Water Conservation in Hot Climate Buildings by Temperature Control

Abstract

This article presents measurements of water temperature in underground and overhead tanks commonly used in intermittent water supply system in the city of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, during summer months. The measurements indicate that diurnal water temperature variation and stratification in concrete underground tank is very limited with an average temperature of water of about 34.64°C. In contrast, the overhead galvanized steel, and to lesser extent, the fiberglass tanks exhibit high diurnal temperature variation and stratification.

The investigations indicate that the maximum water temperature in overhead tank exceeds the safe and comfortable temperature range for regular use. A considerable amount of valuable water will be wasted as the residents draining out the hot water from the plumbing system in addition to the possibility of scalding and burns in sensitive skins of some consumers. Recommendations to eliminate the hot temperature problem and conserving water are presented in the paper.