EcoDrain: Shower Heat Exchanger

EcoDrain, based in Montreal, Canada, was founded in 2005 by David Velan. Their product, the EcoDrain, is a device that transfers heat from the shower drain to the incoming hot water, alleviating the hot water heater's energy load. The EcoDrain, a is a small device that is inserted directly in the shower drain line. It has a double wall of separation, so the wastewater and fresh water won't mix. The shower heat exchanger should be installed by a plumber or contractor, and is most cost-effective when used for new construction or major renovations. According to EcoDrain, showers are typically the largest consumer of hot water in the home (up to 80%). Therefore, the company claims that the product will pay for itself because of reduced energy bills. Since EcoDrain is a relatively new product, its distribution network is limited. To purchase, you must contact the company directly. LEED Credit Overview Since it saves energy for heating hot water, EcoDrain could help to achieve the following credits in the LEED for New Construction 2009 rating system: • Energy and Atmosphere (EA) Prerequisite 2: Minimum Energy Performance (0 points) This credit establishes a minimum level of energy efficiency for buildings, based on energy costs. • EA Credit 1: Optimize Energy Performance (1-19 points) This credit rewards LEED projects for achieving energy efficiency beyond the minimum set forth in EA Prerequisite 2. Points are awarded based on the energy cost savings percentage - the higher the percentage, the greater the number of points awarded.

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