Among the various sources of energy usage within a property, heating water accounts for a significant share1, particularly in the shower, where valuable energy goes straight down the drain. The GROHE Rapido Heat Recovery system provides a sustainable solution.
Developed with the Dutch startup Hamwells, experts in sustainable shower solutions, the concealed heat recovery shower system collects warm water from the drain and pumps it through a separate pipe surrounded by the cold-water supply, transferring some of its residual heat. The result? Both cost and energy saving, for a sustainable future. A four-person household can save up to €299 per year2, reducing both energy costs and CO2 emissions by up to 48%3.
How the system works
1. Similarly to a traditional shower setup, cold water (around 10°C) enters the house and is heated to around 60°C.
2. The thermostat mixes the hot and cold water to a comfortable shower temperature of 38°C.
3. After the shower, water usually flows down the drain at approximately 34°C. However, with GROHE Rapido Heat Recovery shower system, the warm wastewater is pumped through a separated pipe surrounded by the cold-water supply, transferring some of its residual heat.
4. With the cold water now preheated, less hot water is needed to achieve the desired shower temperature, thus saving energy. The double-pipe version maximises efficiency by providing a larger contact surface for the wastewater to transfer its heat. Once the heat has been transferred, the wastewater is disposed of, and the shower can be enjoyed with peace-of-mind.
A great solo travel tip spotted this week on Hotel Designs.




