eco-strata

In many multi-family buildings, hot water comes from common hot-water boilers, rather than from individual water heaters as in single-family homes. These large tanks are typically set to 60°C (140°F), but this can be dropped by a few degrees to a lower safe level, such as 55°C (131°F), to save on energy. CMHC estimates the savings in fuel consumption at 1% per degree Celsius (or 2.5 degrees Fahrenheit). However, the Canada Safety Council recommends that the water temperature be set to at least 54°C (129°F) to prevent water-borne diseases.

In addition, buildings equipped with domestic hot water recirculation pumps can further benefit from a timer that shuts off the pump during periods when there is little demand for hot water (see CMHC). A 24-hour mechanical time clock allows the user to set different on- and off-times during the day, such as in the middle of the night or for part of the afternoon. Should a resident want hot water during shutdown, she or he must simply run the water long enough for the hot water to make its way to the tap. A seven-day time clock adds the possibility to accommodate for a different shut-off period for weekends. 

Also, the hot-water boiler should be flushed annually by an expert to remove residues and deposits that have accumulated inside. This will help keep heating costs down and will significantly enhance the lifespan of the boiler.