When the hot water faucet turns on, there may be a significant delay before the water gets hot. This issue occurs because the water in the pipes is cold and needs to be heated by the water heater before it reaches the faucet.
This can be frustrating and costly, as gallons of water will waste as one waits for the hot water to arrive. Fortunately, there’s an easy solution to this problem: a recirculating pump.
WHAT IS A RECIRCULATING PUMP?
A recirculating pump is an appliance that helps circulate warm water throughout a plumbing system faster and more efficiently. It works by returning unused hot water to the water heater so it can be reheated and used again. This helps save time and energy, and there’s no waiting for the hot water to reach the faucets or fixtures; instead, it will already be there.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
The recirculating pump works in conjunction with the existing plumbing system. It pulls cold water from the main line and pumps it through a bypass loop back into the hot water line near the water heater. This way, all the hot water in the system stays warm regardless of how long it has been since it was initially heated. Then, when the faucet or fixture turns on, hot or warm water will come out immediately.
THE BENEFITS OF INSTALLING A RECIRCULATING PUMP
There are numerous benefits to installing a recirculating pump on a water heater:
Faster access to warm/hot water: No more waiting minutes for the shower or sink water to heat up. A recirculating pump gives access to instant hot or warm water with just one touch.
Reduced waste: Recycling unused hot water back into the system helps conserve resources and reduces costs associated with heating new cold water supplies repeatedly.
Increased efficiency: Installing a recirculating pump significantly improves efficiency by keeping unused hot water in circulation. This means less energy is used overall, which will help reduce energy costs.
Improved safety: Eliminate potential scalding incidents by removing the delays between when the faucet or fixture turns on and when it’s ready for use.
CALL THE PROS
The best way to enjoy the benefits of a recirculating pump is by calling a qualified plumber to have one installed. Working with electrical and plumbing systems should be left to a licensed and insured expert. Homeowners can put their DIY skills to use in other areas, but not on this project.
A professional plumber can assess the current hot water system and advise on the best recirculating pump for each home’s needs. They will also be able to quickly and safely install the necessary components to ensure the system works as intended for a long time.
Water Heater Pros provides water heater installation and replacement services for Las Vegas and surrounding area residents and businesses. Our expert technicians install both traditional and tankless water heaters for homes and other buildings with gas or electric service. We offer the highest quality installers for efficient, versatile water heaters such as Rheem. Ruud, high-efficiency tankless Navien units, and more. Ask about our installation specials.