ECM: Miscellaneous ECMs

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M3. Convert Water Supply Pumps

Description

In high-rise buildings that do not have water tanks on the roof, pumps are used to maintain adequate water pressure in the domestic water system. These pumps must operate continuously to provide adequate water pressure, even when there is no water demand. Converting water supply pumps to a system called a "hydro-pneumatic" system will keep adequate pressure levels without continuous pump operation, resulting in electricity savings.

During those periods when domestic water is not required, pressure is maintained by a hydro-pneumatic tank that contains air and water separated by a flexible membrane. When demand occurs for water, the imbalance of pressure causes the water stored in the tank to be provided to the building. When the tank is emptied, the pumps are activated and the water is supplied directly to the building. When demand ceases, water is pumped into the tank until adequate pressure can be maintained by the system and the pumps shut down.

Applicability

• High-rise multifamily buildings without roof-mounted water tanks

Considerations

• System pumps and tanks must be properly sized to provide adequate amounts of water.
• The entire system must be located in a readily accessible space for maintenance purposes.
• Tanks must be located in an area that can support its weight.

Performance/Economics

• The savings assumed for this ECM are 33 percent of the total pumping energy used for water supply.

Resources/Links

Energy Conservation for Housing – A Workbook, HUD, September 1998. Pages 7-153 through 7-155 address converting water supply pumps.