Rinnai Tankless Water Heater Chosen for Zero Net Energy Home Prototype
PEACHTREE CITY, Ga. – When PulteGroup set out to build a zero net energy home prototype in Northern California, it chose to leverage only the latest in sustainable products, including Rinnai’s Ultra Series RUR98i Tankless Water Heater that features a breakthrough in recirculation technology and Rinnai’s Wi-Fi module, app and wireless push buttons—an exclusive first showing of Rinnai’s wireless connectivity. Utilizing energy-efficient products and building materials to produce as much energy as it consumes, the project demonstrates how California can build new homes to have a zero net energy status by 2020 to meet the requirements set in 2008 by the California Public Utilities Commission in its Long Term Energy Efficiency Strategic Plan. Pulte chose the RUR98i with Wi-Fi connectivity for its energy-efficient design that is compliant with Title 24, a buildings standards code that sets a high bar for water conservation in California.
The RUR98i is the newest addition to the Ultra Series condensing tankless water heater family, which comes equipped with an integrated recirculation pump and internal bypass line, working with either a dedicated return line or a crossover valve, to provide faster hot water—reducing wait time and waste. The model offers up to .96 Energy Factor and Energy Star qualifications, as well as provides contractors with an easier, more cost-effective recirculation option and more venting options on the same unit.
With the Wi-Fi module, app and push buttons wirelessly connected to the home’s RUR98i tankless unit, the homeowner will have complete control of their gas tankless water heater. They will be able to use the app to check on maintenance updates, connect with a dealer and even start the recirculation system that heats water to save time and waste. In addition, the home has wireless push buttons placed near points of use, like the kitchen faucet or bathroom sink, serving as another convenient option for activating the recirculation. Another significant benefit of the Wi-Fi system is that it complies with California Energy Commission’s Title 24 requirements to conserve water by using its sensor to measure the water temperature at the furthest point and turn off the recirculation when the water gets to the desired temperature.
The Ultra Series RUR98i will provide endless, on-demand hot water for the three-bedroom and two-and-a-half bath ZNE home located in Brentwood, California, approximately 60 miles east of San Francisco. The project is collaborating with other energy-conscious manufacturers, such as solar power, building material and heating and cooling providers, to attain its zero-net status.
The Pulte ZNE home has completed construction and was unveiled to the public June 16.
