Recirculation Pumps: How To Get Instant Hot Water
If you’ve ever wondered why it takes so long to get hot water faster in your own home, you need to learn more about recirculation pumps. Let’s get started.
What are Recirculation Pumps?
In many older or larger homes and commercial buildings, it can take a while for hot water to reach the plumbing fixtures that are located farther from the water heater. Waiting seconds or even minutes for it to turn the perfect temperature gets old real quick. It not only wastes time, but it also wastes water.
A recirculation pump keeps hot water at the ready. It does this b using a system that slowly pumps hot water into your hot water pipes and back to the water heater via a dedicated line or the cold water line.
How Do Recirculation Pumps Work?
Recirculation pumps are installed on the hot water side of a water heater. The sensor valve for the circulating pump is installed at the sink farthest away from the water heater.
The recirculation pump recycles your hot water every half-hour or so, allowing it to get to any of the fixtures in your home instantly.
The temperature activates the recirculation pump prompting it to open and filter out the cold water. When the hot water reaches the recirculation pump, it closes to prevent hot water from flowing through the cold water line. Cold water in the hot water line is sent back to the water heater to be used at a later time.
Most recirculating pumps come with a built-in timer that lets you set the pump to turn off at night when you are least likely to need heated water. This feature saves you energy in your home.
Doesn’t a Tankless Water Heater Do the Same Thing?
Great question. No, they’re not quite the same. A tankless water heater heats your water on demand. A circulating pump gives that heated water to you immediately.
It’s no wonder that you’re confused. They sound the same. Let me explain.
The tankless water heater heats water as soon as you request it. However, it still takes time for the water to be delivered to you. It doesn’t mean you get hot water instantly. It just means the water is made hot instantly. On the other hand, recirculating pumps ensure that you receive that hot water immediately…with very little to no waiting.
Do You Need a Recirculating Pump?
Well, it depends on your situation (and budget). But here are two pretty solid reasons to get one:
- A recirculation pump is a great solution if you live in a home or building that experiences longer wait times for hot water. It will turn frustration into joy as you begin get it immediately.
- It’s also a great purchase if you believe conserving water is important. Ten percent of all water that you use for showering is a waste because you’re waiting for hot water to arrive, according to the Natural Resources Defense Council. By recirculating the cold water, you reuse the water that would’ve been otherwise a waste
Call 1-Tom-Plumber
Don’t hesitate to contact us or call us at 1-Tom-Plumber (1-866-758-6237) if you’d like to know more about recirculation pumps. We will immediately handle any emergency plumbing, drain, and water damage problems, including excavation of underground water lines and sewer main lines.
