While it might seem that change is slow to hit the plumbing industry, new technologies and practices that focus on sustainable, green methods are becoming more common. Grid-interactive water heaters and reclaimed water systems are innovations that are changing the industry and affecting both utilities and residential plumbing businesses.
Grid-interactive water heaters use smart controls to quickly toggle charge rate and change levels. The biodirectional controls makes the system appealing to utilities because it reduces energy consumption and carbon emissions, allowing the utility to increase or decrease load based on peak hours while delivering uninterrupted hot water to customers.
New research is looking into processes that add a second heating element to the bottom of electric water heaters. The lower heater would be controlled by the utility to turn on or off at will, leaving the warm water at the top for customer use.
These grid-interactive water heaters would essentially act like a battery, storing energy when production is high and using that energy as a power source when production is low. The future of the plumbing industry could see utilities with a fleet of water heaters connected to the grid that can be switched on or off to shed or redistribute load, making them virtual power plants that help conserve existing electricity.
An average residential water heater is replaced every 15 years or so, making them good candidates for a smart-technology upgrade. Since water heaters are such an integral part of a functioning residential or commercial property, plumbers with the skills needed to install and maintain grid-interactive water heaters will be in high demand.
Another renewable technology becoming a regular practice in the plumbing industry is reclaimed water, or recycled water systems. The practice of water reclamation is becoming very popular in Florida. A Miami plumbing company can help set up a reclaimed water system for residential needs such as landscape irrigation, or for industrial purposes.
Reclaimed water is wastewater that has been treated to remove solids and impurities. Reclaimed water meets over 90 percent of the criteria for drinking water, has no odor, and is safe for humans, although it’s may not be used for drinking or water sports at this time. It is perfect for activities such as irrigation, vehicle washing, and air-cooling systems.
A reclaimed water system generally lowers water fees for users, and makes water accessible for plants and other needs even during municipal water shortages or limited-use periods. Generally, a reclaimed water system requires hook-up to a separate meter, and a backflow prevention device must be installed.
