California wants all new residential building to attain zero net energy status by 2020.

When PulteGroup set out to build a zero net energy home prototype in Northern California, it chose to leverage only the latest in sustainable products, including Rinnai’s Ultra Series RUR98i tankless water heater that features a breakthrough in recirculation technology and Rinnai’s Wi-Fi module, app and wireless push buttons.

Utilizing energy-efficient products and building materials to produce as much energy as it consumes, the project demonstrates how California can build new homes to have a zero net energy status by 2020 to meet the requirements set in 2008 by the California Public Utilities Commission in its Long Term Energy Efficiency Strategic Plan. Pulte chose Rinnai’s RUR98i with Wi-Fi connectivity for its energy-efficient design that is compliant with Title 24, a buildings standards code that sets a high bar for water conservation in California.

The RUR98i is the newest addition to the Ultra Series condensing tankless water heater family, which comes equipped with an integrated recirculation pump and internal bypass line, working with either a dedicated return line or a crossover valve, to provide faster hot water - reducing wait time and waste. The model offers up to 0.96 Energy Factor and ENERGY STAR qualifications, as well as provides contractors with an easier, more cost-effective recirculation option and more venting options on the same unit.

The Rinnai Ultra Series RUR98i will provide endless, on-demand hot water for the three-bedroom and two-and-a-half bath ZNE home located in Brentwood, Calif., approximately 60 miles east of San Francisco. In addition to Rinnai America signing on as the tankless provider, the project is collaborating with other energy-conscious manufacturers, such as solar power, building material and heating and cooling providers, to attain its zero-net status.

The Pulte ZNE home was unveiled to the public June 16.