MassSave is now offering an instant $100 discount on electronically commutated motor (ECM) circulator pumps through its Mass Save Residential Upstream Incentive Program. This is an excellent opportunity to reduce energy consumption and operating costs for homeowners with a hydronic or radiant heat system.
An ECM circulator pump varies flow rates within water-based heating systems, and increases the temperature difference between freshly heated water and water being returned to the heating unit. Both of these improve the overall efficiency of the system, and reduce the amount of energy required to heat a home.
An ECM is a “smart” device, and determines the minimum energy required to obtain maximum comfort. It can dramatically reduce the power consumption of a hydronic or radiant heat system without sacrificing comfort. Once installed, an ECM circulator pump doesn’t require any human intervention. It operates on standard household current and typically uses less energy than an ordinary household light bulb!
Traditionally, circulator pumps for a hydronic or radiant heat system provide a constant output. Constant output means continuous energy use. An ECM circulator pump determines whether maintaining optimal comfort requires additional output from the circulator pump. When no additional effort is required from the pump, the ECM regulates system circulation, and in the process, reduces energy consumption.
For example, a constant output circulator pump may circulate water in the system at a rate of 10 gallons per minute. This requires energy to both heat and circulate the water.
An ECM circulator pump may determine that the system can maintain the preferred temperature while circulating water at a rate of only 2 or 3 gallons per minute. The additional circulation rate is not required to maintain the preferred temperature, and just represents wasted energy. The ECM circulator pump reduces the flow of water through the system, reducing the energy consumed by the pump and using less energy to heat the water as it circulates.
ECM pumps are normally more expensive to install, but homeowners can recover this cost through reduced energy consumption. With this instant discount through MassSave, the price of an energy-saving ECM pump is comparable to the cost of a less-efficient traditional circulator pump. This means you can start saving money right away!
The program is designed for residential customers only. There are no rebate forms to fill out and the discount is applied at the time of installation; the installer will submit the proper documentation to the program administrator for processing.
If you have a hydronic or radiant heat system in your home and would like more information about an ECM circulator pump, please give us a call at Boston Standard Plumbing & Heating at (617) 362-0377 to schedule a consultation. Right now is a great time to prepare your home for the upcoming heating season, and reduce your operating costs at the same time!
Categories:
DIY Blog, DIY Heating, Tips and Tricks
