Hot water systems, which are in practically every occupied building in the UK, are increasingly important elements in the design of sustainable and resilient built environments.

Optimisation is key, but without appropriate data on hot-water consumption to inform that system design, it is very unlikely that systems will be installed and operate economically.

Recent papers (referenced on page 78 of CIBSE Journal, May 2021) have shown that despite considerable changes in water end use and users’ behaviour, there have been no corresponding changes in sizing methodology and no significant update to the design equations (Mohammed). Therefore it would appear this leads to oversizing of water systems in buildings (Tindall)

Explore this topic in more detail in the latest CPD module in CIBSE Journal. And don't forget to complete the questionnaire at the end to count towards 1.5 hours of your CIBSE CPD requirement.