Two MAXXflo 300 litre condensing stainless steel storage water heaters, preheated by two SOLARflo 800 litre preheat solar collectors, both from Andrews Water Heaters, are delivering reliable, constant hot water with reduced carbon emissions for the residents at Cae Garnedd Extra Care Housing Facility in Bangor.
Cae Garnedd is a highly-specified £8.5m new-build development. It provides 42 flats, comprising 15 one-bedroom and 27 two-bedroom apartments, each with its own kitchen, living area and bathroom, as well as communal facilities for its elderly residents.
In keeping with the environmental commitments of its managers, North Wales Housing Association, and in compliance with Building Regulations, the facility has been designed for maximum efficiency performance and sustainability.
Care facilities have a high requirement for hot water. To provide the most sustainable solution to meet this need, consultant Building Services Design specified two MAXXflo condensing water heaters, preheated by two SOLARflo solar collectors.
The MAXXflo units were chosen for their high efficiency (109% net), low NOx emissions, their ability to provide instant hot water and their reliability. Using SOLARflo evacuated tube solar collectors to preheat the water heaters has enabled Cae Garnedd to surpass the low carbon target for new buildings, harnessing a naturally sustainable resource to generate energy for hot water production.
Installation was carried out by M&E contractors MA Cooper Projects Ltd. Mechanical Director Paul Rowe explains: “Installation was problem-free. We fitted the evacuated tube collectors at a 22 degree angle onto the flat roof using the mounting frame supplied by Andrews. The heat generated from the sun is then stored within a vacuum and transferred directly into the water heaters, preheating the cold water and bringing energy, carbon and cost savings.
“The support provided by Andrews Water Heaters was excellent. They accompanied us on the initial site assessment, returned post-installation to check that all had gone well, and also carried out the commissioning. All in all, a great service.”
