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Cala Systems introduces an artificial intelligence (AI)-powered heat pump water heater designed to predict and efficiently meet household demands, promising to eliminate cold showers and reduce utility bills.
Cala System’s heat pump water heater (HPWH) employs machine learning and AI algorithms to predict hot water demand based on various factors, including weather patterns, household size, and energy pricing.
On efficiency and sustainability
Cala uses sensors and hardware with proprietary predictive control software originally developed by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) of the U.S. Department of Energy. This software enables the system to dynamically heat water when needed, maximizing efficiency. For example, if sunny days are forecast followed by cloudy weather, the system could utilize solar power to preheat the water tank.
On occasions where weather and water demand are consistent, Cala’s system achieves up to 30% higher efficiency by slowing down the compressor.
As traditional heaters rely on outdated methods, it often results in inconsistent hot water supplies and high energy costs. Household systems in the United States heavily depend on these systems, which take up a large portion of about 20% of their average energy usage.
Michael Rigney, founder of Cala Systems, said he identified an opportunity to improve traditional water heating technology.
“Heat pump water heaters are beginning to grow rapidly because of their enormous savings and greenhouse gas reductions,” said Rigney. “Today’s heat pump water heaters are designed to deliver heat into the tank when the water is cold, a design that is virtually unchanged for the past 130 years. By contrast, our intelligent heat pump water heater is not only better at ensuring hot water is available and reducing cost, but also accounts for the other needs and goals of each homeowner. Cala is a superior way to heat water.”
Looking forward
Rigney established Cala Systems in Boston in 2020 to create more efficient and greener solutions for household heating problems. He brought over two decades of startup experience from roles at EnerNOC, EnergySavvy, and BlueTarp Financial to the company.
The company stated it plans to assemble its products in the United States, sourcing parts from different suppliers. The first model, priced at $2,850, is about $800 more expensive than its competitors. Nonetheless, Rigney is confident that the reduced utility bills will compensate for the initial cost over time.
Cala’s HPWH will offer advantages to both homeowners and installers through various incentives, including a tax rebate of up to 30% as a part of the Inflation Reduction Act.
They also address obstacles to its installation by accumulating a network of professional plumbers, electricians, and Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) contractors. To date, the company has already signed over ten Letters of Intent (LOIs) with installers.
Cala is set to launch the initial product in early 2025 after raising $5.6 million in a seed round led by the Clean Energy Venture Group and the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC), as well as Burnt Island Ventures, CapeVista Capital, and Leap Forward Ventures.
“Heat pump water heaters are an essential tool for meeting our climate goals, and Cala’s innovative design realizes their full potential to cut emissions while helping residents save money and improve comfort,” stated Susan Stewart, Managing Director of Investments at MassCEC. “MassCEC is thrilled to support the Cala team through our 2030 Investment Fund as they grow their business and create jobs in Massachusetts to meet customer demand across the country.”
