Energy-Saving Techniques for DHW Pumps in Commercial Buildings
When you're responsible for the operation of a commercial building, managing energy costs becomes a constant balancing act. From lighting to heating and everything in between, every system offers opportunities to optimise, and your DHW (Domestic Hot Water) pump is no exception.
These essential systems can use a surprising amount of energy if left unchecked. In facilities such as hotels, offices, and industrial buildings, even minor inefficiencies in the hot water delivery system can translate into substantial overheads. The good news? There are numerous ways to improve efficiency, reduce your carbon footprint, and increase heat pump savings, all while maintaining performance.
Upgrade to Variable-Speed DHW Pumps
One of the most effective ways to reduce energy consumption is to install a variable-speed pump. Unlike traditional models that operate at a constant pace, variable-speed pumps adjust automatically to meet real-time demand, consuming less energy during low-usage periods.
Why Variable-Speed Makes a Difference
Think of it like driving: running a traditional fixed-speed pump is like driving a car at full throttle, even when you're in a traffic jam. It's wasteful. A variable-speed pump adapts its pace, helping you achieve energy saving heat pump performance without compromising on service.
In one office complex we assisted, upgrading to a variable-speed Grundfos pump cut their hot water-related energy usage by nearly 20% within the first year.
Trusted Brands We Recommend
For energy efficiency, brands like Lowara, Wilo, and DAB offer reliable, high-performance variable-speed DHW pumps.
Use Timers and Smart Controls for Precision
Another smart way to save energy is to ensure your DHW pump only operates when it’s actually needed. Timers and programmable controls let you tailor pump activity to your building’s unique schedule.
Maximise Savings with Automation
For example, an office that’s closed on weekends or after 6 pm doesn’t need a pump running 24/7. Timers allow you to align operations with occupancy. Advanced systems can even adjust themselves based on real-time data, eliminating manual oversight and delivering consistent heat pump savings without effort.
At National Pumps and Boilers, we can install and configure smart systems that seamlessly integrate with your Building Management System (BMS) for optimum efficiency.
Implement a Zoning Strategy
Large commercial buildings often don’t use all areas at the same time. Zoning divides your system into manageable sections, supplying hot water only where and when it’s needed.
Reduce Waste with Targeted Heating
In hotels, for example, wings or floors that are vacant during off-peak seasons can be temporarily shut off from hot water circulation. We’ve worked with several hotels to install zoning-compatible systems, and the results speak for themselves; some saw up to 30% reductions in energy bills over the winter period.
Best Use Cases for Zoning
- Schools and universities with distinct daily and seasonal usage.
- Hospitals with isolated wards.
- Industrial units with designated production zones.
Insulate Your Hot Water Pipes
An often-overlooked strategy for improving DHW system efficiency is pipe insulation. As hot water travels through long pipe networks, it naturally loses heat. The further it travels, the more energy is required to maintain the temperature.
Cut Heat Loss and Energy Costs
Insulating pipes, particularly those in unheated areas like basements, plant rooms, or external walls, drastically reduces heat loss. This leads to faster delivery times, less water waste, and improved energy-saving heat pump performance.
For full-system improvements, consider upgrading insulation alongside a pressurisation unit to maintain optimal water pressure and temperature consistency.
Maintain Your System Regularly
Even the most energy-efficient DHW pump won't run optimally without regular care. Dirt, blockages, scale, and leaks can all impair efficiency and drive up energy usage.
Prevent Issues Before They Escalate
We recommend scheduling routine system check-ups at least twice a year. Our technicians often discover simple issues, like a partially blocked filter or worn-out valve, that, once resolved, significantly boost system performance and extend equipment life.
We also offer complete inspections of your expansion vessels, pump valves, and related infrastructure as part of our energy optimisation packages.
Optimise Water Temperature Settings
Water temperature has a direct impact on how much energy your system uses. In many commercial settings, the temperature is set higher than necessary out of habit or perceived safety requirements.
Set Smarter, Safer Temperatures
Reducing your DHW temperature by even 5°C can lower energy costs without affecting user comfort. We typically recommend a setting around 60°C, which is hot enough to eliminate bacteria like Legionella, yet cool enough to avoid excessive energy use.
By integrating programmable thermostats or linking your DHW system with a BMS, you gain full control of water temperature, further increasing heat pump savings and system precision.
Replace Outdated DHW Pumps
Technology has advanced rapidly in recent years. If your DHW pump is over a decade old, it may be running at just a fraction of the efficiency of modern models.
When to Consider a Pump Replacement
- Rising energy bills with no change in usage.
- Persistent repair needs.
- Lack of compatibility with smart systems or zoning.
We recommend replacing ageing systems with modern, efficient models from trusted brands like Remeha, Armstrong, or Vaillant. In one case, a retail centre saved over 25% annually by switching to a new model from Mikrofill.
Why Choose National Pumps and Boilers?
At National Pumps and Boilers, we’ve helped hundreds of commercial buildings across the UK unlock powerful heat pump savings through tailored solutions. From installing smart systems to upgrading outdated units, our goal is always the same: helping you run your building efficiently, affordably, and reliably.
Our expert team will assess your current setup and identify the most impactful opportunities for improvement. And once the upgrades are complete, we’ll provide ongoing maintenance and support to ensure long-term energy efficiency.
Ready to Reduce Your Energy Bills?
If you’re aiming to cut costs and boost the efficiency of your building’s DHW system, you’re in the right place. Visit our Contact Page to speak with an expert, or browse our brand partners and system categories for energy-saving solutions tailored to your needs.
Let’s work together to make your building greener, smarter, and more cost-effective, starting with your DHW pump.