Project Overview

A targeted DHW upgrade—delivered with Burlington Engineering—replaced legacy water heating with high-efficiency heat pumps that align with ESG goals and reduce operational costs.

Scope of Works

• 2 × MasterTherm BA37iP inverter heat pumps (up to ~20 kW each) for DHW generation
• Each unit paired with 2 insulated DHW storage cylinders for secure hot-water capacity
• BMS integration via Modbus/BACnet and onboard PLC logic for precise temperature control

System Description

The system runs DHW-priority control with cylinder temperature sensors to minimise reheat time and losses. Weekly anti-legionella pasteurisation cycles (≥60 °C) are scheduled in the PLC to maintain hygiene.

Real-time inverter modulation matches draw-off patterns; BMS visibility enables centralised monitoring, alarms and setpoint management.

Project Results & Benefits

• Reliable, consistent DHW supply for a high-occupancy commercial facility
• Lower energy consumption versus conventional electric/gas water heating
• Seamless BMS integration for monitoring, automation and remote diagnostics
• Smaller carbon footprint supporting long-term ESG commitments

Technical Highlights

• Cylinder sizing ensures adequate storage to meet morning peaks while keeping reheat windows short.
• Thermostatic mixing valves maintain safe draw‑off temperatures (typ. 50–55 °C) while storing hot water at higher setpoints.
• Recirculation loop control minimises recirc heat losses and maintains balanced return temperatures.
• Inverter compressors optimise COP at partial load; pasteurisation scheduled during off‑peak tariffs where applicable.

Energy & Carbon (SEAI)

Replacing direct‑electric or gas water heating with heat‑pump DHW typically reduces input energy by ~50–70% for the same delivered hot‑water load, yielding significant operational CO₂ reductions.

• Approach aligns with SEAI guidance on electrification and DHW efficiency in commercial buildings.
• Project structure is compatible with SEAI grant/reporting frameworks where applicable.