Sabien turns its attention to DHW
Sabien Technology’s M1G controller can be retrofitted to direct-fired water heaters serving circulating hot-water systems to reduce energy consumption. Field trials in offices and hotels have shown average savings of 12%, with payback periods ranging from 1.4 to 1.6 years.
These units can distinguish between genuine demand and heat losses that occur by circulating the hot water and prevent the water heater firing just to make up for ‘standing’ losses.
The trick is to have a temperature sensor on the cold feed close to the water heater. If no water is being drawn off, this short length of pipe will become warm by conduction and convection from the water heater.
If there is no genuine demand in 15 minutes, the M1G allows the water heater to fire to restore the designed temperature settings. If there is a genuine demand for hot water, the water heater will be allowed to fire.
The approach to control used has led to the device being recognised in the RBS Innovation Gateway shortlist operated by the 2degrees network.
