest hospitals in the North West has transitioned its hot water supply system to highly efficient continuous flow water heaters. The hospital has adopted 10 Rinnai N Series 1600e units, designed to deliver almost 10,000 litres of temperature-controlled hot water on demand, 24/7. These water heaters, certified for 20% hydrogen blends (I2HY20), offer a reliable and environmentally conscious solution for the hospitals hot water needs. The decision to switch to hydrogen blendready continuous flow water heaters was driven by the hospitals commitment to reduce its carbon footprint and ensure a dependable hot water supply. The Rinnai N Series units, designed to accommodate hydrogen blends and BioLPG, now also come with a 12-year warranty, ensuring long-term reliability. Rinnais H1 continuous water heaters and boilers offer practical and economic decarbonisation, delivered through technological innovation in hydrogen and renewable liquid gas-ready technology. The H1 option is centred on hydrogen, as it is anticipated that clean hydrogen fuels will become internationally energy market relevant in the future; Rinnai water heaters are hydrogen 20% blends-ready and include the worlds first 100% hydrogen-ready hot water heating technology. The hospitals new water heating system was designed by Rinnais in-house Technical Services team in collaboration with leading building services consultants, who emphasised the importance of considering carbon, capital expenditure, and operational expenditure. When replacing an existing hot water system, its common to go for a like for like option. However, assessing the sites usage and requirements during a replacement can be an opportune time to reduce carbon emissions, improve efficiency, and future-proof the system for the next decade or more. Pete Seddon, of Rinnai, highlights the advantages of continuous flow solutions in this context. Continuous flow, instant delivery of hot water provides constant flows of temperature-specific and controlled end-product, with units that are hydrogen blends and BioLPG ready. They are also just a one-man lift no need for lifting gear. 66 October 2023 www.cibsejournal.com Savings calculated using continuous flow hot water heating 15-20% of the running cost 30% of the upfront cost 15-20% in carbon footprint 60% in space 80% in weight He explains that if the appliance being replaced is non-condensing and the new appliance is condensing, the flue would require changing, as well as the provision to discharge condensate. Plantrooms are very rarely designed to remove equipment, and this requirement would have a major impact and it takes so much time. The whole system would have to be completely shut down to allow such major works to take place and sites, especially healthcare ones, simply cannot allow this to happen, Seddon adds. Moreover, cascading Rinnai appliances allows for dynamic energy regulation to match fluctuating hot water demand, optimising energy usage and creating built-in redundancy. In the event of one unit needing maintenance or repair, the system can continue to provide hot water. A recent CPD, titled Carbon and economic benefits of zero storage in hot water systems, compares the operational, economic, and ecological performance of Rinnai N series models with traditional storage water systems. The results highlight significant savings in operational costs, fuel consumption, capital costs, and carbon footprint with Rinnais continuous flow water heaters. These water heaters are not only efficient, but also space-saving, making them ideal for plantrooms with limited space. The savings are substantial, with reduced running costs, lower upfront expenses, and a smaller carbon footprint, alongside a reduction in the space and weight required. Rinnais N Series range of condensing continuous flow water heaters is officially certified for I2HY20 hydrogen blends, positioning them as a future-ready solution. These advancements represent a significant step towards creating more sustainable and efficient hot water systems, aligning with the hospitals commitment to reducing its environmental impact while ensuring a reliable hot water supply. The adoption of these innovative continuous flow water heaters showcases the hospitals dedication to sustainable practices, setting an example for other healthcare facilities to follow. Solutions such as Rinnais continuous flow water heaters play a crucial role in achieving energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions. For more information visit www.rinnai-uk.co.uk Tel: 020 7880 6245 Email: cibsedirectory@redactive.co.uk