Sizing for the real demand
A restaurant, a gym, a dental clinic and an office have very different hot water needs. Peak demand matters more than daily total. We size the system for how many fixtures run at once, and how fast the tank must recover.
Oversizing wastes energy. Undersizing means cold showers and unhappy tenants.
System types
- Gas-fired storage water heaters
- Electric storage heaters for smaller loads
- Tankless units for intermittent use
- Boilers with indirect storage tanks
- Heat pump water heaters, which use less energy
- Recirculation loops and pumps for fast delivery
- Mixing valves to limit outlet temperature
Safety and code
Hot water that is too hot can scald. Water kept too cool can allow bacteria like Legionella to grow. Codes and good practice balance these with storage temperatures, mixing valves and recirculation. Our plumbers set and document these settings.
Gas-fired units need venting and combustion air, and expansion tanks and relief valves must be fitted and routed to a safe discharge.
Coordination and winter
Gas piping, venting and power come from other disciplines, and at HSM they are our own. The gas fitters, mechanical crew and electricians plan the equipment room together, including clearance for service and replacement.
Location matters. A heater far from the washrooms wastes water and time waiting for heat. Recirculation helps, but it uses energy, so we design it with zoning and timers where appropriate.
In cold weather, heaters in unheated spaces need protection. Flue terminations also need care in snowy areas.
Maintenance extends life. Tanks need flushing and anode checks, and relief valves should be tested. Our plumbing maintenance program covers these tasks, with records. When a heater nears the end of its life, we can help you plan the replacement before it leaks, and choose between like-for-like and a higher-efficiency option.