Energy Efficiency at its Best: Why You Need a Hot Water Recirculating System

Is the high utility bill worrying you for a long time? 

Here is a smart choice: Switch to a hot water recirculating system.

What is the benefit? 

It improves the efficiency of your hot water delivery and reduces water wastage, allowing you to be environmentally conscious. 

Interestingly, hot water recirculating pumps are so powerful that they save about 1000 gallons of water annually. 

Through this article, the benefits of hot water recirculating systems, how they work, their impact on energy efficiency, and why they might be a good choice for your specific situation.


hot water recirculating system
hot water recirculating system



Let us begin with how the Hot Water Recirculating System Works-

The best part of having a recirculating system is to get instant hot water directly in your faucets and fixtures without the need to wait for the hot water. The work involves continuous hot water circulation from the water heater to the taps and back. It makes hot water readily available. 


Here are the components of hot-water recirculating system explaining their working:

  • Pump: It is installed at or near the water heater that circulates the hot water through the pipes and returns it to the water heater.

  • Return Line: For circulating the hot water back to the water heater, return line or existing cold-water line is installed. There are some models where a bypass valve will do this same function.

  • Check Valve: This valve prevents mixing of hot and cold water. The check valve allows hot water to flow into the cold-water line. This valve is installed at each tap.

  • Thermostat or Timer: Some hot water recirculating systems have a thermostat or timer that allows you to control when the pump operates. It helps you conserve energy when hot water is not needed.


Why would you Need a Hot Water Recirculating System?

Here are the benefits of a Hot Water Recirculating System:

  1. To Reduce Water and Energy Waste

Reducing water and energy waste is the best benefit of a recirculating system. The conventional water heaters require you to run the tap for several minutes till the hot water supply begins. This energy is specifically saved, as the hot water is readily available in the tap.

  1. To Save Energy

Installation of the recirculating systems for hot water, supplies constant temperature in the hot water pipes. It reduces the need for the water heater to cycle on and off frequently, ultimately reducing energy bills over time.

  1. Convenience

A readily available supply of hot water is so much more convenient over the traditional water heater system, where there is waiting time for hot water to reach the faucet or shower.

  1. Water Conservation

Installing a recirculating system helps in saving water along with energy by reducing the amount of water wasted while waiting for the hot water to arrive in the faucet. It's especially beneficial in larger homes with long plumbing runs or homes where water conservation and energy efficiency are a priority.

  1. Extended Appliance Lifespan

A recirculating system is better for its higher efficiency and less strain. It is advantageous over conventional systems where frequent on and off reduces lifespan.

  1. Comfort

Hot water will be within your easy reach. It can enhance your overall comfort and improve your daily routine.



What Factors should you consider before switching to a Hot Water Recirculating System? 

  1. Know the Cost

This could be a huge factor before installing a hot-water recirculating system. The purchase of the system and the installation comprises the upfront cost. However, to balance this, this installation allows long-term savings and convenience.

  1. Installation Complexity

The complexity of the installation may vary depending on the type of recirculating system you choose. Retrofit systems, such as demand-operated ones, are often easier to install, while traditional systems with dedicated return lines may require more extensive plumbing work.

  1. Space Requirements

Consider whether you have sufficient space near your water heater for the pump and other components. Additionally, think about where you want the controls (e.g., timer, thermostat) to be located for convenient access.

  1. Maintenance


    Hot-water recirculating systems require periodic maintenance to ensure they function efficiently. Maintenance tasks may include checking and cleaning filters, lubricating the pump, and inspecting valves.

  2. Water Heater Compatibility


    Get the water heater compatibility checked. A recirculating system should be compatible with your existing water heater system. Most water heaters work with the existing systems, but a specific model might not.

  3. Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings

This is how a hot-water recirculating system contributes to energy efficiency and cost savings:

  • Water heaters continuously maintain the temperature of the stored water, resulting in standby heat loss. With a recirculating system, the water heater cycles on and off less frequently, reducing standby heat loss and overall energy consumption.

  • As mentioned, a significant amount of water is wasted, while waiting for hot water to reach the tap. A recirculating system eliminates this waste, reducing water bills and conserving resources.

  • The reduced energy consumption and lower water usage associated with hot-water recirculating systems can lead to lower monthly energy bills. Over time, these savings can offset the initial installation cost.

  • By reducing the strain on your water heater, a recirculating system may extend its lifespan. It can result in additional savings by delaying the need for a costly water heater replacement.


Installing a hot-water recirculating system allows you to get instant hot water, reduce water and energy bills, and to be environmentally conscious.

While there is an initial cost associated with installation, the long-term energy savings and benefits outweigh this expense.

Based on your daily needs, installation requirements and maintenance, you may decide whether you need a hot water recirculating system. Considering the stated factors, you can enjoy comfort and convenience at a low price. This switch also helps you reduce your environmental footprint. Call us or contact us online. Our experts will be happy to help you.










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