An Experimental and Numerical Investigation of a Heat Exchanger for Showers

Damian Maciorowski, Maciej Jan Spychala and Danuta Miedzinska ()
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Damian Maciorowski: Lukasiewicz Research Network—Institute of Aviation, al. Krakowska 110/114, 02-256 Warsaw, Poland
Maciej Jan Spychala: Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Institute of Mechanics and Computational Science, Military University of Technology in Warsaw, gen. Sylwestra Kaliskiego 2, 00-908 Warsaw, Poland
Danuta Miedzinska: Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Institute of Mechanics and Computational Science, Military University of Technology in Warsaw, gen. Sylwestra Kaliskiego 2, 00-908 Warsaw, Poland

Energies, 2024, vol. 17, issue 15, 1-16

Abstract: In the present study, using a combination of theoretical discussions, practical examples, and case studies, we sought to gain a comprehensive understanding of how numerical solutions could be used to improve the design and optimize the thermal efficiency of a heat exchanger that utilizes wastewater to reduce the domestic consumption of hot water. To this end, we developed a validated numerical model. We also carried out simulations and experiments, the results of which are presented in this paper. The novelty of this work derives from our use of a new heat exchanger design for a domestic shower, and from the presented experimental–numerical evidence that proves its efficiency. We found that use of our newly designed appliance improved thermal efficiency from 14% to 27%. Moreover, we estimated that the cost of manufacturing and installing such a device did not exceed that of a widely available drain grid. Using our newly designed exchanger, a family of four living in Poland could save EUR 38 (at 2022 values) and reduce CO 2 emissions by 192 kg. An average European family could save EUR 68 and reduce CO 2 emissions by 76 kg.

Keywords: CFD (computational fluid dynamics); drain-water heat recovery (DWHR); heat exchanger; wastewater utilization (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q Q0 Q4 Q40 Q41 Q42 Q43 Q47 Q48 Q49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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