The Ground HOG
The Ground HOG is simply a Rainwater HOG used within building structure for thermal mass as well as, or instead of, storing rainwater for reuse. We just thought Ground HOG was such a great name we needed to use it! Like the Rainwater HOG, Ground HOG is potable, and can be connected if you want to reticulate and circulate the stored water within a structure. Alternatively, if you are only seeking the terrific effective thermal mass of Ground HOG, you can fill each HOG and permanently seal with a threaded cap. An added bonus - just because you cap a HOG off now, doesnt mean you can’t uncap it later and reuse it for rainwater storage. That is all part of the HOG modular, reusable design concept.
As a thermal mass unit, Ground HOG outperforms concrete of the same area by at least 10%* Ground HOG is most effective when installed between floor joists immediately below, and ideally in contact with, the exposed internal floor surface. Insulating the underside of HOG ensures that the stored heat or cool temperature doesn’t escape to the outside.
It has also beeen suggested that HOGs could be installed on their longside, around the perimeter of the floor area, and act as a thermal bridge from the internal temperature to the ground temperature beneath. Again, the key is effectively insulating those areas of HOG which you are not using for thermal gain. Talk to us about what you are planning and we can help you explore new uses of HOG.
* when used correctly - see independent test results by Sequoien CIC
Groundhog Units
The modular nature of the Ground HOG means that it can be installed as an individual unit or can be scaled up to over 100 units. Each Ground HOG consists of the plastic tank unit which can be manufactured in any color (dependent upon volume ordered) and the connections between the tanks. Once the tank is installed and has been filled with water, the HOG is capped off with the provided plug. The Ground HOG will weight approximately 440 lbs (200kg) when full.
Each Ground HOG tank has a capacity of 180 litres, that’s about 47 gallons.
The external dimensions of a Ground HOG are the same as the Rainwater HOG:
- Metric
- 1800mm x 500mm x 220mm
- Imperial
- 71″ x 19.5″ x 8.5″
So I can drink from Ground HOGs?
Of course you can! The plastic is potable, and FDA approved. However, if you want to only use HOG for thermal mass, talk to us about adding a recycled plastic component for added LEED points.
I want one now!
Check out our list of suppliers to find a local supplier who can meet your Rainwater HOG needs.
Ground HOG Thermal Performance
HOG Works asked Sequoien CIC to investigate the thermal mass performance of the Ground HOG as a low-emodied energy alternative to concrete.
…the Waterhogs outperformed concrete by around 10% in the analysis and it can be concluded that they would do so to some extent under any circumstances.
This is great news due to the low embodied energy of the full Waterhogs, and leads to a great option for EcoBuilders to improve the environmental credentials of their design with a ready-made water tank solution that can be fitted discreetly in any number of locations.
Continue reading Sequoien’s analysis of the performance of the Ground HOG for thermal mass…
The Details:
Materials
The Rainwater HOG modular tank is rotomoulded in virgin polyethylene which complies with AS2070. HOG is moulded of food grade plastic which complies with FDA and HPB regulatory standards for food contact however HOG should NOT BE USED FOR DRINKING WATER. This is because the water from your roof is contaminated with animal and vegetable matter which needs to be filtered from the stored water before it is fit for consumption. The tank material itself is recyclable and carries a 1 year guarantee.
Size
Each Rainwater HOG tank has a capacity of 180 litres, and the following dimensions: 500mm x 220mm x 1800mm.When empty the Rainwater HOG weighs approximately 18kg.
Colours
The Rainwater HOG is currently available in standard tank colours Bronze Olive green, and can be produced in a range of colours including Terracotta and Sandstone for orders of 20 or more units.
Mix ‘n’ Match
The Rainwater HOG is designed to work with conventional connection components which are individually guaranteed by the manufacturers. You can work with our suggested parts - or simply buy your own. See our suggested installations in Products for ideas to make Rainwater HOG work for you.
