Describes an extensive review of published data on hot water use, plus a database containing more than 30 million points which has been developed concerning hot water use in various types of buildings. The database also includes system characteristics, hot water use patterns, (hourly, daily and seasonal variations) and demographic and climatic factors. Notes how the database was analysed to provide a basis for determining current patterns of hot water use.

KEYWORDS: Domestic, hot water supply, databases, USA.