1. What is a Hot Water Storage Calculator?

Definition: This calculator determines the required hot water storage volume based on peak usage and system recovery rate.

Purpose: It helps plumbing professionals and engineers properly size water heater storage tanks for residential and commercial applications.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( Storage \) — Required storage volume (gallons)
• \( Peak\ Use \) — Maximum hot water demand (gallons)
• \( Recovery \) — System's recovery rate (gallons/hour)

Explanation: The storage needed equals the peak demand minus what the system can recover during the peak usage period.

3. Importance of Hot Water Storage Calculation

Details: Proper storage calculation ensures adequate hot water supply during peak demand periods while optimizing energy efficiency.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the peak hot water demand in gallons and the system's recovery rate in gallons. Both values must be ≥ 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is peak use in hot water systems?
A: Peak use is the maximum amount of hot water needed during the busiest hour of operation.

Q2: How do I determine the recovery rate?
A: Recovery rate is typically specified by the water heater manufacturer and represents how many gallons of hot water the system can produce per hour.

Q3: What if my recovery exceeds peak use?
A: The calculator will show 0 storage needed, meaning your system can meet demand without additional storage.

Q4: Does this account for temperature variations?
A: No, this is a basic calculation. For precise sizing, consider temperature rise and mixing factors.

Q5: How should I round the results?
A: Always round up to the nearest standard tank size available.