Business Details
33 Years
experience
Trusted Drain Water Heat Recovery Systems
Renewability Energy (REI) has been a global leader in developing cost-effective energy-saving solutions since 1993. Specializing in Drain Water Heat Recovery (DWHR) technologies, we design and manufacture the patented Power-Pipe system, which reduces energy consumption and water heating costs for residential, commercial, and industrial clients. Our headquarters and manufacturing facility in Kitchener, Ontario, serve as the hub for our operations across North America and beyond. With over three decades of experience, our team combines technical expertise with a commitment to sustainability, ensuring our solutions meet rigorous safety and performance standards. We prioritize innovation, offering scalable systems that adapt to diverse applications while maintaining low-maintenance efficiency.Our partnerships with industry professionals and utilities reflect our dedication to advancing energy recovery solutions. By providing free training and design assistance, we empower clients to achieve long-term savings and environmental stewardship. Our products undergo third-party testing and comply with CSA and UL certifications, guaranteeing reliability and safety. Through continuous research and development, we remain at the forefront of DWHR technology, addressing global energy challenges with practical, proven systems. Our mission is to deliver measurable economic and ecological benefits, fostering a sustainable future for generations to come.
Services
Drain Water Heat Recovery Systems
Commercial Energy Solutions
Industrial Applications
Residential Installations
Retrofit Services
Details
- Year established: 1993
Highlights and features
- We pioneered patented Drain Water Heat Recovery technology since 1993.
- Our systems are independently tested to CSA B55.2 and UL safety standards.
- We offer free training and design assistance for residential and commercial projects.
- Third-party verified performance data ensures reliable energy savings.
- Scalable solutions serve single homes to large industrial operations.
Associations and certifications
- CSA Group
- UL (Underwriters Laboratories)
Services
Drain Water Heat Recovery Systems
Power-Pipe systems capture heat from wastewater to preheat incoming water, reducing energy use by 20-40%. Ideal for residential, commercial, and industrial applications, they lower utility bills and greenhouse gas emissions. Third-party tested for safety and efficiency, these systems integrate seamlessly with existing plumbing.
Commercial Energy Solutions
Commercial Power-Pipe systems cut water heating costs by up to 60% for hotels, hospitals, and laundries. Scalable designs handle high-volume flows, with ROI achieved in 1-5 years. UL-certified for safety, they support LEED certification and comply with strict environmental regulations for sustainable operations.
Industrial Applications
Industrial Power-Pipe systems reclaim up to 70% of heat from process waters in food processing, brewing, and manufacturing. Corrosion-resistant coatings suit harsh environments, while low-maintenance designs ensure continuous operation. These systems reduce energy costs and environmental impact for large-scale industrial operations.
Residential Installations
Residential Power-Pipe units lower water heating costs by preheating water for showers, faucets, and appliances. Easy to install in new or existing homes, they require no maintenance and work with any water heater type, providing long-term savings and increased energy efficiency.
Retrofit Services
Retrofitting Power-Pipe systems into existing homes requires accessible vertical drain pipes. Plumbers or homeowners can install units in 2 hours, with savings realized immediately. The system adapts to various plumbing configurations, ensuring compatibility with standard residential water heating setups.
People
Gerald Van Decker
President and CEO
Gerald Van Decker, inventor of the Power-Pipe, holds a Master's in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Waterloo. With expertise in solar heating and energy recovery, he founded Renewability Energy in 2000 after leading R&D at Natural Resources Canada and international energy agencies.
Rod Buchalter
Vice President of Sales and Market Development
Rod Buchalter, a former Union Gas executive, specializes in promoting Drain Water Heat Recovery systems. With a marketing degree from McMaster University, he develops partnerships with utilities and builders to expand residential and commercial adoption of energy-efficient technologies.
Jonathan Cook
Vice President of Operations
Jonathan Cook brings 20+ years of manufacturing and engineering experience from companies like Tigercat Industries. Holding certifications in fluid power and industrial lubrication, he oversees Power-Pipe production and operational efficiency at Renewability Energy
Questions
How does the Power-Pipe system reduce energy costs?
The Power-Pipe recovers heat from wastewater to preheat incoming cold water, reducing water heating energy use by 20-40%.
Is the Power-Pipe compatible with all water heaters?
Yes, it works with any water heating system, including on-demand heaters, enhancing their efficiency.
Can the Power-Pipe be installed in existing homes?
Yes, retrofitting is straightforward for homes with accessible vertical drain pipes of 33 inches or more.
What maintenance does the Power-Pipe require?
The self-cleaning design ensures maintenance-free operation with no moving parts or clogging issues.
Are there commercial and industrial applications?
Yes, systems scale for hotels, laundries, food processing, and other high-volume operations to cut energy costs.
What certifications does the Power-Pipe hold?
It meets CSA B55.2 safety standards and is UL listed for potable water applications.
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