Our June CPD webinar on Waste Water Heat Recovery (WWHR), brought together industry professionals to learn more about this innovative energy-saving technology. Cameron shared his extensive knowledge on how WWHR systems work, their benefits, and why they should be an essential consideration in both new build and retrofit projects.
Below, we’ve summarised the key takeaways, including the poll results and highlights from the Q&A session.
Poll Results – What the Industry is saying
We encouraged attendee participation, the results provided valuable insight into the current use and perception of WWHR systems:
Are you currently using WWHR systems?
- YES: 40.54%
- NO: 59.46%
What heating systems are you using for your projects?
- Gas combi boiler: 5.56%
- Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHPs): 27.78%
- Combination of both: 66.67%
What type of projects do you mainly work on?
- New Build: 75.68%
- Retrofit: 27.03%
- Commercial developments: 13.51%
These figures show promising engagement with WWHR systems, especially in new build projects, and an increasing trend toward sustainable heating solutions, particularly ASHPs and hybrid systems.
Key Questions from the Q&A – Answered by Cameron Loggenberg
Is WWHR suitable for retrofit projects?
Yes. While WWHR is commonly used in new builds, it’s also well-suited for retrofit projects. We’ve supported several Social Housing retrofit projects, where for example, the Showersave Blue QB1-21 unit has been installed behind the shower, making it ideal for bathroom refurbishments without the need for major plumbing alterations.
Is soap build-up an issue in WWHR systems?
No. Waste water travels rapidly through a 50mm pipe, clinging to the pipe wall and preventing residue build-up.
Can WWHR improve SAP/EPC scores?
Yes, especially when used in conjunction with other energy-efficiency measures like insulation. WWHR makes a more significant impact once the building envelope is improved.
How many units can you install in a multi-occupancy building?
WWHR is scalable. It’s excellent for use in for example Student Accommodation, depending on the flow rate I’ve seen up to three showers connected to one unit. Multiple units can be installed across a development. In one current project, the WWHR systems are projected to save over £200,000 annually on hot water costs.
Does WWHR reduce hot water demand and dwelling primary energy rate in SAP?
Yes. WWHR reduces the temperature gap needed to heat water—from 10°C to 60°C down to just 30°C to 60°C—cutting hot water energy use significantly.
How is WWHR identified during RDSAP surveys?
Each Showersave includes two labels—one to be put on the WWHRS and one to be placed visibly on the boiler or cylinder—specifying the SAP system type (A, B, or C) to aid surveyors in scoring.
Are there common installation issues?
Some installers may position the unit far from the soil vent pipe (SVP), but Showersave units can be installed close to the SVP, minimising the space needed for boxing-in. Comprehensive manuals and videos are available to support correct installation.
Does WWHR benefit more from pairing with ASHPs or gas combi boilers?
WWHR enhances the performance of both ASHPs & Combi boilers significantly by reducing hot water demand—making already efficient systems even more effective.
Should WWHR be insulated or installed externally?
No. Units must be installed within the heated envelope of the building. The pipe does not require insulating.
When is WWHR not suitable?
There are very few scenarios where WWHR cannot be installed. If you’re in doubt, Showersave is happy to evaluate project-specific feasibility.
Conclusion – Looking Ahead to a Greener Future with WWHR
As the construction industry continues to push for higher energy efficiency and lower emissions, WWHR is becoming an increasingly valuable solution. The webinar clearly demonstrated a growing interest and adoption of WWHR systems, especially in conjunction with heat pumps and in multi-residential projects.
Looking ahead, as building regulations tighten and sustainability targets become more ambitious, technologies like Showersave’s WWHR will play a crucial role in helping developments meet performance criteria—both in new builds and retrofits. The future of energy-efficient buildings is not only about insulation and renewables; it’s also about smart heat recovery, and WWHR is leading the charge.
Interested in learning more about how WWHR can benefit your project?
Reach out to the Showersave team or explore our technical resources for installation guidance and specification advice.
Watch the CPD Webinar on demand here