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An Experimental and Numerical Investigation of a Heat Exchanger for Showers

Author

Listed:
  • Damian Maciorowski

    (Lukasiewicz Research Network—Institute of Aviation, al. Krakowska 110/114, 02-256 Warsaw, Poland)

  • Maciej Jan Spychala

    (Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Institute of Mechanics and Computational Science, Military University of Technology in Warsaw, gen. Sylwestra Kaliskiego 2, 00-908 Warsaw, Poland)

  • Danuta Miedzinska

    (Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Institute of Mechanics and Computational Science, Military University of Technology in Warsaw, gen. Sylwestra Kaliskiego 2, 00-908 Warsaw, Poland)

Abstract

In the present study, using a combination of theoretical discussions, practical examples, and case studies, we sought to gain a comprehensive understanding of how numerical solutions could be used to improve the design and optimize the thermal efficiency of a heat exchanger that utilizes wastewater to reduce the domestic consumption of hot water. To this end, we developed a validated numerical model. We also carried out simulations and experiments, the results of which are presented in this paper. The novelty of this work derives from our use of a new heat exchanger design for a domestic shower, and from the presented experimental–numerical evidence that proves its efficiency. We found that use of our newly designed appliance improved thermal efficiency from 14% to 27%. Moreover, we estimated that the cost of manufacturing and installing such a device did not exceed that of a widely available drain grid. Using our newly designed exchanger, a family of four living in Poland could save EUR 38 (at 2022 values) and reduce CO 2 emissions by 192 kg. An average European family could save EUR 68 and reduce CO 2 emissions by 76 kg.

Suggested Citation

  • Damian Maciorowski & Maciej Jan Spychala & Danuta Miedzinska, 2024. "An Experimental and Numerical Investigation of a Heat Exchanger for Showers," Energies, MDPI, vol. 17(15), pages 1-16, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jeners:v:17:y:2024:i:15:p:3641-:d:1441822
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Wong, L.T. & Mui, K.W. & Guan, Y., 2010. "Shower water heat recovery in high-rise residential buildings of Hong Kong," Applied Energy, Elsevier, vol. 87(2), pages 703-709, February.
    2. Stec, Agnieszka & Kordana, Sabina, 2015. "Analysis of profitability of rainwater harvesting, gray water recycling and drain water heat recovery systems," Resources, Conservation & Recycling, Elsevier, vol. 105(PA), pages 84-94.
    3. Bertrand, Alexandre & Aggoune, Riad & Maréchal, François, 2017. "In-building waste water heat recovery: An urban-scale method for the characterisation of water streams and the assessment of energy savings and costs," Applied Energy, Elsevier, vol. 192(C), pages 110-125.
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