What Is a Hot Water Recirculation System? Types, Costs and Benefits

Can I Get Hot Water to All Faucets with a Recirculation System?

If you're interested in getting hot water faster to every faucet and shower in your home, installing a hot water recirculation system may be the answer. Here are three types of recirculation systems to consider.

1. Dedicated System

The dedicated recirculation system, common since the 1970s, uses a separate return line from the farthest fixtures - like your master bath or kitchen - back to the water heater. A pump and check valve ensure that hot water circulates back to the water heater for immediate use, reducing the wait time for hot water.

2. On-Demand System

An On-Demand recirculation system is perfect for homes without a dedicated return line. This type of system uses your existing piping and places a pump under the sink at the farthest fixture. As a result, pushing a button pulls hot water directly from the heater to this location, providing instant hot water without needing new plumbing lines.

3. Comfort System

The Comfort System, another great option, uses a pump installed directly at the water heater with a special fitting (mechanical tee) under a sink. This setup circulates hot water through the existing pipes to reduce the delay in receiving hot water at any faucet.

Considerations for Homes with PEX Piping

Also, builders now use cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) piping instead of traditional copper or galvanized steel. PEX piping offers flexibility and durability; but it can be slow to deliver hot water due to its design. Most installations place PEX systems with hot and cold water manifolds in a garage or utility room. Unfortunately, these systems typically lack a third, dedicated manifold for hot water return, which means they don't provide instant hot water across all faucets.

Despite this limitation, HOTCO has solutions for even the most challenging piping setups. We specialize in customizing recirculation systems to work with PEX, ensuring you get hot water faster where you need it, every time. Let us know if you want to be upgraded!

Frequently asked questions

Does a recirculation pump save water?

Yes. It eliminates the gallons you run down the drain waiting for hot water, often thousands per year for a family.

Can I add recirculation without a return line?

Yes. A comfort system uses a crossover valve under the farthest sink and your existing cold line as the return.