Hot Water, Fast! Tankless Water Heater Recirculation Pumps Explained
Are the mornings or the hours when most people are showering making you idle at home waiting for hot water to reach the faucet? Hence, More so commonly, it is tankless water heater recirculation pumps that discourage this wasted effort and time by supplying hot water almost immediately. Deceptive advertising is a safety facility that lets a few owners of such tanks enjoy hot water at no time. This article will highlight all that you should know about such pumps, their importance and ascertaining if it is possible to remodel your residence with one.
What is Tankless Water Heater Recirculation Pump?
It is important because it ensures a tankless water system that reuses the hot water in the plumbing system, therefore, preventing wastage of water in waiting at the faucet. In such systems if there is hot water at the faucet most probably there can be some cold warm ups before the hot one begins. The recirculation pump helps to do away with this problem by supplying hot water whenever it is needed, either by supply of hot water on constant basis or just at intervals.
How Recirculation Pumps Function?
Recirculation systems involve the installation of a pump that forms a circulatory loop passage with the pipes connected to the water heater and the downstream appliances. The pump ensures that there is always a channel where hot water flows within the pipes. After a fixture is turned off, the pump returns the cold water to the heater to refill it with warm water, thus the water in the taps remain warm, always. In some cases, a timer or temperature sensor is integrated so that the pump only works when the hot water is required, thereby optimizing the power consumption. With this approach, people can access hot water at any time, without being inconvenienced by waiting for the heat up process.
Efficacy of Installing a Pump to a Tankless Water Heater
- Hot Water Turnaround Time is Narrowed
The sole greatest merit of attaching a recirculation system to a tankless water heater is the hot water turnaround time. With this device, there is no need to stay beside the faucet waiting for the water to come out hot.
- Reduced Water Wastage
There is likely to be considerable water saved after also including a fitted recirculator. You won’t have to wait for cold water to drain out of the system, which will save you and your family gallons of water every day. It is not just beneficial to the nature but also helps in easing household water expenses.
- Greater Energy Management
In the case of a tankless water heater, the use of recirculation pumps improves the general energy management of the unit. Because tankless heaters only provide water when it is actually needed, the reduction in time taken by the pump causes less energy to be spent in keeping the water in the pipes at a certain temperature.
- Greater Ease of Use
Instant hot water is not only a luxury but a necessity in any household. From long hot showers during the winter to washing dishes, instant hot water can certainly make one’s life easier and more comfortable. There’s no more waiting for the water to heat up!
- Decreased Costs in the Long Run
Though there is a cost associated with putting in place a recirculation pump, this emphasis on the high installation cost dismisses the low usage cost that comes after reducing wastage. You will also save your water heater from the frequent on off cycling that is detrimental to the longevity of the appliance.
How to Choose a Recirculation Pump for Tankless Water Heaters?
There are a few options for a recirculation pump for a tankless water heater:
- Dedicated Recirculation Line System
This system entails the provision of a dedicated pipe which supplies hot water and continuously also runs back to the tank-less heater. This system is efficient, but this system incurs additional costs since more plumbing is needed.
- Comfort system (Without a Recirculation Line)
In this system, the recirculation pump is located at the storage water heater and it uses the cold water pipeline back to the tank as a return. This system is cheaper as there is no use of extra plumbing but still provides hot water when needed.
- Demand-Controlled Pumps
These pumps will only turn on when hot water is required which can be set by a timer or manually turned on and off. This can be a very energy efficient option as the pump only functions when necessary, thereby saving energy.
Is there a possibility of attaching any tankless water heater to a recirculation pump?
It doesn’t hold true for each and every tankless water heater that a recirculation pump can be used, hence it is advisable to check with the manufacturer prior to buying one. Some designs are already modified to accept a pump, while some may call for extra parts or changes to be made. A plumbing expert is the best person to offer suggestion on the plan that should be executed in this case.
Installation Process: DIY job or getting help from a contractor?
There are some tankless water heater recirculation pumps which can be installed by do it yourself persons however it is advisable to get a qualified contractor. In most instances, one is unable to do such fittings because of hesistant to other complications as additional plumbing or electrical installations may be required. Experienced contractors do not only do the physical installations but ensure everything is working well with your water heater including the pump.
Maintenance and Care for Your Recirculation Pump
It is important to take care of your recirculation pump because this will help it to be in good operational state for a long time. The other things that can help to also extend its operation include the regular check on the functioning of the pump and checking the inlet screen and the systems air free. In case you hear some strange sounds or the performance decreases, it may be the right time to find a person who will take care of the system.
Economical Tankless Water Heater Pump — Is It a Good Purchase
Most families will find adding a recirculation device for the tankless water heater a viable expenditure especially in homes with many rooms away from the hot water supply and it might take time for the water to reach that particular outlet. For people interested in upgrading their water heating system, the advantages, water efficiency, and energy efficiency justify the option to install one.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tankless Water Heater Pumps and How They Work
- Will a Recirculation Pump Influence My Energy Bills?
Yes, but in a positive manner! While it is true that the pump entails the use of a little energy, this will be offset by the water that is saved and the amount of energy that is otherwise expended in heating the water.
- Is it Possible to Attach a Recirculation Pump on Any Type of Water Heater?
Not possible; not every hot water tank can have a recirculation pumping system fitted to it. It’s advisable to check whether your water heater is rated for recirculation or better consult with a licensed plumber.
- What is the Average Lifespan of a Recirculation Pump?
Generally, the life span of a tankless water heater recirculation pump is around 10 to 15 years depending on the maintenance done on it. Servicing care will make certain it serves its purpose for a longer period.
In conclusion, the inclusion of a tankless water heater recirculation pump in the plumbing works of the house, homeowner’s benefits that come from the system go beyond comfort to include the wisely utilization of water, energy and even the natural resources. Be it instantaneous water supply at the sink, or even the concern of a foyer to the water wasted by hot water systems in distribution, these pumps are very convenient. Many homeowners shall not be disturbed with the early costs of purchase and installation of such a device. Are you fed up with the muscle strain associated with waiting for steaming water to flow? It is high time you install a recirculation pump as well as reaping the benefits that come with it.
