Ella T. Grasso Southeastern Technical High School InvenTeam

Compost water heating system
Energy and Environment

The Ella T. Grasso Southeastern Technical High School InvenTeam invented a water heater powered by a series of four 55 gallon compost units that provides continuous hot water at a minimum of 75 °F. The series of units helps stagger the heating systems life cycles so that heat is constantly provided to the space. The invention can be used to heat small greenhouses and rooms in rural areas. It can also preheat water as it reduces, energy costs associated with boiling water by 2.4% when operating at 75 °F and by 20% when operating at 100 °F. The unit cost is less than $300, with the compost being essentially free, and can be incorporated into heat radiating systems.